St. John’s, Newfoundland, is a natural playground for anyone who loves being on the water. Surrounded by rugged coastline, iceberg-laden waters, and a teeming population of seabirds and whales, it’s a prime spot for boat tours. Whether you’re eager to spot puffins, see humpback whales, or enjoy scenic coastline views, there’s a cruise tailored to your interests. We especially like the Newfoundland Puffin and Whale Watch Cruise for its combination of wildlife, icebergs, and spectacular scenery, and the 2 Hours Guided Whale and Bird Boat Tour in Bay Bulls, which offers an in-depth look at the region’s rich birdlife and marine mammals.
If you’re pressed for time but want a taste of Newfoundland’s marine magic, the Late Season Puffin & Scenic Coastal Cruise is a perfect choice, especially during late summer. For travelers looking for a more comprehensive experience, the St. John’s Small Group Tour with Iceberg Quest Boat Cruise combines city highlights with a memorable ocean adventure. Below, you’ll find detailed insights into each tour, helping you decide which one fits your schedule, budget, and interests best.
1. Newfoundland Puffin and Whale Watch Cruise
This cruise through the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is an excellent way to see marine wildlife up close. The reserve is home to over 2.5 million seabirds and one of the largest whale populations in the North Atlantic. The 1.5-hour trip takes you to Iceberg Alley, where melting icebergs drift past in various shapes—ideal for photos or just soaking in the scenery. During the season, you’ll have opportunities to see puffins (mid-May to mid-September), whales (mid-June to mid-August), and other seabirds like razorbilled auks and black-legged kittiwakes. The spacious catamaran has plenty of viewing areas, and lively commentary from crew and naturalists enriches the experience.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. Multiple departure times mean you can fit it into your schedule, and the chance to see icebergs and puffins in the wild makes it a memorable outing. Even if whales don’t appear every day, the birdlife alone is impressive—many travelers comment on the vast number of seabirds and the knowledgeable guides. One reviewer praised the “beautiful scenery, amazing bird watching, and Newfoundland hospitality,” giving it a full five stars.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wildlife lovers and those wanting a balanced mix of scenic views and birdwatching, this cruise offers superb value at around $92.70 per person, especially with its flexible schedule and naturalist commentary.
2. 2 Hours Guided Whale and Bird Boat Tour in Bay Bulls
At number 2, this 2-hour guided tour focuses on whale watching and birding in the Witless Bay reserve. It’s operated by a family-owned company that has earned high praise for their knowledgeable guides and friendly service. The tour takes you along the coastline from Bay Bulls, where you’ll see a vast array of seabirds, including puffins, murres, and petrels, with the possibility of spotting whales and dolphins in the water.
What’s distinctive about this tour is its detailed narration. The guides share insights about the flora and fauna of the area, making it both educational and entertaining. Many reviews highlight how the crew sings local songs and engages with passengers, which adds a personal touch. The tour is also flexible, with optional shuttle services available for convenience.
A recent reviewer mentioned, “We saw dolphins and puffins, and even though we didn’t see whales this time, the calm water and friendly crew made it a great experience.” The price of about $85.29 per person makes it a competitive option for those wanting a short, in-depth wildlife tour.
Bottom Line: If you enjoy a personalized, community-oriented tour with a focus on seabirds and marine life, this guided trip offers a lot of value for its moderate price and engaging commentary.
3. 2 Hour Award-Winning Whale and Seabird Boat Tour from St. John’s
For around $96.41, this 2-hour tour is a top-rated option that combines superb scenery and wildlife viewing. It’s designed to maximize your chances of spotting humpback whales—the world’s largest concentration—as well as seabirds like bald eagles, northern gannets, and puffins. The tour’s narration provides insights into Newfoundland’s natural wonders, and the boat’s heated cabin ensures comfort even if the weather gets a bit wild.
This tour’s major appeal is its focus on marine mammals, especially humpbacks, which are often seen breaching during the season. The itinerary includes sightseeing around Cape Spear, the easternmost point of North America, and passing by historic landmarks like Fort Amherst Lighthouse. The captain and crew are praised for their friendly, knowledgeable demeanor and their ability to keep everyone engaged.
While some reviews mention that whales are not guaranteed, the experience of watching sea birds and icebergs is often cited as memorable regardless. Travelers who like a combination of city and ocean views will appreciate how this tour blends the two seamlessly.
Bottom Line: This highly-rated, slightly more expensive cruise is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, scenic, wildlife-focused experience with a good chance of seeing humpback whales.
4. Late Season Puffin & Scenic Coastal Cruise
This 90-minute cruise is specially tailored for late summer travelers eager to see puffins before they leave for the season. The Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is the star here, with the quiet possibility of encountering whales, dolphins, tuna, and ocean sunfish—though wildlife can’t be guaranteed. Seasonal timing makes this cruise a good choice if you’re visiting from mid-September onward.
Passengers rave about the entertaining crew, who sing songs and share educational commentary about puffins and other seabirds. The cruise is relaxed and fun, offering a good balance of informative narration and scenic sailing. Reviews mention seeing zillions of puffins, ocean sunfish, and humpbacks, sometimes even with jellyfish schools in sight.
At $70.52, it’s budget-friendly and offers a shorter experience, perfect for travelers with limited time or those on a tight budget. It’s especially suited for wildlife enthusiasts who are visiting late in the season and want a light, engaging trip.
Bottom Line: If you’re visiting toward the end of summer and want a fun, educational cruise with the possibility of puffin sightings, this offers good value and a laid-back atmosphere.
5. St. John’s Small Group Tour with Iceberg Quest Boat Cruise
For travelers seeking a more comprehensive day, this 4-hour combined city and ocean tour is a compelling choice. Starting at Cape Spear Lighthouse, the oldest in the province, you’ll enjoy scenic views of North America’s easternmost point. The tour continues with a narrated drive through Jellybean Row, George Street, and Quidi Vidi Village, giving you a taste of St. John’s vibrant character.
The highlight is the Iceberg Quest boat tour, which provides an up-close look at icebergs and the chance to see humpback whales (if season allows). The boat tour lasts about 2 hours and includes sightings of Blackhead Sea Caves, seabird colonies, and possibly eagles. It’s a well-rounded experience for those who want a combination of city exploration and marine adventure.
One reviewer described their day as “a fantastic mix of local sights and wildlife, with a knowledgeable guide who made everything interesting.” The price of $184.09 reflects its comprehensive nature, making it a great value for those wanting an all-in-one experience but may not be ideal for budget travelers or those on a tight schedule.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want to combine cultural highlights with wildlife spotting in one trip, especially if you’re interested in icebergs and whales.
$184.09 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Newfoundland Marine Adventure
When selecting from these tours, consider your budget, time, and main interests. For a focused bird and whale watching experience, the Newfoundland Puffin and Whale Watch Cruise or the 2 Hours Guided Whale and Bird Boat Tour offer excellent value. If you want a more scenic, educational outing, the Award-Winning Whale and Seabird Tour is a solid choice. For late-season puffin sightings or shorter trips, the Late Season Puffin & Scenic Coastal Cruise provides a budget-friendly option. Travelers wanting a full day should look at the Small Group Tour with Iceberg Quest, which combines city sights with marine adventures.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season (June to August), when these tours tend to fill quickly. Remember to dress warmly and be prepared for variable weather, especially on open water.
Final Thoughts
St. John’s offers some of the best boat tours to experience marine wildlife, iceberg scenery, and the coastline of Newfoundland. Whether you’re after the thrill of spotting humpback whales, observing thousands of puffins, or just enjoying a scenic cruise, there’s a trip suited to your interests and schedule. For wildlife enthusiasts, the Newfoundland Puffin and Whale Watch Cruise and the 2 Hours Guided Whale and Bird Boat Tour stand out for their naturalist commentary and wildlife density.
If you’re tight on time or prefer a shorter outing, the Late Season Puffin & Scenic Coastal Cruise delivers a fun, budget-friendly experience. For those wanting a full-day adventure, the Small Group Tour with Iceberg Quest combines cultural exploration with a memorable ocean journey. Book early, dress warmly, and prepare for a genuine Newfoundland adventure on the water.