St. John’s offers two excellent 2-hour tour options that showcase Newfoundland’s natural wonders. The highlight is a boat excursion from St. John’s harbor, which I love for its perfect mix of sightseeing and wildlife watching – you’ll spot puffins, whales, and dolphins while enjoying drinks from the onboard bar. The Bay Bulls tour is equally rewarding, focusing on the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve‘s rich marine life and local culture.
Both tours feature expert guides who know exactly where to find wildlife, though nature doesn’t always cooperate. The Bay Bulls option stands out for its educational value about local migration patterns and marine ecosystems.
Let’s look at these memorable maritime adventures in detail.
Key Points
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The 2-hour guided boat tour from St. Johns offers a scenic coastal journey with opportunities to spot wildlife like dolphins, puffins, and whales.
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The 2-hour whale and bird boat tour in Bay Bulls provides a focus on wildlife viewing, including migrating birds, minke whales, and dolphins.
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Both tours offer a range of amenities, such as heated cabins, restrooms, and accessibility features like lifejackets and stroller access.
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The tours are highly rated by travelers, with the St. Johns tour receiving a 4.5-star rating and the Bay Bulls tour being highly recommended.
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The Bay Bulls tour includes unique local cultural experiences, such as the “screeching in” tradition and live music, in addition to wildlife sightings.
2-Hour Guided Boat Tour From St. Johns
The 2-hour guided boat tour from St. Johns, offered by Iceberg Quest Ocean Tours, is a popular attraction for visitors to the area.
Departing from Pier 6 in the heart of St. Johns, the tour takes passengers on a scenic journey along the coastline, offering the opportunity to spot wildlife like dolphins, puffins, and occasionally whales.
The tour has a maximum capacity of 100 travelers and is priced at $94.67 per person.
Amenities on board include a restroom and a licensed bar, as well as a heated cabin for comfort. The tour is stroller accessible, though not wheelchair accessible, and service animals are allowed.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable and friendly crew, who provide informative narration and storytelling, as well as the beautiful landscapes.
While some have mentioned a lack of wildlife sightings, the overall experience is widely regarded as excellent, with an impressive 4.5-star rating from 322 reviews.
Read our full review: 2-Hour Guided Boat Tour From St. Johns Review
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2 Hours Guided Whale and Bird Boat Tour in Bay Bulls
For travelers seeking a unique wildlife-focused tour in the St. Johns area, the 2-hour guided whale and bird boat tour in Bay Bulls is a must-try experience. This highly-rated tour, recommended by 98% of travelers, takes visitors through the Witless Bay reserve to observe millions of migrating birds, including puffins and auks, as well as potential sightings of minke whales and dolphins.
Led by knowledgeable naturalist guides, the tour provides on-board narration about the local ecosystem. The family-owned company operates these tours, with a maximum capacity of 100 travelers per trip.
Visitors are advised to arrive 30 minutes early for check-in and to dress warmly, as temperatures can be cool. Lifejackets are provided, and the tour is accessible for wheelchair users and strollers. Travelers can also opt for a shuttle service at an additional charge.
The tour highlights include catching cod, enjoying local songs, and experiencing the “screeching in” tradition.
Reviews praise the knowledgeable and friendly crew, the scenic views, and the overall enjoyable experience.
Read our full review: 2 Hours Guided Whale and Bird Boat Tour in Bay Bulls Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Boat Tours?
Many boat tour operators have minimum age requirements, often around 12 years old. However, the specific age limit can vary, so it’s best to check with each company before booking a tour to ensure it’s suitable for your family.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Tours?
Passengers can typically bring their own food and drinks on the boat tours. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand as some may have restrictions or offer on-board refreshments. Following the tour company’s guidelines ensures an enjoyable and safe experience.
What Happens if the Weather Is Bad on the Tour Day?
If the weather is bad on the tour day, most operators offer flexible rescheduling or refunds. They’ll work with customers to ensure their experience isn’t disrupted by inclement conditions, prioritizing safety and customer satisfaction.
Are Life Jackets Provided, and Are They Mandatory to Wear?
Life jackets are typically provided for water-based tours and experiences in the area. While not always mandatory, it’s generally recommended to wear them for safety, especially if the tour involves activities such as kayaking or boating.
Can I Take Photos and Videos During the Boat Tours?
Passengers can generally take photos and videos during the boat tours, though they should be mindful of other passengers and avoid obstructing views. Some tour operators may have specific policies, so it’s best to check with them beforehand.
Recap
The guided boat tours and whale watching experiences around St. John’s provide visitors with an opportunity to explore the region’s stunning coastline and spot its diverse marine wildlife. Whether you opt for a 2-hour boat tour or a whale and bird watching excursion, these activities offer a great way to take in the natural beauty of Newfoundland’s northeastern corner.