Quaco Cottages - The Shipbuilder's Cottage-Two Century Old Charm
Surrounded by spacious grounds, the Shipbuilder’s Cottage is one of two separate but adjacent rental units (The Shipbuilder's Summer Kitchen). Built in 1812 by shipbuilder Caleb Ward as a summer cottage, it is the oldest home in St. Martins. Its centrepiece is the original brick hearth around which many generations have enjoyed a meal, a pint, or a fire on a chilly night. A well-equipped kitchen, an old oak dining table and a large sectional couch are arranged around it in a spacious room where the whole family can relax. The master bedroom on the main floor features a queen-size bed, a sunny bay window, an en-suite bathroom and a laundry room.
Upstairs there are two more bedrooms with comfortable double beds, a second bathroom with a deep claw-foot tub and a bidet - for those so inclined. There is another large living room upstairs with high ceilings and exposed timber beams that also contains two single beds, a couch and a double pull-out couch. There are board games, puzzles and a Smart TV connected to Wi-Fi (there is no cable or satellite service) that can access your personal Netflix, Prime Video, Disney, etc. accounts.
Outside there is a flagstone patio with BBQ, fire pan, chairs, hammocks in the trees and a sprawling lawn for playing games. On calm nights the world's highest tides can be heard washing into shore, carving the red rock coastline to smooth perfection.
The cottage is located at 170 West Quaco Rd., minutes from the Village of St. Martins, the harbour, restaurants, cafe, art and gift shops, tourist information centre, museum and the Sea Caves. The Fundy Trail Park is 13 km from the cottage. Within walking distance of the cottage is The Quaco Head Lighthouse (1.3kms), and Brown's beach (1.9kms) - which is as quiet as it is scenic and a rock lover's dream. There is also a coastal trail that connects the two.
In consideration of the peace and serenity offered by its location, guests are asked to be considerate of the property owner and those in the other rental units by observing a quiet time from 10:00 pm-9:00 am.
The owner Nick and his fatherJoe, the property manager, reside on site and are happy to help if you have any questions regarding the property or about planning your adventures in the area. Although involved in continuing property maintenance, your privacy and an enjoyable vacation stay is our priority.
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Pets allowed: dogs less than 23 kg per pet (limit 2 pets total)
Cover bed and couch with sheets in the Laundry Rm
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Smoking
Smoking is not permitted
Smoking allowed outside only
Check-out instructions
The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Load and start the dishwasher
Strip any used beds and gather used towels
Remove personal items, remove leftover food and drinks and take out the rubbish
Turn off the lights, lock the doors and return the keys
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.
You are kindly asked to be considerate of other cottage guests and area residents by observing a quiet time between 10:00 PM and 9:00 AM.
Dogs must be house trained and not left unattended unless placed in a kennel. Must be on leash when outside. Pick up poop and dispose with garbage.
The outdoor fire bowl is not be left unattended. Please be conscientious of sparks, use the spark cover. Extinguish fire with water when finished.
Important information
You need to know
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
This property uses eco-friendly cleaning products
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
About the area
West Quaco
Located in West Quaco, this cottage is in a rural area and by the sea. Travellers eager for a bit of culture can stop by Quaco Museum, while those wishing to experience the area's natural beauty can explore Fundy Trail Provincial Park and Saint Martins Beach. Discover the area's water adventures with kayaking and fishing nearby, or enjoy the great outdoors with mountain biking and hiking.
Is Quaco Cottages - The Shipbuilder's Cottage-Two Century Old Charm pet-friendly?
Yes, this property allows dogs (limit 2 total) with a maximum weight of up to 23 kg per pet. Some restrictions may apply, so please contact the property for more details.
How much does it cost to stay at Quaco Cottages - The Shipbuilder's Cottage-Two Century Old Charm?
As of 10 April 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Quaco Cottages - The Shipbuilder's Cottage-Two Century Old Charm on 15 May 2026 start from NZ$298, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.
How much is parking at Quaco Cottages - The Shipbuilder's Cottage-Two Century Old Charm?
On-site parking is available at the property.
What time is check-in at Quaco Cottages - The Shipbuilder's Cottage-Two Century Old Charm?
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
What time is check-out at Quaco Cottages - The Shipbuilder's Cottage-Two Century Old Charm?
Checkout is at 11:00 AM.
Where is Quaco Cottages - The Shipbuilder's Cottage-Two Century Old Charm located?
Situated by the sea, this cottage is 0.6 mi (0.9 km) from Saint Martins Beach and within 3 miles (5 km) of Quaco Museum and Betty Thibodeau Library. Harbour Park and Macs Beach are also within 6 miles (10 km).
Reviews
9.8
Exceptional
Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
This was a lovely cottage to stay in. Loved the history of the building, its welcoming appeal and close proximity to the Sea Caves and lighthouse. Would highly recommend this place if you love experiencing a little bit of history.
Sonja S.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 26 July 2025
Thank you so much Sonja. Very happy to know you enjoyed your stay here and hope to see you again sometime. Joe
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Laura
24 July 2025
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
The Shipbuilder's Cottage is quaint and immaculately clean. It is set perfectly between off-the-between path coastal trails and a beach as well as attractions in town like the sea caves. We're thankful for the wonderful stay!
We loved the charm and 200 year history of the cottage. Joe was great at checking in on us. It was the perfect spot to stay and explore the Bay of Fundy sites nearby. Check-in was easy and kitchen supplies were plentiful for our family of 7 (3 generations).
Linda T.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 11 August 2025
thank you so much Linda. Very happy to know you were all comfortable and enjoyed your stay her. Joe
We had a great stay at the shipbuilders cottage! It was well kept and great place for kids to hang out. The surrounding area was beautiful and so close to everything. I really enjoyed all the history and the information that was shared about the home and area. Certainly a gem!
Michelle S.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 4 September 2025
Thank you so much. Very happy to know you were comfortable and enjoyed your stay here.
Verified
8/10 Good
Roland
11 October 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
We really enjoyed our stay at the Shipbuilders Cottage; loved the character of the home, location was central to our planned adventures, and our host was lovely.
Nicole B.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 10 October 2022
Thank you so much Nicole. It was a pleasure meeting you and am so glad you enjoyed your stay. Hope to see you again sometime in the future. Joe
We were a family of 7 travelling with grandparents and children. We all found the cottage charming. There were several sleeping options and all the supplies we needed for a comfortable stay. Including the full size washer and dryer. The cottage is close to the lighthouse, St. Martin’s wharf, the caves and the trail. Perfectly located! The property manager on site checked in with our family a few times to ensure we were comfortable. Great spot while visiting the Bay of Fundy!
Susan D.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Response from VrboOwner on 10 August 2025
Thank you so much Susan. It was a pleasure to host you and your family. Very happy to know you enjoyed your stay here. Hope to see you again sometime. Joe
This is a beautiful property, the house and surrounding grounds are perfect for a relaxing vacation. We loved the location. The hosts, Joe and Nick, are very friendly and helpful. Highly recommend a stay here.
Eleanor W.
Stayed 11 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 11 September 2024
Thank you very much Eleanor. So nice to have met you and very pleased you enjoyed your stay here. Look forward to seeing you next year. Joe
We loved this quaint cottage and location. Both Joe and Nick were very responsive and helpful and the cottage was immaculate. We enjoyed sunrise at the lighthouse each morning and the Saint Martin and surrounding area.
We shall return.
Scott M.
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 19 October 2024
Thank you so much Scott. We're very happy you enjoyed your stay here and hope to see you again. Joe
The historic cottage is very well appointed and was an excellent place to visit the local area. The kitchen dining-room and family room area made for a wonderful meeting area with more space upstairs to socialize. Would stay here again
Donald W.
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 2 September 2022
Thank you Donald. Very happy you enjoyed your stay here and do hope to see you again sometime in the future. Joe
Travelling from out of province, this was a lovely, quiet place to stay for a few nights. There were plenty of beds for all of us, plus couches to relax on and a decent-sized kitchen. The kids loved exploring and hanging out in the hammocks, and it was a short drive into St. Martins to explore the sea caves and coastline. The property manager made sure to meet with us and ensure we had all that we needed during our stay.
Marsha H.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 16 July 2024
Thank you very much Marsha. Very happy to hear you and your family enjoyed your stay here and the beauty of the area. Hope to see you again sometime. Joe
There's much to enjoy about Shipbuilders Cottage. Location close to everything St. Martins. Lovely outdoor space, nearby beaches and accommodating hosts. I'd recommend it with the caveat that if you're tall or unsteady, watch your yourself upstairs; it is the oldest building in St. Martins!
Judith B.
Stayed 8 nights in Aug 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 12 September 2024
Thank you so much Judith. Very happy you enjoyed your stay here and hope to see you again. Joe
My husband and I stayed for two nights in this absolutely charming cottage! We really enjoyed meeting the property owner Nick, who was a perfect host. We spent our days hiking and enjoying the ocean and our evenings were filled with delicious seafood dinners. We can't wait to book this unique cottage again!
Kelly B.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2020
Response from VrboOwner on 17 July 2020
Thank you for your review Kelly. Glad you enjoyed your stay. Nick enjoyed meeting you too. Joe
Verified
10/10 Excellent
Bryant
29 September 2022
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
A two century old cottage! Very clean, quaint and well maintained. Host was very helpful and took good care of us as Hurricane Fiona went through the area. Would love to come and stay again in the summer.
Wonderful stay at the historical Shipbuilder's Cottags
We had a wonderful stay at this historical cottage. The amenities were perfect for our family of 6., the kids had a fantastic time playing hide and seek and hanging out in the loft. The kitchen was very spacious to entertain our large family also staying in the area. The cottage was super clean and everything we needed to prepare meals was there:) Thank you so much, we will be back one day!
Cheryl T.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 13 September 2021
Thank you Cheryl. Very happy that you enjoyed yourselves here. Hope to see you again in the future. Joe
Staying in the Shipbuilder’s cottage is like travelling back in time. We loved the charm and character. We also enjoyed reading and learning about the history of the area. The owners are very helpful and quick to respond to any questions. We had a great time for our summer getaway!
Toni N.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Response from VrboOwner on 9 September 2023
Thank you so much Toni. So happy you enjoyed yourselves here. Hope to see you again. Joe
Our first impression was pretty bad, but the property starts to grow on you. We enjoyed the kitchen room and the large living room upstairs. Some investment in the bathrooms and electrical would go a long way to making this a great place. It was certainly memorable.
Molly J.
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2024
Response from VrboOwner on 12 September 2024
Sorry you didn't find this 200 year old historic property to have met your expectations but we appreciate your comments and are always looking to improve guest stays.
About the host
Hosted by Nick & Joe Brennan
Property owner Nick, and his father Joe, have a deep love of New Brunswick's landscapes and seascapes. Nick fell in love with St. Martins while exploring the rugged beauty and vast stretches of pristine coastline along the Bay of Fundy by kayak. He spends much of his time in the outdoors as a wilderness guide and canoe and kayak instructor. Both Nick & Joe enjoy sharing the property and their knowledge of the area with guests
Languages:
English
Premier Host
They consistently provide great experiences for their guests