5 Unforgettable Whale Watching Boat Tours in Newfoundland, updated January, 2026

Newfoundland isn’t just a destination — it’s a front-row seat to one of nature’s most powerful spectacles. Each summer, the North Atlantic comes alive as humpback whales breach, puffins skim the surface, and icebergs drift silently past rugged cliffs. It’s a place where every outing feels unscripted, and every encounter carries a sense of awe. I’ve spent years photographing these waters, returning again and again for the moments that can’t be planned — the sudden rise of a whale, the stillness before a breach, the shared silence on deck when something extraordinary unfolds. Whale watching here isn’t just about sightings; it’s about presence.

This guide brings together five of the most memorable whale-watching experiences across Newfoundland and Labrador — chosen for their respect for wildlife, local knowledge, and the kind of moments that stay with you long after you return to shore.

1. Trinity Eco-Tours – TrinityTrinity

Trinity Eco-Tours offers an intimate, small-boat experience led by knowledgeable local guides. Their Zodiac tours provide close-up views of humpback and minke whales, drifting icebergs, and dense seabird colonies — all while sharing insights into the region’s ecology and history.

Highlights

• – Whales, icebergs, seabirds
• – Small-group Zodiac tours
• – Deep local knowledge

Duration: Varies

Trinity Eco-Tours:
This is an experience I’ve returned to over the years — guided by people who know these waters intimately and approach each outing with care and respect. It’s the kind of outing I feel comfortable recommending to anyone exploring this part of Newfoundland.

2. Gatherall’s Puffin & Whale Boat Tour – Bay Bulls

A Newfoundland classic, Gatherall’s combines high-energy wildlife encounters with polished professionalism. Their tours are known for consistent whale sightings and enormous puffin colonies perched along the cliffs of the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve.

Highlights
– Whales, puffins, dramatic coastal scenery
– Experienced guides and stable vessels

Duration: ~90 minutes
Pricing: Contact operator

3. O’Brien’s Whale & Bird Tours – Bay Bulls

One of the most recognized operators in the province, O’Brien’s offers an immersive experience with humpback whales, seabirds, and towering icebergs. Their knowledgeable crew brings storytelling and conservation into every outing.

Highlights
– Humpback whales
– Puffins and seabird colonies
– Iceberg viewing

Duration: ~90 minutes
Pricing: contact the tour operator

4. Northland Discovery Boat Tours – St. Lunaire–Griquet

Located along Newfoundland’s northern coast, Northland Discovery offers longer, immersive tours through iceberg alley. Expect dramatic scenery, marine wildlife, and a strong sense of local heritage.

Highlights
– Icebergs, whales, dolphins
– Traditional music and storytelling
– Remote northern coastline

Duration: 2–2.5 hours
Pricing: Contact operator

5. Twillingate Adventure Tours – Twillingate

Set in the heart of Iceberg Alley, Twillingate Adventure Tours offers Zodiac excursions that bring you close to icebergs, whales, and rugged coastline. With knowledgeable guides and small group sizes, it’s an exhilarating and intimate experience.

Highlights
– Humpback whales
– Icebergs and seabirds
– Rugged coastal scenery

Duration: ~2 hours
Pricing: Contact operator

Why I Love Whale Watching in Newfoundland

There’s something deeply grounding about being on the water here. The sound of waves, the sudden rise of a whale’s back, the shared silence between strangers when something extraordinary happens — it all stays with you. Newfoundland has a way of reminding you how small you are, in the best possible way.

Plan Your Trip

If you’re planning a whale-watching experience in Newfoundland, these tools can help with logistics and timing as you build your itinerary:

• Find places to stay across Newfoundland (Booking.com)
• Browse tours and experiences in the region (GetYourGuide)
• Stay connected while travelling in Canada with an eSIM (Airalo)

If your travels extend beyond the Avalon Peninsula, you may also enjoy exploring Central Newfoundland, where quieter coastlines and remote communities offer a different rhythm of travel.

Frequently Asked Questions about Whale Watching

About the Author

Written and photographed by Roland Bast, travel photographer and visual storyteller, and former member of the Travel Media Association of Canada (2022–2025). Roland focuses on people-first storytelling and authentic travel experiences across Canada.

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Keep exploring Newfoundland and Labrador

A Photography & Explorer’s Guide to Eastern Newfoundland
24 Hours in St. John’s: A Perfect Local Escape (Layover #2)
St. John’s Layover, Wild Cliffs & Culinary Flavours

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