Bodies of water are frequent metaphors in poetry due to their unfathomable depths, unknowable sprawl, and unattainable porpoises. Set sail into the enigma with this Groupon.

Choose Between Two Options

• $62 for a two-hour whale- and bird-watching cruise for two (up to a $124.18 value)
$112 for a two-hour whale- and bird-watching cruise for four (up to a $248. 36 value)

As captains guide tours, guests snap photos of icebergs, puffins, whales, or dolphins they might spot in the water or on shorelines. Each boat is outfitted with an enclosed heated cabin, a canteen, a bar, and washrooms. Tours depart at 9:30 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. daily during July and August. September tours may be available as needed.

O Brien’s Whale and Bird Tours

In 1985, brothers Joe and Loyola O’Brien saw the impending end of the fishery they worked at fast approaching. The water had been their passion and lifeblood for many years, and they weren’t ready to give up. Instead of hanging their heads and turning in their sea legs, they found a new way to court this fickle mistress. They repurposed their knowledge of Newfoundland’s natural wonders and continued their life on the high seas guiding boat tours of the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve.

Today, a band of knowledgeable guides carries on their efforts, delighting sightseers with guided bird- and whale-watching tours. They elucidate facts and salty stories as guests soak in unobstructed views of waterfalls, sea caves, and icebergs from the decks of their small fleet. As their ships sail past island shores populated by frolicking puffins, guests keep their eyes peeled for massive humpback whales, orcas, and dolphins that may sidle up to ask for directions.