Circumnavigation of Newfoundland - Vikings, Fjords and Whales

Day 1: St. John's, NL

Welcome to St. John’s - Newfoundland’s historic, vibrant capital. Picturesque and welcoming, with a world-famous harbor, St. John’s has been continually fished since 1498, allowing it to boast the designation of North America’s oldest European settlement.

We will offer an optional afternoon city tour to those interested. Afterwards, we will rendezvous at the docks and board the Ocean Endeavour to begin the adventure proper. Passengers will meet the staff and crew, and prepare to leave the harbor. Sailing out of St. John’s has to be experienced to be believed! Signal Hill keeps watch over the world-famous Narrows as we head for open water.

Days 2 - 3: Northeast Coast

The northeast coast of Newfoundland is known for the dozens of picturesque villages that dot its rocky shores, and we’ll find harbor in one of these unique communities. We look forward to a characteristically warm Newfoundland welcome upon our arrival. Photographers will have their work cut out for them capturing the special charm of classic island architecture.

Day 4: L'Anse Aux Meadows

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, L’Anse aux Meadows is the only authenticated former Norse settlement in North America. The archaeological remains found here in 1960 date to approximately 1000 AD. Amazingly, the location of the ruins was first established by a close reading of the Viking sagas.

Today, a superb interpretive center and reconstructions of the several Norse-style sod buildings make L’Anse aux Meadows a must-see for any visitor to Newfoundland.

Day 5: Red Bay

Red Bay Basque Whaling Station became a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2013. Basque whalers operated out of the Red Bay harbor in the 1500s: North America’s first export industry.

The interpretation center at Red Bay is excellent. Here we find tools, personal items, and navigational instruments recovered from the wreck of the whaling ship San Juan. The ship was lost in a storm in 1565 and found centuries later submerged in the harbor.

Day 6: Woody Point / Gros Morne National Park

Gros Morne is internationally famed for its geographic diversity and majesty. The park’s mountains are both picturesque and highly unusual: the Tablelands, a 600-meter plateau, forms one of the world’s best examples of ancient rock exposed from the Earth’s mantle. The park’s fjords are equally stunning, and the town of Woody Point has become widely renowned for its annual Writers’ Festival.

There will be a choice of walks, catering to all levels of skill and interest, as we explore the surrounding area. The beauty of Bonne Bay will surely be a highlight, as will the subtle charms of Woody Point.

Days 7 - 8: South Coast

The wild and windswept coast of southern Newfoundland is home to a few remaining outport communities, still largely cut off from mainstream travel. There are many choices of unique bays and coves to explore via Zodiac or land excursions. The geology is outstanding, and plant life is gorgeous here. We’ll be on the watch for wildlife too. We’ll make the most of every chance to explore this beautiful and remote coast.

Day 9: Miawpukek (Conne River)

The First Nations community of Miawpukek (Conne River) has an economically self-sufficient mandate, guided by traditional values. It became a permanent settlement sometime around 1822. Before then, it was one of many semi-permanent camping sites used by the Mi'kmaq people, who were, at the time, nomads travelling throughout the east coast. Since its establishment as a reserve in 1987, Miawpukek’s employment rate has increased from 10% to nearly 100% and Indian and Northern Affairs often reference the community as a model for other First Nations. We will receive a formal welcome into the community and meet the locals, with the help of community leaders.

Day 10: Saint-Pierre, FR

Explore Saint-Pierre, a last bastion of France’s colonial territories in North America. The colorful and charming shops and residences of the town of Saint-Pierre reveal its unique historical character.

French food, wine, clothing, and culture are all on offer here. The sweets at the local cafes and bakeries are in high demand. Saint-Pierre offers a taste of European living, just a short sail from the coast of Newfoundland!

Day 11: St. John's, NL

On the final day of our expedition, we sail though the historic Narrows and into St. John's harbor. We will say our farewells and begin the process of departure.

Staff will be on hand to assist you with luggage and transportation arrangements.