Making the most of Saint Johns Newfoundland
Use these notes to shape a realistic day ashore, then confirm any time-sensitive information for the date of your call.
Arriving at the port
In the heart of downtown, the port sits within North America's oldest city. St. John's combines colourful wooden houses with stately brick churches and Colonial buildings.
The town is hilly.
European explorers, adventurers, soldiers and pirates have visited St. John's for more than 500 years. As the provincial capital, it is Newfoundland and Labrador's economic and cultural centre.
John Cabot first discovered St. John's in 1497, and Sir Humphrey Gilbert later claimed it as the British Empire's first permanent settlement in North America. Its rich, colourful history is matched by an enticing blend of old world charm, distinctive architectural, historic and natural attractions, and top-notch facilities and services, all close to spectacular coastlines, historic villages and diverse wildlife.
Downtown St. John's is truly one of the most distinctive destinations you will visit: old world charm meets a busy business core in North America's oldest commercial district. Allow time for its historic churches, art galleries and museums.
Throughout the summer, enjoy the music, dining, shopping and special events on offer.
Several significant modern events took place in St. John’s. In 1901, Marconi first received radio signals across the Atlantic on Signal Hill above the harbour; in 1919, Alcock and Brown departed St. John’s on the first successful transatlantic flight by a team of aviators. Cabot Tower on Signal Hill was then the last North American landmark seen by Charles Lindberg during his famous solo Atlantic crossing in 1927. These particular honours reflect St. John’s position farther east than any other city in North America.
Getting around
By mid September, the whales will have gone south, though operators may not be entirely honest about their departure. If birds remain on the islands, the trip is still very worthwhile: most people take the tour for whales but are more impressed by the birds once there. This is the world's largest puffin colony.
Food and shopping
Water Street, the principal shopping street, is one block uphill.
Money
Currency: Canadian dollar.
ATMs are available in many grocery stores, malls and airports, among other places, and most connect to international networks; Cirrus, Plus, Star and Maestro are the most common. Major credit cards can also be used to withdraw cash from an ATM, but this is usually more expensive because interest is charged immediately as well as a service fee.
Staying connected
Canada's main languages are English 59.3% and French 23.2%, both official, with other languages accounting for 17.5%. Quebec and New Brunswick are the most "French"; the rest of the country is English-speaking.