Hey, everyone! It’s Donny Love here from St. John’s, Newfoundland and I’m back with another Adventures Unknown! I hopped on the ferry and headed to Bell Island. I’ve been here several times—an island just a short ferry ride from home that’s full of adventure, history and some of the best local food in Newfoundland. Spoiler alert: it didn’t let me down.
The mining history of Bell Island started as far back as 1578 when reports of iron ore were sent to England. Those early hints of the island’s potential wouldn’t be fully realized until centuries later but it was the start of Bell Island’s role in Newfoundland’s history. Fast forward to the late 1800s when the Whitney Company started mining. By 1895 the iron ore mines on Bell Island were operational and the industrial era had begun.
What made Bell Island’s mines special were their submarine extensions—tunnels that went under the Atlantic Ocean. This was made possible by advanced water-pumping systems that allowed the mines to operate in such extreme conditions. These underwater mines would become some of the largest and most important in the world.
One of the best ways to experience Bell Island’s history is by visiting the No. 2 Mine and the Bell Island Community Museum. As you step into the cool dark tunnels you can almost hear the footsteps of the miners and the clang of pickaxes. The guides here are amazing storytellers and paint a picture of what life was like for the men who spent their days underground.
The museum is full of artifacts—tools, photos and equipment that tell the story of Bell Island’s importance to Newfoundland’s economy. It’s not just a museum; it’s a window into a way of life that defined the community.
If you’re visiting you’ll need a car or taxi from the ferry terminal to the museum. It’s about a 10 minute drive and the scenic ride through the hills of the island is part of the charm. There is also parking at the museum for those who are driving themselves.
Imagine yourself as a miner in the early 1900s. You’re lacing up your heavy boots at dawn, ready for another day underground. The air is damp, cold and smells of iron ore. As you go down into the tunnels the oil lamp on your helmet flickers dimly, the only light in the miles of underground passages. It’s a job that demands everything from you and yet it’s the lifeblood of your community. The sound of pickaxes on stone echoes through the tunnels as you work alongside your brothers, knowing every creak of the wooden beams above could be disaster.
By the 20th century Bell Island’s mines were exporting millions of tons of iron ore every year, fueling industries across North America and Europe. During World War II the island’s output was crucial to the Allied war effort and it was a target for German U-boats. The mines closed in 1949 when it couldn’t compete with cheaper ore from elsewhere. Today they stand as a tribute to the grit and ingenuity of Newfoundlanders and it’s an emotional and educational experience to visit.
Bell Island’s history doesn’t stop with mining. During World War II this small island was a key part of the Allied war effort. In 1942 German U-boats attacked iron ore ships anchored near the island, sinking four and killing 69 men. Bell Island was one of the few places in North America to be targeted during the war.
Standing on the shore where this all happened I felt a deep connection to history. The shipwrecks of the SS Saganaga, SS Lord Strathcona, SS Rosecastle and PLM 27 lie on the ocean floor, silent sentinels of a tumultuous time. They’re more than just rusting hulls; they’re memorials to the men who gave their lives to keep Newfoundland’s iron ore flowing to the Allied cause.
For divers Bell Island is a once in a lifetime experience. Several local companies offer tours to the wrecks including Ocean Quest Adventures and Bell Island Dive Expeditions. These operators provide guides, equipment rentals and safety briefings so divers of all levels can dive the wrecks with confidence.
I descended into the cold, clear water of Conception Bay and was struck by the beauty of the wrecks. The SS Saganaga’s hull rose out of the depths covered in marine life. I swam through the ship’s remains and saw cargo holds and machinery frozen in time. The guides explained how the U-boat attacks happened and it added an emotional layer to the dive.
Even if you don’t dive Ocean Quest offers snorkeling tours where you can see the marine life around the wrecks. The water off Bell Island is full of cod, jellyfish and colourful coral that have turned these wartime relics into thriving ecosystems. Book ahead especially in the summer months when the water is busiest.
Back above water I got a message from Jason, a local salty dog and summer-time fisherman, to join him onboard his sailboat for a real Newfoundland cod fishing experience. The only catch was I have to brave the icey cold North Atlantic Ocean and swim out to Jason who was moored off Bell Island. After warming up a bit we set out into Conception Bay, and as the boat rocked and rolled on the waves Jason told me stories of growing up on Bell Island. I also love hearing Newfoundland stories from people who actually lived it. For generations cod fishing has been the backbone of Newfoundland’s economy and culture and as I cast my line into the bay I felt like I was going back in time and connecting with that heritage – my heritage.
After a good catch Jason invited me back to his ocean side retreat where we cooked up the day’s catch. There’s nothing like eating fresh cod straight from the Atlantic especially when it’s seasoned with Jason’s secret batter! With the salt in my hair and the waves crashing in the background it was one of those moments where life just feels good. Peaceful. When you feel like there is nowhere else you want to be and I was holding onto every moment like it was my last.
After getting off Jason’s sailboat it was time for a complete change of pace. Bell Island is famous for its trails and there’s no better way to experience them than on a dirt bike. Emily, a local dirt biking expert and all around cool tour guide, showed me some of the island’s best kept secrets.
The trails wind through the forest, up steep hills and along cliffs with views of the Atlantic. The adrenaline rush of riding this terrain is something I’ll never forget. Of course being Donny I had to try to show off and do a wheelie. Let’s just say I ended up on my back and covered in dirt. After a good laugh and a pit stop for a Big Mary (that’s Mary Brown’s famous chicken sandwich for those who don’t know) I was ready for more. Bell Island’s trails are a dirt biker’s paradise, natural beauty and high octane fun.
No trip is complete without trying the local food and Bell Island delivered. For something spectacular and authentic swing by Dicks’ Fish & Chips near the ferry terminal. Their fish and chips is legendary, crispy battered fish and perfect fries. Eating a plate while looking out at the harbour is the definition of satisfaction.
If you’re looking for something more traditional The Belle Island Café serves up Newfoundland classics like Jiggs Dinner and fish cakes. And for dessert don’t miss The Seaside Bakery. Their fresh bread and pastries are a local and visitor favourite. Pro tip: grab a few to go you won’t regret it.
Many people visit Bell Island as a day trip but I highly recommend staying overnight. The Bell Island B&B is a sweet spot with ocean views and breakfasts worth getting up for. If you love the outdoors camping is another great option. Pitch a tent near the cliffs and fall asleep to the sound of the waves.
Getting to Bell Island is part of the fun. From St. John’s it’s a 20 minute drive to Portugal Cove where the ferries run regularly across Conception Bay. The crossing takes about 15 minutes and has great views of the water and the island as you approach.
Once on the island there are plenty of tours to choose from:
If you don’t have a vehicle you can take a taxi from the ferry terminal to various points of interest including the No. 2 Mine and Bell Island Museum. Be sure to book your return trip in advance as taxis on the island may not always be available.
Bell Island isn’t just a place it’s a story—a story of resilience, adventure and community. From the gritty tales of miners to the haunting beauty of WWII wrecks this little island that’s just a stones throw off the coast has it all. Whether you’re dirt biking on the trails, diving into history (literally) or sharing a fresh cod dinner with new friends Bell Island will leave its mark on you.
After filming this episode of Adventures Unknown I spent a few extra days camping by the seaside cliffs watching the sunsets paint the sky with colours only Newfoundland can do. This island may be small but its stories are big. Bell Island’s roots are my roots and I couldn’t be prouder to share its magic with you.
So what are you waiting for? Get a ferry ticket and come experience it all for yourself. Until next time stay curious, stay adventurous and keep exploring the unknown. 🙋♂️⛵🌊
The End
Title: Bell Island: Dirt Biking, Mining History and Fresh Cod!
Description: Donny Love on Bell Island dirt biking, mining history and cod fishing. WWII U-boat attacks and fresh fish feasts. Coastal trails and local eats that make Bell Island a must see!
Tags: Bell Island, Newfoundland, dirt biking, iron ore mines, WWII history, cod fishing, travel vlog, Adventures Unknown, Donny Love, local food, outdoor adventure, wreck diving.
Split image: Donny on dirt bike and Donny with cod. Text: Bell Island Adventure: History & Thrills! 🌊🏴♂️
