Western Brook Pond — Local services in Island of Newfoundland

Visiting Western Brook Pond was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience for our family. I went with my wife, our 1+ year-old daughter, and close family friends (with their kids aged 6 and 4). It was a day we’ll always treasure because of the breathtaking views and the joy of exploring nature together.

Instead of walking the 3 km trail to the dock, we chose the shuttle service, which was very convenient and family-friendly, especially with young kids. From there, we boarded the 2-hour boat tour operated by BonTours. On our trip, we had the pleasure of meeting Jamie, Brad, and Christopher — the team onboard who made the experience exceptional. A special mention goes to Jamie, whose live commentary was superb; he explained the geology, history, and natural beauty of the fjord while patiently answering every question from curious visitors.

The tour itself is absolutely mesmerizing. You float between massive billion-year-old cliffs of the Long Range Mountains, carved out by glaciers thousands of years ago. From above, waterfalls cascade nearly 2000 feet from hidden ponds on the plateau, tumbling into Gros Morne’s largest lake. The scale of the gorge is almost overwhelming — a dramatic reminder of how powerful glaciers once shaped this land.

Western Brook Pond is not just a natural wonder, but also a geological treasure. Its diverse rock formations have helped scientists better understand plate tectonics, showing how ancient oceans closed and mountains were formed. It’s no surprise this area has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1987.

For families, this is an unforgettable adventure — safe, manageable, and awe-inspiring. Our kids loved the boat ride, and the adults were completely captivated by the scenery.

A must-do when visiting Newfoundland. The combination of stunning landscapes, knowledgeable guides, and the serenity of being surrounded by billion-year-old cliffs makes Western Brook Pond an experience you’ll remember forever. Highly recommended for families, nature lovers, and anyone seeking to witness the true power and beauty...

Absolutely fantastic trip and tour! Three of us (one youth under 17) visited and the scenery is fantastic. The tour guides were some of the best that we have ever come across... Knowledgeable, friendly, and making sure that everyone was ok, and was able to fully see and partake in the views. The commentary from the guides was just enough, factual, informative, respectful, just enough, and not trying to play up the 'folksy Newfoundland' too much as some tours do lots of (and which, being from here, can be sometimes grating as playing on older stereotypes). All in all, very highly recommended and well work the cost of the tour (in fact, I would consider it to be a steal at the price!). There is a walk of about 30 - 40 minutes into the dock where you collect tickets (NOT at the parking lot). The dock has a small gift store, and a place where snacks (including hot dogs etc) can be purchased. The food is overpriced, but captive audience. The walk is about 3km, but the trail is well developed, easy walking with lots of rest spots if anyone needs it. Hiking boots are not required, but sneakers would...

Beautiful venue and the fjord is amazing. There is a 3 km walk in from the highway parking lot and it’s an easy walk but a bit dull and a gravel road rather than a scenic hike and be prepared for crazy wind. People line up an hour before boarding time presumably to get the top of the boat. We did not do that but did get an outside seat at the back of the boat which was fine but then be prepared to be hit by waves coming up over the floor and around your feet. The speaker system needs a sound warning just before the guide speaks so others hopefully quiet and listen. The boat Was so packed full that it was very hard to hear the guide. The information shared was great when I heard it. The wind over the water was super strong. In the fjord was lovely. The price was appropriate and the boat house does have washrooms and a bit of a shop for food...