Irish Loop to Ferryland Tour

If you’re considering a day trip from St. John’s into Newfoundland’s lesser-known coastal jewels, the Irish Loop to Ferryland tour offers a wonderful way to see the island’s scenic beauty, historic sites, and local culture—all in one well-organized trip. We haven’t done it ourselves, but from the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary, it looks like an experience that balances learning, relaxation, and genuine Newfoundland charm.

What we love about this tour? First, the knowledgeable guides seem to elevate the experience with stories, local insights, and a friendly attitude. Second, the stunning views of the coast, small fishing villages, and archaeological sites promise plenty of memorable photo opportunities. The one possible drawback? The seven-hour duration means a fair amount of time on the road, with plenty of driving between stops. That said, it’s well worth it if you enjoy scenic drives and compact, thoughtfully curated stops.

This tour is ideal for travelers who want a taste of Newfoundland’s coast without renting a car, especially those who appreciate local storytelling, historical sites, and natural beauty. It’s perfect for those with limited time but a desire to see authentic fishing communities and scenic landscapes.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Known for friendly, knowledgeable hosts who share engaging stories and insights.
• Beautiful Landscapes: Stunning coastal views, fishing villages, and ecological reserves.
• Authentic Experience: Visits to small communities and archaeological sites highlight local culture and history.
• Value-Added Lunch: A delicious, traditional Newfoundland-style meal included in the price.
• Flexible and Convenient: Hotel pickup and drop-off make exploring easy, with a mobile ticket option.
• Limitations: The long drive means less time at each site, and cancellations depend on weather and minimum group size.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary

Starting Point: Bay Bulls

The tour begins with a visit to Bay Bulls, a picture-perfect fishing village known for its scenic harbor and proximity to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve. While the stop lasts only about 10 minutes, it sets the tone with its charming seafront views and fresh ocean air. From the reviews, visitors appreciate the natural beauty and the opportunity to admire Newfoundland’s fishing heritage right from the start.

Bauline East: Coastal Serenity

Next, we head to Bauline East, another quaint village offering stunning coastal vistas and a chance to stretch your legs. Expect about 10 minutes here—enough to snap some photos and appreciate the peaceful surroundings. Reviewers highlight the scenic hiking trails and the blend of natural beauty with local history, making this stop a quiet highlight of the trip.

The Historic Colony of Avalon

The tour’s centerpiece is the Colony of Avalon, a well-preserved archaeological site from the 17th century. Here, you’ll spend about an hour exploring the early colonial structures and learning about the lives of the settlers. The site’s significance is complemented by the fact that the admission fee is included—so you get full access to walk among the ruins, see artifacts, and imagine what life was like centuries ago. Visitors often note that the guide’s storytelling makes this visit especially memorable.

Lunch in Ferryland

After the archaeological exploration, the group heads to Ferryland for a hearty pan-fried Cod lunch. This meal, included in the tour price, reflects Newfoundland’s famed seafood cuisine and offers a taste of local flavors. Several reviewers mention how good the food is—filling, fresh, and satisfying after a morning of touring. It’s also a chance to relax and chat with fellow travelers before heading further along the coast.

Renews: Local Stories and Coastline

The final stop is Renews, where a local storyteller greets guests and shares tales about the community. This stop, lasting around an hour, adds a personal touch to the tour, giving insights into Newfoundland life beyond the typical tourist spots. Guests often describe Larry, the storyteller, as lively and engaging, making this part of the tour a genuine cultural highlight.

Practicalities and What to Expect

The tour departs at 9:30 am from St. John’s, with hotel pickup available at major hotels and B&Bs—including the nearby Alt Hotel, just 300 meters from the cruise terminal. The entire experience lasts roughly 7.5 hours, covering the drive, stops, and lunch. Expect about 15 minutes at each site, but keep in mind that the drive between locations takes a significant chunk of time—so patience and an appreciation for scenery are key.

The tour group is limited to 20 travelers, ensuring a cozy atmosphere and personalized attention. The guides are all English-speaking and generally well-reviewed for their friendliness and knowledge. The small group size also helps make the experience intimate and flexible—if you prefer to stay in the vehicle at any stop, that’s usually possible.

Price-wise, at $155.89 per person, it offers good value considering the inclusion of lunch, admissions, and hotel pickup. When you compare this to the cost of renting a car and doing the trip independently, it can be a time-saver and hassle-free way to see the coast.

What Reviewers Say

Based on reviews, guests praise the knowledge of guides—Billy and Larry get special mentions for their friendliness, storytelling skills, and local insights. Irene from her review shared how Billy made the long day enjoyable, feeling like a great host. Christina appreciated the beautiful scenery and the informative commentary, even during rainy weather, which she noted limited her ability to go out at some stops.

Agnes highlighted the packed itinerary and great information, while Thomas enjoyed spotting whales and seabirds, emphasizing the trip’s scenic and wildlife appeal. Sandra called the tour “an amazing trip,” stressing Larry’s fun facts and the delicious lunch.

Final Thoughts

The Irish Loop to Ferryland tour looks like a well-rounded way to experience Newfoundland’s coastal beauty, history, and local culture—all within a manageable day trip. It’s especially suited for those who love storytelling, scenic drives, and small-group settings. The inclusion of a hearty lunch and the flexibility of hotel pickup make it convenient for visitors staying in St. John’s.

The long drive is a small trade-off for the wealth of sights and stories you’ll collect. The tour’s focus on authentic local communities and expert guides ensures that even if the weather isn’t perfect, you’ll still leave with a deeper appreciation for Newfoundland’s character and landscape.

If you’re after a memorable, engaging, and reasonably priced way to explore the southern shore, this trip is likely to meet your expectations. Just bring your camera, an appetite for seafood, and a sense of adventure.

FAQ

How long is the Irish Loop to Ferryland Tour?
It lasts about 7.5 hours, including driving, stops, and lunch.

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
Yes, pickup is offered at major hotels and B&Bs, with the closest to the cruise terminal being the Alt Hotel, about 300 meters away.

What is included in the tour price?
All fees and taxes, a traditional Newfoundland lunch (pan-fried cod), admission to the Colony of Avalon, and guide services are included.

What about accessibility?
Participants should be comfortable with some steps and walking around sites; however, you can choose to stay in the vehicle if preferred.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, with full refunds. The tour depends on weather and minimum group size for operation.

Is there a maximum group size?
Yes, the group is limited to 20 travelers, providing a more personalized experience.

Are children or non-fish eaters accommodated?
The included lunch is pan-fried cod, but guides can make arrangements for dietary restrictions if notified in advance.

To sum it up, the Irish Loop to Ferryland tour offers a rich blend of Newfoundland’s natural beauty, history, and local hospitality. It suits travelers eager for a relaxed yet informative exploration of the coast, with plenty of opportunities for memorable photos and stories. With friendly guides, stunning scenery, and authentic cultural stops, it’s an option worth considering for your Newfoundland adventure.