2 Hours Guided Whale and Bird Boat Tour in Bay Bulls

If you’re heading to Newfoundland and looking for an experience that combines wildlife, beautiful scenery, and local charm, the Bay Bulls whale and bird tour could be just what you need. This tour promises a two-hour cruise along the coast, where you can expect to see thousands of migrating seabirds and, with a bit of luck, whales and dolphins frolicking in the waves. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting to get out on the water and witness the region’s rich natural life firsthand.

What we love about this tour is how it’s both informative and relaxed—an easy way to enjoy Newfoundland’s coastline without feeling rushed. Plus, supporting a family-owned local business adds to the authentic feel of the experience. The second thing that stands out is the expert guides who are not only knowledgeable but also engaging, sharing stories and singing local songs that add a personal touch.

That said, a potential consideration is the seasonality—if you’re late in the season, whale sightings might be less likely, as some reviews mentioned. Also, the tour is only around two hours, which is perfect for a quick outing but may leave those looking for a longer wildlife experience wanting more.

This tour suits travelers who want a short, value-packed wildlife adventure—especially those keen on birdwatching, interested in learning about local ecosystems, or simply looking for a relaxing boat trip with great scenery.

Key Points

• Wildlife galore: See millions of seabirds like puffins, auk, petrels, and gulls, especially during the nesting season.
• Expert narration: Guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and often sing local songs, making the experience lively and educational.
• Support local: The tour is run by a historic, family-owned company, adding a community-focused touch.
• Suitable for most: Most travelers can participate, and service animals are allowed.
• Weather dependent: The experience relies on good weather, and cancellations are possible if conditions aren’t ideal.
• Value for money: At around $85 per person, it’s a solid price considering the wildlife you’ll see and the quality of narration.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour kicks off at 22 Lower Rd, Bay Bulls, with a meet-up at 11:30 am. From there, the boat departs into the Witless Bay ecological reserve, a birdwatcher’s paradise, especially during spring and summer. The reserve comprises four islands that become bustling nesting grounds for roughly 4 million seabirds—a staggering number that’s best appreciated from the water.

The highlight here is the chance to spot some notable seabird species like the second-largest colony of Leach’s Storm-Petrels in the world, with around 620,000 pairs. Other species include the Common Murre, Razorbill Auk, Black-Legged Kittiwake, Great Black-backed Gull, Black Guillemot, Northern Fulmar, Thick-billed Murre, and Herring Gull. Watching these birds wheel and soar, often in huge flocks, is truly a sight.

The Wildlife Focus

The main draw, of course, is the aerial spectacle of migratory birds. As one reviewer put it, “thousands of puffins,” which offers a special thrill if you’re a bird enthusiast. The boat’s naturalist guides do a great job of explaining the flora and fauna, helping you identify the different species and understand their behaviors.

While whale sightings are not guaranteed, many travelers have still enjoyed spotting dolphins and even a minke whale, as some reviews mentioned. The guides are upfront about the seasons and what’s likely to be seen, which keeps expectations realistic. For example, one visitor noted, “Made it clear it was the end of the season, but we still saw puffins and dolphins.”

The Experience on Board

The boat itself is clean and well-maintained, with lifejackets provided for safety. Most reviews praise the crew for being knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. The guides often share stories, sing folk songs, and even get some passengers involved—which makes the trip feel more personal and fun.

The tour is about two hours in duration, which is just enough time to see plenty of wildlife without feeling like you’re on the water forever. The group size is capped at 100, so it’s not overly crowded, allowing for good viewing opportunities.

Logistics and Practicalities

The tour starts at 11:30 am, and you have the option to include shuttle service for an extra CAD 35, which many find convenient, especially if you’re staying outside Bay Bulls. Most travelers seem to find the logistics straightforward, and reviews point out that the tour is well organized.

You’re encouraged to bring warm clothing, as even on sunny days, the wind out on the water can be chilly. The tour staff also sell coats and warm gear if you forget. The meeting point is accessible, and since the tour is only about two hours, it fits well into a day of sightseeing.

Pricing and Value

At $85.29 per person, this tour offers a good value, considering the quality of the wildlife viewing, expert narration, and the opportunity to support a local business. Reviews consistently mention that it’s worth the price, especially when you’re able to see puffins and dolphins up close.

If you’re a wildlife lover or someone eager to learn about Newfoundland’s coastal ecosystems, this tour delivers a lot in a short time. It’s also suited for travelers who want a relaxed, informative outing rather than a high-intensity adventure.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is excellent for nature enthusiasts, birdwatchers, and those wanting a quick but meaningful wildlife experience. It’s perfect if you’re in St. John’s or Bay Bulls and want a taste of the region’s rich birdlife and marine mammals. Keep in mind, if whale sightings are a top priority, you might want to consider the season—it’s not guaranteed but still possible, especially earlier in the season.

The tour’s family-friendly atmosphere makes it suitable for children, provided they’re comfortable on a boat and dressed warmly. The knowledgeable guides and lively narration make it engaging for all ages.

If you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group looking for a relaxed day out with a high chance of seeing puffins, dolphins, and seabirds, this is a solid choice. It also suits those who appreciate supporting local, family-run businesses and value expert storytelling.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and children who enjoy wildlife and boat rides will find it engaging. Just remember to dress warmly, as it can be chilly on the water.

What should I bring?
Warm clothing is recommended, even if the weather looks good. The tour staff also sell coats and warm gear on site if needed.

Can I see whales on this tour?
Whale sightings are not guaranteed, but dolphins and puffins are common, and some travelers have seen a minke whale, especially earlier in the season.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately two hours, making it a good half-day activity without feeling rushed.

Is shuttle service available?
Yes, there’s an optional shuttle service for CAD 35, which is recommended if you prefer easy logistics.

What’s the best time to take this tour?
Spring and summer are peak seasons, especially for bird nesting and migratory birds. The experience might be less spectacular late in the season.

What is included in the price?
The ticket includes lifejackets and the guided tour. The shuttle service is extra.

Final Thoughts

The Bay Bulls whale and bird boat tour offers a fantastic snapshot of Newfoundland’s remarkable wildlife in just a couple of hours. From the impressive seabird colonies to potential dolphin and whale sightings, it’s a wildlife experience that’s both accessible and memorable. With friendly guides, a well-organized outing, and the chance to support a local family business, it’s a worthwhile addition to your Newfoundland trip.

Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, a nature lover, or just curious about the region’s marine life, this tour provides a great introduction to the area’s natural riches. It’s best suited for those who are looking for a short, engaging, and educational boat trip that balances scenic beauty with wildlife encounters.

If you’re visiting St. John’s or nearby Bay Bulls, grabbing this tour could be a highlight of your trip—especially if you appreciate the simplicity of a well-run, honest wildlife cruise.