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Map of Newfoundland Circumnavigation including Canada

Wild, windswept and absolutely wonderful – this is Newfoundland

This is Canada like you’ve never seen it before – cliffs soar into the sky, wind roars through wild landscapes and human history stretches back thousands of years. Set off on a 12-day cruise on the Ocean Endeavour, navigating the island’s varied and vast coastline while accompanied by a passionate team of expert guides. In contrast to the rugged, stark landscapes, get acquainted with charming towns and locals who radiate warmth, and discover the region’s First Nations culture. Whether you’re looking for wildlife, inspiring scenery or deep-rooted history, you’re sure to find it in Newfoundland.

Start
St. John’s, Canada
Finish
St. John’s, Canada
Destination
Canada
Style
Comfort
Theme
Polar
Code
SBKN
Physical rating
Ages
Min 2
Group size
Min 1, Max 198

Why you'll love this trip

  • On board the comfortable Ocean Endeavour ship, navigate the wild and beautiful coastline of Canada’s Newfoundland accompanied by an expert team of guides who will bring the landscape to life.

  • Take a deep dive into the region’s history during a visit to the 1000-year-old Norse settlement of L’Anse aux Meadows and the historic Red Bay Basque Whaling Station – both UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

  • When you’re not cruising Canada’s waters, hop off the ship and explore the spectacular Gros Morne National Park on foot, taking in unique topography and formations as you go.

  • Experience Newfoundland’s First Nations culture and history at the Miawpukek Mi'kamawey Mawi'omi First Nation Reserve, where you’ll discover how tradition and modern life go hand in hand.

  • A world away from the remote communities of Newfoundland, visit the islands of St-Pierre and Miquelon – this official territory of France delights with its European-style streets lined with charming shops, cafes and houses.

Is this trip right for you?

  • Believe it or not, temperatures in the Arctic can be freezing. And yet it can get surprisingly warm when the sun comes out, for instance, or with increased physical activity. It’s best to dress in layers when you journey outside and we’ll provide you with waterproof boots that are sturdy, warm and highly fashionable (in the arctic, at least). Please see the trip notes for information about what to bring.

  • Polar bears are one of the most incredible and appealing animals on the planet, but they are also powerful predators with little fear of humans. Therefore it’s necessary to be aware of the guidelines surrounding any contact with Polar bears. Follow your leader’s instructions and do not stray from your group – your leader carries equipment to protect you. We may need to adjust our plans to visit alternate arctic landing sites.

  • Weather and sea ice play a pivotal part in this adventure and although there’s an itinerary in place, there are no guarantees that you’ll be able to do everything that is planned for. A level of flexibility and openness to embracing the unexpected are important in expedition travel, especially to such a remote area.

Passing icebergs on the coast of St Johns, Newfoundland
Red Bay Basque Whaling Station, UNESCO Heritage site, Newfoundland and Labrador
Boat passing through the famous St Johns Narrows
Traveller hiking through Lookout Trail in Gros Morne National Park, Newfoundland and Labrador
Aerial view of L'anse aux Meadows national historic site

Boats

Ocean Endeavour - Arctic boat on a tour

Ocean Endeavour - Arctic

The Ocean Endeavour - Arctic is a comfortable and spacious ship with a gym, library and wide range of cabin types.

Boat type
Expedition
Passengers
200
Learn more

Itinerary
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Welcome to St. John’s! Newfoundland and Labrador’s colourful capital stands in contrast to the vast and wild nature of the province. Head to the city’s port where you’ll find the Ocean Endeavour, your home for the next 12 days. Board the ship and set sale in the evening, departing the historic port and cruising out to the Atlantic Ocean via the Narrows, a passage famed for its steep rock walls and difficulty to navigate. Pass by the Battery, an eye-catching neighbourhood where brightly painted houses stagger down the slopes of Signal Hill. Be on the lookout for icebergs, whales and seabirds as you sail out into open waters.
Meals Included
  • Dinner
Special Information
Please make your own way to the port. Embarkation time is usually between 1pm and 2pm, the exact timings will be advised to you closer to your departure.

The next three days will be spent exploring Newfoundland’s northeast coast, where delightful villages and settlements dot the sparse landscape. Your expedition landings will introduce you to these inviting communities nestled among the coastline’s rocky shore, where you’ll receive a warm Newfoundland welcome upon your arrival. Be sure to have your camera batteries charged for this stretch of your journey – the sight of these charming communities set against the rugged landscape is one you’re going to want to remember!
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (3)
  • Lunch (3)
  • Dinner (3)

Today’s expedition landing will take you to L’Anse aux Meadows, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Found at the northern most tip of Newfoundland, the site was excavated in the 1960s, and a 1000-year-old Norse settlement was unearthed. The only authenticated Norse settlement in North America, exploring this site is a real treat. Learn about the discovery of the settlement, Viking culture and history, and the ancient remains that can be found here today. A visit to the site’s interpretation centre will add a deeper layer to your discoveries, as actors in period costumes and reconstructed Norse-style sod buildings help to imagine what life here once looked like.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Another day, another fascinating World Heritage Site. Today you’ll be stopping off in Labrador at the Red Bay Basque Whaling Station, dedicated to the history of the men and boys who ventured here from northern Spain and southern France between the 1540s to the early 1600s to hunt whales. Learn how North America’s first export industry developed out of this harbour and hear the stories of the Basque whalers who worked here. Take a wander through the interpretation centre and examine the tools, navigational instruments and personal items recovered from the shipwreck of the San Juan whaling ship – the ship sunk in 1565, but the wreck was not discovered until centuries later. Continue your explorations of Labrador’s whaling history with a visit to the nearby Saddle Island.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Get off the ship and explore on foot during a visit to Gros Morne National Park. Here you’ll have the chance to take a scenic walk or a longer hike through the dramatic and awe-inspiring landscapes of the park. Pause for a peaceful visit to Bonne Bay, take a stroll around the tiny town of Woody Point and stop by the interpretation centre for extra information on the stunning sights you’ve seen today. The 600-metre-long Tablelands plateau really needs to be seen to be believed and provides one of the best examples of exposed mantle in the world. You’ll notice a distinct lack of plants and wildlife in the Tablelands – the rocks here are rich in minerals yet support little life, resulting in the barren yet beautiful landscape.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Spend two unforgettable days traversing the wind-worn and striking coast of southern Newfoundland, stopping off to explore the bays, coves and remote outport communities hidden away in this vast landscape. From your ship and from the shore, take in the interesting topography of the region, brought to life by vibrant plants and flowers. The fauna here is every bit as magnificent as the flora – be on the look out for whales, birds and other wildlife, often discovered during Zodiac cruises and excursions onto land.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast (2)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (2)

Pay a visit to the Miawpukek Mi'kamawey Mawi'omi First Nation Reserve, found at the mouth of the Conne River. Here you’ll receive a formal welcome from the leaders of the community before learning more about their history and culture. The Mi'kmaw were once nomadic, travelling through Canada’s east coast. This site served as a semi-permanent base for camping before becoming a permanent settlement around 1822. Take the opportunity to explore the community and see examples of how tradition is weaved into modern life.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

Say bonjour to the islands of St-Pierre and Miquelon, an official territory of France. Disembark in the town of St-Pierre – you’ll feel like you’ve stepped straight into Europe (technically, you have!) as you explore streets buzzing with patisseries and baguette-carrying locals. A world away from the typical scenery of Newfoundland, delight in discovering the inviting shops, cafes and homes that boast a proudly French flair.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
  • Lunch
  • Dinner

It’s time to return to where it all began, coming full circle by cruising back through the impressive Narrows on your way into St. John’s harbour. Say goodbye to your newfound friends, as your adventure comes to an end on your arrival to St. John’s.
Meals Included
  • Breakfast
Want to tailor this itinerary?

Meals

11 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 11 dinners

Transport

Expedition Cruise Ship, Zodiac

Accommodation

11 nights expedition cruise ship

Dates & availability

Trip departures are unavailable.

There are currently no scheduled departures on our Newfoundland Circumnavigation trip. If you are interested in other trips in the region visit one of the links below.

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Important notes

Travellers on Intrepid trips are required to produce proof of full vaccination against COVID-19. Read details here.

This trip is operated by our partner Adventure Canada on board the Ocean Endeavour ship.

This trip starts at midday, you can usually board the ship between 1pm and 2pm. The exact boarding time will be provided closer to your departure.

SPECIAL BOOKING CONDITIONS
You are required to pay a non-refundable deposit of AUD3000, USD2000, EUR1800, NZD3200, GBP1700, CAD2800, CHF2000 or ZAR34,900 per person per trip for your booking to be confirmed.

Final payment is due 120 days before your trip departure date.

If a booking is cancelled up to 120 days before departure, 50% of the non refundable deposit per person per cruise will be held as a future Travel credit.
If a booking is cancelled from 91 days to 120 days before departure, a 65% cancellation fee will apply.
If a booking is cancelled at 90 days or less before departure, a 100% cancellation fee will apply.

Please refer to our "Booking terms and conditions" page on our website for all Adventure Canada terms and conditions.

Essential trip information

Want an in-depth insight into this trip? Essential Trip Information provides a detailed itinerary, visa info, how to get to your hotel, what's included - pretty much everything you need to know about this adventure and more.

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