Book The Most Exciting Whale Watching Tours In Newfoundland. A Newfoundland Guide to witness the majesty of marine giants. The fish rich waters attract diverse whale species yearly, making it a premier destination for whale-watching enthusiasts. This guide will equip you to identify different species and understand their behaviour.

Identifying Whale Species

Humpback Whales:

Humpback Whales: These acrobatic giants are perhaps the most recognizable, known for their spectacular breaching displays.

Identification: Large pectoral fins (flippers), distinctive humped back, and a complex pattern of black and white markings on their tails (flukes).

Behaviour: Often seen breaching, lob tailing (slamming their tail on the water), and spy hopping (raising their heads vertically to look around).

Minke Whales:

Minke Whales: Minke whales are smaller than the baleen whales family and are relatively common in Newfoundland waters.

Identification: Slender body, pointed snout, often seen with a dorsal fin protruding above the water.

Behaviour: Typically seen feeding on krill and small fish, often seen travelling alone or in small groups.

Fin Whales:

Fin Whales: The second-largest whale species, they are often seen feeding close to the surface.

Identification: Long, slender body with a prominent dorsal fin that curves backwards.

Behaviour: Often seen travelling in small groups, feeding on krill and small fish.

Orcas (Killer Whales):

Orcas (Killer Whales): These are highly social and intelligent apex predators in the marine ecosystem.

Identification: Distinctive black and white coloration, sizeable dorsal fin in males.

Behaviour: Travel in pods, often seen hunting seals and other marine mammals.

Pilot Whales:

Pilot Whales: These smaller-toothed whales travel in large social groups called pods.

Identification: Rounded head, dark gray coloration.

Behaviour: Often seen travelling in large groups, feeding on squid and fish.

Sperm Whales

Sperm Whales: The largest in the toothed whale family, they are deep-diving predators.

Identification: Massive head, distinctive “S”-shaped blow.

Behaviour: Deep divers, often seen in small groups.

Understanding Whale Behavior and Activities.

Feeding: Whales feed on prey, including krill, fish, squid, and other marine mammals. Observe behaviours such as lunge feeding (humpback whales) and bubble netting (humpback whales and other species).

Social Interaction: Whales are social animals and exhibit various social behaviours, including travelling in groups, communicating through vocalizations, and engaging in playful interactions.

Migration: Many whale species migrate long distances between feeding and breeding grounds.

Minimizing Disturbance to Marine Life

Maintain a Safe Distance: Always maintain a safe distance from whales. Avoid approaching them directly or cutting off their path.

Minimize Engine Noise: Reduce engine speed and avoid sudden maneuvers near whales.

Avoid Feeding Whales: Feeding whales can alter their natural behaviour and increase their dependence on humans.

Dispose of Waste Responsibly: Properly dispose of trash and avoid ocean littering.

Best Places for Whale Watching in Newfoundland

Witless Bay Ecological Reserve: This protected area is renowned for its high concentration of whales, including humpbacks, minke whales, and orcas.

Trinity Bay: A popular spot for Whale watching, with opportunities to see humpbacks, fin, and minke whales.

Gros Morne National Park: Offers stunning scenery and the chance to see various marine life, including whales, dolphins, and seals.

Twillingate: Known as the “Iceberg Alley,” this area offers excellent Whale and iceberg watching opportunities.

St. John’s: The capital city offers easy access to whale-watching tours, with opportunities to see a variety of species.

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Top Whale Watching Tours in Newfoundland

Sea of Whales Adventures (Trinity): Offers a variety of Whale watching tours, including zodiac and kayak tours.

O’Brien’s Whale & Bird Tours (Bay Bulls): Provides informative and engaging Whale watching tours with experienced guides.

Gatherall’s Puffin & Whale Watch ( Bay Bulls): Offers a variety of tour options, including whale watching, puffin tours, and iceberg tours.

Seas the Day Boat Tours( Bonavista): Provide a unique perspective on marine life.

Twillingate Island Boat Tours (Twillingate): Offers a variety of tour options, including whale watching, puffin tours, and iceberg tours.

Ocean Quest Adventures (St. John’s, Petty Harbour, and Conception Bay South): Offers a variety of tour options, including whale watching, iceberg tours, and wildlife viewing.

Bonavista Puffin & Whale Tours( Bonavista): Provides various tour options, including whale watching, puffin tours, and iceberg tours.

Discovery Sea Adventures( Bonavista): Provides a unique opportunity to see different whales on a single tour.

Enriching experiences to complement your journey

Iceberg Viewing: Witness the spectacle of icebergs drifting through the waters of Iceberg Alley.

Puffin Watching: Observe these charismatic seabirds nesting on the cliffs and diving into the ocean.

Hiking and Exploring: Hike along scenic coastal trails, explore fishing villages, and immerse yourself in the island’s nature.

Local Cuisine: Indulge in fresh seafood, sample traditional Newfoundland dishes like Jiggs Dinner, and savour the local brews.

Cultural Experiences: Visit historical sites, museums, and art galleries to learn about Newfoundland and Labrador’s rich history and culture.

Planning Your Trip

Best Time to Visit: Newfoundland peak whale watching season is from mid-May to September, with the highest concentrations of whales typically observed from mid-July to mid-August.

Booking Tours: Book your Whale watching tours early, during peak season, to secure your spot.

Accommodation: Choose from various accommodation options, including hotels, guesthouses, and charming bed and breakfasts.

Transportation: Book your car to explore the island at your own pace.

When is the best time to whale watch in Newfoundland?

The best time to see whales in Newfoundland is from mid-June to mid-August. During this period, several species of whales, including humpbacks, can be seen migrating through the waters around Newfoundland.

Where to see whales in Newfoundland?

Whales everywhere around Newfoundland, including St. John’s, Bonavista, Trinity, and Twillingate. Boat tours from these locations offer some of the best whale-watching opportunities.

What is the population of puffins in Newfoundland?

Newfoundland is home to over 500,000 Atlantic puffins, with the largest colony on the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. When can you see whales in St. John’s? Whales can be seen in St. John’s from mid-June to mid-August, with peak sightings often occurring in July.

Are the puffins still in Elliston?

Yes, puffins can still be seen in Elliston, particularly during their breeding season from late May to early September. The Elliston Puffin Viewing Site is a popular spot for observing these birds up close.

Is Twillingate the Iceberg Capital of the World?

Twillingate is often called the “Iceberg Capital of the World.” This title is well-earned due to the town’s prime location along Iceberg Alley, where icebergs from Greenland make their way down the Atlantic Ocean, passing close to the shores of Twillingate. The town’s accessibility and excellent viewing points make it one of the best places in the world to observe these natural wonders up close.

When Can You See Big Icebergs on Twillingate Coastline?

The best time to see icebergs in Twillingate is from late May to early June. During these months, the icebergs are most abundant and visible as they travel down Iceberg Alley. However, depending on weather conditions and iceberg flow, sightings can still occur from April to July.

Why Are There So Many Icebergs in Newfoundland?

The abundance of icebergs in Newfoundland is due to the proximity to Iceberg Alley, a route icebergs take as they drift southward from Greenland. These icebergs break off from the Greenland ice sheet and are carried by the Labrador Current down the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador, providing spectacular viewing opportunities.

What is the Best Month to See Icebergs in Newfoundland?

The best month to see icebergs in Newfoundland is May. The icebergs are most plentiful and visible during this time as they travel down Iceberg Alley. May offers optimal conditions for iceberg viewing, with many large icebergs making their way close to the shore.

What are the top tourist attractions in Bay Bulls and Witless Bay?

Bay Bulls is known for its incredible whale-watching tours, particularly with O’Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours. Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is famous for its puffin colonies and seabird watching. Both areas also offer beautiful coastal hiking trails, such as the East Coast Trail.

Where can I go whale watching in Bay Bulls?

O’Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours is the most popular whale-watching operator in Bay Bulls. Their tours often spot humpback whales, orcas, and other marine life, providing an unforgettable experience.

What wildlife can I see in Witless Bay Ecological Reserve?

The Ecological Reserve in Witless Bay is home to the largest Atlantic puffin colony, common murres, black-legged kittiwakes, and other seabirds on the island. During certain seasons, visitors can also see humpback whales and dolphins.

How do I get to Bay Bulls and Witless Bay from St. John’s?

Bay Bulls and Witless Bay are approximately a 30-minute south of St. John’s. Take the Southern Shore Highway directly to these coastal town.

When is the best time to watch whales in Bay Bulls and Witless Bay?

The best time for whale watching in Bay Bulls and Witless Bay is from mid-June to mid-August. During these months, the waters teem with whales due to the abundance of capelin, their primary food source.

What is the weather like for whale watching in Bay Bulls and Witless Bay?

The weather during the whale watching season in Bay Bulls and Witless Bay is mild, with temperatures ranging from 13°C to 22°C. However, it can be windy and more relaxed on the water, so dressing in layers is advisable.

How long do whale-watching tours last in Bay Bulls and Witless Bay?

Whale-watching tours in Bay Bulls and Witless Bay typically last 2 to 2.5 hours. This duration allows ample time to locate and observe the whales and enjoy the stunning coastal scenery.