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To see and doGreat OutdoorsMarine mammals
Whale-watching, Manicouagan (Côte-Nord), © TQ/B.Cecile

Marine mammals

Québec is one of the few places on the planet where such a wide variety of cetaceans, a total of 13 species, can be seen. They are drawn to this area due to the St. Lawrence River’s depth and abundant food reserves

The world’s most imposing animal, the blue whale, regularly swim its waters, as do fin, minke and humpback whales. Besides these sea giants, one might catch a glimpse of harbour porpoises, dolphins and even belugas, small endangered white whales that stay in the St. Lawrence year-round.

Other marine mammals, such as seals, can frequently be spotted throughout the St. Lawrence Estuary and Gulf.

A wide variety of companies offer whale-watching cruises on small, medium and large boats, and thrill-seekers can even hop in a kayak to go looking for whales. A truly unique experience!

Several land sites are also ideal for whale watching, such as the Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre in Les Bergeronnes, the Marine Environment Discovery Centre in Les Escoumins, and Pointe de l’Islet in Tadoussac. The Whale Route, a panoramic road circuit featuring blue traffic signs, enables visitors to discover various land observation sites, as well as cruise and kayak rental companies. 

Directory of whale-watching cruise companies

Directory of adventure and outdoor tourism offering whale-watching expeditions

 

Whale-watching, Manicouagan (Côte-Nord), © TQ/B.Cecile
Baleine, Manicouagan (Côte-Nord), © TQ/M.Loiselle
Bélugas, Fleuve Saint-Laurent © TQ/Gremm
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Whale-watching kayaking tours are unique experiences enabling adventurers to be in perfect harmony with the St. Lawrence River’s salty breeze and marine wildlife. Enjoy a larger-than-life experience right here in Québec!

Along with a seasoned guide, you’ll glide across the water and get close to such species as the humpback, fin and mink whales, as well as a few belugas, harbour porpoises or white-sided dolphins. Thanks to the marine wildlife inhabiting the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park and Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay, you have the unique opportunity to ride the waves among some of these sea giants!

The Bergeronnes region is one of the best places for this type of whale-watching activity. Also, the rocky bluffs along the river are dotted with several camping platforms, where you’ll get a front-row seat with spectacular views of the water and whales! There’s really nothing better than unwinding to the sounds of these mighty creatures’ breathing!

The Baie-de-Tadoussac region is also a perfect spot to observe belugas and mink whales. While kayaking on the nearby rivière Saguenay, you might even catch a glimpse of a few smiling belugas!

Further north, whales can also be found where the St. Lawrence River meets the Gaspé Peninsula’s majestic rocky coast. Various companies and Forillon National Park offer whale-watching kayaking tours, as well as the opportunity to stay at a campsite or cottage. Moreover, you’re likely to meet a few curious seals during your sea expedition!

• Stay at least 400 metres from belugas and blue whales.

• Never come within 200 metres of all other whales. 

Directory of whale-watching cruise companies

Directory of adventure tourism and outdoor companies offering whale-watching tours

© TQ/B.Cecile
© TQ/M.Loiselle
© TQ/B.Cecile