The Best Boat Tours In Newfoundland
If you’re looking for a unique way to explore the spectacular scenery of Newfoundland and Labrador, then boat tours are definitely worth considering. Not only do they provide stunning views of the rugged coastline and its many islands, but they also offer an opportunity to get up close and personal with some of the province’s most famous attractions.
From giant icebergs to picturesque fishing villages, boat tours in Newfoundland will give you a truly unforgettable experience. Plus, there is always plenty of wildlife to watch out for. Whales, puffins, and eagles are just some of what’s out there. With so much to experience, it’s no wonder why boat tours in Newfoundland have become increasingly popular over recent years.
What to Bring
The first thing you’ve got to know is that being out on the water is cold. It could be twenty-five degrees on land and only fifteen degrees on the water! Layers are a must.
You might only want a sweater in summer. But if you’re coming for Iceberg season you’re going to want a coat with a touque and mitts. Even if you’re wearing shorts on land put a little extra on for the boat, especially if you’ve got a longer adventure boat tour.
It goes without sayin’ that if you’re here for the wildlife you’re going to want to bring some binoculars. There’s plenty of up close and personal encounters to be had if you forget them. But, you’ll get a particularly good view of the puffins, bald eagles, turns, and skags if you do.
What time of Year to Come
You need to know what season to come to see what you’re looking for. Whales are the easiest to see with a watching season between May and September with mid-July to mid-August being the peak.
Puffins have an easy viewing schedule as well with Puffins hanging around from May to September. Some Puffins stick around as late as the third week of September but you’ll see the most around July and August.
Icebergs are the tricky ones! Iceberg viewing season is between April and early June. The peak of the season is May. Some icebergs get trapped in bays and inlets but most of them stay on the move.
The best Iceberg hunters will check out the iceberg tracker to make sure they’re taking a boat tour in the right spot. Sometimes they move pretty quick so keep a close eye on that tracker.
The Most Popular Places to Take a Tour
There are countless boat tour operators on the island in just about any town you can think to visit. If you’re unsure if there’s a tour operator wherever you are check out the NL Tourism page for a complete list of companies and locations. From private boat tours in NL, to an exciting tour on zodiac boats, Newfoundland has what you’re looking for.
Corner Brook
Corner Brook is the largest town on the west coast. The Bay of Islands is known for its rugged landscapes, small Islands, and whale watching. Everoutdoors offers zodiac boat tours leaving from the Corner Brook area. A great thing to do while exploring Corner Brook.
Gros Morne
Gros Morne national park is Newfoundland’s Largest national park. Known for its fjords and abundant sea and coastal wildlife. Bontours is the largest tour operator in the area with several different tours to choose from.
St. Anthony
St. Anthony is one of the most northern towns in Newfoundland and is the first stop for all the icebergs floating down from Greenland. Dark Tickle Expedition Tours or Northland Discovery are great operators in the area.
We love the Discovery Tour by Northland that takes you right in St. Anthony around Fishing Point.
Twilingate
Twinlingate is a lovely town to visit in central Newfoundland. It’s one of the best places to spot icebergs as well as whales and puffins. Iceberg Quest has a lovely boat to take you out to see it all.
Bonavista
Bonavista is the best place on the island to see puffins. The peninsula is home to Elliston island, a large puffin mating ground. Bonavista Puffin & Whale Tours is happy to take you out to the puffins, humpback whales, icebergs, and more.
St. John’s
St. John’s is the largest city in Newfoundland and the last stop for icebergs as they continue down iceberg alley. The area has striking cliffs and coastlines to view. Gatheralls is a great company to take you out around the scenic Bay Bulls.