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Welcome to St. John’s, Newfoundland & Labrador
Set sail for new horizons in Newfoundland & Labrador’s vibrant and colourful capital. There’s nothing quite like the experience of sailing through the harbour entrance from the vast Atlantic Ocean and uncovering within, a historic port city brimming with colour, charm, and character.
As North America’s easternmost and oldest city, St. John’s is unlike anywhere your cruise audience has ever explored. Visitors are captivated by its brightly painted homes, acclaimed culinary scene, one-of-a-kind shops, and warm, spirited locals. Here, breathtaking views, rich history, and genuine hospitality come together in unforgettable ways.
No matter your cruise guests’ interests, the Port of St. John’s offers something for everyone. The city is a gateway to world-class outdoor adventures, vibrant cultural attractions, and a thriving scene of music, dining, and nightlife. Hike along coastal trails, wander through colourful downtown streets, or soak up panoramic harbour views framed by historic architecture. Dive into the region’s fascinating past—from geological wonders to wartime history—with a visit to Signal Hill, the Johnson Geo Centre, or The Rooms, home to the province’s most extensive collection of art and artifacts, to name just a few.
From stunning scenery and authentic culture to flavours, sounds, and stories you won’t find anywhere else, St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador, delivers a cruise destination like no other. With all the conveniences of a modern port and the heart of a small town, it’s easy to fall in love with this unforgettable paradise on the edge of the Atlantic!
Contact
Bob McCarthy, B. Comm., PMP
Vice President, Development
St. John's Port Authority
Phone: (709) 738-4770
Email: bmccarthy@sjpa-apsj.com
Website: www.sjpa-apsj.com
Port Specifications
Pier 10/11
Length: 300 m (984 ft)
Deck Elevation: 2.44 m (8 ft)
Depth: 8.5 m (27.9 ft)
Pier 17/18
Length: 310 m (1,017 ft)
Deck Elevation: 2.44 m (8 ft)
Depth: 3.66 m (12 ft)
General Information
- Harbour Entry: Channel is 91 m (298.5 ft) with a depth of 11.8 m (38.7 ft), reduced to lowest normal tide
- Tidal Range: 1.38 m / 4.5 ft (Spring)
Available Services
- Port Operations Manager and Security on-site
- Fully compliant with International Ship and Port Facilities Security Code (ISPS)
- Designated Cruise Ship Operations (CSO) port (Canadian customs clearance provided by Canada Border Services Agency)
- Compulsory Pilotage by the Atlantic Pilotage Authority.
- Fresh water, marine supplies, bunker and diesel fuel, international garbage disposal, etc. (requests made through ship's agent).
- Gray/black water/sludge removal
- Hospital (10-12 minute drive)
- International airport (10-15 minute drive)
- Ship building/repair
- Ship chandler (marine supplies)
- Stevedoring
Vessel Agents
The partners in the Atlantic Canada Cruise Association are ready to welcome your ships to our harbours. These vessel agents can help you secure the berths you need. For more information, please visit www.sjpa-apsj.com.
Things to do
Signal Hill National Historic Site
You can’t miss Signal Hill, and not just because of its position overlooking downtown St. John’s. This famous landmark is beloved by visitors and locals alike for its hiking trails, stunning views, and the iconic Cabot Tower. Signal Hill is steeped in history—the site of military battles and technological triumphs. Learn about it all at the Visitor Centre, or for an extra dose of excitement, experience the thrill of firing the Noon Day Gun or a historic musket.
The Rooms
The Rooms is Newfoundland and Labrador’s largest public cultural space and home to the province’s most extensive collection of artifacts, art, and archival records. As proud custodians of Newfoundland and Labrador’s colourful history and creative spirit, The Rooms draws upon its collections to bring the province’s rich stories to life through engaging, multi-sensory experiences. This unmistakable building is designed to reflect and celebrate the region’s heritage and, from its perch, offers unparalleled views of St. John's.
Discover Downtown St. John's
The historic and commercial core of the city, downtown St. John’s, has something for everyone. Stroll along Water Street, one of the oldest commercial streets in North America, and enjoy the sights and sounds of the downtown. Drop into a local shop or restaurant to experience some of Newfoundland and Labrador’s culture. Learn about our rich history by stopping in at one of the many churches or historic sites. No trip to the downtown is complete without seeing the brightly coloured Jellybean rowhouses.
Cape Spear Lighthouse National Historic Site
Immerse yourself in the rugged coastal beauty of Canada's most easterly point, where almost 200 years of maritime history await your discovery. Explore Newfoundland's oldest surviving lighthouse, WWII fortifications, and stroll along breathtaking coastal trails. Every step here connects you to the edge of history
Johnson Geo Centre
Cut from the ancient rock of Signal Hill, the Johnson Geo Centre takes visitors deep underground to experience the story of our earth and beyond. Guests can explore interactive exhibits at their own pace or join knowledgeable interpreters on a guided tour. Children especially enjoy the Hibernia KidsPlace and the immersive multimedia film, complete with rain and lightning effects. As Newfoundland & Labrador’s premier science centre, the Geo Centre offers a fantastic experience, rain or shine.
Colonial Building Provincial Historic Site
Home to the Newfoundland and Labrador Legislative Assembly from 1850 until 1959, the Colonial Building witnessed our unique political evolution from colony to self-governing Dominion to province of Canada. It was here that representatives gathered to make laws that shaped our economy, society and culture; it was also where they made tough choices. Once again, this building is a gathering place for people to explore, contemplate, challenge, commemorate, and debate our story of governance.
Quidi Vidi Village
This quaint fishing village located just in the east end of St. John’s will transport you to a different time. From the idyllic cottages dotting the roadside to the wharf lined with colourful fishing stages, Quidi Vidi, pronounced as Kitty Vitty or Quada Vida, depending on who you ask, offers a glimpse into the quintessential island outports of Newfoundland & Labrador.
North Head Trail
This strenuous, challenging, 1.7 km (1 hour) trail is the oldest and most popular trail at Signal Hill that offers fantastic views! Hike along the edge of the North Atlantic through Ross' Valley, a "hanging valley" formed by a glacier during the last ice age. During the summer months, whales, icebergs and seabirds can often be seen. The trail head is located on the ocean side of the parking lot on the Summit of Signal Hill.
George Street
Nestled in the heart of historic downtown, George Street is a legendary destination offering a vibrant mix of bars, restaurants, and live music venues to suit every taste. From traditional Irish pubs and high-end cocktail lounges to diverse cuisine, energetic dance bars, and live performances, George Street truly has it all. Experience the biggest little street in North America — the East Coast’s premier entertainment district.
Harbourside Park
This delightful park, designed as an amphitheater, was built opposite the National War Memorial to commemorate the 1583 proclamation by Sir Humphrey Gilbert claiming Newfoundland. Harbourside Park is the venue for the City of St. John’s free Music at Harbourside lunchtime concert series, on Fridays at 12:30 p.m. throughout the summer. The park features two striking statues of a Newfoundland dog and a Labrador Retriever and a breathtaking view of the harbour.
Local Tourism
Keep the trip planning going, explore the local tourism sites for more itineraries and trip ideas: