Two outstanding 2-hour tours showcase St. John’s maritime treasures. The waterfront boat tour from downtown St. John’s stands out for its combination of coastal scenery and marine wildlife, particularly the summer parade of humpback whales and colorful puffin colonies. Meanwhile, the Bay Bulls excursion excels at intimate bird watching with bonus whale encounters in a more relaxed setting.
I especially love the St. John’s tour (4.5/300+ reviews) for its expert narration about local maritime history and convenient downtown departure. The Bay Bulls option (4.9 stars) wins praise for its smaller groups and dedicated wildlife focus.
Let’s explore these remarkable coastal tours in detail.
Key Points
- The 2-hour guided boat tours from St. John’s and Bay Bulls offer a unique opportunity to explore the region’s marine wildlife and scenic coastal views.
- The St. John’s tour features sightings of humpback whales, icebergs, and Atlantic puffins, while the Bay Bulls tour emphasizes migrating birds, including puffins and petrels.
- Both tours provide engaging cultural experiences, with onboard storytelling, local songs, and a “screeching in” ceremony for immersive cultural exploration.
- The tours cater to diverse groups, offering accessibility options for wheelchair users and families with strollers, as well as amenities such as heated cabins and licensed bars.
- The tours have received overwhelmingly positive reviews, with the Bay Bulls tour boasting a 98% guest recommendation rate and the St. John’s tour praised for its scenic views.
2-Hour Guided Boat Tour From St. Johns
Departing from the heart of downtown St. John’s, this 2-hour guided boat tour offers visitors an opportunity to experience the marine wonders of the region.
With 322 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, the tour promises to showcase humpback whales, 10,000-year-old icebergs, and Atlantic puffins. The boat, which can accommodate up to 100 travelers, departs from the Iceberg Quest Ocean Tours pier, conveniently accessible via public transportation.
On board, guests can enjoy the heated cabin, restroom, and licensed bar, ensuring a comfortable journey. The knowledgeable crew provides engaging storytelling, sharing insights about the area’s natural and cultural heritage.
While some reviews note the disappointment of not seeing all the advertised wildlife, many guests appreciate the scenic views and the opportunity to participate in the “screeching in” ceremony.
Despite occasional weather-related challenges, the tour remains a popular choice, offering a unique way to explore North America’s most easterly land point from the water.
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 those seeking a more intimate experience with the natural wonders of the Newfoundland coastline, the 2-hour Guided Whale and Bird Boat Tour in Bay Bulls offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Operated by a historic, family-owned tour company, this excursion focuses on spotting migrating birds, such as puffins and petrels, as well as the occasional whale within the Witless Bay reserve. Aboard the vessel, knowledgeable naturalist guides provide insightful narration about the local ecosystem and wildlife.
With a maximum capacity of 100 travelers, this tour boasts an exceptional 4.9-star rating from 345 reviews, with 98% of guests recommending the experience. Priced at $83.75 per person, the tour is accessible to wheelchair users and stroller-pushing families, with an optional shuttle service available.
Guests are advised to dress warmly, as coats can be purchased on-site. Beyond wildlife viewing, the crew engages passengers through local songs and the traditional “screeching in” ceremony, providing a truly immersive cultural experience.
Read our full review: 2 Hours Guided Whale and Bird Boat Tour in Bay Bulls Review
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Common Questions
Do I Need to Bring My Own Life Jacket?
Most tour operators provide life jackets for participants. However, it’s always a good idea to check with the tour company beforehand to see if you need to bring your own life jacket. They can advise on the appropriate safety gear.
Can I Take Photos During the Tours?
Yes, you can typically take photos during tours. Most tour operators encourage guests to capture their experiences, as long as it doesn’t disrupt the tour or endanger wildlife. Just be mindful of any restrictions or guidelines provided by the tour company.
What if the Weather Is Bad on the Day?
If the weather is bad on the day, tour operators usually have contingency plans. They’ll likely provide rain ponchos or umbrellas and adjust the itinerary to accommodate the conditions, ensuring guests still have an enjoyable experience.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Tours?
Most tour operators don’t have strict age restrictions, but some experiences may have minimum age requirements for safety reasons. It’s best to check with the specific tour provider before booking to ensure the activities are suitable for all participants.
How Much Luggage Can I Bring on the Boat?
Most boat tour operators in the area allow guests to bring a reasonable amount of personal luggage on board. However, it’s best to check with the specific tour company about their policies on luggage size and quantity.
The Sum Up
Visitors to St. John’s can choose from a variety of 2-hour tours and experiences. The guided boat tours offer the chance to spot whales and seabirds in the surrounding waters. These tours provide an excellent way to explore the natural beauty of the area in a short amount of time.