Bay Bulls: Whale & Bird Boat Tour with Local Experts

Summary

Seabird colonies whales and wild Atlantic air in Bay Bulls

You’ll ride out from Bay Bulls into crisp Atlantic air, watching seabirds swirl overhead while local guides share stories only they know. Spot puffins close up, maybe catch a whale surfacing nearby, and feel that hush when everyone stops to look. Includes lifejackets for comfort—bring your warmest layers for this wild stretch of coast.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the cold to sneak through my gloves that fast, but there it was — sharp and salty, right as we pulled away from Bay Bulls harbor. Our guide, Mike (who’s apparently been doing this since before I was born), grinned when he saw me shiver and handed over an extra coat. “You’ll want this,” he said, and he wasn’t wrong. The boat’s engine hummed underfoot, and already you could smell the seaweed tang mixing with diesel — weirdly comforting.

We drifted out toward the islands where the seabirds nest. There were thousands — no, millions? — of birds swirling around like confetti in a storm. Mike pointed out puffins bobbing alongside us (their beaks really are that bright) and then started rattling off names: razorbills, kittiwakes, Leach’s Storm-Petrels. I tried to spot each one but honestly just got caught up watching them dive and argue over rocks. Someone asked how many birds actually live here in summer, and Mike just laughed: “Four million or so — give or take a few feathers.”

Then someone yelled “whale!” and everyone rushed to one side (probably not what you’re supposed to do on boats). We saw the dark back arching out of the water — quick flash of spray — then gone again. The whole group went quiet for a second; I swear even the birds paused. I still think about that silence, how it felt bigger than just spotting something rare.

By the time we turned back toward shore, my cheeks were numb but I was grinning anyway. My phone is full of blurry photos now (birds don’t pose), but what sticks is hearing Mike talk about growing up here, how his dad used to fish these waters before there were tours at all. Not sure why that hit me so much — maybe it’s something about being shown a place by someone who loves it enough to stay put.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whale and bird boat tour

• Board boat in Bay Bulls
• Enjoy 2-hour guided tour
• Observe seabirds on four islands
• Spot various bird species
• View coastline and marine life
• Return to Bay Bulls

Top questions

How long is the whale & bird boat tour in Bay Bulls?

The guided boat tour lasts approximately 2 hours.

Is the Bay Bulls boat tour suitable for children or infants?

Yes, infants can sit on an adult’s lap or ride in a pram or stroller.

Are lifejackets provided on the Bay Bulls whale & bird tour?

Yes, lifejackets are included for all guests during the tour.

Is the boat wheelchair accessible?

Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible for guests with mobility needs.

What kind of birds can I see on this Bay Bulls boat tour?

You may see puffins, razorbill auk, murre species, kittiwakes, gulls, storm-petrels and more.

Should I bring warm clothing for this tour?

Yes, guests are recommended to bring warm clothing; coats are also available for purchase onboard if needed.

Are service animals allowed on the boat?

Yes, service animals are allowed during the tour.

What’s included

Your two-hour trip includes lifejackets for everyone’s safety—plus friendly local guides who know these waters inside out. You’ll need your own warm layers (or pick up a coat at their shop if you forget), but everything else—from spotting seabirds to sharing stories—is taken care of once you step aboard in Bay Bulls.