Red Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador

Red Bay, Newfoundland and Labrador stands apart from typical cruise ports with its living tapestry of Basque whaling history and pristine Labrador coastline. This small, intimate destination welcomes visitors with a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Red Bay Basque Whaling Station, where archaeologists and interpreters bring centuries of sea lore to life through hands on exhibits and guided shoreline walks. Signature experiences include shore excursions by zodiac along rugged fjordlike coastlines to spot seals, porpoises, puffins, and migrating seabirds, a visit to the Red Bay National Historic Site museum, and immersive conversations with local experts about Basque maritime heritage. Destinations around Red Bay offer a taste of remote Labrador life, from sheltered bays where iceberg-dusted waters glow at sunset to nearby historic fishing outposts and trails that reveal panoramic coastal vistas. Fleet features suited to this port emphasize expedition style and shallow draft capabilities, with small to mid sized ships designed for intimate shore landings, flexible itineraries, and easy access to narrow coves. Onboard services showcase a calm, engaging tone with expert naturalists and archaeologists onboard or on call, educational lectures, locally inspired cuisine focused on Arctic and Atlantic specialties, wellness offerings, and enrichment programs that connect guests to the region’s climate, wildlife, and cultural heritage. This unique blend of UNESCO history, wildlife rich cruising grounds, and the ability to reach otherwise off the beaten path shores makes Red Bay a standout stop that redefines what a remote port experience can be.