Canada’s maritime province of Newfoundland is a region rich in stunning land and seascapes, marine wildlife, ancient history and more latterly European colonisation. Our summer expedition aboard the 84-passenger Ocean Nova traces these rugged shores and is full of unique experiences from opportunities for whale watching to learning of the fascinating colonial and maritime history of the region, whilst for some the sheer majesty of the scenery will be reason enough to join our voyage.
Throughout our expedition we will be welcomed into communities where tradition is lived as daily reality. In Miawpukek, members of the Mi’kmaw First Nation will share insights into a culture rooted in respect for land and sea. In isolated outports such as Francois, accessible only by water, we will experience the music and storytelling traditions which remain as vital as they have for generations. Nature, too, plays a commanding role during our voyage. Cruising the island’s southern coast, we will encounter ancient cliffs carved by glacial ice, sea caves and hidden coves where seabirds wheel overhead, whilst the extraordinary geology of Gros Morne National Park will reveal chapters of the Earth’s formation rarely visible elsewhere.
At Red Bay, once a major 16th-century Basque whaling station and now recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and at L’Anse aux Meadows, the only authenticated Norse site in North America, archaeological finds will reveal early transatlantic enterprise and exploration, from the Basque whalers of the 16th century to Norse voyagers who reached these shores a millennium ago. Then, sailing along the northeast coast, we will encounter a succession of small fishing communities before our circumnavigation of Newfoundland concludes as we retrace our route to St John’s through The Narrows.
Our experience will be enhanced by the comfort of our small expedition vessel, the Ocean Nova which allows us to navigate narrow inlets, land by Zodiac and approach remote shores and harbours which are inaccessible to larger ships. We will explore in the company of a small group of like-minded travellers along with the onboard team of naturalists and local hosts.
Ocean Nova
The Ocean Nova was built in Denmark in 1992 with high ice class to serve Greenland’s west coast. In 2006 she was completely refurbished and now has a career as a small and comfortable, 84-passenger expedition ship.
Click here for an interactive tour of the ship.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to St John’s, Newfoundland, Canada.
Fly by scheduled flight. On arrival transfer to the Ocean Nova and embark.
Day 2 Saint Pierre, France.
As we sail from St John’s, the horizon opens toward Saint Pierre, France’s last foothold in North America. Saint Pierre is the capital of the French territory of Saint Pierre and Miquelon, an archipelago of eight islands off the coast of Newfoundland. Though geographically close to Canada, the atmosphere here is unmistakably French amid a rugged North Atlantic landscape. Enjoy time to wander the cobbled streets lined with patisseries, shops, and seaside cafés.
Day 3 Miawpukek First Nation (Conne River) Newfoundland, Canada.
The First Nations community of Miawpukek became a permanent settlement sometime around 1822. Before then, it was one of many semi-permanent camps used by the Mi’kmaw people who had traditionally travelled nomadically throughout the east coast of Canada. Since its establishment as a reserve in 1987, Miawpukek has successfully bridged traditional knowledge and contemporary practice. We will receive a formal welcome from local leaders and have a chance to explore this special community. We will learn about this vibrant nation’s ongoing efforts to preserve language, ceremony, and knowledge of the land and sea. Through stories, song, and shared experiences, discover a worldview grounded in connection and respect.
Day 4 Francois.
The wild and windswept coast of southern Newfoundland is home to a few remaining outport communities. Hidden deep within a steep fjord, the outport of Francois can only be reached by boat and is a quaint and picturesque fishing village, with colourful homes and buildings that offer visitors a glimpse into Newfoundland’s coastal lifestyle. We will spend the day exploring the town with opportunities to hike to stunning lookout points and waterfalls, or simply chat with locals who embody Newfoundland’s legendary hospitality. As evening falls, we will join locals who gather for a joyful ‘kitchen party’ with music, dance, laughter and good company which will offer a glimpse into Newfoundland’s enduring musical traditions.
Day 5 Exploring the Southern Coast.
We will spend today cruising along one of Newfoundland’s most rugged stretches of coastline, where ancient cliffs rise over quiet coves and hidden bays. We will explore by Zodiac and on foot, tracing the contours of this remote landscape. The geology and plant life are outstanding and we will keep watch for seabirds, whales, moose and caribou.
Days 6 & 7 Gros Morne National Park & Woody Point.
Gros Morne National Park is a landscape of extraordinary geological significance and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The ochre slopes of the Tablelands where the planet’s mantle meets the crust create a landscape unlike any other. Join the Parks Canada naturalists for guided walks among these surreal formations and learn how Gros Morne earned its UNESCO World Heritage status. After exploring, enjoy the warm spirit of Woody Point, where artists, writers, and musicians find inspiration in the surrounding mountains and sea.
Day 8 Red Bay, Labrador.
Step back to the 1500s at Red Bay, once a bustling Basque whaling station and now a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We will visit the excellent interpretation centre to see recovered artefacts including tools and personal items from the ship San Juan which was lost in a storm in 1565 and found centuries later submerged in the harbour. We will continue to Saddle Island to explore the remnants of a whaling community that helped shape the earliest chapters of transatlantic industry.
Day 9 L’Anse aux Meadows.
At the northern tip of Newfoundland lies L’Anse aux Meadows, the only authenticated Norse site in North America. The archaeological remains found here in 1960 date to approximately 1000 AD. Amazingly, the location was first established by a close reading of the Viking sagas. We will step inside reconstructed sod dwellings and imagine the Norse explorers who crossed the Atlantic more than a millennium ago. Here, archaeology meets legend linking Norse sagas to the rugged beauty of Newfoundland’s northern coast.
Days 10 & 11 Northeast Coast.
The northeast coast of Newfoundland is known for the dozens of picturesque villages that dot its rocky shores. As we sail along the coast, each harbour reveals a new perspective on island life. We will visit small fishing communities where weathered boats rest in calm coves and friendly faces greet us at the wharf. Photographers will have their work cut out for them, capturing all the special charm of classic island communities and stunning coastlines, the living heartbeat of Newfoundland.
Day 12 St John’s to London.
We return to St John’s through the Narrows, back into the embrace of St John’s harbour. Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the scheduled indirect flight to London. Alternatively join the three night extension to Halifax, the capital of Newfoundland’s neighbouring province of Nova Scotia.
Day 13 London.
Arrive today.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 12 to 24 July 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Category 1 Bunk Bedded cabin for twin use | £9995 | £9795 |
| Category 2 Standard Twin | £10495 | £10295 |
| Category 3 Superior Twin | £10995 | £10795 |
| Category 1 Bunk bedded cabin for sole use | £11495 | £11295 |
Tour Reference Code: SCON120727
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • 11 nights aboard the Ocean Nova on a full board basis • House wine, beer & soft drinks with included lunches and dinners • Shore excursions • Noble Caledonia Tour Manager • Expedition Team • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance, Canadian ETA.
During this expedition you will be visiting out of the way destinations and will be accompanied by an expedition team. Landings and excursions will be made by Zodiac landing craft. The use of Zodiacs will be key to the operation of the itinerary as shown. If you have any queries pertaining to the use of Zodiacs or the level of fitness required for this voyage, please do not hesitate to ask one of our experienced travel consultants.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
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Scotland & Newfoundland Deckplan
Ocean Nova
The Ocean Nova was built in Denmark in 1992 with high ice class to serve Greenland’s west coast. In 2006 she was completely refurbished and now has a career as a small and comfortable, 84-passenger expedition ship.
Click here for an interactive tour of the ship.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the Ocean Nova for your upcoming voyage and hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel.
SHIP TECHNICAL DETAILS
Built: 1992 (Denmark)
Registered: Bahamas
Draft: 4.5 metres
Gross tonnage: 2180 tonnes
Length: 73 metres
Breadth: 11 metres
Passenger capacity: 84
Staff & crew: 32
Ice class: Ice 1B, EO (Hull Ice 1A)
Cruising speed: 13 KnotsAIR-CONDITIONING
The Panorama Lounge and dining room are air-conditioned and all cabins have outside airflow that can be individually controlled. The ship is heated throughout.
ALARM
An alarm will be sounded in the event of an emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do should an emergency occur.
BAR/BEVERAGES
A bar offering soft and alcoholic drinks is available in the Panorama Lounge. Wine and beverage service is also available in the dining room. Individually purchased drinks consumed throughout your journey should be settled at the end of your voyage. Complimentary tea and coffee are available 24 hours a day in the Bar and Library.
BRIDGE
Permission to visit the ship’s Bridge may be requested. Please note this is a working area and access may sometimes be restricted, for example, during manoeuvres or bad weather conditions.
CABINS
There are 39 passenger cabins on board, all outside facing and with en-suite bathroom facilities. All cabins have upper and lower beds, however, in twin cabins only the lower beds will be used. Each cabin features a window, mirror, writing table and chair, hairdryer and telephone. All cabins are cleaned daily and towels are changed as required.
COMMUNICATION
Telephone: The ship can be contacted by satellite phone (tel: + 870 77306 4426). Passengers will be able to receive and make satellite phone calls via the telephone on the Bridge and the charges will be added to their onboard account. Since all communication by phone or email is through a satellite system, coverage and availability can vary throughout the cruise, depending on the signal. Satellite Internet & Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi is available throughout the vessel and Wi-Fi cards are available to purchase at Reception. Depending on the ship’s location, there may be times when the connection is very slow or is disrupted and the same level of connectivity that you enjoy at home cannot be expected on board.
CURRENCY
The currency on board is Euros. Your ship account will be payable at the end of your cruise by cash (in Euros) or credit card (Visa, MasterCard and American Express). Please note that debit cards are not accepted.
DAILY PROGRAMME
A Daily Programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department in advance. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board, please speak to the Hotel Manager at dinner on your first night to reconfirm your requirements.
DRESS CODE
On board the emphasis is on comfortable and casual clothing at all times. It is recommended to wear sturdy shoes with rubber soles or other non-slip soles when moving around inside the ship.
ELECTRICITY
The electrical supply aboard ship is 220 volts. AC and outlets take Scandinavian two-prong plugs. We recommend that you take an adaptor with you.
EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation. There is a medical doctor and a first aid station on board.
FIRE SAFETY
On your cabin door is a deck plan displaying your closest (and all other) emergency exits. Emergency exits are marked in green and fire extinguishers fitted in all corridors.
FITNESS ROOM
An exercise area is available on the Bridge Deck and contains a variety of equipment. If you intend to use the gym please ensure you wear suitable clothing.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.
HEALTH & HYGIENE
In order to maintain health standards you will find hand sanitisers at all important contact points around the vessel.
HOUSEKEEPING
Your cabin will be cleaned twice a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night.
LAUNDRY
Laundry service is available at an additional charge (price list is available in your cabin). Laundry will be collected in the morning and will be returned to you in approximately two days. Ironing facilities are also available for a fee, however, please note there is no tumble drying or dry cleaning on board.
LIBRARY
A small selection of books is available for use on board. A laptop with internet access is available here as well as complimentary tea and coffee.
LIFT
There is no lift on board the vessel.
LOST PROPERTY
Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s reception. Before you disembark the ship, please check your cabin to ensure you do not leave anything behind. If you discover you have left any items behind, please contact Noble Caledonia directly. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.
MEALS
The dining room is located on the Upper Deck and seats all passengers at a single sitting. The chef will serve three meals a day. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style and dinner is a combination of self-service and served items. All tables seat at least five people.
MOSQUITOES
Please ensure you take the appropriate precautions to guard against mosquito bites.
OBSERVATION DECK
The Observation Deck is available to passengers throughout the sailing. However, please note the deck may have to be closed during periods of inclement weather.
PAYMENTS ON BOARD
The vessel operates a signed-chit system whereby no payment is immediately required (the vessel only requiring a signature for your purchase) and, only at the end of the cruise will you be presented with your final itemised bill to settle.
POST
The vessel’s crew will be happy to send any post you may have on your behalf (although please note that as they are unable to do so at every port of call, this could take longer than if you were to post yourself).
QUESTIONNAIRES
Your comments are important to us therefore before your cruise ends, you will receive a questionnaire. We are always looking for ways to improve your holiday experience and appreciate the time you take to complete the questionnaire.
RECEPTION
Reception is staffed during peak hours. You will always be able to contact a member of the crew 24 hours a day.
SAFE
A safe is available in the hotel manager’s office for valuables but we recommend leaving valuables at home or keeping them on your person.
SMOKING
Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation.
WATER
The water on board is safe to drink. There are strategically placed water bottle filling stations where water is additionally filtered for taste and quality
V.1 JULY 2022
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Deck Plan
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Scotland & Newfoundland Deckplan
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Scotland & Newfoundland Deckplan
Tour Extensions
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Before returning to the UK, we are offering the opportunity to discover Halifax, Nova Scotia’s vibrant capital region.
Lunenburg
The Itinerary
Day 1 St John’s, Newfoundland to Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Disembark the Ocean Nova this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to Halifax, the capital of Newfoundland’s neighbouring province of Nova Scotia. On arrival we will check into our hotel for a three night stay in this vibrant maritime city. (L, D)
Day 2 Halifax.
Today we will discover Halifax, the largest city in Canada’s maritime provinces. This morning, we will explore the famous maritime quarter of the city, with its picturesque waterfront that is lined with lovingly restored historic properties. Later, visit the Citadel, which was constructed as an eight-pointed star fortress in 1856 to defend the city and its harbour from attack. After lunch, the remainder of the day is yours to explore at leisure. (B, L)
Day 3 Halifax.
Today is at leisure to continue exploring Halifax independently. Explore a wealth of museums and cultural monuments around the historic downtown area. (B)
Day 4 Halifax to London.
Check out of our hotel after breakfast and begin a tour of the coastal communities of Nova Scotia. Visit the picturesque community of Peggy’s Cove. This charming fishing community is known for its brightly coloured houses and rocky bay, overlooked by the famous Peggy’s Cove Lighthouse. From here, continue southwards to the town of Lunenburg. This UNESCO heritage community was founded by the British and today retains many of its original buildings. The town was built to a pre-planned grid and today remains the best-preserved example of this type of settlement in North America. Return to Halifax for dinner before departing for the airport for your scheduled flight to London. (B, L, D)
Day 5 London.
Arrive today.
Prices per person based on double occupancy
23 to 27 July 2027 Category Price Twin £1395 Single £1895 Price Includes: Economy class scheduled air travel from St John’s to Halifax, three nights hotel accommodation in Halifax, meals as indicated (B - Breakfast, L - Lunch, D - Dinner), drinks with included lunches and dinners, guided tours as described, Noble Caledonia Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers, airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000