St. John's, Newfoundland

St. John's, Newfoundland Port Guide

St. John's, Newfoundland Cruise Port Guide

Welcome to St. John's, the oldest and most easterly city in North America! Your ship will dock in a harbor carved from ancient rock, surrounded by the colourful "Jellybean Row" houses that climb the steep hillsides.

As a regular port of call for lines like Holland America Line, Princess Cruises, and Seabourn, St. John's offers an unforgettable blend of rugged nature, maritime history, and vibrant culture.

Passengers are captivated by its unique character, from the fog-swept cliffs of Cape Spear to the lively pubs on George Street.


Shore Excursions & Tours

Newfoundland Puffin and Whale Watch Cruise

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Cruise to the incredible Witless Bay Ecological Reserve for your chance to watch puffins, whales, and icebergs. Throughout the minimum 90-minute tour, you will enjoy entertaining and educational live commentary from on-board naturalists and crew. Our comfortable catamaran offers the most space and greatest range to improve chances of encountering marine wildlife, with indoor accommodations for all guests.

2 Hours Guided Whale and Bird Boat Tour in Bay Bulls

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With 40 years of experience, we have perfected the art of providing the best boat tour experience. Our knowledgeable and passionate guides are committed to sharing their expertise on local history and wildlife from our well-maintained, modern boats. On your comfortable and safe journey, you will have the opportunity to witness breathtaking views of the coastline and marine life in their natural habitat.

Historic St. John's Newfoundland and Cape Spear Tour

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Discover the city of St. John's and its surroundings with a local Newfoundlander as your guide. You'll visit Cape Spear, the most Easterly point in North America, and enjoy brilliant vistas from Signal Hill and Cabot Tower. The tour also includes sights like a cliffside WWII gun battery, the province's oldest standing lighthouse, Quidi Vidi Village, and Jelly Bean Row, all flavored with local humor and anecdotes.

4 Hour St John’s Tour w Come From Away star (lunch included)

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Join born-and-raised Newfoundlander Deneen and her hand-picked team of guides for an intimate tour experience. With a maximum of 12 guests per outing, this tour prioritizes the personal connections that set it apart from large bus tours. Your guides, who include a local music legend and a historian, are deeply steeped in the culture and traditions of the land and are excited to welcome you inside the story.

St. John's 3 Hour Newfoundland Food Tour

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Learn about the history and culture of St. John's by eating its food on this walking tour through downtown. You will explore Newfoundland's unique food culture, known for its seafood, wild game, and delicious traditional meals. As you sample local dishes, you'll hear the stories behind the people and places that make the city unique, from a haunted pub to a beloved pastry shop.

3 hour City Tour of St.John’s, small group up to ten guests

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See the highlights of St. John's including Cape Spear, Signal Hill, Quidi Vidi Village, and the famous Jelly Bean Row. We use small vans, which allows us to go places where larger tour vehicles cannot. This provides a more intimate sightseeing experience with less waiting time at each stop.

Boat Tours from Quidi Vidi Marina

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Embark on a unique marine adventure where you get to catch your own cod fish on the mighty North Atlantic. For the more adventurous, shark fishing charters are also offered, targeting species like Blue Shark and Porbeagle. As a custom option, you can even have your fresh catch pan-fried right on the boat while you relax with a cold beverage.

Explore St. John's Scenic Bus Tour to Cape Spear and Quidi Vidi

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Discover the best of St. John's on our most popular and highly-rated bus tour, perfect for both first-time explorers and yearly visitors. This tour takes you through iconic landmarks and hidden gems for a comprehensive look at the city. Enjoy a memorable journey through the area’s rich history, breathtaking views, and vibrant culture.

St. John's Local Pub Tour & History Lesson

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Explore the vibrant pub scene of downtown St. John's on this engaging walking tour with a small group of up to 10 people. Immerse yourself in the rich history and culture behind the city’s beloved watering holes as your guide shares local stories. This tour is perfect for history buffs and social explorers alike. Please note that guests must be 19+ and purchase their own food and beverages.

St. John's Coastal Hike with Top Local Guide Deneen

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Explore the mind-blowing beauty of the coastline in and around the capital city with born-and-raised Newfoundlander, Deneen. Guiding you along the East Coast Trail and other lesser-known coastal paths, she will share her considerable knowledge of the area. On this hike you will learn about foraging, the historical connection between harvesting on land and sea, and the local lore of the surrounding communities.

St. John's Downtown Walking Tour

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For the most comprehensive walking tour in town, join us to be captivated by the architecture and people of downtown St. John’s. The tour covers everything from Water Street and Duckworth Street to Bannerman Park and the Colonial Building. Along the way, you will be entertained with fascinating local stories, like how the city got its bright colors and why the government sits on the left.

Conception Bay Tour Experience

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Take a drive to visit the many pretty outport communities that sprinkle the shores of Conception Bay. This region is teeming with amazing stories about ancient pirates, WW2 submarine attacks, and the dawn of transatlantic aviation. Enjoy a true Newfoundland experience that includes a lunch of soup, fish cakes, and dessert. Please let us know of any dietary restrictions so we can accommodate you.

Late Season Puffin & Scenic Coastal Cruise

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Take a 90-minute cruise to the incredible Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, offering your best chance to view puffins in late season. While wildlife is never guaranteed, attractions vary by season with whales peaking mid-summer and puffins nesting from May to mid-September. Learn about Newfoundland's marine wildlife and heritage from your professional guides on a comfortable catamaran, where a "Screech In" ceremony is also available.

Irish Loop to Ferryland Tour

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Take a scenic drive along the pretty coastal roadways of the Irish Loop, connecting the area’s outport fishing communities. Along this beautiful route, you'll discover architecture from an era of opulence and visit the Colony of Avalon archeological site. Meet fascinating local characters, visit small fishing villages, and learn about the luxury items discovered from this period in North American history.

Pedego eBike Rental

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Experience St. John's from the seat of a bicycle with an easy-to-ride Pedego e-Bike. The electric motor does the work for you, allowing you to travel to scenic destinations like Cape Spear, Signal Hill, and Quidi Vidi Village with ease. You can adjust the power assist to your comfort level, from zero assistance to 100% motor power, for a perfect outing.

Newfoundland Beer Tour in St. John's

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Learn about Newfoundland’s long and rich beer history, from its earliest endeavors to today's thriving craft industry. You'll stop at three different breweries and bars to enjoy seven samples of a wide variety of local brews, from sours to stouts. Your guide will entertain you with stories of prohibition and gangsters while teaching you how to properly taste craft beer.

90 Minute Downtown St. John's Walking Tour Walking on Water

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Join a fully accessible, 90-minute walking tour for an entertaining and informative introduction to St. John’s. With no hills or stairs, you will explore Water Street, possibly the oldest continuously operating commercial street in North America. Uncover the past and reveal the present of the street that was once the center of one of the world’s most important fisheries.

2 Hour Award-Winning Whale and Seabird Boat Tour from St. John's

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Depart from the heart of downtown St. John’s on Newfoundland’s award-winning boat tour. Witness the world’s largest concentration of humpback whales and steam through a passage of 12,000-year-old icebergs. You will also see a variety of seabirds including the Atlantic Puffin and enjoy breathtaking views of the Cape Spear lighthouse from the water on this narrated, family-friendly tour.

Irish Loop Smartphone Audio Driving Tour

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Explore the majestic Irish Loop at your own pace with a captivating smartphone audio tour. As you drive, GPS-triggered audio plays through your vehicle's stereo, sharing fascinating tales of history, culture, and natural wonders. The tour features special guest narrators who breathe life into historical figures, immersing you in the peninsula's rich past. With an intuitive live GPS map that requires no data, you have unlimited freedom to pause and explore as you wish.

St. John’s Small Group Tour with Iceberg Quest Boat Cruise

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This tour combines the best of land and sea, starting with a visit to Cape Spear, the most easterly point of North America. Continue with a narrated driving tour of St. John's and a stop at Signal Hill National Historic Site to explore the famous Cabot Tower. Finally, you'll board Newfoundland's award-winning boat tour, Iceberg Quest, to experience these same landmarks from the sea and see whales and 12,000-year-old icebergs.

Key St. John's, Newfoundland Port Information

Top Attractions & Excursions

A visit to St. John's isn't complete without ascending Signal Hill National Historic Site. From here, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city, the harbour, and the Atlantic Ocean, and learn about its military and communications history. It's a short taxi ride from the pier.

For a truly unique experience, take an excursion to Cape Spear Lighthouse, the most easterly point in North America. Watch the waves crash against the dramatic cliffs and explore the historic lighthouse. Another fascinating stop is the Johnson GEO CENTRE, a geological museum built into the rock of Signal Hill, telling the story of planet Earth.

Simply strolling through the downtown area is an attraction in itself. Don't miss the chance to wander up the steep streets to photograph the iconic, brightly painted "Jellybean Row" houses, a signature feature of the city's landscape.

Last updated on February 20, 2026

Nearby Cities & Attractions

Just a 10-minute drive from the port is the incredibly picturesque fishing village of Quidi Vidi. This charming outport, nestled in a sheltered cove, features quaint fishing stages, a popular local brewery, and stunning coastal scenery. It's a perfect short excursion for a taste of traditional Newfoundland life.

For wildlife enthusiasts, a whale and puffin watching tour from nearby towns like Bay Bulls (about a 30-40 minute drive) is a must-do. The Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is home to the largest Atlantic Puffin colony in North America, and whales are frequently sighted during the summer months.

Last updated on February 20, 2026

Port Location

The cruise ship piers in St. John's are ideally located directly in the downtown core, at the western end of the harbour. Passengers disembark just a few steps from Water Street, the oldest street in North America. This prime location means that the city's main shopping areas, restaurants, and many historic sites are within easy walking distance.

No shuttles are necessary to explore the immediate downtown area. Ships dock directly at the pier, so tendering is not required. While the port facility itself is simple, all the amenities of the city are immediately accessible upon disembarking.

Last updated on February 20, 2026

Local Currency

The official currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). While some tourist-oriented shops may accept US Dollars, it is not common practice, and the exchange rate will not be favorable. It is highly recommended to use local currency for all transactions.

ATMs are widely available throughout the downtown area, just a short walk from the cruise pier. Credit cards, particularly Visa and MasterCard, are accepted in almost all shops, restaurants, and attractions. It's best to inform your bank of your travel plans before your trip.

Last updated on February 20, 2026

Safety Considerations

St. John's is known for being a very friendly and safe city for tourists. The downtown area and popular attractions are safe to explore independently on foot. As in any city, it's wise to practice standard safety precautions, such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping your valuables secure.

There are no specific areas that tourists need to avoid. The friendly locals are often happy to provide directions or assistance. Whether you choose a guided tour for convenience or explore on your own, you can feel comfortable and secure during your visit.

Last updated on February 20, 2026

Weather & Climate

The weather in St. John's during the cruise season (late spring to early fall) is famously unpredictable. Be prepared for a mix of sun, wind, fog, and rain, sometimes all in one day. Summer temperatures are mild, with average daytime highs ranging from 16°C to 20°C (60°F to 68°F).

Packing in layers is essential. A waterproof and windproof jacket is highly recommended, regardless of the forecast. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for navigating the city's hilly streets. The city is one of the foggiest places in the world, which can add to its unique maritime atmosphere.

Last updated on February 20, 2026

Getting Around

The downtown area of St. John's is compact and best explored on foot, as the cruise pier is located right in the city center. For attractions located further afield, such as Signal Hill or Cape Spear, taxis are readily available at the pier.

Ride-sharing services like Uber are also available. For a structured tour, a Hop-On Hop-Off bus service often operates when cruise ships are in port, providing a convenient way to see the main sights. The city's public bus system, Metrobus, is an option, but it may not be the most efficient for visitors on a tight schedule.

Last updated on February 20, 2026

Shopping

The best shopping is found along Water Street and Duckworth Street, just a short walk from the cruise terminal. These streets are lined with a variety of independent shops, boutiques, and galleries where you can find unique Newfoundland souvenirs and local crafts.

Look for beautiful knitwear like socks, hats, and mittens, as well as jewelry made from labradorite, a local semi-precious stone. Local art galleries feature paintings inspired by the rugged landscape. For a taste of the province, pick up a bottle of Newfoundland Screech Rum or some local berry jams and syrups. Prices are typically fixed.

Last updated on February 20, 2026

Visiting St. John's, Newfoundland Cruise Deals

15 Night Norfolk to London cruise
May 15, 2027
15 Night Transatlantic Cruise
CruiseScore™ (4.22/5)
Carnival Sunshine
S M L XL
Norfolk Sydney, Nova Scotia St. John's, Newfoundland Glasgow Belfast Cork London
$898
$60 per day
Inside
LOWEST PRICE EVER
13 Night Reykjavik to New York cruise
September 6, 2026
Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady
S M L XL
Reykjavik Isafjordur Qaqortoq Nuuk St. John's, Newfoundland Halifax New York
$1,807
$139 per day
Inside
PRICE RISING
9 Night Bayonne to Bayonne cruise
October 1, 2026
Royal Caribbean Independence of the Seas
S M L XL
Bayonne Boston Portland, Maine Halifax St. John's, Newfoundland Saint John Bayonne
$1,413
$157 per day
Inside
LOWEST PRICE EVER
18 Night Miami to Tilbury cruise
June 10, 2027
Azamara Quest
S M L XL
Miami New York Newport Boston Halifax St. John's, Newfoundland Cork Plymouth Paris Tilbury
$3,749
$208 per day
Inside
28 Night Amsterdam to Boston cruise
August 7, 2027
Holland America Zuiderdam
S M L XL
Amsterdam Aarhus Berlin Ronne Copenhagen Amsterdam Lerwick Seydisfjordur Husavik Isafjordur Grundarfjordur Reykjavik Nanortalik Qaqortoq St. Anthony St. John's, Newfoundland Halifax Portland, Maine Boston
$5,879
$210 per day
Outside

Upcoming Cruises to St. John's, Newfoundland Cruise Deals

LOWEST PRICE EVER
13 Night Reykjavik to New York cruise
September 6, 2026
Virgin Voyages Valiant Lady
S M L XL
Reykjavik Isafjordur Qaqortoq Nuuk St. John's, Newfoundland Halifax New York
$1,807
$139 per day
Inside
14 Night Reykjavik to Boston cruise
August 22, 2026
Celebrity Silhouette
S M L XL
Reykjavik Isafjordur Akureyri Qaqortoq St. John's, Newfoundland Halifax Sydney, Nova Scotia Boston
$3,290
$235 per day
Inside
LOWEST PRICE EVER
14 Night Reykjavik to Montreal cruise
September 11, 2026
Azamara Journey
S M L XL
Reykjavik Reykjavik Qaqortoq Nanortalik St. John's, Newfoundland St. Pierre And Miquelon Charlottetown Quebec City Montreal
$3,569
$255 per day
Inside
12 Night Montreal to Montreal cruise
September 25, 2026
Seabourn Ovation
S M L XL
Montreal Havre-Saint-Pierre L'Anse Aux Meadows St. John's, Newfoundland St. Pierre And Miquelon Cap-aux-Meules Saguenay Quebec City Montreal
$10,098
$842 per day
Balcony
14 Night Lisbon to New York cruise
August 23, 2026
Regent Seven Seas Seven Seas Splendor
S M L XL
Lisbon Lisbon Ponta Delgada St. John's, Newfoundland St. Pierre And Miquelon Sydney, Nova Scotia Halifax Boston Newport New York
$33,499
$2,393 per day
Inside

Ships in Port Schedule

Map of St. John's, Newfoundland port area
St. John's, Newfoundland port location

No ships scheduled in port today.

Monthly Pricing - Cruises visiting St. John's, Newfoundland

Overall St. John's, Newfoundland is somewhat expensive as a port of call. Look at the graph below for the average cost per day by month. Prices are roughly the same throughout the year.

Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
$621
May
$211
Jun
$379
Jul
$410
Aug
$352
Sep
$639
Oct
$140
Nov
Dec

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