Newfoundland Puffin and Whale Watch Cruise
Recommended by 98% of travelers
St John's, Canada
+32
- 1 hour 30 minutes (approx.)
- Pickup offered
- Offered in: English
Why travelers loved this
·
Explore our promoted experiences
Overview
Increase your odds of spotting wildlife, and do so in comfort, on this cruise through the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve aboard Newfoundland's largest, most comfortable catamaran. Aboard a spacious catamaran with ample viewing areas, look for puffins from mid-May to mid-September and whales from mid-June to mid-August, with icebergs visible in May and June. Enjoy live commentary about local wildlife and heritage as you explore Iceberg Alley and its diverse seabirds.
- Largest and comfortable catamaran with multiple decks for best views
- Puffin sightings are guaranteed mid-May to mid-September
- Stay warm in the heated indoor cabins, or enjoy the better views outdoors
- Explore Iceberg Alley with live naturalist commentary
What's Included
- All tours hosted by an experienced, local guide
- All safety equipment is provided as per requirements set forth by Transport Canada Marine Safety
- Passengers are provided a pre-departure safety briefing
- Free parking available on site
- Vessel is washroom equipped
- Gratuities
- Public transportationCA$40.25 per person
- Alcoholic BeveragesBar service provided on board tour vessel
Meeting and Pickup
You can head directly to the meeting point, or request pickup
What To Expect
This cruise departs from a private dock in Bay Bulls, about 31 miles (35 kilomteres) from downtown St. John's, Newfoundland.
At the dock, step aboard a catamaran equipped with a spacious viewing platform. The catamaran can accommodate up to 100 people on its outside decks, and its interior cabin can fit all passengers comfortably in the event of inclement weather. This is the only tour vessel in Newfoundland with such capacity.
Your captain navigates the boat to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, located at the end of Iceberg Alley. Icebergs drift along the coast from Greenland each spring and summer, and by the time they reach the reserve, they have been sculpted by the seas, sun, waves and shoreline to create incredible shapes.
On board, crew and naturalists share insight into the 2.5 million seabirds and the large populations of whales that call the reserve home. Peak whale watching takes place from mid-June through mid-August. (Your crew will do its best to make sure you see whales, but sightings are not guaranteed.) The guides and crew are equipped with wireless microphones and are happy to answer your questions or repeat information as you like.
The boat will stop along sheltered areas of the islands that comprise the Reserve. Snap photos of nesting sites and watch seabirds in their natural habitat. Some species you may see include Atlantic puffins, common murres, black guillemots, northern gannets, greater shearwaters and northern fulmars.
At the dock, step aboard a catamaran equipped with a spacious viewing platform. The catamaran can accommodate up to 100 people on its outside decks, and its interior cabin can fit all passengers comfortably in the event of inclement weather. This is the only tour vessel in Newfoundland with such capacity.
Your captain navigates the boat to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, located at the end of Iceberg Alley. Icebergs drift along the coast from Greenland each spring and summer, and by the time they reach the reserve, they have been sculpted by the seas, sun, waves and shoreline to create incredible shapes.
On board, crew and naturalists share insight into the 2.5 million seabirds and the large populations of whales that call the reserve home. Peak whale watching takes place from mid-June through mid-August. (Your crew will do its best to make sure you see whales, but sightings are not guaranteed.) The guides and crew are equipped with wireless microphones and are happy to answer your questions or repeat information as you like.
The boat will stop along sheltered areas of the islands that comprise the Reserve. Snap photos of nesting sites and watch seabirds in their natural habitat. Some species you may see include Atlantic puffins, common murres, black guillemots, northern gannets, greater shearwaters and northern fulmars.
1
Gatherall's Puffin and Whale Watch
2
Bay Bulls (Bull Head)
3
Witless Bay Ecological Reserve
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Children must be accompanied by an adult
- Participants are advised to regard all instruction provided by the vessel crew
- Not wheelchair accessible
- Direction/guidance is provided to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all passengers
- Depending on vessel movement/sea conditions, passengers may be advised by the crew to refrain from standing or to remain seated during certain portions of the cruise
- Operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately
- Infants must sit on laps
- Whales and or icebergs cannot be guaranteed on any given cruise.
- Most travelers can participate
- If in the event that the activity is cancelled on the part of Gatherall’s at any time prior to or during the scheduled activity, participants can elect to either reschedule at no additional charge or will receive a full refund.
- Transportation is available from select hotels - additional fees applicable - must be confirmed two hours in advance of tour. Contact Gatherall's
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 100 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
BobParkinson
We had an amazing time on our Gatherall's Puffin & Whale Watch cruise! The whole experience was seamless and fun from the moment we arrived. The crew was super friendly, knowledgeable, and genuinely excited to share what makes Newfoundland so special. We saw several humpback whales (up close!), and the puffin colony was amazing to see. The boat was spacious and comfortable, and the commentary added a lot to the trip. This was one of the absolute highlights of our visit to Newfoundland — highly recommended!
Reviews
4.9
based on 1,046 reviews
Sort by: Most insightful
RHOANA_T, Aug 2026
Very simple to book online. The boat tour was great. Friendly staff. Gift shop was amazing and great prices. I wish I had bought more.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hi Rhoan,
Thank you for the lovely review! We're so glad you enjoyed your time on the water and found our crew friendly and welcoming.
Mrs. G will be especially happy to hear the gift shop caught your eye! She has so many years of experience working with local artists and selecting the best pieces of art to create lasting memories of the area.
We're delighted you had a great day with us, and we hope you went home with plenty of puffin memories, even if you left a few gift shop treasures behind!
Safe travels,
Claire
ywszeto, Aug 2026
They did a good job keeping you entertained en route to and from the island where the birds are. Also, they provide very useful facts and information about the birds.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hi there!
Thank you for joining us and for your kind words about our crew! I am so glad you enjoyed the entertainment and learned a few new things about the birds along the way. The Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is an incredible place with millions of seabirds including puffins calling ti home for the summer. We are so proud to share its beauty with guests. Our guides love sharing their knowledge and stories about the wildlife and area too.
We know the whales are a big part of the excitement, and while we'd absolutely love to show every passenger whales on every single trip, that's one part of the experience we have to leave up to Mother Nature. We always do our very best to find them, but their schedule isn't one we get to dictate!
With that in mind, we'd genuinely love to know what we could have done differently, within our control, to make your experience a 5-star one. Your feedback helps us continue to improve.
Thanks again for coming aboard, and safe travels!
Claire
Sandy_B, Aug 2026
Puffin stop at Gull island was fabulous and the tour guides were communicative and very friendly. Disappointed we didn’t see any whales but understood that is out of their control.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hi Sandy,
Thank you for joining us and for the lovely comments about Gull Island and our crew! We're so glad you enjoyed seeing millions of seabirds and puffins, and that you enjoyed your time with our friendly and informative guides.
We completely understand the disappointment of missing the whales, but as you recognized, wildlife sightings are something no tour operator can control. We always encourage guests to rate the experience based on the things we can control, such as our crew, the tour, the boat, the storytelling, the puffins and the overall experience on the water, rather than whether nature happened to cooperate that day. If there is something we can do to gain that 5th star we'd love to know! ☺️
We hope the thousands of puffins and your time exploring the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve still gave you some wonderful Newfoundland memories!
Safe travels,
Claire
Trish_W, Aug 2026
Do not pay the extra $$$ to be screeched in. While it was a cute experience it was not worth the charge ($40) They did not use a cod, provided screech and you kept the shot glass but that was it! The staff entertained the rest of the passengers on the boat! Ppl who did the excursion before us were able to keep their bucket rain hats but we had to return our hats before we got off the boat.
This is a safety risk wearing other people's hats not knowing who previously had it on. They used a stuffed puffin and submerged in salt water to rub in everyone's face. I had no idea who the other five people were and I was very upset that it was rubbed over everyone's lips. I imagine the same stuffy has been used with atleast 50+ people. Gross 🙄
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hi Trish
Thanks for sharing your thoughts. It helps us to gain better insight into how guests view experiences.
Firstly a few clarifications of note::
1. total price is $28.75 / person including the tax (not $40)
2. individual registration completed by each participant clearly states in bold text that that "ceremony is fish fee" so as to be clear for all guests. This is clearly stated on related promo materials, web site and reiterated by staff. This is to ensure that guests with severe allergies are not exposed unnecessarily and can participate safely.
3. people "leaving" with yellow sou'westers purchased them in the shop - you could have as well. Sou'westers are used as a prop during the ceremony. Participants receive a custom shot glass, beverage plus custom certificate - again, clearly noted in promo material and by staff.
4. the puffins used for the ceremony are washed & sanitized between successive ceremonies.
With those items addressed, I thank you for your concern for safety / health. I wonder however, would you have raised similar concerns had you been asked to kiss a dead codfish (which can harbour all sorts of nasty bacteria even when "frozen") after it had been passed around unknown people? We use an inert fabric puffin dipped in saline (salt water) to be kissed as this ties in with the theme of our tour.
We really do appreciate your comments as it can be rather challenging for us (and fellow travellers) to consider every possible take on an activity and or expectations :)
lake_t, Aug 2026
Great place. Clean. Organized. Great gift store. Great staff, boat and tour. Saw whales and puffins. Was great fun and scenery wonderful.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hey Lake,
Thank you for the wonderful review! I am so glad you enjoyed the whole experience, from the boat and scenery to the crew and gift shop. And of course, seeing both whales and puffins is such a fantastic way to spend a day on the water!
I'm delighted you had such great fun with us and hope you left with some wonderful Newfoundland memories, and perhaps a little something from the gift shop to remember your day by.
Safe travels,
Claire
Timothy_R, Aug 2026
This was me and my fiance's first puffin & whale tour, and it was SUCH a hootin' good time! The crew were hilarious and knowledgeable, the puffin viewing was fantastic, and we even saw a minky whale!
I highly recommend booking with Gatherall's for the best Newfoundland experience.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hey Timothy,
What a hootin' good review! 😉
Thank you so much for joining us for your first puffin and whale watch. We're delighted to hear the crew kept you laughing while sharing a few Newfoundland stories, and that the puffins put on such a fantastic show.
And a minke whale too! Not a bad way to make your first trip out on the North Atlantic memorable. We're so glad you chose Gatherall's for your adventure in Newfoundland, we hope it's the first of many.
Safe travels,
Claire
Renelsa_I, Aug 2026
Staff were very friendly and knowledgeable. Our driver Janice was amazing. She was warm, kind and inviting and definitely embodied the welcoming Newfoundland attitude. The crew on board the vessel were also fun, friendly and engaging.
The tour was somewhat disappointing because there were no whale sitings at all that day. I know it is not guaranteed but that was the main purpose of the tour for me, so it was a big let down.
Response from Host, Aug 2026
Hey there,
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback.
I'm delighted to hear that you enjoyed your time with Janice and our crew. I'll be sure to pass along your kind words. Janice is a wonderful ambassador for Newfoundland hospitality, and our crew loves sharing the wildlife, scenery, stories, and culture of this special place.
I completely understand your disappointment about not seeing whales. While they are often a highlight for many visitors, their movements are entirely unpredictable and sightings are never guaranteed. As a wildlife tour operator, this can be one of the most challenging aspects of our business, as the presence of wild animals is something that no amount of planning, effort, or expertise can control.
What we can control is the experience we provide. Every trip includes a visit to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, home to millions of seabirds, including hundreds of thousands of Atlantic Puffins, along with murres, kittiwakes, razorbills, and more. Combined with the stunning coastal scenery, Newfoundland stories, music, and interpretation from our crew, we strive to create a memorable experience regardless of what the whales decide to do on a given day.
For that reason, ratings based primarily on whale sightings can be difficult for us to meaningfully improve upon, as wildlife ultimately follows its own schedule. We always appreciate when guests consider the overall experience and the aspects that are within our control when sharing feedback.
Thank you again for recognizing the efforts of our team. We're grateful you chose to spend part of your adventure in Newfoundland with us and hope you enjoyed the rest of your visit to our province.
Wishing you safe and happy travels,
Claire
Genny_M, Jul 2026
Enjoyed the boat cruise. Unfortunately no whales and quite a bit of fog. The staff were very informative and friendly. Don’t understand the price listed on website compared to what I was charged. Quite a bit more.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hey Genny,
Thank you for joining us and for taking the time to share your feedback.
I’m glad to hear you enjoyed the cruise and found our crew friendly and informative. While the fog made for a more challenging day for whale watching, I’m happy our team was able to help make the experience enjoyable with information about the seabirds, local wildlife, and the area.
Regarding the whales, they are wild animals and unfortunately their presence is never guaranteed. Some days they put on an incredible show, while other days they choose to be elsewhere. We are very transparent in our website, brochure, social media, etc., that whale sightings are never a guarantee! While we would love to see them every single trip, it is a marine wildlife tour and we focus on whatever wonderful wildlife is in the area at the time of the tour! That part is something that is out of our control and completely up to Mother Nature.
I was also concerned to read your comment about the pricing. Our direct booking prices are clearly listed on our website, so I’d love to learn more about your experience. If you booked through a third-party reseller (ex: Viator) or online travel agency, they sometimes add their own fees and commissions, which can result in a higher final price than booking directly with us. We always recommend to book directly through our own website for best rates.
If you booked directly with us and there are still issues with rates please reach out to us with a few more details, I’d be happy to look into it for you.
I noticed that your rating may have been impacted by the fog and the lack of whale sightings. While I completely understand that seeing whales is often a highlight of the trip, both the weather and the movements of wild animals are unfortunately beyond our control as a tour operator.
Thank you again for your feedback, and I hope you enjoyed the rest of your time in Newfoundland.
Safe travels,
Claire
Sally_B, Jul 2026
Lovely boat ride to see the puffins. Sailed close to the island for some great viewing/pictures. I’ve been wanting to see puffins for ages, and got to see them in the air, water, and by their burrows! The weather was very foggy making whale sightings slim, but the crew kept us informed of the various types of birds and how they nest. Their ranges and life cycles along with some sea shanties! Very fun for the whole family or even a solo traveler.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hi Sally,
Thank you for sharing your experience with us!
I’m so happy to hear that you finally got to see puffins in all their glory... flying, swimming, and even around their burrows! The puffins of the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve are such special little seabirds, and it’s always exciting to see guests experience them for the first time. The more you learn about Puffins, the more incredible they really are!
While the fog may have made whale sightings a little more challenging, I’m glad our crew could fill the trip with stories, seabird knowledge, and a few sea shanties along the way. Sharing the wildlife and a little Newfoundland culture is what makes these trips so special.
Thank you for joining us and for recommending Gatherall’s for families and solo travellers alike. We hope your adventures in the beautiful Newfoundland continue to be filled with wonderful memories!
Safe travels,
Claire
Brenda_T, Jul 2026
This was such a fun and informative adventure! We saw hundreds of puffins and many other sea birds at the sanctuary! We were even serenaded with live music on the boat. Be prepared for any weather it can change quickly when sailing! Such a fun experience. Highly recommend.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hi Brenda,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us!
I’m thrilled to hear you enjoyed your adventure to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve and got to see so many puffins and seabirds. It really is a special place (the best place in the world in my opinion 😉), and we love sharing the incredible wildlife and stories of this area with our guests.
I’m glad you enjoyed the live music too! Local Newfoundland songs are always a fun way to add to the experience. And you’re absolutely right, the weather can change quickly on the water, so layers and rain gear are always a good idea.
Thank you for recommending Gatherall’s and for spending part of your adventure in our wonderful province with our family. We hope your travels bring you many more unforgettable experiences!
Safe travels,
Claire
Elaine_G, Jul 2026
It was a great experience. Everyone was super friendly and helpful. It went above expectations. I would definitely do it again!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hi Elaine,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review!
I’m thrilled to hear that your experience with Gatherall’s went above your expectations. It means a lot to our family to know that our family and crew’s friendliness and care helped make your time on the water so enjoyable.
We’d love to welcome you aboard again for another adventure with us someday!
Happy travels,
Claire
Deborah_C, Jul 2026
I took this tour with my mother who is 80. The crew was so nice to both of us.
Although the ocean was calm, the rolling swells were still pretty strong and we both felt seasick, but the kind crew was right there with ginger chews, which helped.
The boat is spacious and easy to board and the crew were informative when explaining about the puffins and other seabirds. The Screeched-in ceremony was fun, and a crew member sang us into shore. I’m really glad that we took this tour.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hey Debora,
Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us. It truly means a lot to hear that you and your mother enjoyed your time aboard!
I’m especially happy to hear that our crew took such good care of both of you. We know that the ocean can be unpredictable, and while our catamaran offers a more comfortable and stable ride, the North Atlantic can still surprise us with its swells. Our crew is always ready to help guests feel as comfortable as possible, whether that means offering ginger chews, checking in, or simply lending a helping hand.
It’s wonderful to hear you enjoyed learning about the puffins and seabirds, taking part in the Screech In ceremony, and ending the trip with some Newfoundland music. Sharing our wildlife, culture, and hospitality is such a special part of what we do.
Thank you for choosing Gatherall’s for this special outing with your mother. We’re so grateful you joined us and hope your travels bring you many more memorable moments together!
Long may yer big jib draw,
Claire
Gillian_H, Jul 2026
Good experience, brilliant way to see and explore St John’s. Excellent time keeping and excellent professionally and sufficient .
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hey Gillian,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience with us and fellow travellers!
I’m so glad to hear you enjoyed your time aboard and found the tour to be a great way to experience the beauty of Newfoundland from the water. We take great pride in creating an organized, welcoming, and professional experience for our guests while sharing the incredible wildlife and coastline around us.
I’ll be sure to share your kind words with our crew. They work hard to make every trip run smoothly while helping guests create lasting memories.
Thank you for joining us for an incredible day on the water. Wishing you many more wonderful experiences wherever your travels take you!
Safe travels,
Claire
Carla_T, Jul 2026
We’d just like to say thank you so much to everyone at Gatherall’s Boat Tours for a wonderful time and amazing experience that we had yesterday whale 🐋 watching and puffin 🐧 watching etc and the option to have pickup & drop-off from hotel for an additional fee. Definitely a must to put on your list to do with Gatherall’s Boat Tours :)
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you so much for your kind review, Carla!
I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed your time with us. It sounds like you packed a lot into your day, from whales and puffins to the beautiful coastline, and we're delighted that we could be a part of your adventure here in Newfoundland.
I am especially glad to know the shuttle service helped make your visit a little easier. When you're visiting a new place, it's nice to be able to leave the driving to someone else and simply enjoy the experience!
Thank you for taking the time to recognize our crew. We genuinely love what we do, and there is nothing better than seeing guests leave with smiles on their faces and great memories to take home. Reading feedback like yours reminds us why we look forward to heading out on the water each day.
We truly appreciate you choosing Gatherall's and for recommending us to future visitors. It was a pleasure having you aboard Carla, and we hope that every time you see a puffin or a whale photo, you'll think back to your day in Newfoundland with a big smile.
All the best, Carla, and safe travels wherever your next adventure takes you! 🐋🐧💙
Claire
Fiona_F, Jul 2026
A fun cruise. Saw lots of whales which is great. I did the screech in so became an honorary Newfoundlander
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hey Fiona,
Thank you so much for your fun review!
I am thrilled to hear that you had a great time aboard and that you were able to enjoy a memorable whale watching experience. Seeing these incredible animals in their natural habitat is always exciting, and while wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, we’re delighted that the whales showed up for you!
And congratulations!!! You’re officially an honorary Newfoundlander! 😊 We hope you enjoyed your Screech In ceremony and embraced the full Newfoundland experience, from the traditions and laughs to the stories shared along the way.
Thank you for joining us and for becoming part of our Gatherall’s family. We hope to welcome you aboard again someday for another adventure on the beautiful waters of Newfoundland!
Long may yer big jib draw,
Claire
Susan_B, Jul 2026
Bring something warm just in case. It was a great time, very knowledgeable staff. We had great time! Lots of things to purchase at their store and tea and coffee. Washrooms were there too! Good experience!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hey Susan,
Thank you so so much for taking the time to share your review! I am happy to hear that you had a great time aboard and enjoyed learning about the whales, seabirds, and wildlife from our knowledgeable crew.
I'm glad you found our facilities and gift shop convenient too. A warm drink, a cozy spot, and a few Newfoundland keepsakes are always nice additions before or after an adventure on the water. And you’re absolutely right, bringing an extra layer is always a good idea! The Atlantic breeze can be chilly, even on a beautiful day.
We appreciate your 4-star rating and would love to know what could we have done to make your experience a 5-star one? Your feedback helps us continue improving and creating the best possible experience for our guests.
Thank you again for joining us, Susan. We hope to welcome you aboard again in the future!
Warm regards,
Claire
Heather_P, Jul 2026
An absolute blast. We saw plenty of whales, and the birds were amazing. The crew were kind and entertaining. Don't hesitate to book this.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hi Heather,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review!
I am thrilled to hear that you had an absolute blast with us. Seeing plenty of whales and experiencing the incredible seabird colonies is what makes this area so special, and we’re delighted that nature put on a great show for you. While wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, it sounds like you joined us on a fantastic day on the water! 🐋
I'll be sure to share your kind words with our crew. They love helping guests create memorable experiences and are always happy to add a little fun and entertainment along the way.
Thank you for joining our family and for recommending us to future visitors. We hope to welcome you aboard again someday for another adventure in Newfoundland!
Warm regards,
Claire
Cheryl_R, Jul 2026
Book direct through the Gatherall website and save yourself lots of money. Tourists are rude and don’t care if others on the boat get to experience seeing the whales and puffins.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hi Cheryl,
Thank you so much for joining us and for taking the time to leave a review.
We're glad you enjoyed the tour itself and appreciate your recommendation to book directly through our website. Booking direct can often provide guests with the best value and the most up-to-date information about their tour.
That said, we're a little disappointed to see a 3-star rating based on your booking method rather than the experience we, as a small, family-run business, provided. While third-party booking platforms set their own pricing structures and fees, those are unfortunately outside of our control. We always encourage guests to book directly with us when possible, but we strive to provide the same great experience regardless of how a reservation is made.
We're also sorry to hear that the behaviour of some fellow passengers impacted your enjoyment of the trip. Our crew works hard to ensure everyone has an opportunity to enjoy the wildlife and scenery, though we can't always control the actions of other guests onboard.
We appreciate your feedback and hope that despite these frustrations, you were able to enjoy the whales, puffins, and beautiful coastline during your time with us.
Warm regards,
Claire
Caitlin_J, Jul 2026
This whale watching outfit is very well organized. Excellent communication when our tour got cancelled due to weather. They were able to rebook us. The captain and crew are friendly and very knowledgeable about the birds, whales and other wildlife.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hey Caitlin,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review!
I am so happy to hear that you enjoyed your experience with us and that our team was able to get you rebooked after the weather disrupted your original tour. While the weather in Newfoundland doesn't always cooperate, we're glad our communication helped make the process as smooth as possible.
It’s fantastic to hear that you enjoyed the time on the water with our captain and crew. They love sharing their knowledge of the whales, puffins, and other wildlife that make this area so special. Every tour is a little different, and while wildlife sightings are never guaranteed, we're always thrilled when guests get to experience the incredible animals and scenery that draw people to our coastline.
Thank you again for choosing Gatherall’s and for your kind recommendation. We hope to welcome you aboard again the next time you're visiting Newfoundland!
Warm regards,
Claire
Ali_V, Jul 2026
What an incredible experience! Humpback whales, puffins and more! Also learned about the local history and culture. The staff was lovely and even though it rained some, we had a blast!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Thank you so much, Ali, for your wonderful review! I am so thrilled to hear that you had such an incredible experience with our family and crew.
Seeing humpback whales, puffins, and other wildlife all on the same tour is always special, and we’re so glad nature cooperated during your visit. It sounds like you joined us during a fantastic time of year for wildlife viewing, though as always, these encounters are never guaranteed...which makes them all the more memorable when they do happen!
I am delighted that you enjoyed learning about the local history and culture as well. Our crew loves sharing stories about Newfoundland and the incredible wildlife that calls these waters home.
A little rain is all part of the authentic Newfoundland experience, and we’re so happy to hear it didn’t dampen your adventure! Thank you for joining us, and for recommending us as a must-do when visiting St. John’s. We hope to welcome you aboard again someday! 🐋
Until next time,
Claire
Hilary_S, Jul 2026
The guides were very knowledgeable and friendly and the boat was big enough not to feel crowded. Had a great time!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hey Hilary,
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience!
We’re delighted to hear you had such a great time with our family and crew. The Gaffer VI was purpose-built (right in the gift shop building) to do these tours. Having a comfortable boat with plenty of space to enjoy the views is something we’re very proud of, and we’re so glad it helped you relax and take in the experience.
Thank you as well for your kind words about our crew. They love sharing the wildlife, stories, and scenery of the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve with our guests, and it means a lot to hear that their knowledge and friendliness helped make your trip special.
Thanks for joining us on the water. We hope to welcome you aboard again someday!
Safe travels,
Claire
Amy_B, Jul 2026
Unforgettable! The whales put on a fantastic show! The puffins were showing off as well! Gorgeous scenery
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hey Amy,
Thank you so much for leaving the wonderful review!
I am so thrilled to hear you had such an unforgettable experience with our family and crew. It sounds like the whales and puffins really showed off for you! There’s nothing quite like watching these incredible animals in their natural environment, especially during peak whale season when the ocean can come alive.
We’re so glad you enjoyed the scenery, too. The coastline around the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is a pretty special place, and we feel lucky to share it with our guests.
Thank you for joining us and for the kind recommendation. We hope to welcome you aboard again someday!
Safe travels,
Claire
Chidam_Y, Jul 2026
Good adventure and prompt departure and arrival. Good pick up and polite and knowledgeable crew members
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hi Chida,
Thank you for taking the time to share your review!
I am so glad to hear you enjoyed your experience with us...from start to finish. Our team works hard to make the whole journey smooth and enjoyable, from the shuttle ride to the time spent out on the water.
It’s wonderful to hear that you found our crew polite and knowledgeable. We love sharing the wildlife, stories, and scenery of the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve with our guests.
Thank you for joining us and for spending part of your day with Gatherall’s. We hope to welcome you aboard again someday!
Safe travels,
Claire
Tina_B, Jul 2026
Incredible experience! We saw so many whales, a group of leaping dolphins, and more of puffins than you could ever count! The crew on deck were incredible! And they offer a screeching in on board!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hi Tina,
Thank you so much for taking the time to leave the incredible review!
It sounds like you had an amazing day on the water! So many whales, a group of leaping dolphins, and more puffins than you could count is such a spectacular experience. During peak whale season, you just never know what incredible moments Mother Nature will bring.
We’re so glad you enjoyed your time with our crew as well. They love sharing the wildlife, stories, and a little Newfoundland fun along the way. And of course, a Screech In is a great way to add a little extra local flavour to your visit!
Thank you for joining us and for sharing your experience. We hope to welcome you aboard again someday!
Long may yer big jib draw,
Claire
Modupe_A, Jul 2026
Relaxing experience wirh friendly staff members on board.
It was one of the highlights of our fun experiences in St.John's.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hey there!
Thank you for taking the time to share your experience with us and fellow travellers!
We’re so happy to hear that your time with us was one of the highlights of your visit to St. John’s. A day on the water with whales, puffins, and a friendly crew is a pretty special way to spend an afternoon.
It means a lot to hear that you found the experience relaxing and enjoyable. Our crew loves welcoming guests aboard and sharing the incredible wildlife of the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve.
Thank you for joining us during your time in St. John’s. We hope to see you on the water again someday!
Safe travels,
Claire
Pamela_F, Jul 2026
Wonderful staff, beautiful scenery and wildlife! Puffins Galore and humpback whales! Thank you for a wonderful experience.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hey Pamela,
Thank you so much for your lovely review!
We’re so glad you enjoyed your time with us. Puffins galore and humpback whales make for a pretty incredible day on the water, and we’re lucky to share such a beautiful place with our guests.
It’s wonderful to hear that our crew helped make the experience even more special. They love sharing the wildlife, stories, and scenery of the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve with everyone who comes aboard.
Thank you for joining us and for taking the time to share your kind words. We hope to welcome you back again someday!
Safe travels,
Claire
Kim_G, Jul 2026
It was an amazing day! We saw humpback whales! The weather was amazing and the crew friendly and inviting! Loved Rebeca and the speaking - can remember her name! She did a great job…they all did!! Great tour …recommend highly!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hi Kim,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review!
I am thrilled to hear you had such an amazing day on the water with our family and crew. A beautiful day on the water, humpback whales, and a fantastic crew really is a special combination, especially during peak whale season!
I’ll be sure to share your kind words with Rebecca and the rest of the crew. They put so much heart into sharing the wildlife, stories, and fun moments with our guests, so it means a lot to know you enjoyed the experience.
Thank you for joining us and for the high recommendation. We hope to welcome you aboard again someday!
Safe travels,
Claire 🐋
Shweta_C, Jul 2026
I had an amazing time, saw whales and millions of birds, puffins are just the best. Gatheralls are wonderful hosts and they keep you engaged throughout the tour.
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hi there,
Thank you so much for your wonderful review!
I am so thrilled to hear you had such an amazing time with us. Whales and the incredible number of seabirds in the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve make for a pretty unforgettable combination, and I agree, puffins are hard not to love! 😊
Our crew truly enjoys sharing these experiences with our guests, so it means a lot to hear that you felt welcomed, entertained, and engaged throughout the tour.
Thank you for joining us on the water and for taking the time to share your experience. We hope to welcome you aboard again someday!
Happy travels,
Claire
Carrie_J, Jul 2026
We had an excellent time with our very entertaining tour guides. Also, very happy about seeing several whales up close...and puffins too!! Did not disappoint!
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hi Carrie,
Thank you so much for your lovely review!
I'm thrilled to hear that you had such a great time with us. It sounds like you got a fantastic show from both the whales and the puffins, and we couldn't be happier that the experience lived up to expectations.
Our crew loves sharing the stories, facts, and a little bit of fun along the way, so it means a lot to hear that you enjoyed their energy and entertainment.
Thank you for joining us during peak whale season and for spending part of your day exploring the incredible wildlife of the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve with us. We hope to welcome you aboard again someday!
Cheers,
Claire
Claudia_F, Jul 2026
It was so much fun! It wasn’t too long and the guides were very enthusiastic and entertaining. We were able to see a huge colony of different birds and a couple of whales. Bring a jacket since the wind is chilly. As a solo traveler, take advantage of the pickup/Dropoff ride service they offer! I made the expensive mistake of having to Uber to and lose my Uber reserve to come back. The staff were incredibly helpful and let me use their services back to St. John last minute for a partial fee. The location is a bit isolated and Uber isn’t common. Book in advance to take advantage of the early mornings
Response from Host, Jul 2026
Hi Claudia!
Thank you for such a thoughtful review!
I'm so glad you had fun and enjoyed the mix of wildlife, storytelling, and entertainment from the crew. It sounds like you got to experience a little bit of everything, from the bustling seabird colony to a couple of whale sightings out on the water.
Thank you as well for sharing your tip about transportation. Our shuttle service is a great option, especially for visitors staying in St. John's, and I'm happy our team was able to help you out when your plans changed.
And you're absolutely right about the jacket! Even on warm summer days, the breeze on the water can be surprisingly chilly.
We're delighted you chose to spend part of your trip with us and appreciate you taking the time to share your experience. Safe travels, and we hope to see you again someday!
Until next time,
Claire
From $92.14
per personup to 24 hours before the experience starts (local time)
Customers Who Bought This Tour Also Bought
Explore Similar Things to Do
- City Tours
- Shore Excursions
- Tours, Sightseeing & Cruises
- Day Trips
- Outdoor Activities
- Private and Luxury
- Private Sightseeing Tours
- St John's
- Sporting Events - Sydney
- City Tours - Sydney
- Shore Excursions - Sydney
- Extreme Sports - Sydney
- 4WD Tours - Sydney
- Sporting Events - Cape Breton Island
- City Tours - Cape Breton Island
- Shore Excursions - Cape Breton Island
- Extreme Sports - Cape Breton Island
- 4WD Tours - Cape Breton Island