O’Brien’s Boat Tours, Award Winning Whale and Bird Tours in St. John’s

By: Author Raymond Cua

Posted on Last updated: September 24, 2019

When we visited St. John’s, Newfoundland, we knew it was known for puffins and whales so we were excited to do the O’Brien’s Boat Tours .

This award-winning whale and bird tours is one of the best things to do in St. John’s , giving a fun-filled day of going around different islands for bird watching and in the hopes of spotting some whales.

It was very foggy that morning when we did O’Brien’s Boat Tours, and it didn’t become sunny until 30-40 minutes before the tour ended.

It was a shame since it was harder to take photos and animals would be less likely to be visible in the fog. We didn’t see any whales on our tour, but that’s nature’s luck of the draw.

Also Read: Big Animal Encounters by Pacific Pro Drive and Marine Adventures

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Travelling Foodie Tip: May is very early in the season for Whales and based on O’Brien’s 32 years experience the best time for whale watching is during the month of July.

The good thing with O’Brien’s Boat Tours is you may reschedule the tour in case you find the weather for your scheduled tour is not good.

Foggy day at O'Brien's Boat Tours in St. John's, Newfoundland

The crew in our Whale and Bird Tour was all so friendly.

Justin, the tour guide, is very knowledgeable about the area and the various animals. He can pinpoint what bird is flying and how to differentiate between murres, puffins and other birds in the area based on color, flight and beaks even from afar!

So many puffins during the O'Brien's Boat Tour in St. John's, Newfoundland and Labrador

Justin also has a great voice. He sang two Newfoundland songs that are related to the tour! So fun!

You can take photos with the captain. And he was friendly to actually come out and tell us to take a captain’s seat photo and explained some of the controls in the boat.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Journey Traveler Raymond Cua (@journeytraveler)

O’Brien’s Whale and Bird Watching Tours took us to Gull Island and Green Island. Based on the photos I took, the puffins were more prominent in the Gull Island and murres dominated the Green Island.

I can’t believe how many birds there were on one island. It’s probably the most concentrated groups of birds I’ve seen ever.

One thing to note is that you won’t be able to get a photo up-close unless you have a zoom lens. I was hoping we’d be going down the island to see the Puffins up-close.

There is a lot of beautiful nature to be seen in O’Brien’s Boat Tours as you cruise around Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. Be sure your camera is fully charged!

O’Brien’s Boat Tours is definitely one of the best things to do in St. John’s especially for nature lovers! And I hope this article helps you decide what attractions you want to do in St. John’s.

O’Brien’s Boat Tour s Website / Address: 22 Lower Rd, Bay Bulls, NL A0A 1C0

Disclaimer: Although this was a sponsored tour with O’Brien’s, the opinions expressed here represent my own and not those of the company’s.

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Updated: September 24, 2019 by Raymond Cua

Visit Newfoundland and Labrador

O’Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours

2 hours guided whale and bird boat tour in bay bulls, from ca$79.00.

Discover the Wonders of the Ocean and Sky when you Embark on an Unforgettable Adventure with O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours - Your Gateway to Spectacular Wildlife Encounters!

Exploring The Best Beauty Of The Irish Loop In Newfoundland

Embark on an Adventure with O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours

Feel the thrill as you glide through the pristine waters, surrounded by majestic whales gracefully breaching the surface, their songs echoing in the air. Get up close and personal with these gentle giants as experienced guides share fascinating insights into their behaviour and habitat.

Exploring The Best Beauty Of The Irish Loop In Newfoundland

Enjoy these amazing benefits

Conservation education.

O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours provide an opportunity for visitors to learn about whales and their ecosystems, raising awareness about the importance of conservation.

Breathtaking Scenery

While whale watching with O'Brien's, visitors are treated to breathtaking views of the coastal landscapes and pristine waters that are home to these majestic creatures.

Visitors actively support sustainable and responsible tourism practices by choosing O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours.

Bird Watching Opportunities

O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours not only focus on whales but also provide excellent bird watching experiences. Many coastal areas frequented by whales are also home to a diverse array of bird species.

Incredible Wildlife Encounters

O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours offer unforgettable opportunities to witness the inspiring sight of whales in their natural habitats. Whether it's spotting humpback whales breaching, observing graceful orcas swimming alongside the boat, or encountering playful dolphins, these encounters create lifelong memories and deepen the connection between humans and marine wildlife.

Uniting People with Nature

Whale watching tours with O'Brien's create a powerful connection between people and the natural world. Being in close proximity to these gentle giants and witnessing their grandeur can be a transformative experience. It fosters a sense of wonder, respect, and responsibility towards the environment, inspiring visitors to become advocates for marine conservation in their own communities.

OBriens Whale and Bird Tours

O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours

From ca$79.00 for full 2 hour tour.

Dive into unforgettable moments where whales breach, and birds soar, creating memories that will forever soar in your heart. Join us and discover the extraordinary beauty that awaits in the embrace of the ocean and sky.

Let the magic of nature sweep you away.

Unlock the secrets of the deep blue and take Tour with O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours.

What people say about it

I recently had the most incredible experience with O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours, and I can't stop raving about it! From start to finish, this tour exceeded all my expectations and left me with unforgettable memories.

The moment we boarded the comfortable and spacious vessel, the friendly crew welcomed us with warm smiles and shared their extensive knowledge about the marine wildlife in the area. They were passionate and enthusiastic, which added to the excitement of the tour.

OBriens Whale and Bird Tours

An Unforgettable Adventure with O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours!

Prepare to be amazed! O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours provided me with a wildlife encounter that surpassed all my wildest dreams. This tour deserves all the praise in the world, and I'm thrilled to share my extraordinary experience.

From the moment we set sail, the crew's passion for marine life was contagious. Their expertise and enthusiasm made the trip not only informative but also incredibly engaging. They shared fascinating facts about the whales and birds we encountered, enhancing the entire journey.

OBriens Whale and Bird Tours

A Spectacular Wildlife Encounter with O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours!

O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours Frequently Ask Questions

What is O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours? O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours is a leading tour operator that offers unique and immersive wildlife experiences. They specialize in whale and birdwatching tours, taking visitors to breathtaking locations known for their abundant marine and avian life.

Where are O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours located? O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours operate outside Bay Bulls at 22 Lower Road, Bay Bulls, NL. Bay Bulls' coastal region is renowned for its diverse wildlife populations.

What types of tours does O'Brien offer? O'Brien’s provides a variety of tours tailored to different interests and preferences. They offer whale watching tours and birdwatching excursions.

How can I book a tour with O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours? To book a tour with O'Brien’s, visit their website or contact customer service. Online booking is available, and you can book from our website by choosing the suitable tour that meets your needs, availability, and pricing.

Are O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours suitable for all ages and experience levels? Yes, O'Brien’s welcomes participants of all ages and experience levels. Whether you are a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or a beginner, their experienced guides will ensure an enjoyable and educational experience for everyone.

What wildlife can I expect to see during O'Brien’s tours? During O'Brien’s tours, you can encounter a remarkable range of wildlife. Depending on the location, you may witness breathtaking whale species such as humpback whales, orcas, gray whales, and more. Bird enthusiasts can observe various species like puffins, albatrosses, bald eagles, and pelicans.

Are O'Brien’s tours conducted responsibly and with a focus on conservation? Absolutely. O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours prioritize responsible tourism and conservation efforts. They follow strict guidelines to ensure minimal disturbance to the wildlife and ecosystems they visit. Additionally, their knowledgeable guides educate participants about protecting these fragile environments.

How long do O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours typically last? Tour durations vary depending on the specific tour package you choose. Some tours can be an hour long, while others can extend to 2 to 3 for an in-depth exploration of the wildlife-rich areas.

What should I bring on an O'Brien’s tour? Bring appropriate clothing for the weather conditions, such as layers, rain gear, and comfortable footwear. Additionally, binoculars, cameras, sunscreen, and insect repellent are often helpful. O'Brien’s will provide detailed packing suggestions and guidelines before your tour.

Can I expect to see wildlife on every tour? While O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours strive to maximize wildlife sightings, the presence of animals in their natural habitats can vary. Factors like weather conditions, migration patterns, and the inherent unpredictability of nature influence wildlife encounters. However, their knowledgeable guides will try to ensure a fulfilling experience regardless of the wildlife sightings.

Are O'Brien’s tours suitable for individuals with disabilities? O'Brien aims to accommodate individuals with disabilities to the best of their ability. It is recommended to contact customer service in advance to discuss specific requirements and tour options to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.

What qualifications do O'Brien’s guides possess? O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours employ experienced guides with in-depth knowledge of wildlife, ecosystems, and local habitats. The guides have extensive backgrounds in marine biology, ornithology, or related fields, providing valuable insights and enhancing the educational aspect of the tours.

Are there any age restrictions for children on O'Brien’s tours? While age restrictions may vary depending on the tour, O'Brien’s welcomes children of all ages. However, checking with customer service for age-specific guidelines or recommendations is advisable.

Can I bring my camera equipment to O'Brien’s tours? You are encouraged to bring your camera equipment to capture memorable moments. Whether you are a professional photographer or an amateur enthusiast, O'Brien’s tours provide ample opportunities for breathtaking wildlife photography.

What is the best time of year to book a tour with O'Brien’s? The optimal time for a tour with O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours depends on the destination and the wildlife you wish to encounter. Certain seasons align with key migration patterns or breeding periods, providing enhanced opportunities for wildlife sightings.

What measures are in place for the safety of participants during O'Brien’s tours? O'Brien prioritizes the safety of their participants and strictly adhere to safety protocols. Life jackets and other safety equipment are provided when necessary, and all vessels used for tours undergo regular maintenance and safety inspections.

Can I customize a tour with O'Brien’s to suit my specific interests? O'Brien’s offers customized tour options for those seeking a tailored experience. Whether you want to focus on specific wildlife species, photography, or other interests, they can work with you to create a personalized itinerary.

Are there any discounts or special offers available for O'Brien’s tours? O'Brien’s may offer seasonal discounts or special offers on select tours. It is advisable to check their website or contact customer service for information on any available promotions.

What is the cancellation policy for O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours? Cancellation policies may vary depending on the specific tour package and destination. O'Brien’s provides detailed information about their cancellation and refund policies on their website and during the booking process. It is essential to review these policies before making a reservation.

Can I leave a review or provide feedback about my experience with O'Brien’s? Absolutely! O'Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours greatly value customer feedback. You can leave a review on their website, social media platforms, or through other review websites. Your feedback not only helps them improve their services but also assists future participants in making informed decisions.

More Newfoundland and Labrador Travel Guides

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  • Where Big icebergs off the coast of Newfoundland come from
  • How To Experience 500,000 Colorful Puffins in Newfoundland
  • How To See Both Whales and Puffins in Newfoundland
  • How to Best Enjoy Whale Watching in Newfoundland and Labrador

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    Voted Best Boat Tour by Newfoundlanders! O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours is a family owned and operated business that has been offering Award Winning Boat Tours for over 30 years, in Bay Bulls, Newfoundland and Labrador (just 30 minutes from St. John's). Cruise with us to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, home to the largest Atlantic Puffin ...

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    Voted best boat tour by Newfoundlanders. Our guides have been delivering award-winning boat tours for 40 years. Join us and explore the beauty of Newfoundland's coast. View ½ a million Atlantic puffins, watch majestic whales and sail past 10,000-year-old icebergs! Custom built vessel with heated cabin. Ample rail space offers every guest a bird's eye view. Get up close and personal with ...

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    Experience the beauty and diversity of the Atlantic Ocean with O'Briens Boat Tours. See puffins, whales, icebergs and more on a two-hour cruise from Bay Bulls, with shuttle service available from St. John's.

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    O'Brien's Boat Tours is definitely one of the best things to do in St. John's especially for nature lovers! And I hope this article helps you decide what attractions you want to do in St. John's. O'Brien's Boat Tour s. Website / Address: 22 Lower Rd, Bay Bulls, NL A0A 1C0.

  16. O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours

    O'Brien's Whale and Bird Tours is a family owned and operated business that has been offering Award Winning Boat Tours for over 30 years, in Bay Bulls, Newfoundland and Labrador (just 30 minutes from St. John's). Cruise with us to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, home to the largest Atlantic Puffin colony in North America (1/2 a million) and ...

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    You will have a more intimate experience of the ocean while getting a whale's eye view of our ruggedly beautiful coastline. Enjoy the fresh ocean air as you sail alongside breathtaking sea stacks, caves, and cascading waterfalls. When conditions permit, explore the unique natural phenomenon known locally as the Spout, a natural wave-powered ...

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    Turn left at Lower Road to O'Brien's Boat Tours; From Trans Canada Highway (Travelling East) Take the Witless Bay Line exit 37 (Route 13) and proceed to the intersection of Witless Bay Line and Route 10. Turn left on Route 10- Go 1 km and turn right on Southside Road - travel 1km;

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