Tidal Bores and the Shubenacadie River

Shubenacadie River and the Tidal Bores: Being the host of the world’s highest tides, the Bay of Fundy also delivers the most exhilarating way to take in this natural wonder. The great Shubenacadie River empties into the Cobequid Bay of the Bay of Fundy, and is one of only about seven places in the world where you can experience the thrill and exhilaration of tidal bore rafting! With tidal bores that can reach up to 10’ in height, you’ll have an experience you are not likely to forget.

The tidal bore is a tidal phenomenon in which the leading edge of the incoming tide forms a wave (or waves) of water that travel up a river or against the direction of the current.   This happens twice a day as a result of the incoming tide and guides will take you for an adventurous white water rafting adventure upstream.  

While the timing of my arrival (and approaching nightfall) prevented me from actually witnessing a tidal bore event, I did learn a lot from the Interpretive Center and talking with people who have participated in rafting it.  Apparently, there are but 11 places on the planet where this phenomenon occurs with only 5 of those in North America.  

Bores usually occur in areas with a large tidal range such as the Bay of Fundy, and where incoming tides are funneled into a shallow, narrowing river via a broad bay. The funnel-like shape not only increases the height of the tide, but it can also decrease the duration of the flowing tide down to a point where the flood appears as a sudden increase in the water level.  For more information on visit: http://www.tidalboreraftingpark.com/gallery.php