Newfoundland Puffin and Whale Watch Cruise

Taking a wildlife cruise around Newfoundland’s Witless Bay Ecological Reserve sounds like an adventure many travelers would love. With its impressive population of over 2.5 million seabirds and a good chance of spotting whales, this tour offers a memorable way to connect with Newfoundland’s natural beauty. While I haven’t personally been on this exact cruise, after digging into the details and reviews, I can tell you a lot about what makes it special—and what to consider before booking.

One of the things I really appreciate about this experience is the expert naturalist-guided commentary, which adds a layer of understanding to the sights you’ll see. Plus, the spacious catamaran with ample viewing space makes it easy to enjoy the scenery, no matter where you’re sitting. On the flip side, a common concern is the seasonality of wildlife sightings, especially whales—there’s no guarantee you’ll see them every trip. If you’re a wildlife enthusiast or simply love scenic boat rides, this tour is likely to be right up your alley, especially during peak whale season from mid-June to mid-August.

Key Points

• Wildlife wonders: Look out for puffins, seabirds, and whales, with sightings peaking in summer.
• Comfortable vessel: The catamaran’s large decks and interior cabin accommodate up to 100 passengers, balancing space and comfort.
• Expert commentary: Naturalists and crew share plentiful insights, making the trip educational and engaging.
• Seasonality matters: Whale sightings aren’t guaranteed outside peak months, but birdwatching is fantastic year-round.
• Value for money: At around $92.70 per person, it offers a comprehensive wildlife experience with transportation options.
• Weather dependent: The tour runs in all weather, so dress appropriately for the North Atlantic conditions.

What to Expect on the Newfoundland Puffin and Whale Watch Cruise

Starting from Bay Bulls, a quiet harbor about 25 minutes from downtown St. John’s, the tour sets the stage for a scenic day out on the water. The departure point is private, with easy parking, and the vessel itself is designed for comfort and excellent visibility. This isn’t a cramped boat; with space for 100 passengers on the outside decks plus a covered interior cabin, you’ll have plenty of room to enjoy the views and stay cozy if the weather turns.

The Journey to Iceberg Alley and Witless Bay

Once onboard, the captain takes you through Iceberg Alley—an area famous for floating icebergs that drift from Greenland during spring and summer. Even if you’re visiting outside these months, the scenery here is striking, with melting icebergs sculpted into dramatic shapes, creating a surreal landscape. As the boat navigates toward the Ecological Reserve, crew and naturalists share stories about the area’s geology and wildlife, setting the tone for a day immersed in nature.

Wildlife Spotting and Island Stops

The core of the tour is exploring the ecological reserve, home to over 2.5 million seabirds. The guides do a good job of pointing out and explaining the various species, including puffins, common murres, black guillemots, northern gannets, greater shearwaters, and northern fulmars. Many reviews emphasize the abundance and diversity of seabirds, with one noting how small puffins really are in person, which often surprises visitors.

The boat will stop in sheltered areas of the islands that make up the reserve. Here, you can photograph nesting sites and observe seabirds in their natural habitat. It’s a chance to see puffins up close—an experience that many find charming and unforgettable. One reviewer mentioned how “the puffins are just the cutest,” and it’s easy to see why they’re such a favorite among birdwatchers.

Whale Watching – A Bit of Luck

From mid-June to mid-August, whale sightings are most likely, including humpbacks and other North Atlantic species. Though the crew does their best to find whales, it’s important to remember that sightings are never guaranteed—wildlife is unpredictable. Several reviewers noted that, even when whales weren’t seen, the overall experience remained enjoyable thanks to the scenic vistas and bird colonies.

One traveler shared, “We didn’t see any whales, but the weather was beautiful, and the calm water made it a great day.” Others had days full of whale encounters, with sightings of mama whales, calves, and even rare sperm whales. The crew’s wireless microphones and naturalist commentary help enhance the experience, making each sighting or near-sighting more meaningful.

The Atmosphere on Board

The boat’s crew and guides receive high praise for their friendliness, humor, and knowledge. Several reviews mention the lively commentary, singing Newfoundland songs, and the storytelling atmosphere that adds a genuine local flavor. The crew’s attentiveness shines through, especially when handling seasickness or weather concerns.

One reviewer noted, “The crew treated a seasick passenger like family, caring for her and making her comfortable,” which speaks volumes about their professionalism and warmth. Whether it’s sharing local tales or answering questions, the crew’s enthusiasm makes the trip more than just a boat ride—it’s an insight into Newfoundland’s culture and environment.

Practical Details and Considerations

A key point for travelers is the duration—about 1 hour and 30 minutes, which is manageable for most people and leaves plenty of time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. The tour includes a pre-departure safety briefing and all necessary safety equipment, complying with Transport Canada Marine Safety standards. The vessel also has washrooms and a sheltered indoor area, helping to make your experience comfortable regardless of the weather.

Regarding cost, at $92.70 per person, the cruise offers good value considering the wildlife, scenery, expert guides, and transportation options. Many reviews highlight the excellent guides and crew, which significantly enhance the overall value.

The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dressing in layers and bringing rain gear is advisable. As one reviewer recommends, “Wear extra layers, as it can get cold on the water,” and that’s especially true if you’re prone to seasickness or if the day turns breezy.

Transportation and Accessibility

Meeting at Bay Bulls is straightforward, and parking is available on site. If coming from St. John’s, you might find the shuttle service helpful, though it costs extra and needs to be booked in advance. Some reviews mention the shuttle service as “worth it,” especially for those who prefer to relax and avoid the drive.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise is well-suited for wildlife lovers, birdwatchers, and anyone interested in Newfoundland’s rugged coastlines and marine ecosystems. It’s also a good pick for travelers who enjoy boat rides with the comfort of a large vessel, especially during the summer months when whale sightings are at their peak.

While families with older children will likely enjoy the trip, those with very young kids should consider the potential for seasickness and the weather conditions. The boat’s capacity and outdoor decks make it a lively, social experience, but not necessarily ideal for travelers seeking a quiet or intimate setting.

The Sum Up

If you’re after a lively, educational, and scenic boat trip through Newfoundland’s wildlife-rich waters, the Newfoundland Puffin and Whale Watch Cruise offers a compelling experience. The combination of expert naturalist guides, a spacious vessel, and the chance to see puffins, seabirds, and whales in their natural habitat makes for a memorable outing—whether or not you see whales on the day.

The tour balances adventure, comfort, and value, making it a great choice for those eager to explore Newfoundland’s marine life without spending a fortune. It’s especially appealing during peak whale season, but birdwatchers will find joy in the scenery year-round. Just remember, wildlife is unpredictable, so a flexible attitude will make your experience even more enjoyable.

For anyone visiting St. John’s and nearby Bay Bulls, this cruise offers a wonderful way to connect with nature and learn about this stunning part of Canada’s Atlantic coast. The friendly crew, stunning views, and wildlife encounters are likely to leave you with stories to tell long after the trip ends.

FAQs

How long is the Newfoundland Puffin and Whale Watch Cruise?
The cruise lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, providing enough time to see wildlife and enjoy the scenery without it feeling too long.

Where does the tour depart from?
It departs from a private dock in Bay Bulls, approximately 25 minutes from downtown St. John’s. Parking is available on site.

Can I see whales on this tour?
Whale sightings are most common from mid-June through mid-August, but sightings aren’t guaranteed. The crew does their best to find whales, and many guests leave with memorable encounters.

What kind of wildlife might I see?
Expect to see puffins, common murres, black guillemots, northern gannets, greater shearwaters, and northern fulmars. During peak season, humpback whales and other species are often spotted.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, older children who enjoy wildlife and boat trips generally find it fun. Keep in mind the boat can be windy and cold, so dressing appropriately is important.

What should I bring?
Layered clothing, rain gear, and possibly a camera with good zoom. The weather can change quickly on the North Atlantic, and it can be chilly even on sunny days.

Is transportation included?
Transport to the dock is available as an optional add-on for an extra fee, which should be booked in advance. The tour itself includes all safety equipment and a safety briefing.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour operates in all weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll receive a full refund or the option to reschedule.

How much does the tour cost?
The standard price is around $92.70 per person, offering good value considering the wildlife, scenery, guides, and included amenities.

Whether you’re an avid birdwatcher, a whale enthusiast, or just someone looking to enjoy Newfoundland’s stunning coastline, this cruise promises a day full of natural beauty and fascinating encounters. It’s a well-reviewed, reliable choice that combines scenic adventure with wildlife watching—an experience likely to stay with you long after your trip ends.