If you’re heading to St. John’s and eager to experience its marine side, this 2-hour whale and seabird boat tour might just be what you’re looking for. It’s a popular choice for visitors wanting to combine stunning scenery with the chance to see some of North America’s most interesting wildlife, all while enjoying a comfortable and educational cruise. We’ve looked into this experience closely to get a sense of what it offers—and whether it’s worth your time and money.
What immediately draws us to this tour are the chance to spot humpback whales, which are the main attraction here, and the scenic journey past ancient icebergs and rugged coastlines. Plus, the fact that the tour is narrated adds an educational touch—perfect for those who love learning about local history and natural wonders while on the water. That said, it’s worth mentioning upfront that whale sightings aren’t guaranteed—a common caveat with wildlife tours—but the overall experience still offers plenty of value.
A couple of considerations to keep in mind: the weather can be unpredictable—so dressing warmly and appropriately is smart—and this tour typically operates rain or shine. Also, the group size maxes out at around 100 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and manageable but also means booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, is wise. Overall, if you enjoy scenic outings with knowledgeable guides and wildlife viewing, this tour is likely to satisfy.
This experience suits travelers who love nature, enjoy a good story, and value comfort and safety on the water. It’s especially appealing for those who want to see North America’s easternmost land point from the water, or simply want a scenic, relaxing cruise with a chance at spotting whales and seabirds.
Key Points
- Wildlife spotting: Chances to see humpback whales, seabirds like puffins, bald eagles, and northern gannets.
- Comfort & safety: Heated cabin helps keep everyone warm, even if the weather isn’t perfect.
- Expert narration: Guides share insights on Newfoundland’s natural and historical highlights.
- Scenic views: See iconic landmarks like Signal Hill, Fort Amherst Lighthouse, and Cape Spear from the water.
- Flexible schedule: Operates rain or shine, with options to reschedule if weather is poor.
- Value for money: At about $96 per person, it balances scenery, wildlife, and education—though sightings aren’t guaranteed.
The Itinerary & What You Can Expect
The tour kicks off at Iceberg Quest Ocean Tours’ pier in St. John’s, setting sail from Harbour Drive. This initial stretch offers a delightful view of the waterfront, with colorful houses and historic buildings framing the harbor. It’s a good chance to get your bearings and snap photos of the lively St. John’s skyline.
As the boat heads out, you’ll pass Signal Hill, home to the historic Cabot Tower. Even if you’re just passing it by, the views are striking, and it’s fun to see the place where transatlantic wireless communication first took hold. It’s a reminder of how this area has long been a hub of exploration and innovation.
Next, you’ll glide past Fort Amherst Lighthouse, a scenic landmark with its own stories to tell. The narration on this tour does a great job of weaving in local history, so even the landmarks without much visible detail become interesting when you hear about their stories.
One of the most captivating parts of this cruise is passing Blackhead, where you’ll see impressive sea caves and a seabird colony. This is also your best shot at spotting bald eagles, northern gannets, and puffins. Several reviews highlighted how attentive the crew is at pointing out these birds, which often blend in with the rocky coastline or are high up on cliffs.
The highlight for many is the view of Cape Spear, North America’s easternmost point. Here, you can marvel at the rugged, ancient volcanic coastline and appreciate the raw beauty of the Atlantic Ocean from a unique vantage point. This spot is particularly popular with photographers and those who simply want a dramatic, memorable scene.
Throughout the tour, the heated cabin proves invaluable, especially if the wind picks up or the weather turns brisk. The crew’s narration keeps everyone engaged, offering insights about the wildlife, local history, and geology of the area. Many reviewers commented on how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, which adds a lot to the overall experience.
Enjoy being on the water? Here are other boat experiences we've looked into in St Johns
Wildlife & Sightings: What’s Realistically Possible?
While the tour promises the chance to see humpback whales, most reviews mention that sightings depend heavily on the season. Several travelers noted that it wasn’t the right time of year for whales, but they still enjoyed the scenery and learned a lot about the local environment. As one reviewer put it, “We didn’t see whales but it wasn’t the season for it, we still did have a great time.”
Sea birds are more reliably spotted, with puffins, bald eagles, Northern gannets, and black-legged kittiwakes often seen during the cruise. Many reviewers appreciated how the crew was very good at pointing out and explaining these birds, making their sightings educational and fun.
Notably, passengers have seen sunfish, seabirds, and even a hawk during their cruises, adding to the variety of wildlife encountered. Even if whales play hard to get, the boat ride itself offers plenty of chances to spot interesting marine life and enjoy breathtaking scenery.
The Experience’s Value: Is It Worth the Price?
At a cost of about $96.41 per person, this tour offers a balanced package of scenic beauty, wildlife, and education. Considering the boat ride lasts roughly two hours, it’s a compact but content-rich experience. The fact that it’s narrated means you’re not just watching the water go by—you’re learning about the history of Newfoundland, its landmarks, and its natural inhabitants.
Many review comments highlight the good value of this experience, especially given the friendly and knowledgeable crew. While sightings of whales are not guaranteed, the journey itself is often praised for its spectacular scenery and the chance to see diverse seabirds. The boat’s heated cabin is another plus, making it comfortable regardless of weather, which can often be unpredictable in Newfoundland.
Some travelers, like one who said “the views alone were worth it,” point out that even without whales, the scenery and marine environment make it a worthwhile outing. Others appreciated the informative commentary and the opportunity to learn about local wildlife and history.
Who Will Love This Tour?
This cruise is a good pick for nature lovers, families, or anyone interested in local history and wildlife. It’s suitable for those who enjoy relaxing on the water, taking photos, or learning about the natural environment in a laid-back setting. If you’re traveling with children or less mobile, the heated cabin and manageable group size make it accessible and comfortable.
While serious whale-watchers might be disappointed if they’re unlucky, most will appreciate the scenic journey and birdwatching. It’s also a good option if you want a short, memorable excursion that provides a taste of Newfoundland’s coastline and wildlife without taking up an entire day.
FAQs
Is this tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the tour operates rain or shine. The boat has a heated cabin, so you can stay warm and dry even if the weather isn’t perfect. Just dress appropriately, as Newfoundland’s weather can change quickly.
Are whales guaranteed to be seen?
No, whale sightings depend on the season and luck. Many travelers mention that whales aren’t always around at the time of their visit, but they still enjoyed the trip and scenery.
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately two hours, making it a convenient outing that doesn’t require a big time commitment.
What is the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 100 travelers, which helps keep things comfortable and intimate.
Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, you can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the departure. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Is this tour family-friendly?
While it’s not explicitly marketed as a family tour, the boat’s comfort and the scenic, relaxed atmosphere make it suitable for most travelers, including families with children who can handle being on a boat for a couple of hours.
Final Thoughts
If you’re after a scenic, educational cruise that offers the chance to see some of Newfoundland’s most impressive natural sights—whether or not you spot whales—this tour is a solid choice. The combination of beautiful coastlines, seabirds, and expert guides makes it a worthwhile addition to your Newfoundland itinerary. Keep your expectations realistic about whale sightings, but don’t let that deter you; the journey itself, with its gorgeous views and interesting commentary, can be just as memorable.
Ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, curious travelers, and those seeking a relaxed water-based adventure, this cruise balances scenery, comfort, and learning in a way that appeals to a wide audience. Just remember to dress warmly, arrive prepared for the weather, and enjoy the ride.
2 Hour Award-Winning Whale and Seabird Boat Tour from St. John’s
“I had an incredible time on the Iceberg Quest Ocean Tour out of St. Johns. The views alone were worth it, with rugged coastline, seabirds, and even…”
References
