Cruises from Saint John

St. John’s is located on the eastern tip of Newfoundland. It is Canada’s oldest city and radiates with rich traditions. The city, which has roots going back 500 years, features an eclectic mix of architecture, with glass office blocks, brick-lined buildings, fashionable shops, effervescent cafes and Atlantic cruise ships lined up on its coast. Initially, it was a natural fortress, but a man-made one was eventually built around its harbour to serve the navy and the fishing industry. Now, it has been transformed into a thriving port city that attracts numerous tourists.

The city’s airport, St. John`s International Airport, is about 6km from the city centre and there are regular flights serving Calgary, Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, and London, England. Taxis are available on the streets and buses also operate throughout the city.

European explorers discovered St. John’s in 1497 and by the 17th century the city was well established and was considered to be one of the most important in the New World. Most tourists will recognise St. John’s by its brilliant coastline, which is dotted with cruise ships, small tour boats, fishing boats, long-liners and loaded supply ships. It experiences one of the windiest and snowiest climates in all of Canada.

A few of the attractions that you shouldn’t fail to visit are Signal Hill, which towers over the harbour; North America’s oldest lighthouse, Cabot Tower, which offers a panoramic view of the city’s coastline; the trails and charming monuments at the Bowring Park; the Railway Coastal Museum, which displays a century old collection of rail and coastal history and Government House which is a grand piece of architecture that houses the British Royal family when they visit the city. Spending time at Kenmount Road’s Avalon Mall, the largest shopping centre in Newfoundland or the Village Shopping Centre in the West End are among the primary activities of many tourists.

The two arterial roads of St. John’s are Water Street and Duckworth Street, both of them a few centuries old. Also named the Lower Path, Water Street is North America’s oldest street and even after a few centuries, it remains the commercial hub of the city. Another notable site is the Battery, which is a nearby village that offers views of small houses strewn over hanging cliffs. A walk along the Grand Concourse, which is an extensive trail winding through the city or a visit to the calm Quidi Vidi Lake are also to be recommended. More adventurous travellers should try hiking up Rennie`s River. The Our Dogs statue at Harbourside Park and the Making Fish sculpture at the Convention Centre are two landmarks that should also not be missed.

Among the other attractions that you should try to visit are the Thomas Anglican Church, the Roman Catholic Basilica, St. Andrews Presbyterian, the Eastern Edge Art Gallery, The Fluvarium, the Newfoundland Science Centre and the Newman Wine Vaults, which contains historic vaults dating back to the 18th century. A ferry will take you across to the nearby islands, such as the scenic Bell Island or the fishing village of Petty Harbour. The Bay Bulls is another popular tourist spot, where you can find boat tour companies that offer whale and iceberg watching.

St. John`s is also a gateway for bird watching and seaside picnics. While you are in the city, be sure to make some time to sit by the beach and watch the icebergs drift by the craggy coastline, a quite idyllic experience.