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Sail into the heart of Newfoundland on a small-ship journey that circles one of North America’s most captivating island. This is a rare opportunity to experience the wild edges, remote communities and rich cultural tapestry of Canada’s easternmost province. From the historic streets of St. John’s to the French island of Saint-Pierre, the Norse ruins of L’Anse aux Meadows to the Indigenous community of Miawpukek, this voyage connects past and present through place and people. Along the way, you’ll explore hidden harbours, rugged coastlines, and UNESCO World Heritage Sites, with expert guides and flexible daily landings by Zodiac. Whether it’s hiking Gros Morne’s exposed mantle, dancing at a Francois kitchen party, or photographing windswept cliffs and seabirds, every day offers a new perspective on Newfoundland’s untamed beauty.
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Day 1
Embark in St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador, Canada
Our journey begins in St. John’s, Canada’s oldest city and a place shaped by the sea. As we sail out through the world-famous Narrows, Signal Hill towers above and the colourful houses of The Battery come into view. Be on deck for the best chance to spot seabirds or even a whale making an early appearance.
Meals: D
Day 2
Saint-Pierre, France
Just a short sail from Newfoundland lies Saint-Pierre, a little piece of France on North American Shores. Wander its narrow lanes, savour fresh croissants in a local café, and browse the boutiques and boulangeries that give this island its unique European charm. This is France, island-style.
Meals: B,L,D
Day 3
Miawpukek (Conne River)
Today we’re welcomed into the community of Miawpukek, home to the Mi’kmaw people. You’ll be invited to connect with their stories, explore the community, and discover how deep-rooted traditions are celebrated and carried forward. This is more than a visit, it’s a meaningful cultural exchange.
Day 4
Francois
Tucked deep within the cliffs of Newfoundland’s southern coast, Francois is a true outport – roadless, rugged, and rich in character. Colourful homes cling to the shoreline, and life here moves to the rhythm of the sea. Wander boardwalk paths, hike to panoramic lookouts and waterfalls, or simply take in the village’s quiet resilience. This is a place where neighbours still wave, stories are currency, and music echoes across the water. As evening sets in, join the locals for a spirited kitchen party, complete with home baking, fiddle tunes, and the kind of hospitality you’ll be talking about long after you’ve sailed on.
Day 5
Southern Coast Exploration
This coast is carved with hidden coves, dramatic rock faces and quiet beaches. Our itinerary is flexible today, we’ll follow the weather, wildlife and your sense of adventure to explore wherever the day takes us, whether on foot or by Zodiac.
Day 6-7
Gros Morne National Park and Woody Point
Explore one of Canada’s most remarkable landscapes, the Tablelands of Gros Morne. This rare geological site offers guided walks and hikes across exposed mantle rock. In nearby Woody Point, enjoy a relaxed afternoon of local art, stories and sea views.
Day 8
Red Bay
Step into the past at the Red Bay Basque Whaling Station, a UNESCO-listed site revealing North America’s earliest export industry. Visit the interpretation centre and Saddle Island to learn about the Basque whalers and the shipwrecks that lie beneath the harbour.
Day 9
L’Anse aux Meadows
Today we explore L’Anse aux Meadows, the only authenticated Norse settlement in North America and a UNESCO World Heritage Site of global significance. Wander through the reconstructed Viking habitation site and learn how this extraordinary discovery was made in 1960, guided by a close reading of the Norse sagas. The archaeological remains date back to around 1000 CE, offering a rare window into early transatlantic exploration. Visit the outstanding interpretation centre, where exhibits bring Viking history to life, and meet costumed interpreters in the recreated sod buildings, giving a sense of what daily life may have looked like here over a thousand years ago. A visit to L’Anse aux Meadows is a highlight for anyone interested in exploration history, archaeology, and the deep cultural layers of Newfoundland and Labrador.
Day 10-11
Northeast Newfoundland
Today we make landfall along Newfoundland’s northeast coast, a region known for its string of picturesque villages nestled against rugged, rocky shores. We’ll anchor in one of these character-rich communities, where a warm Newfoundland welcome awaits. Expect friendly locals, maritime traditions, and colourful heritage buildings that reflect the island’s enduring spirit. For photographers, this is a chance to capture the charm of classic wooden architecture, winding shoreline paths, and weather-worn boats moored in sheltered coves, scenes that speak to a slower, sea-bound way of life. This visit offers a quiet but meaningful insight into the culture and hospitality that define Newfoundland’s coastal communities.
Day 12
Disembark in St. John’s, NL, Canada
We sail back into St. John’s with a heart full of stories and a camera full of memories. After disembarking, say your farewells in this lively cultural hub, where history, music, and maritime spirit continue to shape daily life.
Meals: B
What's included
What's not included
Although there is no commitment to extended walking on this journey, we nonetheless want to keep the ‘accent on the active’. We therefore advise that any physical training you complete before undertaking the trip will be to good effect.
Imagine waking up to breathtaking sea views through your cabin windows, each one whispering promises of adventure. Built in Denmark in 1992 for Greenland’s icy waters, this compact ship sails with a lighter carbon footprint than most expedition vessels. Its crown jewel? A glass-enclosed lounge with sweeping 200-degree views—a cozy perch for whale watching and seabird spotting. Prefer the great outdoors? The open decks are a dream come true for photographers and scenery enthusiasts. On the Ocean Nova, every moment connects you to nature, each other, and the thrill of discovery.
Category 6 - Single Cabin
Single - Upper Deck with Window, One lower berth bed, Bathroom with a shower Hair dryer, bathrobe, towels, body wash, and hair care products, Desk with a chair, Heater under desk, Air ventilation, Electrical outlets: 220V/50Hz (European), Cupboard, Wardrobe
Approximately 86–114 square feet.
Category 5 - Superior Twin
Superior Twin - Upper Deck with Window, two lower berth beds, Bathroom with a shower Hair dryer, bathrobe, towels, body wash, and hair care products, Desk with a chair, Heater under desk, Air ventilation, Electrical outlets: 220V/50Hz (European), Cupboard, Two Wardrobes
Approximately 145–156 square feet.
Category 4 - Bridge Deck Twin
Bridge Deck with Window, two lower berth beds, Bathroom with a shower Hair dryer, bathrobe, towels, body wash, and hair care products, Desk with a chair, Heater under desk, Air ventilation, Electrical outlets: 220V/50Hz (European), Cupboard, Wardrobe
Approximately 104–112 square feet.
Category 3 - Upper Deck Twin/Double
Upper Deck with Window, two lower berth beds or a matrimonial bed, Bathroom with a shower Hair dryer, bathrobe, towels, body wash, and hair care products, Desk with a chair, Heater under desk, Air ventilation, Electrical outlets: 220V/50Hz (European), Cupboard, Wardrobe
Approximately 106–140 square feet.
Category 2 - Bunk Bed Twin
Bunk Bed Twin with Window, one upper & one lower bunk beds , Bathroom with a shower Hair dryer, bathrobe, towels, body wash, and hair care products, Desk with a chair, Heater under desk, Air ventilation, Electrical outlets: 220V/50Hz (European), Cupboard, Wardrobe
Approximately 86–122 square feet.
Category 1 - Triple Cabin
Triple Cabin with Window, one upper & two lower bunk beds , Bathroom with a shower Hair dryer, bathrobe, towels, body wash, and hair care products, Desk with a chair, Heater under desk, Air ventilation, Electrical outlets: 220V/50Hz (European), Cupboard, Two Wardrobes
Approximately 159 square feet.
Per Person, Twin Share
Rating: ☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆☆
Explore places the big ships can’t with the widest selection of genuine small-ship, activity-first cruising. On Water Expeditions offers exceptional value, quality services, no hidden costs, and plenty of inclusions.
Don't watch the action sail past your window, dive into it! Designed for active travellers, these itineraries give you more time to adventure off the boat.
Activity is built into every journey. From paddling to hiking, enjoy a basecamp-style experience that injects fun, meaningful connections and thrilling adventure into it.
Each voyage is thoughtfully selected for low-impact exploration, supporting genuine conservation and sustainability while respecting local communities and environments.
13 Days
12 Days
15 Days