St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada

Explore St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada

Welcome to St. John's, the vibrant capital city of Newfoundland and Labrador, where stunning coastal views, rich history, and lively culture all come together. As the oldest city in North America, St. John's boasts a unique charm and warm hospitality that make it a fantastic cruise destination. With its spectacular mountains, historical landmarks, and colourful row houses dotting the waterfront, you'll find plenty to explore. Fun fact: St. John's is home to Signal Hill, where Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal in 1901!

Activities and Attractions in St. John's

There’s a lot to immerse yourself in when your cruise ship docks in St. John's. Here are some not-to-miss activities and sights:

• Walk to Signal Hill: This iconic historical site offers breathtaking views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. While there, you can explore the Cabot Tower and learn about its historical significance.
• Visit Cape Spear: The easternmost point in North America, Cape Spear features a historic lighthouse and stunning coastal scenery. It's an excellent spot for trails and taking photos of the breathtaking views.
• Tour The Rooms: Experience Newfoundland’s culture and history at The Rooms, a museum and cultural centre showcasing local art, artifacts, and exhibits. It's a fantastic introduction to the region's heritage.
• Stroll Along George Street: Known for its vibrant nightlife, George Street is packed with pubs and restaurants. It's a great spot to enjoy a meal and live music in the evening or to mingle with friendly locals.
• Explore Quidi Vidi Village: This charming fishing village is a picturesque area to explore. Don't miss visiting the Quidi Vidi Brewery for a taste of locally crafted beers or stroll along the waterfront with colorful boats.

Nearby Harbours to Enhance Your Cruise Itinerary

While cruising to St. John's, you may also visit these wonderful ports:

• Halifax, Canada: A bustling port city known for its maritime history. Explore the historic waterfront, visit the Canadian Museum of Immigration at Pier 21, or take a walk through the Halifax Citadel for stunning views.
• Reykjavik, Iceland: The capital city of Iceland is famous for its dramatic landscapes and rich Norse heritage. Explore the colourful streets, visit historical sites such as Hallgrímskirkja, and enjoy geothermal hot springs.
• Boston, Massachusetts, USA: A historical city rich in culture and history. Visit the Freedom Trail, see the iconic Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum, or explore the beautiful Boston Common.
• Isafjord, Iceland: A lovely town surrounded by spectacular fjords. Visit the local museums dedicated to the region's history or embark on outdoor adventures like hiking, kayaking, or bird watching.
• Sydney, Canada: Located in Nova Scotia, this town offers visitors a rich maritime history. Enjoy beautiful waterfront views, explore local parks, and visit the Cape Breton Centre for the Arts.

Regions Commonly Visited on Cruises to St. John's

Your cruise might take you through these stunning regions:

• Arctic Ocean: Known for its pristine beauty and arctic wildlife, the Arctic Ocean offers unique opportunities for adventure seekers and nature lovers, showcasing breathtaking glacial landscapes.
• British Isles: Encompassing a mix of landscapes, history, and culture, the British Isles feature attractions ranging from historic castles in Scotland to the quaint villages of Ireland.
• Mediterranean Sea: Renowned for its idyllic coastlines, rich history, and delicious cuisine, the Mediterranean is perfect for those wishing to explore the beauty of Italy, Greece, and Spain.
• Caribbean: This region is famous for its turquoise waters and white sandy beaches, offering a perfect relaxation destination with vibrant cultures and adventurous water sports.
• South America: A continent rich in diversity, South America offers breathtaking natural wonders like the Amazon rainforest and unique cultural experiences throughout its numerous countries.

Major Cruise Lines Visiting St. John's

• Holland America Line: With a fleet size of 12, Holland America features 2 ships (Volendam and Zuiderdam) that visit St. John's. Known for immersive experiences and exceptional service, these cruises often depart from Boston or Montreal.
• Princess Cruises: With a fleet size of 17, Princess offers 2 ships (Majestic Princess and Island Princess) that stop in St. John's. Celebrated for their onboard entertainment and culinary experiences, they typically depart from New York, United States or Southampton.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: With a fleet size of 20, Norwegian operates 3 ships (Norwegian Star and Norwegian Sky) that visit St. John's. Known for their flexible dining options and lively atmosphere, they often depart from Reykjavik or Southampton.
• Celebrity Cruises: With a fleet size of 16, Celebrity features 1 ship (Celebrity Silhouette) that includes St. John's in its itineraries. Known for luxurious experiences and impeccable service, these cruises typically depart from Cape Liberty (Bayonne), New Jersey or Reykjavik.
• P&O Cruises: With a fleet size of 7, P&O operates 2 ships (Arcadia and Aurora) that visit St. John's. They are celebrated for their British heritage and enriching itineraries, typically departing from Southampton.

Visiting St. John's Throughout the Year

• Winter (December, January, February): Average temperatures range from -5°C to 5°C. Winter brings a serene charm to the city’s landscape, with opportunities for indoor exploration, winter festivities, and warm local cuisine.
• Spring (March, April, May): Expect temperatures between 0°C and 10°C. Spring is a lovely time to visit as flowers begin to bloom, and visitors can enjoy more outdoor activities and local events.
• Summer (June, July, August): Average temperatures can peak around 15°C to 25°C. Summer is the best time for cruising; visitors can enjoy hiking, whale watching, and numerous local festivals, with long daylight hours to explore.
• Autumn (September, October, November): Temperatures typically hover around 0°C to 10°C. Autumn provides vibrant foliage, making it an ideal time for hiking and enjoying the scenic beauty of the area.

Frequently Asked Questions about St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada

What is the typical cost of a cruise?

The typical cost of a cruise to St. John's generally starts around $1,800 for a one-week itinerary and can go up to $3,500 for two weeks. Luxury cruises may begin around $4,000 for one week and exceed $8,500 for two weeks.

What should I expect for the costs of food and beverages?

Onboard dining typically ranges from $20 to $60 for specialty dining options, while drinks usually cost between $8 and $15 for cocktails or soft drinks.

What are some of the dining and shopping possibilities?

St. John's features a variety of local restaurants serving fresh seafood and traditional Newfoundland dishes. Visitors can also explore local markets and shops for souvenirs, crafts, and specialty foods.

What are transportation options?

The city of St. John's is quite walkable, allowing cruisers to explore nearby attractions easily. Taxis and public buses are also available for getting around and reaching more distant attractions.

What should I know about the local currency and making payments?

The local currency is the Canadian Dollar (CAD). Credit cards are widely accepted, but carrying cash may be useful for local markets or smaller establishments.

What are safety and health tips to be aware of?

St. John's is typically safe for tourists, with a low crime rate. As in any place, taking common safety precautions such as securing your belongings and staying aware of your surroundings is advisable.

What are some helpful language or cultural tips?

English is the primary language spoken in St. John's. Meeting locals and engaging in simple conversations can be a delightful way to enhance your experience!

This guide provides everything you need to plan your cruise to St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada. Book your next cruise with CruiseAway today and immerse yourself in the enchanting beauty, history, and culture of St. John's!