Courtenay Bay is a coastal bay forming part of the Port of Saint John on the Bay of Fundy. It is characterized by its industrial shoreline and significant maritime infrastructure, including a prominent breakwater and breakwater lighthouse. The bay is directly connected to the city's harbor and the St. John River estuary, with Marsh Creek flowing into it over a linear distance of about seven kilometres. The water is saltwater, influenced by the extreme tides of the Bay of Fundy. A primary feature for paddlers is the Courtenay Bay Breakwater, which is a stable structure and presents a potential point of interest. The area has historical significance for shipbuilding, with yards established there in the 19th century. Water quality has been a historical concern, as the City of Saint John has discharged into the connected Marsh Creek system. The overall aesthetic is urban and industrial, dominated by port facilities. The presence of the Canadian Coast Guard's High Endurance Lifeboat CCGC Courtenay Bay indicates active commercial and rescue vessel traffic in the area, which is a major safety consideration for paddlers. There are no specific paddling restrictions. The high level of boat traffic and exposure to the open Bay of Fundy would require significant experience and caution. The best times for paddling would be during calm conditions, and paddlers must be acutely aware of the powerful Fundy tides and currents when planning any route in or near the bay.