Whales of Quebec : Best Times to Visit & What You Might See
Quebec’s Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park is one of the best places in the world for whale watching, thanks to the rich waters of the St. Lawrence River. Whether you're kayaking, watching from a boat, or looking to spot the whales from shore - you have a chance to see a variety of whale species throughout the year. Here's a look at the whales you might encounter and the best times to spot them.
Responsible Whale Watching
Whale watching is an incredible experience that comes with responsibility. Prior to seeking out an experience with these majestic creatures, it’s important to understand how to observe them in a way that protects their well-being and the ecosystems they call home. Quebec is home to rare and endangered species, including the blue whale. Any interaction with wildlife should be approached with care and respect to avoid disrupting their behavior or environment.
Always maintain a safe distance from the whales. Approaching too closely by kayak or boat can disrupt their natural behavior and even violate local regulations. Using binoculars or zoom lenses is always recommended to observe from a respectful distance.
If you’re booking a guided tour, it’s important to choose an operator that follows local guidelines. Supporting eco-conscious companies not only provides a respectful experience but also encourages tourism that prioritizes conservation. Look for businesses that are committed to sustainability and ethical wildlife practices. Keep in mind that even on a guided tour, whale encounters are never guaranteed. Every encounter you have with these majestic creatures is truly an honor.
Let the whales take the lead. If you are approached while in a boat or kayak, it is recommended to stay still and observe quietly. Chasing after or trying to separate whales should always be avoided. Responsible whale watching not only protects the whales, but it also allows for a more meaningful encounter while you visit them in their home.
Beluga Whales
Best Months to See Them: May to October, but visible year-round
Beluga whales are a highlight of Quebec’s waters. Unlike other whales that migrate seasonally, resident belugas can be seen year-round, though they are most commonly spotted from May to October.
These small, white whales are known for their social behavior and high-pitched vocalizations, earning them the nickname "sea canaries." They’re also incredibly expressive. Belugas have the ability to move their heads in a similar way to humans, thanks to their unfused neck vertebrae. This means you might see them nodding or even turning their head from side to side!
Quebec is home to one of the southernmost beluga populations in the world, found primarily in the Saguenay Fjord and the St. Lawrence Estuary. They are known to enjoy shallow waters as they’re often seen swimming close to shore. Seeing these creatures glide through the water is a once in a special experience you won't soon forget. Since they are a threatened species, conservation efforts are in place to protect their fragile population.
Minke Whales
Best Months to See Them: May to October
Minke whales are one of the most commonly spotted whale species in Quebec’s waters, making frequent appearances between May and October. These sleek, fast-moving whales are smaller than other baleen whales, reaching up to 30 feet in length, but they make up for their size with their curious and active nature.
Despite their relatively small size, minkes are full of surprises. These whales can reach up to 25 miles per hour, earning them the nickname the “torpedoes of the sea”. Another one of their nicknames, “stinky minkes” was given to them because of their famously fishy scent. Some even say that you’re more likely to smell them before you see them.
They are often seen hunting for fish near the surface, making them a fun whale to watch. Because of their frequent presence and lively behavior, minkes are a favorite among whale watchers in the region.
Humpback Whales
Best Months to See Them: July to September
From July to September, humpback whales make their presence known in Quebec’s waters. Remembered for their dramatic breaches and long, these whales are some of the most photogenic species to spot. One of the most exciting features to look for when watching humpback whales is their pectoral fins. They are the longest of any whale species, sometimes spanning up to 16 feet!
Humpbacks migrate thousands of miles from their winter breeding grounds to the rich feeding areas of the St. Lawrence River. Here, they can be seen lunging through schools of fish, sometimes alongside other whale species. Their distinctive tail flukes make them easy to identify, and with their vocal underwater songs, they are truly one of the most fascinating whales to encounter.
Blue Whales
Best Months to See Them: June to September
The blue whale, the largest animal on Earth, can sometimes be spotted in the St. Lawrence between June and September. These massive creatures can reach up to 100 feet in length, making them a stunning sight for any wildlife enthusiast.
Blue whales are currently on the endangered species list, with populations still recovering from historic commercial whaling. The St. Lawrence Estuary is one of the few places that blue whales reliably return to each year, making it an important area for research and conservation. Researchers monitor their numbers closely and work to reduce threats.
Despite their size, blue whales are surprisingly elusive. They tend to stay in deeper waters and surface only briefly to breathe, making sightings rare but unforgettable. When they do appear, their tall, column-like blow is a telltale sign. It’s a rare and unforgettable experience to see a blue whale in the wild.
Fin Whales
Best Months to See Them: June to September
Fin whales are the second-largest whale species and can reach speeds of up to 25 miles per hour. They are typically spotted in the St. Lawrence from June to September, feeding on krill and small fish in the deep waters of the estuary.
Unlike some of the more playful whales, fin whales tend to be more elusive and graceful, surfacing with a slow, smooth motion. Fin whales also prefer to travel alone or in groups of two. One of the most distinctive features of a fin whale is their asymmetrical coloring. The right side of their lower jaw is noticeably lighter than the left, setting them apart from other whale species.
While they don’t breach as often as humpbacks, their size and speed make them an impressive sight if you’re lucky enough to spot one.
How to Spot Whales in Quebec
One of the best things about whale watching in Quebec is that you don’t need to be an expert to have an incredible encounter. There are three main ways to spot whales in the Saguenay - St. Lawrence Marine Park: by boat, kayak, or from shore.
Kayaking tours offer a more immersive and peaceful experience, while still giving you the chance to spot some of the more illusive whales. Taking a kayak up the Saguenay Fjord allows you to access calm, sheltered areas where the belugas and minkes have been known to visit.
Boat tours take you out into deeper waters where sightings of humpbacks, minkes, and blue whales are more likely. These can be great options if you’re short on time and looking for a less hands-on experience than kayaking.
Whale watching from land is both accessible and rewarding. Top spots like Tadoussac, Cap-de-Bon-Désir, and the Pointe-Noire Interpretation Center offer great views of areas where whales sometimes pass by. Keep in mind that the early morning and late afternoon hours often offer the best light for photography and increased whale activity.
Plan Your Whale Watching Adventure
Quebec’s waters are home to an incredible array of marine life, making each trip a chance for unique wildlife encounters. Whether you're hoping to see the playful belugas, the acrobatic humpbacks, or the elusive blue whale, the St. Lawrence River is one of the best places in the world to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
