Birds and Bergs in Newfoundland

If you’re headed to St. John’s and craving an up-close encounter with Newfoundland’s breathtaking natural wonders, the Birds and Bergs tour by Gatheralls is well worth considering. This 1.5-hour boat trip promises a chance to see puffins, possibly spot whales, and catch sight of floating icebergs—all from a comfortable vessel with elevated viewing decks. It’s rated a perfect 5.0 based on multiple reviews, with travelers praising its scenic views, knowledgeable guides, and overall value.

We love that this tour guarantees puffin sightings, offers excellent vantage points at eye level, and features friendly, experienced staff. Plus, the potential for iceberg and whale sightings adds a sense of unpredictability and adventure. However, it’s worth noting that icebergs are seasonal and not guaranteed, which might disappoint those hoping for a close iceberg encounter. This tour is ideal for wildlife enthusiasts, families, and anyone looking for a relaxed, natural experience on Newfoundland’s waters.

Good To Know

• Guaranteed Puffins: The tour reliably spots nesting puffins, offering perfect photo opportunities.
• Elevated Viewing Decks: Keeps you at eye level with seabirds and provides expansive views of whales and icebergs.
• Expert Guides & Live Commentary: Guides share insightful facts, Newfoundland stories, and humor, enhancing your experience.
• Seasonal Variability: Icebergs are only present early in the season, and whale sightings depend on luck.
• Comfort & Safety: The vessel is well-equipped, with washrooms, safety gear, and a pre-departure safety briefing.
• Flexibility & Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours, and optional hotel pickup makes planning easier.

The Itinerary: What to Expect on Your Newfoundland Wildlife Tour

The Birds and Bergs tour is designed to give you an authentic slice of Newfoundland’s marine life without the fuss. Starting in St. John’s, the meeting point is conveniently located with free parking available, and the tour lasts about 90 minutes. The vessel departs with a knowledgeable crew ready to entertain and inform, ensuring your cruise is both fun and educational.

Boarding & Safety Briefing

Once on board, the crew offers a thorough safety briefing, emphasizing the importance of following instructions for your well-being. This is especially valuable given the boat’s movement in sometimes choppy north Atlantic waters. The vessel is equipped with safety gear in compliance with Transport Canada standards, and there’s a washroom onboard for comfort during the cruise.

The Puffin Colony

The centerpiece of this tour is the largest puffin colony in North America. The elevated decks make it possible to get remarkably close—puffins are nesting on nearby cliffs, and the staff guarantees sightings. As one reviewer, Jon B, pointed out: “Great view of puffin colony, but I recommend bringing binoculars.” While binoculars aren’t included, the strategic positioning of the decks maximizes your chances of capturing good photos and spotting these vibrant birds.

Icebergs & Marine Wildlife

Icebergs may drift within range from May through late August, with the best chance for sightings early in the season. The crew keeps a lookout, and if an iceberg appears, they’ll navigate the waters carefully to give you a good look while ensuring safety. Reviewers have noted that the presence of icebergs can vary each year—some seasons see many, others none at all.

The crew also scans for whales, which are less predictable but definitely possible. Guests have reported seeing orcas, humpbacks, and other marine mammals, especially in the early season. As Constance K mentions, the staff is not just knowledgeable but also lively, sharing stories, jokes, and even songs, which helps create a lively, friendly atmosphere on deck.

Wildlife & Scenic Views

Beyond puffins, the trip often reveals other seabirds, and if luck is on your side, whales may come close enough for a good look. The superior viewing angles of the boat’s decks allow you to see deeper into the water, making marine mammal sightings more likely. During the tour, the guides provide insightful commentary about the wildlife, iceberg facts, and Newfoundland culture, all delivered in a humorous and engaging manner.

Optional Screech-In Ceremony

For those interested in local traditions, a Screech-In ceremony can be arranged during check-in or on the tour—adding a fun cultural twist to an already memorable experience.

Return & Additional Options

The tour concludes back at the meeting point, with options for hotel pickup and drop-off for an additional fee—booked at least three hours in advance. This makes the experience more convenient, especially if you’re staying in or around St. John’s.

The Value of the Experience: Is It Worth the Price?

At $71 per person, this tour offers a lot of value, especially considering the expert guides, safety, and the sheer joy of wildlife watching. The fact that it is a smaller, well-reviewed operation suggests a focus on quality rather than quantity. The elevated decks, in particular, make a noticeable difference: instead of just viewing from ground level, you’re at eye level with nesting puffins and have better chances for whale sightings.

Although icebergs aren’t always present, when they are, they turn the trip into a true spectacle. Having a knowledgeable crew on hand to interpret what you’re seeing adds educational value, making this more than just a boat ride.

The optional transportation service adds convenience but at an extra cost—worth considering if you prefer a hassle-free experience. The tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with mobility issues, as long as they remain seated during rougher parts. Its duration of 90 minutes strikes a good balance: long enough to see plenty but not so long that it becomes tiring.

The Experience from Reviews: What Past Travelers Have Said

Several reviews highlight what makes this tour stand out. Constance K describes the staff as “fun and friendly,” emphasizing their efforts to make the trip pleasant and informative. Jon B appreciated the great views of puffin colonies and the excitement of spotting whales, noting the importance of dressing warmly—especially on the upper decks, which are colder but prime for viewing.

Patricia T mentioned the fantastic weather and crew’s entertainment, underlining how a sunny day can elevate the entire experience. Rachael W pointed out that iceberg sightings are unpredictable, but the tour remains enjoyable even without them, thanks to the wildlife and scenery.

Guide personalities shine through in reviews—guides are described as knowledgeable, lively, and eager to share stories that capture Newfoundland’s culture. The overall consensus is that this tour offers a balanced combination of education, entertainment, and stunning natural sights.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wildlife lovers, families, and anyone intrigued by the natural beauty of Newfoundland. It’s especially suited for travelers who want reliable puffin sightings and are open to the possibility of whales and icebergs. Given the flexibility with optional transportation and the relaxed pace, it also appeals to those seeking a stress-free, authentic adventure without extensive planning.

While not specifically tailored for those with mobility challenges, most participants should find the experience accessible—just remember to dress warmly and be prepared for the boat’s movement.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

For $71, the Birds and Bergs tour offers a genuinely engaging way to connect with Newfoundland’s marine life. The elevated decks provide high-quality views that you simply can’t get from shore, and the guides’ friendly, knowledgeable approach makes the trip feel personalized and fun. The chance to see puffins nesting on cliffs, perhaps whales breaching nearby, and maybe even an iceberg or two makes this a memorable outing.

This tour is best suited for those who appreciate wildlife, scenic boat rides, and cultural storytelling. It’s perfect if you’re looking for a relaxed, educational, and visually stunning experience that captures the essence of Newfoundland’s natural environment. Whether weather cooperates or not, the enthusiastic guides and the promise of incredible views ensure you’ll come away with stories to tell.

FAQ

Are the puffin sightings guaranteed?
Yes, puffins are guaranteed on this tour, as they nest directly on the cliffs near the viewing decks, making them reliably visible.

Is iceberg sighting common?
Icebergs are seasonal, typically visible from May to late August. Their presence varies each year, so while the best chance is early in the season, sightings cannot be guaranteed.

Can I see whales during this tour?
Whale sightings are possible but depend on luck and seasonality. The crew actively scans waters for whales, and some travelers have been lucky enough to see orcas, humpbacks, and other marine mammals.

What should I wear?
Dress warmly, especially if you plan to stay on the upper decks, as it can be chilly on the North Atlantic. Layers, hats, and windproof jackets are recommended.

Is transportation included?
Standard tour prices do not include transportation, but hotel pickup and drop-off are available for an extra fee—booked at least three hours in advance.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund. Less than 24 hours, and the fee is non-refundable, so plan accordingly.

All in all, the Birds and Bergs tour delivers a well-rounded, authentic Newfoundland wildlife experience that balances scenic beauty with educational storytelling. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone eager to see puffins up close, possibly whales, and maybe even some drifting icebergs—all in a relaxed and friendly environment.