Best Bay Bulls Boat Tours for Whale Watching & Puffins in 2025
Planning a whale watching or puffin tour near St. John’s, Newfoundland? Bay Bulls, just north of the Witless Bay Marine Ecological Reserve, is a top launch point for unforgettable ocean adventures. Its deep harbor, hosting larger boats, is perfect for groups, accessibility needs, or a big-vessel vibe. Here’s your guide to the best Bay Bulls boat tours—plus a cozy stay at Whale House Guest House to cap off your trip!
Why Choose Bay Bulls for Boat Tours?
Bay Bulls, 30 minutes south of St. John’s, boasts a bustling port that accommodates larger tour boats—ideal if you’re with a crew or need wheelchair access. While its industrial wharf isn’t as quaint as Witless Bay or Mobile Bay, the trade-off is worth it: bigger vessels mean stability and comfort. Most tours still hit the Ecological Reserve’s highlights, like Great Island and humpback whale hotspots near Mobile Bay, in good weather.
1. Gatherall’s Puffin and Whale Watch
With over 30 years in the game, Gatherall’s runs top-tier boat tours from their private wharf in Bay Bulls. Their large vessels offer puffin and whale watching with a smooth ride, while smaller craft options cater to intimate excursions. Expect expert guides who know every nook of the Witless Bay Reserve.
2. O’Brien’s Boat Tours
A Bay Bulls staple, O’Brien’s operates from the public marina with a massive double-deck boat. Their daily summer tours—puffin and whale watching plus the Kingfisher Coastal Adventure—deliver stunning views and seasoned insights. It’s a go-to for big groups or a lively outing.
3. Great Island Boat Tours
For a unique twist, Great Island Boat Tours departs from Bauline, close to St. Michaels and Burnt Cove, focusing on the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve’s namesake—Great Island. Their tours spotlight puffin colonies and whale sightings, blending education with adventure. Smaller boats mean a closer, personal experience—ideal for nature lovers.
Smaller Operators in the Witless Bay Eco-Reserve
Check out the whale watching FAQ for useful information on Newfoundfland whale watching. If you're looking for a more intimate whale-watching experience and are fine with a smaller vessel, consider small group operators like Molly Bawn Boat Tours just down the lane from Whale House. With so many different whale watching tours available close to Whale House Guest House, it's easy to choose the perfect excursion for you and your group.