Iceberg Viewing in St. John's: Where and When to See These Natural Wonders

Every spring and early summer, massive icebergs drift past Newfoundland, offering a breathtaking natural spectacle. 

If we're lucky, they may even float right by St. John's. Though not guaranteed, the years they do make a visit, they're spectacular. 

Whether you're a visitor or a local, witnessing these towering ice formations is an experience you won’t forget. But where can you see icebergs in St. John’s, and why are they so special? 

Here’s everything you need to know about iceberg viewing in St. John's.

What Are Icebergs and Where Do They Come From?

Icebergs aren’t just frozen chunks of seawater - they’re ancient pieces of glaciers that have broken off and drifted south. Most of the icebergs that pass Newfoundland originate from the glaciers of western Greenland, with a smaller number coming from Canada’s Arctic.

These glaciers, formed over thousands of years, are made of compacted snow that gradually turned into dense ice. As the glaciers inch toward the sea, pieces break off in a process called calving. These freshly calved icebergs then embark on a long journey, carried south by the frigid Labrador Current.

The Labrador Current transports icebergs along what’s known as Iceberg Alley, a stretch of ocean that runs from Greenland down the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador. Depending on their size and the conditions of their journey, icebergs can drift for months before reaching the waters off St. John’s.

Why Are Icebergs So Fascinating?

Icebergs are more than just a beautiful sight - they’re a glimpse into Earth’s ancient past. Many of these icebergs are over 10,000 years old, meaning the ice you see floating by today formed long before human civilization as we know it.

Their shapes and sizes are equally captivating. Some icebergs are small and compact, while others stretch for hundreds of metres, towering above the ocean. They come in various forms:

• Tabular Icebergs - Large, flat, and resembling floating plateaus.

• Pinnacle Icebergs - Characterized by dramatic spires and peaks.

• Dome Icebergs - Rounded and smooth, often resembling snow-capped hills.

The colours of icebergs can be just as mesmerizing. While most appear white, some exhibit brilliant shades of blue, caused by the way dense ice absorbs and scatters light. Occasionally, icebergs carry streaks of sediment from their journey, revealing clues about the landscapes they’ve passed through.

Icebergs and the Titanic: A Historic Connection

One of the most famous icebergs in history was the one that sank the RMS Titanic in 1912. That iceberg likely originated from the same Arctic glaciers that send icebergs past St. John’s today. As you stand along the shoreline watching these icy behemoths, it’s hard not to think about the tragic history tied to these waters.

The Titanic struck an iceberg roughly 600 km south of Newfoundland, and the icy North Atlantic became the final resting place for more than 1,500 passengers and crew. The waters off Newfoundland hold a somber connection to that night, making iceberg viewing here both awe-inspiring and deeply reflective.

When to See Icebergs in St. John’s

The best time for iceberg viewing in St. John’s is from April to June, though this can vary depending on ice conditions each year. Icebergs typically start arriving in late spring and continue drifting south as temperatures rise. By mid-summer, most have melted or moved too far offshore to be visible from land.

Best Places to See Icebergs in St. John's

You might not need to venture too far from the city to see icebergs! Here are some of the best spots in and around St. John’s to catch a glimpse of these icy giants:

1. Signal Hill

Signal Hill offers one of the best vantage points in the city. Climb to Cabot Tower, and you’ll get panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean and The Narrows - the entrance to St. John’s Harbour. On clear days, icebergs can often be spotted floating in the distance.

2. Cape Spear

As the easternmost point in North America, Cape Spear is an excellent spot for iceberg watching. The high cliffs provide an unobstructed view of the ocean, and the location’s historical significance, with the Cape Spear Lighthouse, makes it a must-visit.

3. The Battery & Outer Battery

The colourful houses of The Battery make for a charming backdrop as you scan the waters for icebergs. This area, located near the entrance to St. John’s Harbour, often provides up-close iceberg sightings when conditions are right.

4. Quidi Vidi Village

This historic fishing village, just a short drive from downtown St. John’s, is another scenic spot to look for icebergs. If you’re lucky, you might see an iceberg floating just beyond the rugged coastline.

5. Middle Cove Beach

While technically just outside St. John’s, Middle Cove Beach is a popular viewing spot, especially for those looking for a more peaceful setting. Bring a warm drink, sit on the rocks, and watch as icebergs drift past the horizon.

How to Get Even Closer to Icebergs

For those who want a closer look, consider booking a boat tour. Several local tour operators offer iceberg tours from St. John’s Harbour, taking you out to sea where you can see these icy wonders up close. These tours often include whale watching and puffin sightings as well, making for an unforgettable adventure.

Years ago, I took an Iceberg Quest tour just past The Narrows and fulfilled my dream of seeing one of those giants up close.

Iceberg Viewing Tips

• Check IcebergFinder.com - This website provides real-time iceberg tracking and can help you find the best spots to see them.
• Dress Warmly - Even in spring, the ocean breeze can be chilly, so layers are essential. Believe it or not, that picture was taken in June! The bergs ARE ice after all.
• Bring Binoculars - Some icebergs stay further offshore, so binoculars can enhance your experience.
• Be Patient - Iceberg sightings can be unpredictable, that's half the fun; when they can be viewed from the city, it's an EVENT.
• Safety First - If venturing close to shorelines or cliffs for a better view, exercise caution and be aware of your surroundings, and NEVER attempt to jump or walk on the smaller ice pans that come close to the shores. 

Experience Icebergs in St. John’s

Iceberg viewing in St. John’s is a one-of-a-kind experience, connecting you to history, nature, and the sheer power of the North Atlantic. Whether you're admiring them from Signal Hill, Cape Spear, or out on the water, these floating ice giants are a reminder of the ever-changing beauty of our planet.

So, if you find yourself in St. John’s during iceberg season, take the time to witness this natural wonder. You never know - you might just see a piece of history drifting by.