Newfoundland whale watching is a majestic way to discover once-in-a-lifetime wildlife on Canada’s beautiful east coast.
Its rich marine ecosystems and accessible coastline make it an ideal spot for encountering a variety of whale species.
Here’s your comprehensive guide to the best whale watching tours in Newfoundland.
Why Whale Watching in Newfoundland?
Whale watching in Newfoundland stands out due to the province’s unique geographical location along key migratory routes of various whale species.
This is a departure from Vancouver whale watching, as you’re essentially swapping out orcas for the mighty humpback.
Like BC, the rich feeding grounds in the waters here make it an ideal habitat for whales, leading to frequent sightings.
Newfoundland’s commitment to sustainable whale watching practices enhances the experience, allowing for intimate yet respectful encounters with these majestic creatures.
The diverse marine ecosystem, combined with the stunning coastal scenery, makes Newfoundland whale watching not just a wildlife experience but also an immersive nature adventure.
The most commonly sighted species include the playful humpback whales, known for their spectacular breaches and tail slapping. Minke whales, the smallest of the baleen whales, are also frequently observed due to their curiosity and proximity to the shore.
The rare and majestic North Atlantic right whales can also be spotted, mainly as they are known to frequent the Bay of Fundy.
Best Time to Go Whale Watching in Newfoundland
The best time for whale watching in Newfoundland is from May to October, with the peak season typically in July and August.
These months coincide with the migration patterns of whales as they travel to the nutrient-rich waters of the North Atlantic for feeding.
During this period, the chances of spotting whales are significantly higher, with calm seas and warmer weather contributing to a more pleasant viewing experience.
Early summer months may offer sightings of mothers with calves, while late summer and early fall are ideal for observing larger groups and a variety of species.
Best Whale Watching Tours in Newfoundland
Puffin & Whale Watch Cruise: Best Newfoundland Whale Watching Tour Overall
Departure Point: 90 Northside Rd (30 min from St John’s) | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Read 650+ reviews
The best whale watching tour in Newfoundland is an unforgettable wildlife cruise through the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve.
The reserve boasts over 2.5 million seabirds and one of the densest whale populations in the North Atlantic.
Experience the beauty of nature from the comfort of a spacious catamaran designed with extensive viewing areas.
Be mesmerized by the sight of icebergs and keep an eye out for a diverse array of wildlife including puffins, humpback whales, razor-billed auks, and black-legged kittiwakes.
Enjoy insightful live commentary from the crew and onboard naturalists, who share fascinating details about Newfoundland’s rich heritage as you navigate towards Iceberg Alley.
At ‘just’ $120.00 CAD, this is also the cheapest whale watching tour in Newfoundland. It’s also on the shorter side, making it one of the best whale watching tours in Newfoundland for kids.
Learn more, or secure your spot by clicking the button below:
2 Nights by Zodiac & Kayak: Top Whale Watching Tour in Newfoundland for Adventure
Departure Point: 1 Stoneman’s Lane, Trinity, NL | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Read reviews
Embark on this new 2-day whale watching adventure in Trinity Bay, where your expert guide will lead you through the bay’s rich waters.
Keep an eye out for bald eagles and cormorants soaring above, and witness the awe-inspiring sight of Minke whales breaching the ocean’s surface.
This tour not only promises close encounters with marine life but also provides uninterrupted views of Canada’s stunning coastline from your boat.
Your journey includes comfortable accommodation, appropriate wet-weather gear, and a delicious hot breakfast to start your day.
Experience the thrill of spotting native wildlife like Minke whales and puffins on this comprehensive 2-day tour, where every detail is taken care of for an unforgettable marine adventure.
Whale Watching + Shark and Cod Fishing: Best Whale Watching Tour in Saint John’s
Departure Point: 1 Fort Amherst Rd, St. John’s | ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ | Read 55+ reviews
Embark on Newfoundland’s most extraordinary marine adventure!
This unique experience allows you to catch and keep your own cod – so remember to bring a cooler for your fresh cod fillets.
Along the way you’ll embrace the thrill of the mighty North Atlantic, where spending a day in pursuit of the legendary cod, a fish that has shaped Newfoundland’s history for over 500 years.
You’ll also snap pics of humpback whales and maybe even see some million-year-old icebergs floating by.
This is primarily a fishing trip, making it the best whale watching tour in Newfoundland for anglers.
Choosing a Newfoundland Whale Watching Tour
Safety is a top priority in Newfoundland whale watching tours, as each one is certified by Transport Canada.
This ensures that the boats are regularly inspected and adhere to strict safety protocols.
When selecting a whale watching tour in Newfoundland, consider the following factors:
- Tour Length
- Departure Point
- Comfort
- Cost
Let’s delve deeper into these aspects of Newfoundland whale watching tours:
Tour Duration
Typically, there are two main durations for whale watching tours in Newfoundland:
- Half-day whale watching tours (3 hours)
- Extended tours (up to two days)
Many prefer the concise half-day tours like the Puffin & Whale Watch Cruise for a comfortable time on the water. These tours are also easier on the wallet, making them more accessible to travellers at all price points.
However, for those desiring more time at sea, multiple-day tours like the 2 Nights by Zodiac & Kayak offer an extended experience. In this case, accommodation and breakfast are also included.
Departure Points in Newfoundland
Newfoundland offers several departure points, including popular spots like St John’s, Trinity, and Bay Bulls.
Your choice will likely depend on your location or travel plans in Newfoundland.
Each area offers its unique charm and proximity to different whale-watching hotspots in Newfoundland.
St John’s is better for dipping your toes into local waters or even going on a cod fishing + whale watching expedition to boot.
True Newfoundland whale watching enthusiasts though should consider getting out of the city – Bay Bulls and its Puffin & Whale Watch Cruise can’t be beat.
Comfort of the Vessel
Seniors, children, and people prone to seasickness should opt for the spacious catamarans of the Puffin & Whale Watch Cruise.
Adventure seekers might opt for smaller, more agile boats for an up-close experience with the whales – like the zodiacs of the two day Newfoundland whale watching tour.
Newfoundland Whale Watching Weather
Newfoundland’s weather can be unpredictable, so consider the size of the boat when booking. Larger boats offer more stability in varied weather conditions.
Remember, you can often reschedule if the weather looks unfavourable.
Cost of Whale Watching Tours in Newfoundland
After deciding on the type of vessel, departure point, and tour length, the price will likely be a significant deciding factor.
Tours vary in cost, so choose one that fits your budget while meeting your other preferences. I’ve provided a quick summary of the costs in the table below:
| Tour | Location | Price | |
| Puffin/Whale Watching | Custom | $120.00 | More info |
| Cod + Whale Watching | Custom | $269.00 | More info |
| Whale Watch + Iceberg by Zodiac | Trinity Eco-Tours | $125.00 | More info |
| 2-Night Whale + Kayak ( w/ Accommodation) | Your Hotel | $1100.00 | More info |
Again, the cheapest tour is the Puffin + Whale Watch Tour. We’ve also included a bonus tour at the same price point above, the Zodiac Whale Watch & Iceberg Tour. So click above for more info.
How to Book your Newfoundland & Labrador Whale Watching Tour
⚠️ Whale watching tours in Newfoundland are known to sell out quickly. For this reason, booking online before your trip is highly recommended, particularly if you’re visiting during the summer high season.
Booking your tour of choice is as simple as a purchase on Amazon – in fact, it’s even faster.
Here, I’ll walk you through the process with ease.
All you have to do is choose your favourite whale tour using the buttons here, select a time, and you’re good to go – with free cancellation!
1. Select Your Newfoundland Whale Tour
- Head to the Newfoundland whale watching portal on Viator.
- Here, you’re booking with a secure publicly traded company (Tripadvisor) with a $3 billion market cap.
- Booking with them gets you to book now-pay-later tours, which helps a lot with budgeting.
- You’re also locking in Viator’s lowest price guarantee to help you save money.
2. Select Your Time of Departure
- Select your desired departure time.
- Click the green ‘Check Availability’ button on the product page.
- Select a date on the calendar.
- Choose the number of people and click ‘Apply.’
- Select your time and click ‘Reserve Now & Pay Later’ or ‘Book Now.’
FYI: If you choose ‘Reserve Now & Pay Later,’ you can pay for your tickets at any point up to 48 hours before.
Change your mind? Either way, you can cancel your tickets free of charge up to 24 hours before.
Boom! You can lock in your tour in less than 2 minutes. Just click the button below to visit for more information on your whale watching journey of choice:
Types of Whales in Newfoundland
Humpback Whales
Known for their spectacular breaches and playful behaviour, humpback whales are a common sight in Newfoundland’s waters.
These whales are easily identifiable by their long pectoral fins and unique tail patterns.
Minke Whales
As we mentioned in our post on Victoria whale watching, minke whales, the smallest of the baleen whales, are known for their speed and agility.
They are often curious about boats and can sometimes be seen swimming close to the surface.
North Atlantic Right Whales
These rare and majestic creatures are a special sight. Known for their massive size and distinctive callosities, spotting a North Atlantic right whale is a memorable experience.
Whale Watching in Newfoundland FAQ
Do you have any further questions about whale watching in Newfoundland?
We’ve got even more answers to help you prepare for your journey.
Can I Touch the Whales?
No, touching or feeding the whales is not allowed. It’s important to respect these creatures and observe them from a safe distance.
How Close Will We Get to the Whales?
Most tours adhere to regulations that dictate a safe and respectful distance from the whales. The exact distance can vary, but the goal is always to observe without disturbing the animals.
Is Whale Watching in Newfoundland Suitable for Children?
Yes, whale watching can be a fantastic experience for children. However, consider the length of the tour and the size of the boat for their comfort and safety.
What If We Don’t See Any Whales?
While sightings are highly likely, they can’t be guaranteed. Most tour operators are experienced in locating whales, but sometimes nature is unpredictable.
Ready for Your Whale Watching Adventure in Newfoundland?
We hope this guide helps you choose the perfect whale watching tour in Newfoundland. For any further questions, feel free to reach out or leave a comment below.
Get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey with the majestic whales of Newfoundland!
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