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We are often tempted to travel to the other side of the world in search of grand spectacles, when some of the most beautiful experiences can be enjoyed just a few hours from home!
Did you know that the Côte-Nord is one of the best places to go whale watching in the world? Tourists come from all over to discover this magical landscape and its marine giants. There are more than a dozen species of whales in Quebec, and taking an excursion is the best way to observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
The region is home to the St. Lawrence Estuary and the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park, which are teeming with plankton and small fish that attract:
Great whales pursue their prey in the rich, deep waters of the Laurentian Channel, which runs along much of the coast. Cold waters from the depths of the Laurentian Channel are brought to the surface by the underwater relief, pushing plankton and fish by the thousands, thus attracting large marine mammals close to humans.
The 13 species of whales that frequent the waters of the St. Lawrence are mainly present from August to October, but they can also be observed starting in May. For maximum viewing of animals, plan a stay between July and the end of September.
Cruise operators offering whale watching departures typically offer two options: a boat or a zodiac. Each trip lasts between 2 to 3 hours. The choice is yours and depends entirely on your preference and your seaworthiness! Note, however, that some companies do not allow young children on a zodiac. For families, the boat is therefore the safest option.
Boats are more stable, offer protection from rain, and have restrooms. The guide’s commentary is also more easily audible.
In a zodiac, the experience is enhanced since you are almost at water level, you have a good view from everywhere, and you move faster to go see the whales.
It is also possible to observe certain whale species such as belugas and minke whales without taking a boat, simply by sitting on the shore.
The best places to see these marine animals in Tadoussac are:
Tip: book your hotel early! Accommodations in Tadoussac and the surrounding area sell out very quickly (at the time of writing in April, there is nothing left in Tadoussac for mid-August; options are still available a few minutes’ drive away).
The Tourisme Côte-Nord website lists the accommodations offered throughout the region. Cabins, domes, cottages, yurts, hotels, inns, camping… there is no shortage of choices.
Several options are available to you, and prices vary considerably from one company to another, depending on the departure point and the company’s reputation. Here are the three most popular options, according to our research. Note that some offer a whale guarantee, meaning you will be reimbursed if you do not see any marine mammals!
Croisières AML – departs from Baie-Ste-Catherine or Tadoussac
Price: $100 per adult/$85 per child (+ taxes)
Essipit Cruises – departs from Bergeronnes Marina
Price: $62 per adult/$42 per child (+ taxes)
Escoumins cruise – departs from the Escoumins wharf
Price: $59 per adult/$39 per child (+ taxes)
You’ll be able to apply your rewards points to your credit card statement if you (and your wallet!) are so inclined to reimburse expenses.
For this trip to the Côte-Nord, certain credit cards can help you reduce your gas bill, and why not use gift cards!
For example, with the American Express Cobalt® Card, you can earn 5 points for grocery purchases and 2 points at gas stations. You can therefore buy Esso or Petro-Canada gift cards and use them to pay for a full tank of gas.
The same applies to the Scotia Momentum® Visa Infinite +* Card.
Finally, combine the gas station’s loyalty program with your credit card. For example, CIBC offers discounts on gasoline at Ultramar with its Journie program.
With its grandiose landscapes, its dozen species of cetaceans, its immense marine park, and its experienced cruise operators, the St. Lawrence River is the ideal destination for an unforgettable experience: an encounter with the giants of the sea. No need to go to the other side of the world when you have such a spectacle in our own backyard!
Savings this way:
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