A little about how we started…

In 1982, Beth Kelly Hatt arrived in Saint John, New Brunswick and it’s never been the same since. Over the years, Aquila has grown to be recognized as an innovative leader in the tourism industry. Known for watching and responding to trends in travel, Aquila has offered full receptive operator services in Atlantic Canada, as well as tour operator services for groups to destinations around the world.

With almost 40 years in the tourism industry, Aquila continues to be the preferred tour operator for cruise lines operating shore excursions in Saint John, New Brunswick. Each year, Aquila creates engaging experiences for almost 60,000 travellers cruising in Atlantic Canada.

But it’s not all work and no play for the Aquila Team. We are a team that works hard and plays hard - together. Clients often describe the Aquila team as spirited, enthusiastic and fun. First-timers to Aquila often ask whether our team gets any work done, or if we just laugh and have fun all of the time. But in truth, we do work very hard, and the proof is in the fact that Aquila continues to grow each year, even during times when the tourism industry as a whole is struggling. So what’s our secret? “No, we don’t spike the water cooler,” laughs Beth. Instead, Aquila has fostered a philosophy of happiness in the workplace and empowerment of the team, and the contagious Aquila team spirit that has resulted from this philosophy is the driving force behind our success. To meet our fabulous Aquila team, click here!

We are also a team that believes in giving back to the community in which we live, work and play. As a group, the Aquila team has been involved in the community by volunteering for projects such as Beach Sweeps and Creek Sweeps, the St. Andrew St. David Soup Kitchen, Run for the Cure, Romero House and Big Brothers/Big Sisters. Also, each year Aquila chooses specific organizations to which donations are made, with special attention given to issues that have touched the lives of those closest to us, and we often plan fundraisers to support these organizations. Aquila has committed to the United Way Million Dollar Pledge, as part of a group of organizations who are each giving $10,000 per year for the next ten years to affect change in our local communities.

Our Mission Statement

To enrich people’s lives by igniting the spirit of discovery. Establish ourselves as the Cruise Industry Standard and “Aquilafy” cruise operations worldwide using Saint John as our Living Lab.

Our Values

Aquila’s Core Values are Integrity, Respect, Positivity, Happiness, Fun, Supportive, Sustainability, Balance, Flexibility, Family & Friends, People Growth & Development and Growing Who We Are