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IMCC4 Field Trips

Field trips offered in conjunction with the 4th International Marine Conservation Congress will take place before and after the conference, unless otherwise noted. Delegates can register for field trips using the online registration system. Registration information can be found on the Meeting Registration page.

The IMCC4 organizers offer you a range of field trips (described below). Field trips may be subject to some changes (hours, organization, contents, etc.). Registered participants will be informed in due time.

Some field trips may be cancelled, especially due to weather, if the number of registrants is not sufficient, or for any other reason beyond our control. Registered participants will be invited to join another visit, if possible, or will be reimbursed.

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Field Trips

Puffin- and Whale-Watching Cruise with Gatherall's

Field trip operator: Gatherall's Puffin & Whale Watch

  • Times offered: July 28 10:45am-3pm (includes travel time); August 5 7:30am-11:45am (includes travel time)
  • Field trip fee: $60 USD
  • Pick-up and drop-off at: The Delta and the Memorial University dorms

Depending on the season, the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve offers an unparalleled opportunity to observe puffins & whales in their natural environment. Amongst the 2.5 million seabirds that nest on the islands of the Witless Bay Ecological Reserve, the islands are home to over 500,000 Atlantic Puffins –- no wonder it's the best place to see them. The waters around Bay Bulls and the Reserve is a favourite feeding area for the annual migration of the Humpback Whales that make their way to the waters of Newfoundland each summer. The whales have chosen this area because of the abundance of food in the nearby waters – one of the many reasons that this makes this the absolute best place to take your tour.

The peak of the whale season here runs from mid-June through to mid-August. The Reserve is located at the end of Iceberg Alley. Our coastal scenery is beautiful year round and is a treat in and of itself. Our cruise offers an incredible opportunity to experience wondrous seascapes, mighty cliff faces & pounding surf. Of course it would be great if you could see everything in a single trip, but you must remember that there are times of the season are better than others and as with any wildlife tour, sightings are not guaranteed.

Each cruise is narrated by Gatherall's experienced professional crew. Their commentary is a lively and engaging mix of information about the natural and cultural heritage of our area. Theircrew are only too happy to answer your questions or repeat information in case you didn't hear it the first time round. Their guides & crew are equipped with wireless microphones so that they can mix with all passengers throughout the tour -- they try to meet each and every guest at some point throughout the cruise.

Celebrate the Protected Fishing Area of Petty Harbour-Maddox Cove

This field trip has been cancelled by the operator on both July 29 and August 4. If you registered for this trip but have not received an email regarding it, please email Mary Lou Scarbrough for a refund. There are still spots left in the pre-conference workshops and focus groups on July 29 and OceansOnline on August 4. The fee schedule for OceansOnline can be found here.

Experience the Fog Forest of Maddox Cove    

This field trip has been cancelled by the operator on both July 29 and August 4. If you registered for this trip but have not received an email regarding it, please email Mary Lou Scarbrough for a refund. There are still spots left in the pre-conference workshops and focus groups on July 29 and OceansOnline on August 4. The fee schedule for OceansOnline can be found here.

Haunted Hike Walking Tours of St. John's

Field trip operator: The St. John's Haunted Hike

  • Times offered: July 29 9:30-10:45pm (approximately)
  • Field trip fee: $10 USD
  • Pick-up and drop-off (on foot) at: The Delta

Welcome, traveller, to St. John’s, the City of Legends, and North America’s oldest city. Perched on the sides of the hills surrounding St. John’s harbour, and often wreathed in the misty fog that drifts in off the North Atlantic, St. John’s is steeped in history… and the paranormal… Dark alleys and laneways wind through the heart of the historic downtown area, and in the shadows lurk the shades of yesteryear.

Walking through the town, one is surrounded by the memories of public hangings, duels, and horrific murders, passing over forgotten cemeteries and unmarked graves, past buildings known to be visited by those who have passed over to the other side… Vengeful lovers, murdered soldiers, and mysterious fires await those who are brave enough to explore the secrets that lie in wait in St. John’s darkest corners.

Newfoundland weather can be hard to predict, but the tour will go ahead regardless of clear skies, drizzle, cold, and especially fog! Dress appropriately, wear comfortable walking shoes, and come with a willingness to believe. The stories you will hear, no matter how horrific, are all true… Please remember to keep St. John’s clean! Leave any trash in appropriate litter bins.

The July 28 and August 4 trips have been cancelled due to low registration. If you registered for one of those dates, you will be contacted with the option to participate in the July 29 trip or to receive a refund.

Take a Break and Enjoy Nature: Fort Amherst Hike for Students

This trip has been cancelled. Delegates who purchased a ticket will be refunded. If you have not received an email concerning a refund for your ticket to this event, please email Mary Lou Scarbrough.