Trinity & Whale Watching: A Perfect Newfoundland Double Feature
- Kim Martinez
- Jul 26
- 3 min read
Updated: Jul 27
After several whale watching experiences that left us wanting more, we decided to try something different – a smaller, faster zodiac boat that could get us closer to the action. Our choice? Sea of Whales Adventures in Trinity, and what a fantastic decision it turned out to be!
Sea of Whales Adventures: The Perfect Choice
The Details:
Location: Trinity, NL
Tours: 4 daily options
Morning tours: 3 hours, $120 CAD
Afternoon tours: 2 hours, $100 CAD
Capacity: 12 passengers maximum
Owners: Kris & Shawna (husband and wife team)
This family-run operation immediately impressed us. After reading about Kris and Shawna's expertise online, we knew we'd be in capable hands with people who genuinely love what they do.
Bonus points: Shawna designs some incredible whale-themed t-shirts that we couldn't resist!
Boat Tour
We'd hoped to snag one of the three-hour adventures, but those 12 spots fill up quickly and I was a bit slow on the booking. No worries though – we grabbed the next available tour and used the extra time to explore Trinity (more on that gem below).
Suiting Up for Adventure
Arriving early for our tour, we got "suited up" in survival suits – a requirement for zodiac passengers. These suits are substantial, heavy, and extra warm. On this rare 80-degree sunny Newfoundland day, they felt downright hot on land. But once we hit the water at 30+ mph with spray flying, those suits were absolutely perfect!
The Whales Steal the Show
We'd barely been on the water for 15 minutes when our captain suddenly gunned it toward a distant cove. We could see massive splashes ahead and held our breath, hoping the whale wouldn't disappear before we arrived.
We made it just in time! A lone humpback was putting on an incredible show – breaching, throwing himself sideways, slapping his tail, and seemingly showing off for all the boats in the area. Pure magic!
Our next stop, just 5-10 minutes away, brought us to a cove right up against the beach where turquoise waters sparkled and whales rolled nearby, feeding. We counted at least four whales, though it was challenging to keep track as they'd dive and surface unpredictably. Just when we'd all focus in one direction, another would pop up mere feet from our zodiac!
The highlight came when two whales came together in what looked like a choreographed dance formation – bodies rolling like massive dolphins, then those unmistakable whale tails breaking the surface. Absolutely breathtaking!
Clear Cove Cave
On our return trip, we made one final stop at a cove with water so crystal clear we could see massive schools of capelin fish – whale treats! As if that wasn't enough, a bald eagle soared around the surrounding cliffs.
This whale watching experience exceeded every expectation. Everyone stepped off that zodiac wearing huge smiles, and I'm already planning our return trip!
Trinity: A Step Back in Time
While waiting for our whale tour, we wandered through historic Trinity – and what a treat that was! This perfectly preserved town, with buildings and houses from the late 1800s and early 1900s lining narrow streets, feels almost like stepping into "Trinity World" at a theme park.
Historic Highlights:
- Holy Trinity Catholic Church: The oldest wooden church in Newfoundland (built 1833)
- St. Paul's Anglican Church: Features a gravestone dated 1763!
- Settlement History: Dating back to the 1500s as one of Newfoundland's safest ports, with established English settlements from the early 1600s
But Trinity's charm goes beyond its meticulously restored buildings. Set against a backdrop of rugged mountains, glacier-carved cliffs, and deep blue coves and harbors, this village defines "idyllic." The combination of maritime history and dramatic natural beauty creates something truly special.
Where to Eat After Wathcing Whales
We worked up an appetite and were capivated by the welcoming view of the water from the Dock Marina Restaurant. They have great gift store upstairs and a restaurant downstairs with indoor and outdoor seating. The day was beautiful and warm so we opted for the patio dining. The waitress recommended the fish cakes as one of their specialities - I oredered and enjoyed and Manny ordered his standard "fish & chips" and loved them.
If you're looking for the definition of a charming, picture-perfect village – see Trinity. And while you're there, don't miss the chance to get up close with Newfoundland's magnificent whales!
Have you been whale watching in Newfoundland? What was your most memorable wildlife encounter? Share your stories in the comments below!
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