With up to 13 species of marine mammals, whale observation cruises by zodiac or by boat, breathtaking scenery, varied accommodations, charming cities and villages, delicious cuisine, unique local culture, and various discovery and exploration packages, this region is where you’ll enjoy the best whale experience in the world.

The world’s best whale experience

Photo credit: Marc Loiselle

Indeed, there’s the vast, protected marine area where saltwater and freshwater merge to provide abundant food for up to 13 species of marine mammals. And yet, there are so many other attractive features that make this region of the St. Lawrence River the one destination where you can enjoy the best whale experience in the world: adventurous whale observation aboard a zodiac (or a more comfortable setting on a boat); stunning backdrops where sea and mountains meet; numerous discoveries and explorations in a region that is unique both in its nature and its culture; warm and welcoming people; varied accommodations; and, of course, an encounter with these majestic, unforgettable giants of the sea.

Plan your whale-watching trip 

Photo credit: Sébastien Saint-Jean

There are several opportunities for anyone wishing to visit and stay in the Québec region where they can enjoy the world's best whale experience. Spend a few days in Montréal, a festive and multicultural metropolis, before heading to historic Québec City. Then, get yourself a whale-watching cruise and accommodation package in the beautiful regions of Charlevoix and Côte-Nord. And why not take a ferry across the St. Lawrence to Matane, in Gaspésie, from Baie-Comeau, in Côte-Nord, and then follow this same river towards Bas-Saint-Laurent or tour the Gaspésie and discover its vast peninsula? Whatever option you prefer, one thing is certain: you will enjoy a whale experience like you never could have imagined. Plan your stay!             

See the whales and the Côte-Nord region

Photo credit: Monique Bellemare

The Côte-Nord region epitomizes the definition of a memorable whale experience. The stunning, wild landscape borders a vast protected marine area where up to 13 species of marine mammals, attracted by an abundant food supply, make frequent appearances on the water's surface - much to the delight of thousands of visitors each year, who spot them from the shore or a boat. Add to that a variety of excursions, activities, accommodations and more, and get ready to discover a region where "spectacular" defines the whales, the scenery and, above all, the experience.

Seeing whales and discovering Charlevoix 

Heading to Charlevoix for a whale-watching experience means immersing yourself in an inspiring region where the green of the valleys merges with the blue of the river to offer unforgettable views. You'll be charmed by a succession of attractive villages, delicious local cuisine, a warm culture, cozy accommodations, and activities for all tastes. Here, marine mammals abound, and they can be easily observed from the shore, especially at the mouth of the Saguenay River. All of this combines to offer visitors the best whale experience in the world! 

Seeing whales on the water 

Photo credit: Marc Loiselle

Picture yourself aboard a comfortable Croisières AML cruise ship or a zodiac offering exceptional views of the vast marine park, where you can observe up to 13 species of marine mammals in a protected natural environment, and where companies are accredited by Aventure Écotourisme Québec and art part of Eco-Whale Alliance which advocates for responsible observation. Safely embark on a zodiac boat, which offers an incredible sensation of closeness to the whales. And finally, add to it all a relaxing stay in a variety of accommodations according to your preferences, thanks to Vacances Essipit. Here, you will find all you need for an unforgettable whale experience! 

Eco-friendly itineraries 

Photo credit: Catherine Dubé

Various eco-friendly itineraries are available for those wishing to explore the regions of Québec where you can enjoy the best whale experience in the world. Each step of the various tours is carried out with great care to respect the environment, a responsible approach that extends to the vast marine park, home to 13 species of marine mammals and where companies adopt rigorous practices accredited by Aventure Écotourisme Québec and are part of Eco-Whale Alliance which advocates for responsible observation. Come and experience a responsible journey that promotes lasting memories. 

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Photo credit: TQ - Jean-François Hamelin