Atlantic Canada

See where Continents Collided

Nature pulled out its best for Gros Morne! Two distinct landscapes, the Gulf of St. Lawrence lowlands and the Long-Range Mountains, provide views of towering cliffs, waterfalls, glacial fjords, and an amazing collection of wildlife. Discover the barren area of the Tablelands with a guided walk on “Earth’s mantle”. Hear how this unique land was formed and enjoy broad panoramic views.

As a bonus, see Gros Morne by water with a Bonne Bay cruise. Enjoy a lively narrated cruise of the two connected arms of Bonne Bay (including traditional music by the crew) takes us by Newfoundland’s best. Watch for moose, seabirds, and whales that are known to breach the boat side!

Recognizing Four Ancient Cultures

Long before Europeans arrived, the west side of Newfoundland's Great Northern Peninsula was a crossroads of 6000 years of human history. Discover one of North America’s most fascinating archaeological finds at Port au Choix National Historic Site and learn about its former inhabitants, the Maritime Archaic Indians, Groswater Paleoeskimo, Dorset Paleoeskimo, and Recent Indian groups.

See displays of original artifacts, and dive into the past and participate in a hands-on lesson using ancient tools to prepare seal skins. Realize the important role seals have played and continue to play in the lives of the locals, and see the stark beauty of the Point Ritchie Peninsula.

The Legacy of Sir Wilfred Grenfell

Experience the spectacular legacy of Dr. Wilfred Grenfell at the Grenfell Interperatation Centre.  Not only was he a doctor he advocated for those on the island establishing hospitals, schools and orphanages, he devoted his life work to serving the people of Newfoundland and Labrador. For his years of service on behalf of these communities, he was knighted by King George V.

Vikings!

Located a short distance from L'Anse aux Meadows is Norstead Viking Village, a recreated Viking port of trade. Experience Viking culture by participating in Norse games, learn about boat building, one-needle knitting, wool spinning, weaving, and even learn how to throw an axe. You can also step aboard Snorri, a replica of the Viking ship that retraced Erickson's course from Greenland to the Meadows.

Red Bay & the Whaling Industry 

In the 1500s, Red Bay was established by European whalers as a major whale port. Today, observe the world’s most complete example of early industrial-scale whaling at Red Bay National Historic Site.  Learn about the whaling history and its people and see original artifacts and archaeological remains.

Port Armour Lighthouse

The Port Armour lighthouse, completed in 1857 is the tallest lighthouse in Atlantic Canada and second tallest in Canada. Climb the 132 steps to be rewarded with a fantastic panoramic view of the Strait of Belle Isle.

Newfoundland Insectarium

The Newfoundland Insectarium features both live and mounted insects and arachnids from around the world. Highlights include a tropical butterfly garden, observation beehive, ice cream parlor and themed gift shop.

Grab your Ugly Stick & Get Ready for a Party

Master this iconic Newfoundland instrument during a shed party. This long-standing tradition will have you dancing, singing, and laughing. 

Special “cod splitting show”

Discover old traditions and hear tales of fishing and whaling at Prime Berth Twillingate Fishery and Heritage Centre. Tour through seven different buildings including a 100+ year old fish store and net loft, touch two different Sei whale skeletons, learn how to split cod, and more!

Become an honorary Newfoundlander

Are you ready to join the Royal Order of Screechers? Come from away’s are invited to participate in the honorary tradition involving a shot of screech, a short recitation and the kissing of a cod. It’s a good bit of fun, and you’ll treasure the memory forever and you can proudly display your certificate on the wall.

Gaze Over the Horizon

At the tip of the Bonavista Peninsula sits the beaconing Cape Bonavista Lighthouse. Built in 1843, the light at Cape Bonavista is one of the few in the world where you can still climb up the stone tower to see the same seal oil-fueled light used in the 19th century.

Ryans Premises

Ryan Premises National Historic Site commemorates the rich history of the Newfoundland cod fishery and tells the story of the Ryan family who pioneered generations of business success in the fishery.

See North America's Largest Atlantic Puffin Colony

Take a memorable cruise out of Bay Bulls en route to Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. This protected area is home to more than 2 million sea birds including 500,000 Atlantic Puffins and the largest humpback whale population in North America.

Time in Newfoundland’s Capital City

Full of small-town charm and big-city enjoyment, St. John's is the capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador and is one of the oldest and easterly cities in North America. Learn more about this vibrant city with a guided tour. Afterward, meander past the colourful jellybean row houses to the harbour and take in the salty ocean air. As the beating heart of the province, St. John’s offers something for everyone including arts and culture, architecture, shopping, and unique dining options. Admission is included to your choice of either The Rooms, a cultural space that reflects Newfoundland and Labrador's stories or the Johnson GEO CENTRE, a geological interpretation centre.

Travel to Labrador

The two extra days on this Newfoundland tour sails you along Quebec’s most southern coast to Labrador. Welcome to this primitive landscape, a place at the mercy of Atlantic weather and inhabited by a hearty people with a long and rich history.

Two UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Of the 5 sites located in Newfoundland and Labrador, two are visited on this tour. Gros Morne National Park was recognized for its geological significance and Red Bay National Historic Site for being the earliest, most complete, and best-preserved evidence of the European whaling tradition.

Experience the Traditions

This tour immerses you into the culture of “The Rock”. Whether you are singing along at a shed party, eating local delicacies, or becoming screeched in (don’t forget to pucker up for the cod), there are plenty of ways to experience life as an islander.

A Vast Wilderness

Newfoundland offers picturesque landscapes and rugged coastlines.  Discover the unique geographical features and ancient rock formations that give the island its name. If mother nature allows, spot icebergs, whales, puffins, moose, and more types of wildlife.

• Round trip airfare* from Toronto with our unique Connections Program
• Private coach transportation
• 11 nights of accommodation
• 11 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 9 dinners
• All entry fees and passes and the services of local guides
• Services of Tours in Canada Tour Director

Prices are in Canadian dollars, are per person and include HST.

* See also Terms & Conditions - Prices.

Included Highlights

• Gros Morne National Park, Bonne Bay cruise, and The Tablelands
• Port au Choix Historic Site
• Grenfell House Museum
• Norstead Viking Village
• Ferry to Labrador
• Red Bay Basque Whaling Station
• Twillingate Fishery & Heritage Centre
• Traditional Shed Party
• Kings Point Pottery
• Newfoundland Insectarium
• Gander Airport
• Meet & Greet with a True Gander Hero plus Newfoundland Screech-in
• Cape Bonavista Lighthouse
• Ryan’s Premise
• Cape Spear
• Bay Bulls whale & puffin watching cruise
• Guided city tour of St. John’s
• Choice of admission to The Rooms or The Johnson Geo Centre.

Day 1: Fly to Deer Lake, Corner Brook

Fly to Deer Lake, then travel a short distance to Corner Brook where a fun musical evening and dinner welcomes you to Newfoundland.

Stay: Greenwood Inn, Corner Brook

Nights: 1

Meals: D

Day 2: Gros Morne and the Tablelands

The wilds of Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site await your exploration today. Learn about the unique geological wonder of the Tablelands during a guided tour. Experience a view of the park from the water on a boat trip of Bonne Bay, where stunning views are accented by informative commentary. Travel to the settlement of Cow Head for the night. After dinner, enjoy a performance by a local group.

Stay: Shallow Bay Motel, Cow Head

Nights: 1

Meals: B, L, D

Day 3: The Great Northern Peninsula 

Enjoy a leisurely paced start to the day as you journey up the Great Northern Peninsula. Your coastal route offers an opportunity to stop and take photos of the untamed landscape. See dramatic rock formations at ‘The Arches’ and visit Port au Choix, a national historic site where you’ll discover the crossroads of 5,000 years of human history.

Stay: Plum Point Hotel, Plum Point

Nights: 2

Meals: B, L, D

Day 4: Norstead Viking Village

The town of St. Anthony is home to Sir Wilfred Grenfell’s medical mission. Enjoy a tour of the museum dedicated to his life work and a visit to his home. In the afternoon you will discover what Viking life was like when you visit the Norstead Viking Village, a living history museum depicting a Viking trading port.

Meals: B, L, D

Day 5: Ferry to Labrador, Red Bay Basque Whaling Station

Travel to the ferry terminal in St. Barbe to board the MV Apollo for a cruise to Labrador. Journey on to Red Bay to enjoy a tour of the Red Bay Basque Whaling Station. This newly designated UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to three Basque whaling galleons and four small chalupas used to capture whales.

Stay: Northern Light Inn, L’Anse au Clair

Nights: 1

Meals: B, L, D

Day 6: Ferry to Newfoundland

Board the ferry to return to the island of Newfoundland. On your journey, you may encounter icebergs, seabirds and humpback or fin whales. Your guide will provide tips on how to spot these amazing mammals – have your camera ready!

Stay: Ocean View Motel, Rocky Harbour

Nights: 1

Meals: B, D

Day 7: Gander

After breakfast, travel to Reidville and visit the Newfoundland Insectarium. Then it’s on to King’s Point for lunch and a visit to King’s Point Pottery and the Whale Pavilion. Arrive in Gander a city made famous for its warm hospitality during 9/11, when the town took in almost 6,000 stranded guests. This evening’s dinner features a special meet and greet with one of Gander’s true heroes. Get a first-hand account of the event from a famous local.

Stay: Comfort Inn, Gander

Nights: 1

Meals: B, L, D

Day 8: Coastal Drive

Venture off the Trans-Canada Highway to tour through picturesque coastal villages. A stop at Prime Berth Twillingate Fishery & Heritage Centre allows you to explore this family-run interpretive fishing centre and craft studio. Enjoy the hospitality of Karren Churchill and her guest favourite Shed Party. On our way to Clarenville, we’ll stop at the Gander Airport, then we’ll travel through picturesque villages to arrive at our hotel.

Stay: Quality Inn, Clarenville

Nights: 2

Meals: B, L, D

Day 9: Bonavista & Trinity

A day-trip to lovely Bonavista offers time to explore the town’s famous lighthouse or to stroll along the picturesque coastal pathways. Visit Dungeon Provincial Park, where you’ll find spectacular examples of the North Atlantic Ocean’s wave action and erosive power due to the ancient sedimentary rocks’ composition and thousands of years of continuous coastal erosion leaving the incredible feature you will see today. Ryan Premises was once home to the islands largest salt fish mercantile enterprise and tells the story of the Ryan family who pioneered generations of business success in the fishery industry. Before returning to the hotel, there will be time to explore Trinity, a beautiful, quintessential Newfoundland town, with historic sites, colourful buildings with white picket fences, artisan shops, and stunning coastal views.

Meals: B, L

Day 10: St. John’s

Experience the Oldest European Settlement in North America and all that St. John’s has to offer with a guided city tour led by a local step-on guide. Enjoy a free evening to explore the city’s unique shopping, dining, and historical attractions.

Stay: Delta Hotel, St. John’s

Nights: 2

Meals: B

Day 11: Whale Watching Cruise

Today you will take a memorable cruise out of Bay Bulls enroute to Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. This protected area is home to over 500,000 Atlantic Puffins and the largest humpback whale population in North America. Visit The Rooms or Johnson Geo Centre then enjoy a farewell dinner with fellow guests.

Meals: B, D

Day 12: Flight Home

After breakfast, depart for the airport for the journey home.

Meals: B

• Greenwood Inn, Corner Brook (1 night)
• Shallow Bay Motel, Cow Head (1 night)
• Plum Point Motel, Plum Point (2 nights)
• Northern Light Inn, L’Anse au Clair (1 night)
• Ocean View Motel, Rocky Harbour (1 night)
• Comfort Inn, Gander (1 night)
• Quality Suites, Clarenville (2 nights)
• Delta Hotel, St. John’s (2 nights)

This tour is designed to showcase the best of Newfoundland and Labrador in 12 days. It is a fast-paced tour so be sure to bring good walking shoes.

Tablelands Trail Hike Information: 

Activity Level: Low – moderate (walking on a gentle trail with a packed but uneven surface) Walking distance 1 – 3km

Western Brook Pond Boat Tour

The walk to get to the Western Brook Pond Boat Tour is a moderate 3 km trail (approx. 45 min walk) that leads from the parking lot to the dock. 

This tour starts in Deer Lake, Newfoundland and concludes in St. John's Newfoundland. Guests can join this tour from anywhere in the world! Please contact us to discuss your airfare and pre-and post-tour accommodation options.