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Woody Point CanadaCruise Port Guide

Upcoming cruises to Woody Point

Woody Point is a small village of approximately 300 residents situated on the south shore of Bonne Bay, a deep glacially carved fjord that is one of the defining natural features of western Newfoundland. The village serves as the eastern gateway to Gros Morne National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its extraordinary geological and ecological significance.

Gros Morne National Park protects a landscape of startling variety: fjords, coastal lowlands, boreal forest, alpine tundra, and the extraordinary Tablelands. The Tablelands are perhaps the park's most scientifically remarkable feature — a barren, ochre-colored massif of peridotite rock (mantle rock normally found deep within the Earth) thrust to the surface through tectonic collision. Walking on the Tablelands is, literally, walking on the Earth's mantle; the rock inhibits plant growth, creating a landscape reminiscent of the surface of Mars.

Western Brook Pond, about 30 km north of Woody Point, is a landlocked fjord — a deep freshwater gorge whose walls rise 600 meters on either side and are streaked with waterfalls. Boat tours through the narrow canyon are among Newfoundland's most memorable experiences.

Bonne Bay itself divides into two arms — the South Arm (where Woody Point sits) and the East Arm (where Glenburnie-Birchy Head-Shoal Brook is located). The Lookout Hills behind Woody Point offer a hiking trail to a high ridgeline with panoramic views across both arms of the bay and the surrounding park.

The village of Woody Point hosts an annual Writers at Woody Point literary festival each August, bringing authors, musicians, and artists to this remote community in a celebrated celebration of creative culture.

Getting Around from the Port

Ships anchor in Bonne Bay and tender passengers to the Woody Point government wharf. The village is compact and walkable. Organized shuttle buses meet tenders for transfer to the Tablelands trailhead (10 min), the Discovery Centre (5 min), and Western Brook Pond (45 min). Rental cars are available in Deer Lake (about 50 km east), accessible by shuttle. Private guides and tour companies in the park offer half-day and full-day programs covering the major park features.

Attractions and Activities

  • Tablelands Walk: An easy, flat 4-km round-trip trail across the eerie ochre surface of 500-million-year-old mantle rock — one of the world's best accessible examples of ophiolite geology.
  • Western Brook Pond Boat Tour: A 3-km walk through coastal forest leads to the embarkation point for boat tours through a landlocked fjord with 600-meter walls and plunging waterfalls.
  • Lookout Hills Hiking Trail: A moderate 7-km hike behind Woody Point rising to panoramic views of Bonne Bay and Gros Morne mountain.
  • Gros Morne Mountain Hike: The strenuous summit hike to the flat-topped peak of Gros Morne (806 m) rewards with extraordinary views across the park and Gulf of St. Lawrence (allow 8 hours).
  • Bonne Bay Marine Station: A Dalhousie University research facility at Norris Point offering tours and exhibits on the unique cold-water ecosystem of Bonne Bay.

Dining & Shopping

Woody Point has a few small restaurants and a seasonal café serving fresh Newfoundland seafood, including cod, crab, and lobster. The Black Moose Inn and Seaside Restaurant are local favorites. The Gros Morne Discovery Centre in Woody Point has a gift shop with books, maps, and local crafts. Norris Point (across the bay, accessible by water taxi) has additional dining options. The Writers at Woody Point festival (August) hosts food and craft vendors.

Weather

Woody Point in Gros Morne National Park has a cruise season from June to September in western Newfoundland, with cool maritime temperatures between 55–72°F (13–22°C). Atlantic weather is changeable, with fog and rain possible at any time alongside the dramatic fjord and Tablelands scenery; layers and a waterproof jacket are essential. The extraordinary geological landscape of Gros Morne is a UNESCO World Heritage Site best explored with sturdy walking shoes and weather-ready layers.

Average Temperature (°F)
377Jan372Feb376Mar4518Apr5729May6536Jun7147Jul7250Aug6941Sep5933Oct5322Nov4414Dec
Average Precipitation (in)
5.44Jan5.19Feb4.07Mar3.37Apr3.6May4.21Jun4.18Jul4.1Aug4.84Sep5.18Oct5.47Nov5.06Dec

Safety

Gros Morne is a wild environment. Weather changes rapidly — bring waterproof layers for hiking even in summer. The Tablelands trail is exposed and can be windy. Western Brook Pond boat tours cancel in high winds. Wildlife includes moose, caribou, and black bears; observe all park wildlife safely from a distance.

Currency and Language

Canadian Dollar (CAD) is the currency. Credit cards are accepted at most businesses in the park area, but cash is useful for smaller vendors and tips. ATMs are available in Deer Lake and Corner Brook.

Top Attractions

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Gros Morne National Park
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Gros Morne National Park offers breathtaking landscapes of fjords, mountains, and unique geological formations like the Tablelands. Visitors can enjoy hiking, boat tours, wildlife viewing, and exploring diverse ecosystems.
Bonne Bay
This stunning deepwater fjord, surrounded by dramatic mountains, is perfect for scenic boat tours, kayaking, and paddleboarding. Its calm waters and picturesque shores offer incredible opportunities for photography and enjoying the natural beauty of Gros Morne.
Woody Point Lighthouse
Perched on a scenic point overlooking Bonne Bay, the Woody Point Lighthouse is a historic landmark offering panoramic views of the water and surrounding mountains. It's an ideal spot for photography and enjoying the tranquil coastal atmosphere.
Woody Point Heritage Theatre
Housed in a beautifully restored historic building, the Woody Point Heritage Theatre is a vibrant cultural venue. It hosts a variety of live performances, including music concerts, plays, and storytelling events, especially during the summer festival season.
Jenniex House
This charming historic home provides a glimpse into the lives of early settlers in Woody Point. Preserved with period furnishings and local artifacts, Jenniex House offers an intimate look at the community's rich heritage and traditions.
Gros Morne Discovery Centre
An interpretive center providing insights into the geology, ecology, and cultural history of Gros Morne National Park through interactive exhibits. Enjoy stunning views of Bonne Bay and the Tablelands from its location.