Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How safe is the tour?
A: Attention to safety is not an after thought – it has always been one of Gatherall’s principal concerns. In addition to the standards and requirements set forth by the Canadian Department of Transport, Gatherall’s has in place many protocols and policies ensuring that your safety is our foremost priority. Gatherall’s has been at the forefront with respect to the call for more stringent standards and insurance requirements. Our brand new vessel is designed and equipped in accordance with the latest and most thorough safety standards for life saving, fire fighting, damage survivability, etc.

Q: If we reserve, is the trip be guaranteed to go?
A: Gatherall’s is family owned and operated and one of our family is always present to see that your trip runs smoothly. We employ ample staff to ensure that we can fulfill all of our obligations. Our equipment renewal program ensures that we operate the newest vessels – Gatherall’s has yet to operate a single vessel for a period longer than five years in an industry where most vessels are more than a decade old. Our new vessel is equipped with twin independent systems so as to ensure that the likelihood of a disruption in service is minimal. Gatherall's sails rain or shine.

Q: How long is the trip?
A: Our new catamaran vessel allows us to greatly reduce travel time to and from the Ecological Reserve so that you spend more time with the birds and whales and less time in transit. By reducing travel time, we have been able to trim our tour length to 90 minutes - leaving more time to take in other sites and attractions. Our convenient schedule (up to 7 daily departures) allows you to select a departure that suits your itinerary. However, for those groups who would like to spend a little more time on the water, our evening departures have the option of running a bit longer.

Q: Where does the tour leave from?
A: Gatherall's operates out of Bay Bulls. A trip to the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve with Gatherall’s is only 25 minutes from the major hotels in St. John’s.

Q: Is this the best tour to see the birds & whales
A: The of the quality of the program offered by Gatherall’s and the uniqueness of the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve is a combination rarely matched and one which should be a part of every Newfoundland visit.