Saint John's Newfoundland Cruise Port Guide 🛳️

Saint John’s, Newfoundland’s capital and oldest city in North America, welcomes cruise ships at its downtown port. Visitors can explore the colorful row houses of Jellybean Row, historic Signal Hill with panoramic harbor views, Cape Spear lighthouse at North America’s easternmost point, and George Street’s vibrant dining scene. The compact city center is easily walkable from the port.

Quick Port Facts

Fact	Detail
Port Location	Harbour Drive, downtown St. John’s waterfront
Distance to Town	5-15 minute walk to downtown core
Main Cruise Piers	Pier 10 and Pier 11 (Pier 17 for overflow)
Port Website	St. John’s Port Authority
Currency	Canadian Dollar (CAD)
Emergency Number	911 (Police, Fire, Ambulance)

Want to know more about other cruise ports in the region? Check out our complete guide to Canada cruise ports, including nearby Corner Brook and Saint Anthony in Newfoundland.

Saint John’s Map

The cruise terminal sits on Harbour Drive along St. John’s waterfront, placing you immediately adjacent to the downtown core. Signal Hill rises to the north overlooking the harbor, while the colorful streets of Jellybean Row and George Street entertainment district spread out within a few blocks of your berth.

Can You Walk to Town from the Port?

Yes, and it’s one of the best aspects of St. John’s as a cruise port. The piers sit right at the edge of downtown, making this one of the most walkable cruise ports you’ll encounter.

Downtown core: Water Street and Duckworth Street are 5-10 minutes on foot from Pier 10 or Pier 11, with shops, cafés, and restaurants immediately accessible.
Jellybean Row: The iconic colorful row houses are scattered throughout downtown, with particularly photogenic examples around Gower Street about 10-15 minutes from the port.
The Rooms: This cultural complex sits uphill from downtown but remains walkable in about 15-20 minutes if you’re comfortable with an incline.
Harbourside Park: Directly along the waterfront near the cruise terminal, perfect for a quick stroll with harbor views.
George Street: The famous pub and restaurant strip is about 10 minutes walk from the port.
Signal Hill: Technically walkable for energetic visitors (30-40 minutes uphill), but most cruise passengers take a taxi up and walk down, or taxi both ways.

How to Get Around from Saint John’s & Shore Transportation

Most cruise passengers walk into downtown from the port, but several transport options exist for reaching Signal Hill, Cape Spear, and Quidi Vidi Village.

Walking

The downtown core is compact and grid-based, making navigation straightforward
Expect hills – St. John’s rises steeply from the harbor, so comfortable shoes matter. A pair of supportive walking shoes makes a significant difference on the steep, often wet cobblestone streets
Water Street runs parallel to the waterfront and serves as the main downtown artery
Walking to Signal Hill from the port takes 30-40 minutes uphill; most people taxi up and walk down through the Battery neighborhood

Taxis

Available at the terminal exit when ships are in port
Typical fares: $15-20 to Signal Hill, $35-45 to Cape Spear (one way), $10-15 to Quidi Vidi
Licensed taxis use meters; confirm the fare before departure if the driver quotes a flat rate
Useful for reaching attractions outside walking distance or if weather turns poor

Public Bus

Metrobus operates throughout St. John’s with modest fares
Routes cover major neighborhoods and attractions
Less convenient than walking or taxis for cruise passengers on limited time, but economical
Route and schedule information available at the terminal information kiosk

Car Rental

Several agencies operate near downtown for passengers wanting to explore Cape Spear, nearby coastal areas, or the Irish Loop independently
Only worthwhile if you’re comfortable driving on the left side of roads with Canadian traffic rules and want to venture well beyond St. John’s
Most cruise passengers find taxis more practical for a single-day visit

Shore Excursions

Cruise lines offer guided tours to Signal Hill, Cape Spear, Quidi Vidi, and whale-watching trips
These guarantee you’ll return to the ship on time, which independent exploration doesn’t
Local tour operators also meet ships at the pier with similar offerings, often at lower prices

What to See Within Walking Distance from the Port

St. John’s packs considerable charm and history within a 20-minute radius of the cruise terminal, making it ideal for passengers who prefer independent exploration.

Jellybean Row: The nickname for St. John’s distinctively painted row houses in bright reds, blues, yellows, and greens. They’re scattered throughout downtown but particularly concentrated along Gower Street and surrounding blocks. The houses date from the late 1800s and early 1900s, and the bright colors supposedly helped fishermen identify their homes through the fog. It’s not a single street but a characteristic of the entire downtown core. Plan 10-15 minutes walking from the port, then wander at leisure with your camera.
George Street: A two-block stretch holding the highest concentration of pubs and bars per square foot in North America, according to local lore. During the day it’s quieter, but you’ll find restaurants and cafés open for lunch. The street comes alive at night, though most cruise passengers won’t see that side. About 10 minutes walk from the port, worth a stroll and perhaps a pint.
Water Street: One of the oldest streets in North America, running parallel to the harbor through downtown. Lined with shops, restaurants, cafés, and the occasional historic building. The Railway Coastal Museum sits on Water Street in the former Newfoundland Railway terminal, offering a quick cultural stop. About 5-10 minutes from the port, and you’ll likely walk along it en route to other attractions.
Harbourside Park: A waterfront green space with sculptures and benches opposite the harbor, offering views across to the Narrows. Pleasant for a quick stroll and photo stop. Essentially right at the cruise terminal.
The Rooms: Newfoundland and Labrador’s provincial museum, art gallery, and archives combined in a distinctive modern building that echoes traditional fishing premises. The collection covers local history, indigenous culture, natural history, and contemporary art. Sits uphill from downtown with great views from its terrace. About 15-20 minutes walk uphill from the port, or a short taxi ride. Allow 1-2 hours inside if you’re interested in museums.
Basilica of St. John the Baptist: A Romanesque Revival Catholic cathedral with twin towers that dominate the city skyline. Built in the 1850s, it sits prominently on higher ground. About 15 minutes walk uphill from the port, impressive from outside and worth a quick interior look if you appreciate architecture.
Anglican Cathedral of St. John the Baptist: Another significant church, this one Gothic Revival, rebuilt after the 1892 fire that destroyed much of the city. About 10-12 minutes walk from the port.

Must See Attractions in Saint John’s for a One Day Cruise Visit

With limited port time, focus on the attractions that define St. John’s character and offer experiences you won’t find elsewhere.

Signal Hill National Historic Site

What it is: A dramatic hill rising 500 feet above the harbor entrance, crowned by Cabot Tower and laced with hiking trails. The site marks where Marconi received the first transatlantic wireless signal and where the final battle of the Seven Years’ War in North America took place.
Why it matters: The panoramic views over St. John’s, the harbor, and the Atlantic are genuinely spectacular and give you a sense of the city’s geography and maritime character. The history is significant, and the setting is memorable.
Time needed: 1.5-2 hours if you taxi up and walk down, 2-3 hours if you’re hiking both directions. Add 30-45 minutes if you want to explore the Johnson Geo Centre, which tunnels into the hillside near the base.
Practical tips: Entry to the site and tower is free. Taxi up for about $15-20 from the port if you’re not keen on the uphill walk. The winds at the summit can be fierce – bring a lightweight packable rain jacket even on warm days. Walking down through the Battery neighborhood (colorful houses clinging to the steep hillside) is scenic and easier on the knees than the main road. If you’re hiking up, the North Head Trail from the harbor is the most direct route but steep.

Cape Spear Lighthouse

What it is: The easternmost point in North America, about 11 kilometers southeast of downtown. The lighthouse dates from 1836 and has been restored to its 1839 appearance. The site includes a newer lighthouse still in operation, World War II fortifications, and dramatic coastal scenery.
Why it matters: Standing at the easternmost point of the continent has appeal, and the lighthouse and coastal setting are photogenic. On a clear day the views are excellent, and you might spot whales offshore during summer. Having compact binoculars can enhance wildlife viewing opportunities.
Time needed: 2-3 hours including travel time. It’s a 20-25 minute drive each way from the port, and you’ll want 45-60 minutes at the site to explore the lighthouse, walk the coastal trails, and soak in the setting.
Practical tips: Entry to the lighthouse grounds is free. Taxi fare from the port runs $35-45 each way, so arrange a return time with your driver or book a return trip. Shore excursions often combine Cape Spear with Signal Hill. The site can be socked in with fog – if visibility is poor when you arrive in port, skip Cape Spear and focus on downtown and Signal Hill. Dress warmly; the wind off the Atlantic is cold.

Quidi Vidi Village

What it is: A small fishing village about 3 kilometers northeast of downtown, tucked into a protected inlet. The village retains its traditional character with colorful fishing stages, boat sheds, and a working harbor. Quidi Vidi Brewery operates here, and local artists maintain studios.
Why it matters: It offers a glimpse of traditional Newfoundland fishing village life without traveling far from the port, and the setting around the inlet and lake is genuinely picturesque.
Time needed: 1-1.5 hours including travel. It’s a 10-minute taxi ride from the port ($10-15), or a 30-40 minute walk if you’re energetic and the weather cooperates.
Practical tips: Quidi Vidi Brewery offers tastings and a small menu. The village is tiny – you can walk around it in 20-30 minutes. Some cruise shore excursions include it as part of a broader St. John’s tour. If you’re walking, the route from downtown goes past Quidi Vidi Lake, which is pleasant but requires good weather and comfortable shoes. Combine it with Signal Hill if you’re taxiing, as they’re in roughly the same direction.

The Rooms

What it is: Newfoundland and Labrador’s provincial museum and art gallery, opened in 2005 in a building designed to echo traditional waterfront “rooms” where fish were processed and stored. The museum covers natural history, indigenous peoples, European settlement, military history, and maritime heritage. The art gallery features both historical and contemporary works by local and Canadian artists.
Why it matters: It’s the best single place to understand Newfoundland’s unique culture, history, and environment if you have a rainy day or want indoor cultural experiences. The views from the building’s terrace over the harbor are excellent.
Time needed: 1-2 hours depending on your interest level. You could rush through in 45 minutes if needed.
Practical tips: Entry fees apply (around $10 CAD for adults). It’s about a 15-20 minute uphill walk from the port, or a quick taxi ride. Hours vary seasonally, so check ahead if you’re arriving on a Monday or holiday. Good backup plan if weather is poor. The café inside is decent for a coffee or light snack.

Jellybean Row and Downtown Walking

What it is: Not a single attraction but the overall experience of wandering the colorful downtown streets, photographing row houses, popping into shops and cafés, and soaking in the local atmosphere.
Why it matters: St. John’s has genuine character and personality in its streetscapes that you’ll miss if you only do organized excursions. The colorful houses are iconic, and you’ll get a feel for local life.
Time needed: 1-2 hours to stroll at leisure, more if you stop for coffee or shopping.
Practical tips: Focus on the area around Gower Street, Military Road, and the blocks between Water Street and higher up the hill for the most photogenic houses. Early morning or late afternoon light makes for better photos. Don’t be shy about walking up residential streets – locals are used to tourists photographing their homes. Combine this with a stop on George Street or Water Street for food or drink.

Puffin and Whale Watching

What it is: Boat tours departing from St. John’s harbor to see Atlantic puffins (usually at Witless Bay Ecological Reserve south of the city) and various whale species including humpbacks, minkes, and occasionally orcas.
Why it matters: Newfoundland offers some of the best puffin and whale watching in North America, and summer is prime season for both. Puffins are undeniably charming, and seeing whales in the wild is memorable.
Time needed: 2.5-3.5 hours for most tours, including boarding and travel time to and from the viewing areas.
Practical tips: These tours are weather-dependent and can be cancelled if seas are rough. Book through your cruise line’s shore excursions or a reputable local operator, and confirm the cancellation policy. Dress warmly in layers even in summer – it’s cold on the water. Bring motion sickness medication if you’re prone to seasickness; the waters can be choppy. Peak season runs late May through early September. If puffins are your priority, confirm that tours are stopping at a puffin colony – not all whale-watching trips include them.

Port Day Itinerary: Things to Do in 8 Hours

Here’s a realistic schedule that fits a typical 8am-5pm port day, balancing the must-see sights with time to enjoy the local atmosphere without rushing.

8:00am-8:30am | Disembark and Orientation: Clear the ship and get your bearings at the port. Grab a coffee from a port-area café if you need caffeine before you start. The walk into downtown begins immediately from the pier.
8:30am-9:15am | Downtown Stroll and Jellybean Row: Walk along Water Street into the downtown core, then wander up through the residential streets around Gower Street and Military Road to see and photograph the colorful row houses. The morning light is good for photos, and the streets are quiet before shops open.
9:15am-9:30am | Taxi to Signal Hill: Catch a taxi from downtown (or pre-arrange pick-up at your ship) to Signal Hill. The 10-minute ride saves your energy for exploring the hilltop and the walk back down.
9:30am-11:00am | Signal Hill and Cabot Tower: Explore the summit, climb Cabot Tower for the views, walk the trails around the battery and fortifications, and take in the panorama over the city and Atlantic. If the weather’s good, you’ll want to linger. Read the interpretive signs about Marconi’s wireless experiments and the military history.
11:00am-11:45am | Walk Down Through the Battery: Take the scenic route down through the Battery neighborhood, where houses cling improbably to the steep hillside above the harbor. The path is steep but manageable, and the views and colorful houses are worth the careful footing. This brings you back toward downtown.
11:45am-1:00pm | Lunch on George Street or Water Street: By now you’ve worked up an appetite. Head to George Street for pub fare and local seafood, or choose a café on Water Street for something lighter. Try fish and chips or a Jiggs dinner if you want traditional Newfoundland food. This is a good time to rest your legs and chat with locals.
1:00pm-2:30pm | The Rooms or Quidi Vidi Village: Choose based on weather and interest. If it’s rainy or you want culture and history, head to The Rooms for the museum and art gallery. If it’s clear and you want more scenery, taxi to Quidi Vidi Village to stroll the harbor and perhaps sample beer at Quidi Vidi Brewery. Either option takes 1-1.5 hours comfortably.
2:30pm-3:45pm | Shopping and Final Stroll: Return to Water Street or Duckworth Street for souvenir shopping, browsing local craft shops, or just enjoying a final coffee while watching harbor activity. This is your buffer time to pick up gifts, use a restroom, or revisit a favorite photo spot.
3:45pm-4:15pm | Return to Ship: Walk back to the port at a relaxed pace, arriving with plenty of time before all-aboard. Grab a snack from a harborfront vendor if you’re peckish, or just enjoy the final views of the colorful city rising from the waterfront.

This timing builds in buffer time and allows for a relaxed pace without feeling rushed. You’ll hit the major highlights while still having time to soak in the local atmosphere.

Where to Eat Near the Port

St. John’s has a genuine food scene rooted in local seafood and Newfoundland traditions, with enough variety to satisfy different appetites and budgets.

Traditional Newfoundland fare: Look for fish and chips (often made with local cod), fish cakes, Jiggs dinner (salt beef, cabbage, turnip, potato, and peas pudding – a Sunday tradition), and toutons (fried bread dough, usually served with molasses at breakfast). Ches’s Famous Fish and Chips on Freshwater Road is a local institution, though it’s a taxi ride from downtown. Closer to the port, several spots along Water Street and George Street serve solid versions of these classics. Expect $15-25 CAD for a full meal.
George Street dining: This pub-heavy strip offers casual dining at multiple venues. YellowBelly Brewery serves craft beer and elevated pub fare including seafood, burgers, and local-inspired dishes. Expect $18-30 CAD for mains. The street gets loud at night but is more relaxed during cruise ship lunch hours.
Water Street options: The main downtown thoroughfare has cafés, bakeries, and sit-down restaurants scattered along its length. Rocket Bakery is popular for coffee, pastries, and sandwiches if you want something quick and excellent. Several restaurants serve fresh seafood – look for daily specials featuring cod, scallops, mussels, or halibut. Budget $20-35 CAD for a proper lunch with local fish.
Mallard Cottage: Located in Quidi Vidi Village, this restaurant occupies an 18th-century cottage and focuses on Newfoundland ingredients prepared with skill. It’s received national attention and reservations are recommended, though that’s tricky on a cruise ship schedule. If you’re visiting Quidi Vidi and they have space, it’s worth a stop. Expect $25-40 CAD for lunch mains.
Quidi Vidi Brewery: If you make it to the village, the brewery serves its beers alongside a simple menu of locally inspired pub food. The Iceberg Beer (made with actual iceberg water) is a novelty worth trying. Casual atmosphere, outdoor seating in good weather, and reasonable prices around $15-20 CAD for food.
Quick and cheap options: If you’re pressed for time or budget, you’ll find Tim Hortons locations for coffee and basic breakfast or lunch items (this is Canada, after all), plus various delis and takeaway spots along Water Street. Fish and chips from a takeaway shop runs $12-18 CAD.
Screech and local drinks: Newfoundland’s famous rum is Screech, traditionally drunk in a “screech-in” ceremony that involves kissing a cod, reciting a phrase, and downing a shot. Many George Street pubs offer screech-ins for tourists – it’s silly but good fun if you’re into that sort of thing. Local craft breweries have proliferated in recent years, with Quidi Vidi and YellowBelly being the most accessible to cruise passengers.
Food safety and tap water: No concerns. St. John’s has excellent food safety standards and the tap water is safe to drink. Restaurants follow Canadian health regulations strictly.

Shopping: What to Buy & Where to Go

St. John’s isn’t a major shopping destination, but you’ll find distinctive local crafts and Newfoundland-specific items worth bringing home.

Newfoundland crafts: Look for hand-knit woolens (mittens, hats, sweaters) in traditional patterns, hooked mats and rugs, and locally made pottery. Downtown shops along Water Street and Duckworth Street carry these items. Expect to pay proper prices for quality handwork – a hand-knit sweater might run $150-300 CAD, mittens $40-60 CAD.
Local food products: Screech rum, partridgeberry or bakeapple jam, local craft beer, and packaged Newfoundland savory are popular edible souvenirs. Several shops near the port sell packaged local specialties suitable for travel. Prices are reasonable – a bottle of Screech runs about $25-30 CAD, jam around $8-12 CAD per jar.
Books and music: Newfoundland has a strong literary and musical tradition. Look for books by local authors or collections of Newfoundland folk songs and shanties. Downhome magazine and similar publications make good light reading about local culture.
Art and photography: Several galleries downtown feature work by local artists, often depicting traditional Newfoundland scenes, seascapes, or wildlife. Prices vary widely depending on the piece and artist.
Quidi Vidi artisans: If you visit the village, several small studios and shops sell handmade items by local craftspeople. The quality is generally high and the settings are more intimate than downtown shops.
Shopping areas: Water Street and Duckworth Street hold most of the retail in the downtown core. The NONIA store (Newfoundland Outport Nursing and Industrial Association) sells locally made crafts with proceeds supporting community programs. Shops generally open around 10am and close by 6pm, with some variation. Sundays may have reduced hours, and Canadian holidays will affect opening times.
What to skip: Generic souvenir shops near the port sell the usual array of t-shirts, mugs, and keychains that could come from anywhere. If you want something distinctively Newfoundland, look for items actually made in the province by local artisans.

Shopping isn’t the primary reason to visit St. John’s, but if you want quality local crafts or edible souvenirs, you’ll find them. Don’t expect extensive shopping districts or luxury brands – this is a small city with a focus on authentic local products.

Safety Tips & Avoiding Scams

St. John’s is a safe city with low crime rates, and cruise passengers face minimal risk of scams or safety issues. The main concerns are weather-related and practical rather than criminal.

Weather hazards: Newfoundland weather changes rapidly and can catch visitors unprepared. Fog rolls in suddenly, winds at Signal Hill and Cape Spear can be fierce, and rain appears without warning. Dress in layers, bring a waterproof jacket, and wear shoes with good grip for wet cobblestones and steep hills. Hypothermia is a real risk if you’re caught in wind and rain without proper clothing, even in summer.
Steep streets and stairs: St. John’s rises sharply from the harbor. The hills and stairs can be challenging for people with mobility issues or poor fitness. Take your time, use handrails where provided, and don’t be embarrassed to taxi instead of walking if the terrain is beyond your comfort level.
Unlicensed transport: Stick to licensed taxis with proper identification and meters. Unmarked vehicles occasionally approach cruise passengers at the port offering tours – these lack proper insurance and safety oversight. Use cruise line excursions, hotel taxi stands, or clearly marked licensed taxis. Legitimate taxi drivers won’t hassle you or pressure you to accept inflated prices.
Tour operator verification: If booking a local tour operator independently rather than through your ship, verify they’re legitimate with established contact information and online reviews. The St. John’s tourism office or port information desk can recommend reputable operators.
Petty theft: Rare but not impossible. Don’t leave valuables visible in rental cars, and keep wallets and phones secure in crowded areas like George Street pubs. An under-clothing money belt provides discreet security for passports and extra cash. Common sense precautions suffice.
Wildlife caution: If you’re hiking Signal Hill trails or coastal paths, watch for slippery rocks and sudden drop-offs. Moose occasionally appear on roads outside the city – they’re large, unpredictable, and dangerous if you encounter one while driving.
Getting lost: The downtown core is small and difficult to get seriously lost in. If you do lose your bearings, ask a local – Newfoundlanders have a reputation for friendliness and helpfulness that’s largely deserved. Alternatively, head downhill and you’ll reach the harbor eventually.
Time awareness: Newfoundland operates on Newfoundland Time, which is 30 minutes ahead of Atlantic Time and 1.5 hours ahead of Eastern Time. Your ship operates on local time, but verify your watch is set correctly to avoid missing all-aboard.

Emergency Contacts

Emergency services (Police, Fire, Ambulance): 911
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (non-emergency): +1 (709) 729-8000
Health Sciences Centre (main hospital): +1 (709) 777-6300 (300 Prince Philip Drive)
St. John’s Port Authority (port operations): +1 (709) 738-4782
Port security: +1 (709) 738-4775
Port emergency (after hours): +1 (709) 682-5197

Save your cruise ship’s emergency contact number and your ship’s local agent information before going ashore. Your ship’s guest services desk will have this information.

Essential Items for Your Day in Saint John’s

Newfoundland’s unpredictable weather and hilly terrain require specific gear to stay comfortable during your port day. The steep streets, exposed coastal viewpoints, and rapidly changing conditions mean preparation matters more here than at many cruise ports.

Weatherproof layers: Even summer days can turn cold and windy at Signal Hill and Cape Spear. A packable lightweight rain jacket or rain poncho protects against sudden showers while stuffing into a daypack when the sun appears. If you’re visiting in late spring or early autumn, merino wool base layers for men or merino wool base layers for women provide warmth without bulk under your outer layers.
Comfortable footwear: The steep, often wet cobblestone streets and extended walking on Signal Hill trails demand proper shoes. Supportive women’s walking shoes or men’s walking shoes with good tread prevent slips and reduce foot fatigue. Consider blister prevention products if you’re breaking in new shoes.
Daypack and security: A lightweight packable backpack or anti-theft travel backpack carries your layers, water bottle, and purchases as you explore. Keep valuables secure with an RFID-blocking passport holder and consider an anti-theft crossbody bag for easy access to your phone and wallet while walking.
Photography and viewing: The dramatic views from Signal Hill and Cape Spear deserve proper documentation, and wildlife watching is enhanced by compact travel binoculars for spotting whales offshore or puffins at colonies. Protect your phone from sudden rain with a waterproof phone case.
Sun and eye protection: Even on overcast days, UV exposure at coastal viewpoints requires reef-safe sunscreen SPF 50. Quality polarized sunglasses for women or men’s sunglasses reduce glare from water and wet surfaces while protecting your eyes from wind.
Hydration and comfort: A collapsible water bottle keeps you hydrated during uphill walks without taking up space when empty. Keep essentials organized with a retractable waterproof cruise lanyard for your ship card and ID.

Currency, ATMs & Money Matters

Canada uses the Canadian dollar (CAD), and St. John’s operates on a largely cashless system with widespread card acceptance.

Currency: Canadian dollar, divided into 100 cents. Bills come in $5, $10, $20, $50, and $100 denominations (all polymer notes, not paper). Coins include 5¢ (nickel), 10¢ (dime), 25¢ (quarter), $1 (loonie), and $2 (toonie). The penny was eliminated, so cash transactions are rounded to the nearest five cents.
Exchange rates: As of current rates, 1 CAD equals approximately 0.55-0.60 GBP or 0.70-0.75 USD, though this fluctuates. Check current rates before your trip.
Credit and debit cards: Widely accepted everywhere in St. John’s. Visa and Mastercard work universally; American Express is accepted at most establishments but not everywhere. Contactless payment is common and works for amounts up to $250 CAD without a PIN. Let your bank know you’ll be in Canada to avoid fraud blocks on your card.
ATMs: Abundant throughout downtown St. John’s, particularly along Water Street. Major Canadian banks (RBC, TD, Scotiabank, BMO, CIBC) have ATMs that accept international cards on the Plus, Cirrus, and Interac networks. Your home bank will likely charge a foreign transaction fee (typically 2-3%) plus a flat fee ($3-5) per withdrawal. ATMs dispense Canadian dollars only.
Exchange bureaus: Limited in St. John’s and generally offer poor rates. Better to use ATMs for cash or pay by card. Some hotels may exchange currency but at unfavorable rates. If you’re arriving with US dollars, some businesses accept them but will give you change in Canadian currency at approximate exchange rates that favor the merchant.
How much cash to carry: Minimal. Most visitors need only $20-40 CAD for small purchases like coffee or ice cream from vendors who might not take cards. Restaurants, shops, taxis, and attractions all take cards. If you’re planning to tip taxi drivers or restaurant servers in cash, withdraw a modest amount.
Tipping customs: Canada follows North American tipping norms. Restaurants expect 15-20% for table service (check if service is already included for groups). Taxi drivers receive 10-15%. Hotel porters get $2-3 per bag. Bar staff receive $1-2 per drink or 15-20% on a tab.
Taxes: Prices in Canada don’t include tax. Newfoundland charges 15% HST (Harmonized Sales Tax) on most goods and services, added at the register. What you see on the menu or price tag is not what you’ll pay – calculate an additional 15% plus tip for restaurant bills.
Currency for onward travel: If St. John’s is one stop on a longer Canada cruise, the Canadian dollars you obtain here work throughout the country. If you’re heading to the US afterward, you’ll need US dollars, and vice versa.

Weather by Month

Season/Months	Temperature Range	Conditions & What to Expect
Late Spring (May-early June)	8-15°C (46-59°F)	Cool and often foggy, with frequent drizzle and changeable conditions. Late May sees icebergs off the coast and the start of whale season. Pack layers and waterproof gear. Fewer cruise ships, smaller crowds.
Summer (mid-June-August)	15-20°C (59-68°F)	Peak cruise season with the warmest and most stable weather, though fog and rain remain possible any day. Long daylight hours. Best time for whale and puffin watching. July and early August are busiest for cruise ships. Bring layers – it’s rarely hot but can be pleasant and sunny.
Early Autumn (September-early October)	10-16°C (50-61°F)	Cooler with increasing chance of storms and wind. Fall colors begin in late September. Fewer cruise ships after mid-September. Pack warm layers and full rain gear. Whale season continues through September.
Late Autumn through Winter	Below 10°C (50°F)	No cruise season. Cold, windy, and snowy with frequent storms. The port focuses on cargo and ferry operations.

St. John’s is infamous for rapidly changing weather and persistent fog due to the meeting of the warm Gulf Stream and cold Labrador Current offshore. “If you don’t like the weather, wait five minutes” is a local saying with truth behind it. Even in summer, bring a warm jacket and waterproof layer. The wind at Signal Hill and Cape Spear is consistently stronger and colder than downtown, so layer up before heading to exposed viewpoints.

Common Questions & FAQ

Can I really walk everywhere in St. John’s from the cruise port?

You can walk to most downtown attractions including Jellybean Row, George Street, Water Street shops, and The Rooms. Signal Hill is walkable if you’re fit and don’t mind a steep 30-40 minute climb, but most cruise passengers taxi up and walk down. Cape Spear is too far for walking (11 kilometers) and requires a taxi or tour. Quidi Vidi is possible to walk (30-40 minutes) but most people taxi there. The port’s location makes St. John’s one of the most walkable cruise ports you’ll visit, but comfortable shoes are essential due to hills and cobblestones.

Is one port day enough to see St. John’s properly?

Yes, if you prioritize. A typical 8-9 hour port day gives you enough time for Signal Hill, a downtown stroll including Jellybean Row, lunch at a local spot, and either The Rooms or Quidi Vidi. You could also fit in Cape Spear if you skip one of the other attractions and are efficient with time. You won’t see everything, but you’ll get a solid sense of the city’s character and history. If you tried to be thorough, you could easily spend 2-3 days exploring St. John’s and nearby areas, but one day hits the highlights adequately.

When is the best time to see whales and puffins?

Whales (primarily humpbacks, minkes, and occasionally orcas) are most reliably seen from mid-June through early September, with July and August being peak season. Puffins nest at colonies including Witless Bay Ecological Reserve from late May through early August, with mid-June to mid-July offering the most active viewing before chicks fledge. If wildlife is your priority, aim for cruise itineraries in July or early August. Weather still matters – rough seas cancel tours regardless of season.

Do I need to book shore excursions in advance or can I just walk off and explore?

St. John’s is perfect for independent exploration if you’re comfortable navigating on your own. The downtown core is easily walkable, taxis are readily available for Signal Hill or Cape Spear, and you don’t need advance bookings for most sights. Shore excursions make sense if you want whale watching (where boat capacity is limited), prefer guided commentary, or want the ship’s guarantee of returning on time. The port layout and walkable downtown mean independent passengers have a genuine advantage here compared to ports with distant or spread-out attractions.

What should I do if the weather is terrible?

St. John’s has contingency options for poor weather. The Rooms museum and art gallery keeps you indoors for 1-2 hours of culture and history. The Railway Coastal Museum is another indoor option. Water Street and Duckworth Street shops provide browsing and café-hopping opportunities. George Street pubs welcome you for lunch and local atmosphere. If it’s just drizzle rather than a storm, most people find that rain gear and layers are sufficient to enjoy Signal Hill and downtown walking – locals barely notice the drizzle, and you’ll likely have iconic views to yourself in the mist. If it’s truly foul with dangerous winds or heavy rain, consider it a good excuse to spend more time in pubs and restaurants sampling local food and drink.

Is St. John’s safe for solo cruise passengers or women traveling alone?

Yes. St. John’s has low crime rates and a friendly local culture. Solo travelers and women commonly explore independently without issues. Standard precautions apply – stay aware of your surroundings, avoid deserted areas after dark, and keep valuables secure – but you’re unlikely to encounter problems. The downtown core remains busy during cruise ship hours with plenty of other tourists and locals around. If you’re uncomfortable walking alone on steep residential streets, stick to main thoroughfares or travel with other passengers from your ship.

Are US dollars accepted in St. John’s?

Some businesses may accept US dollars as a courtesy, particularly those near the cruise port, but you’ll receive change in Canadian currency at exchange rates that favor the merchant. It’s not reliable or cost-effective to depend on spending US dollars. Better to pay by credit card (which converts at daily bank rates) or withdraw Canadian dollars from an ATM. If you only have US cash and need Canadian currency urgently, use an ATM rather than seeking a currency exchange booth – the fees and rates are typically better at ATMs despite the withdrawal charges.

Can I see icebergs from St. John’s?

Sometimes, usually from late April through early June during “iceberg season” when icebergs calved from Greenland glaciers drift south on the Labrador Current. By mid-June most have melted or drifted past. If your cruise visits in late May or early June and you’re lucky, you might see icebergs from Signal Hill or Cape Spear, or more reliably from a boat tour. By July and August, when most cruise ships visit, icebergs are rare to non-existent. Iceberg sightings are weather and current-dependent and never guaranteed, but when they appear the sight is memorable. Local tour operators track iceberg locations and can advise on current viewing opportunities.

If you’re interested in other fascinating ports of call, check out our guides to cruising for first-timers and our comprehensive cruise tips section for making the most of every port day.

Personal Experience

We pulled into St. John’s harbor on a foggy morning, and honestly, the rows of colorful jellybean houses climbing up the hillside made me forget all about the drizzle. The port is incredibly convenient – you’re basically within walking distance of downtown, which saved us from dealing with taxis right away. We headed straight for Signal Hill because everyone said the views were worth it, and they weren’t wrong. You can either hike up or grab a cab for about $15-20 each way. The Cabot Tower at the top gives you this sweeping view of the harbor and the Atlantic that’s pretty spectacular, even in the mist.

After working up an appetite, we wandered down Water Street and George Street, which are packed with local spots. We grabbed fish and cakes at a little place called Ches’s – simple, delicious, and exactly what you want in a fishing town. The locals we chatted with were incredibly friendly and kept telling us not to leave without trying Screech rum, which we sampled at a pub later. If you’ve got limited time, stick to the downtown core where everything’s clustered together. The colorful row houses on Jellybean Row make for perfect photos, and there’s something charming about how this city manages to feel both rugged and welcoming at the same time. Just bring a jacket, even in summer – the weather changes every twenty minutes.

Saint John’s Newfoundland Cruise Port Guide