I decided that I am finally going to make the decision to book a whale tour this year. It has been on my bucket list for some time, but I'm unsure why it has taken me so long to do it. I mean, I live here. I guess it's like those people who live in Orlando, Florida and have never been to Disneyland.
Every time I watch those Newfoundland and Labrador tourism commercials with these magnificent mammals jumping out of the ocean and creating monstrous crashing waves, I’m simply in awe. At the same time, it also makes me a little embarrassed that I grew up in this province and haven't taken advantage of the opportunity to see them.
I mean, a whale is a mesmerizing and intimidating mammal. Yes, they are still majestic and beautiful but the way they frolick and demonstrate their power and sheer might in the ocean. It is both exhilarating and a little scary, you have to admit.
It's true that in Newfoundland, we are spoiled. When it comes to the wonders of nature, we have it all. If you are lucky enough to have a boat and travel anywhere around the island, you will see dolphins riding the waves, seals basking on the shores, or a chorus of sea birds soaring above your head. As wonderful as all marine life is, the many species of whales that frequent our waters. It leaves an impression on you and reminds you of how small we are as a species.
What species of whale can be found off our shores?
A sanctuary is the best word to describe the variety of whale species surrounding our shores. It is also a word commonly associated with wildlife. We have Humpbacks, Minke, Fin, Sei, and killer whales, also known as Orcas.
There are many reasons why so many species of whales frequent Newfoundland and Labrador’s coastlines. The logical one is that they are magnetically drawn to the nutrient-rich waters off our coast. The lure of our plentiful food supply, such as capelin and krill. Another reason is that it's part of their summer migration pattern from mid-April to September. As these mammals gorge on abundant marine life, they build their energy reserves for the winter. During the summer months, with calmer waters and warmer weather, off the coast provides the perfect mating backdrop. So, if you are on a whale tour, make sure your iPhone is pumping out some Barry White to get them in the mood.
What locations in Newfoundland can you view whales?
As great as whales are to watch, Newfoundland can also boast about the various locations around the island to view them. They are listed below:
St. Anthony
Twillingate
Bay Bulls
Witless Bay
Trinity
Bonne Bay
Cape Bonavista
Cape Spear
Gros Morne National Park
Whale Watching in St. Vincent’s, Newfoundland
If there ever was a hot spot in Newfoundland where you could watch a whale relatively close to the shore, St. Vincents is a famous beach where you can view them. The town is located at the bottom of the Avalon Peninsula. The fastest travel route is a one-hour and fifty-minute drive or 137km along the Irish Loop.
Thanks to a steep drop-off along the shoreline, it is the closest location from shore where you can view a humpback's acrobatics up close while you sip your lemonade with the salty sea breeze in your hair. And if you're bald like me on your skin, but you get the idea.
What Are The Best Times To View Whales
If you want to see whales, you need to be patient. It's not like you can text them and tell them you will be in St. Vincents in five minutes and not to jump out of the ocean until you get there. It's been said that the best times are early mornings or late afternoons. The reason is that the seas are often calmer during these day periods. It also offers clarity and easier visibility. At the same time, sightings can also depend on the weather, sea conditions and often the behaviour of the marine animals on any given day. It can sometimes be unpredictable.
Whale Tours Are Available
If you want to experience a whale splashing you in the face or watching them wave at you with their tale, maybe a whale tour is for you.
Here is a short list with a link to their website.
O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours - Bay Bulls, NL
Iceberg Quest Ocean Tours in St. John’s & Twillingate, NL
Sea Of Whales Adventures in Trinity Bay
Gatherall's Puffin & Whale Watch - Bay Bulls.
The best thing I heard about these whale tours is they make you feel at home. You might even be serenaded by a traditional Newfoundland-Irish folk song on your way out to see whales. Anything is possible. The important thing is to remember to have fun. It is probably an experience you will never forget.
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