Quebec Kayaking and Whale Watching Tour
Welcome to old Europe just north of Maine and Vermont – the heart of French-speaking North America – Quebec. With a rich heritage and strong cultural ties to France, Quebec’s culture complements her grand natural wonders. Free-flowing rivers, glaciated valleys, National Parks and majestic mountains are all part of the landscape. Our lodge-based Quebec kayaking and walking tour has you gliding through the mythic waters of Quebec’s rugged Saguenay Fjord while also exploring on foot.
The word “fjord” often brings thoughts of Scandinavia or Norway and indeed, the Saguenay Fjord is a little-known place. The largest fjord in eastern Canada, it has been carved by ancient glaciers and stretches more than 62 miles. In fact, it is one of only 38 of the over 2,000 fjords in the world that is at least 60 miles long! The fjord was formed during the last ice age that ended about 10,000 years ago, as glaciers and ice sheets carved out the classic glacial U-shaped valley. This unique ecosystem is a place where high cliffs and wildlife meet the mixing of the waters of the Saguenay River and St. Lawrence Seaway. You set off as explorers once did, discovering the awe-inspiring valley, experiencing the rich cultural history, and kayaking the cobalt blue blend of fresh and sea waters in search of beluga whales, minke whales, harbor and grey seals and other marine life.
The natural beauty and richly-layered history of Canada are ours to discover. Exploring Quebec is like being in France without the transatlantic flight! Quebec’s labyrinth of lakes, rivers, and waterways provide opportunity to see her natural wonders from a unique perspective—up-close-and-personal. Our trip begins in Quebec City, a UNESCO World Heritage site positioned above the St. Lawrence seaway and filled with old-world charm. From Quebec City, we travel north to embark on a kayaking and walking journey where stunning scenery and wildlife abound. We explore the Fjord of Saguenay from its western edge all the way to Tadoussac, once an important trade route for Native Peoples. During the French colonization of the Americas, this was also a major route for the fur trade. As you paddle this path of historical significance, you glide beneath towering rock walls, wonder at the marine wildlife around you, relish local food, and spend nights in comfortable accommodations.
Sea Kayak Adventures has orchestrated this fantastic and exclusive exploration via kayak, foot, and zodiac along the Saguenay fjord. Highlights include whale watching, Quebec City (a UNESCO World Heritage site), museums chronicling the rich history of the region’s past, and the quaint village of Tadoussac, the oldest French settlement in the Americas and France’s first trading post on the mainland of New France.
Our expert local guides delight in sharing the area’s myths and legends, including tales of sea monsters making waves that often come up in the fjord out of nowhere. This journey is a blend of nature, scenery, and history like none other.
We are proud that our Quebec kayak trip along the Saguenay Fjord has a significant and beneficial economic impact to the local area. This unique and exclusive tour offers the best of local cuisine and culture along with exploration via kayak, foot, and zodiac along the Saguenay Fjord. We stay in locally owned hotels/chalets/inns, eat in local restaurants, hire local guides and buy all our trip provisions and food locally. Our trips also offer an excellent opportunity for our guests to interact with the people of the area, providing an authentic cultural element.
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Itinerary
Day 0
Note: We have two superb itineraries in Québec. One is this lodge-based kayaking tour (below) and the other is a camping-based kayaking tour. Both tours explore the beauty of the Saguenay Fjord.
Day 0: Optional early arrival day in Québec City
Day 1
Arrive in Quebec City: Journey to the Saguenay
At 1:00pm, meet our driver at the designated hotel lobby at 1PM before setting off on your journey to the Saguenay region. The drive north meanders through the strikingly beautiful Réserve faunique des Laurentides (Laurentides Wildlife Reserve). You will then meet your guide(s) at dinner time.
On arrival you have a chance to stretch your legs while exploring some of the natural and cultural history of the region and visiting the Fjord Museum in the town of La Baie and then continue a few miles where you spend the night in the charming Auberge des Battures overlooking the waters of the fjord. Dinner is a feast of local french cuisine inspired by boreal ingredients.
Day 2
Kayak in Rivière-Éternité Bay
Today, we explore the fjord at sea level. Fuel up with breakfast at the Auberge before hopping in the van for a 30-minute ride to the small village of Rivière-Éternité ("Eternity River"). The tiny town owes its name to the river that runs through the majestic cape and cliffs of the Saguenay Fjord.
Your kayak awaits you in Saguenay National Park. Upon arrival, our guides brief you on paddling techniques and general safety rules. After that, you're ready for your first fjord expedition beneath the huge rock faces of Eternity Bay. Paddle past these mesmerizing 400-meter-tall cliffs and out into the heart of the fjord. The route is about 5 miles, and you stop for a long lunch break with some tasty local treats at Ermine Bay. After coming back to Eternity Bay, we transfer to the village of L’Anse-Saint-Jean, a rural village set along the fjord. Here we stay in a local chalet or cabin where you also enjoy tonight’s home-cooked dinner.
Paddle Distance: Estimated around 5 miles or about 4-5 hours of paddling time – more if windy.
Accommodation Note: There are a number of cabins/chalets available to rent and final accommodation arrangements will be determined by availability.
Day 3
Hiking to Discover the backcountry of L'Anse-Saint-Jean
Enjoy breakfast at a local crêperie called Le Café du Quai. We have an early start on a lovely hike in the backcountry, heading to Montagne Blanche. The hike of Montagne Blanche is about 8 miles and starts with a view of a beautiful waterfall and L’Anse-Saint-Jean cove. The reward is dramatic, panoramic views of the massive geological wonder of the fjord and the flora and fauna that live here.
After the hike of Montagne Blanche, you will have the opportunity to have a leisurely lunch at the Anse-a-Tabatiere.
We enjoy a mix of home-cooked meals and meals out on this trip. Tonight, we may go to a local bistro that features regional flavors and fare. Afterward, back at our accommodations, you might retire or sit outside to watch the stars and visit with your fellow travelers.
Hiking Distance: 8 Miles (13 kilometers)
Day 4
L’Anse-Saint-Jean - Kayaking
Awake to coffee and a nourishing breakfast prepared by your guide with local fare, after set off on kayak a paddle through the fjord. You will again ponder on the immensity of the Fjord and its unique ecosystem. Seals may accompany you on this circular journey through these bays.
Enjoy lunch with local produce in one of the remote coves on the fjord. After come back to L’Anse-Saint-Jean cove.
This evening we share stories together and enjoy another lovely dinner .
Paddling Distance: Estimated between 5 and 6 miles. or about 4-5 hours of paddling time – more if windy.
Note: Depending on weather, we may change the order of Day 3 and 4 in order to optimize the best day for kayaking.
Day 5
Petit Saguenay: Kayaking (Possible Half-Day Hike)
Today is our final day of kayaking. It’s another opportunity to soak in the verdant scenery of the fjord and have a chance to spot more wildlife. With any luck we may even see a few whales, usually in the distance. We enjoy a picnic lunch along our route. By late afternoon we’re back at our evening accommodations for a tasty BBQ.
We sometimes are fortunate to witness beluga whales who swim in these waters on a daily basis, coming from the St. Lawrence seaway. They travel upstream with the rising tides to minimize their expenditure of energy, and often it is mothers with their calves. Because of concerns about diminishing numbers of belugas, the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marin Park was established in 1998. This Park encompasses about 40% of this region’s beluga population, with the remaining 60% further out into the St. Lawrence and beyond Park boundaries.
There is a distinct charm about belugas, perhaps because they are one of the smallest whale species, with adults ranging from 12-15’ long (4-5 meters). While they are brownish-grey color at birth, sometime around the age of 10-12, they become white. They are sometimes referred to as the “canaries of the sea,” because of their abundant vocalizations.
Belugas are an Arctic species and most of the world’s population lives in polar waters. The belugas of the St. Lawrence Seaway and Saguenay River are one of the most southernmost populations. While their worldwide population is estimated to be between 150,000 – 200,000, in this region, their population dropped from around 9,000 to under 2,000 before a regional ban on whaling was made law in 1979. Fishermen at one point mistakenly thought that belugas were responsible for the depletion of Atlantic cod and hunted them mercilessly. The fact is that belugas feed only on smaller fish and crustaceans such as clams.
Because their population remains in a delicate balance there are strict regulations about whale watching. Boats and kayaks may not approach closer than 400 meters (437 yards, or more than 4 football fields). However, they roam the seas freely and on rare occasions may come closer to our kayaks. This is nothing that can be promised and we always respect the local regulations out of concern for wildlife.
Paddling Distance: 6 miles, less if we kayak a half-day and hike a half-day.
Hiking Distance: (if applicable): 3 miles
Note: If weather doesn’t cooperate, we may opt for a half day of hiking, covering about 3 miles along the beach of St. Etienne and along the fjord. In this case we’ll kayak in either the morning or afternoon, weather permitting.
Day 6
L’Anse-Saint-Jean to Tadoussac: Whale Watching
Enjoy the sunrise from our accommodations and a tasty breakfast before boarding a whale-watching zodiac at the pier L'Anse-Saint-Jean. We will join other whale watchers on board and today is all about whales. As the towering cliffs melt into the enormity of the St. Lawrence River, the ecosystem is a marine wildlife wonderland.
You spend half the day exploring the eastern edge of the fjord, the Saint Laurence estuary and its great seaway. This is an area where small fish and krill come by way of the St. Lawrence’s deep channel tides and when these tides converge with the outgoing waters of the Saguenay River, they are temporarily trapped. This makes for a bountiful feeding ground for a number of species, including 12 species of whales! Most come here seasonally, to feed while the beluga is a year-round resident. Other species include fin, minke, right, humpback and sometimes blue whales.
Lunch will be at Tadoussac dunes. Founded in 1600, Tadoussac is the oldest surviving French settlement in the Americas. It thrived in the seventeenth century as France’s first trading post on the mainland of New France. We take a stroll in the village and marvel at the Old Chapel, the oldest wooden church in Canada and the USA. We dine in town at a local restaurant and enjoy our picturesque surroundings. You will also have the chance to go to the CIMM (Whale Museum) to learn even more about these ocean gems.
Day 7
Return to Quebec City, Île d'Orléans
After a final breakfast in the glorious Saguenay region we head south. On the way to Quebec City we stop by the Île d'Orléans (Island of Orleans), which is surrounded by the St. Lawrence River to lunch at the Goeliche restaurant and have a dessert at the Cassis Mona et filles. Overlooking Québec City, the island features lots of local producers with berry farms, maple products, and wineries. On our exploration you will be able to sample the local produce.
Your trip ends in Quebec City around 4pm. Stay overnight and enjoy the city or take an evening flight home.
Dates & Rates
Dates | Adult (USD) | Child (USD) |
---|---|---|
2025 | ||
Aug 10, 2025 to Aug 17, 2025 | $3,990£0€0$0$0 | $3,990£0€0$0$0 |
Aug 24, 2025 to Aug 31, 2025 | $3,990£0€0$0$0 | $3,990£0€0$0$0 |
Supplementary Information
Tier Pricing:
- 4-8 people: $3990 (based on double occupancy)
Single Supplement: An additional single supplement of $600 USD is required if you don't want to share a room with another traveler or we do not have anyone to match you with.
Groups of 8+ Travelers:
This trip is limited to 8 people. If you have a group of 9-12 and would like to charter a trip, this is possible. The price for a private charter of 9-12 is $3690/person based on double occupancy. Single supplements are limited due to the accommodations and are $600/person.
As an alternative way to explore Quebec and the Saguenay Fjord, we offer a Kayaking and Camping option as well.
Included:
- 6 nights’ accommodation
- Meals as described in itinerary
- Activities as described in the itinerary
- Access to the park
- Professional bilingual guides
- Luggage transportation
- Kayak equipment including tandem kayaks, kayak skirts, paddles, PFD’s, and safety gear
Not Included:
- Airfare to and from Quebec
- Alcoholic Beverages
- Hotel before and after the tour
- Items of a personal nature
- Gratuities
TIERED PRICING EXPLAINED: Our trips are budgeted for full or near full sign-ups which enables us to offer trips at the lowest possible price. Because of numerous fixed costs, it is more expensive to operate a trip for a small group. Therefore, on some of our trips, in order to avoid having to cancel a trip, we have a “tier-pricing” system to avoid canceling a trip with a low number of sign ups. We have found that most people also prefer this alternative to having a trip cancelled. Thus, you will note on our trip prices there may be different price for 4-9, versus 10-12, etc.
We may initially invoice you at the higher tier price, and refund the difference depending on the final group size. Trip costs quoted are based on foreign exchange rates current at the time of this printing. We reserve the right to raise the trip fee if there are exceptional cost increases beyond our control.
ALL PRICES IN US DOLLARS. We will do our best to adhere to the itineraries and trip descriptions listed on our website. However, tour itineraries or sub contractors (such as taxi, cruise boats or hotels) may change slightly due to reasons beyond our control including but not limited to Acts of God, wind, waves, inclement weather or other. We always welcome you to call us to clarify any item - often this is the best way to fully clarify expectations - call us collect or on our toll-free number. You will be sent pre-trip email with latest details within a month of your tour - it is your responsibility to check in with us prior to your trip to see if you have all the information you need. We will always do our best to provide you with the best possible tour and to fully meet your expectations to the best of our ability.
*Note on Itinerary: Approximate paddling distances listed and can vary depending on group size and weather. We will do our best to adhere to the schedule listed above. However, the itinerary may change due to reasons beyond our control such as wind, waves or inclement weather.
Reviews
FAQ & More
What's included in the tour price?
- 6 nights’ accommodation
- Most meals as described in itinerary
- Activities as described in the itinerary
- Access to the park
- Professional bilingual guides
- Luggage transportation
- Kayak equipment including tandem kayaks, kayak skirts, paddles, PFD’s, and safety gear
- Personal expenses and gratuities are not included.
What is the best time of year for this trip?
Whales are present year round, but are in the highest concentrations near the end of the summer and early Autumn. We offer this trip at times that are best for viewing whales, as well as avoiding the peak tourism season.
I’ve never tried kayaking. Can I still go on this trip?
Of course! Beginners are welcome on this trip. Your guides will give you an introduction to paddling and you’ll have plenty of chance to practice. We take plenty of paddle breaks to observe the biodiversity and learn about the area from our knowledgeable guide. That said, we do recommend that you get some paddling in before your trip as kayaking uses muscles you may not know you have. Getting a little experience and building some strength will help your enjoyment of the trip.
Can I paddle a single kayak?
Due to the greater stability of tandem kayaks and the cold water temperatures in the Fjord, we only offer double kayaks on this trip.
How difficult are the hikes?
At least one hike will take place along the Fjord itself, which means that it entails quite a bit of elevation change. The trails are well-groomed with clear paths, but it can be slippery and have steep portions. We do recommend physical preparation to make the most out of your outdoor experience.
Will I have to speak French?
An English-speaking guide will accompany you throughout the trip in its entirety, so you will not need to learn French prior to your trip. However, you may pick up a couple of phrases while you’re there!
What is the food like?
Quebec’s cuisine can be described as a French and Irish fusion. Some of the most notable dishes in-clude tourtieres (meat pies), baked beans, poutine (French fries with cheese curds and gravy), and maple desserts. The Saguenay Lake-Saint Jean region is famous for its cheese, wine, and salmon. Learn more about the 'Must Try Foods in Quebec'.
What if I have specific dietary needs?
Please indicate any allergies, dietary requirements, or medical conditions of which you’d like us to be aware on your trip application forms. We can accommodate many dietary needs on this trip.
What kind of clothing do I need?
We will provide a complete packing list for your trip. We suggest you bring, synthetic clothing for kayaking, windproof and waterproof clothing, and evening attire for meals in town and lounging at the inns. Don’t forget a camera, water bottle, and head-lamp, as well!
Do you arrange international air?
We do not arrange international air travel but we do have a great air travel specialist we refer you to if you’d like.
How far in advance should I book?
There are a lot of arrangements to be made for a custom trip like this adventure and so it is helpful with our planning if you book three to eight months in advance. However, if you can’t plan that far ahead, then it’s usually not a problem to book up to about a month or two in advance. If you find yourself looking for last minute space just call us and check!
Can you recommend a reading list my upcoming Quebec tour?
Yes, we recommend the following books for your upcoming tour:
- Jacques Cartier: Exploring the St. Lawrence River by Jennifer Lackey
- Attack on Montreal : Battles of the War of 1812 by Pierre Berton
- The St. Lawrence River: History, Highway and Habitat by Janice Hamilton
- Exploring Old Quebec: Walking Tours of the Historic City by Maude Bonenfant
What do I need to know about currency in Quebec?
All currency while on the trip is in Canadian dollars.
Credit Cards
Be sure to notify your bank(s) of the dates of your travel and your destinations, so their fraud programs won’t freeze your account when a foreign transaction is made. Credit cards are widely accepted in Quebec City.
Suggestions:
Avoid carrying a lot of cash.
Do not take your cash out in public (mostly in tourist areas).
In case you need to carry a lot of cash, take it in different pockets or share pockets with your friends.
If you need to make a payment of a high amount, avoid doing so in cash, use credit cards or traveler's checks. Communication Cell Phones- Contact your service provider for the best options for taking your cell phone overseas.
What are some general travel tips for this trip?
General Travel Information:
Useful Numbers: Sea Kayak Adventures office number: 1.800.616.1943. In case of emergency, please call Rachel at 208.651.6219, or Andy, at 541-848-8850.
Canada Country Code: +1 / Quebec City Code: 418
Fax: Faxes can be sent from telecommunications offices located throughout the city. Also, most hotels provide fax services.
Internet: Public Internet access is available in many places. Internet Cafés are increasingly common, and many hotels have internet access as well.
Customs: It is not permitted to enter the country with plants, vegetables, fruits and perishable food. Past felony convictions may disqualify individuals from entry into foreign countries. Guests are advised that a D.W.I. (Driving While Intoxicated) or D.U.I. (Driving Under the Influence) may be considered a felony in other countries, including Canada. It is the client’s sole responsibility to ensure the immigration eligibility of all traveling party members for any foreign countries included in this itinerary. In addition, the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Department of State recommend that U.S. travelers leaving the country research the entry documents required for their destination country prior to departure. The entrance requirements for specific countries can be found at travel.state.gov.
Public Restrooms: If you are walking around the city when nature calls, you can go to any bar or restaurant.
What should we tip our guides?
Guidelines for Gratuities:
Tipping is a very personal matter and the decision to tip and how much to give is entirely yours. The following guidelines should however be of help: -It is customary to tip service people such as waiters, laundry washers, bartenders, hotel help and anyone who goes out of their way to help (usually US $1 each).
In Québec, tipping is appropriate etiquette in restaurants, bars, taxis and hair salons. The amount, which is not included in the bill, generally represents 10% to 15% of the total bill before taxes. For quick tip calculations, Québecers normally add up both taxes (GST and QST), the sum of which equals approximately 13%.
When traveling with the group, all tips at meals that are part of the itinerary are covered as well as any tips for taxi or bus drivers.
For guides we recommend between $13 - $18 per person per day. Cash Machines or ATM's- There are plenty of cash machines around the city. Simply look for the companies’ logos on bank windows and in cash machine booths. Money Exchange- US dollars are sometimes accepted in tourist areas, but the rate of exchange will likely be poor. If you plan to make purchases in cash, we recommend exchanging money at a bank.
What can I do in Quebec City before and/or after my tour?
Below are a few recommendations of things to do in Quebec City before or after your kayaking tour: Look to our blog for experiences not to miss while in Quebec City.
Maps:
The Airport has great free maps of the city at the information desk, which you will pass on your way out of customs and on the way to the taxi stand. Grab a few of these as they are very helpful in navigation on your own should you choose to walk.
Jazz and Hotel:
If Jazz is top on your list you might look at The Hotel Clarendon as a great spot to stop for a drink and listen to jazz, or as a hotel to spend your extra nights at. It is centrally located and within close walking distance of everything in Vieux-Quebec. It is rumored to have one of the best Jazz bars of the area in the lobby. http://www.hotelclarendon.com/jazz-bar-en.html
Vieux-Québec:
Vieux-Quebec or Old Quebec is a simply stunning sector of the City and one that you can spend at least a day exploring. It's comprised of an upper and lower section and is designated as a UNESCO heritage site. You can take guided tours of this part of the city or simply explore it on your own.
“Don’t Miss” in Vieux-Quebec:
Visit Château Frontenac while in Old Quebec
Visit or tour the Plains of Abraham
Grab some fresh squeezed lemonade or gelato from the many street vendors. Tons of wonderful restaurants are scattered through this area as well, so be sure to plan on a few meals down here!
Open Air Market: (Where Saint Paul and Quai Saint Andre streets meet along the docks in the harbor)
This is a fabulous open air market that is bustling on the weekends hosting many local vendors and artisans from around the area. It's a great place to pick up some souvenirs, sample the local food, or just take in the sites and sounds of Quebec City!
Musee de la Civilisation:
A great museum to check out while in Quebec City is Musee de la Civilization. You can check out their schedule, ticket fees, etc here
Terrasse Dufferin:
This is a walking terrace in front of Chateau Frontenac where you often find street performers sharing their talent with spectators passing by. The terrace overlooks the Saint Lawrence river with gorgeous views (especially at night).
Please let us know if you have any questions, we are happy to help!
What hotel should I stay at in Quebec City before or after my tour?
Hotels in Quebec City:
If you are arriving in Quebec City prior to (or staying beyond) our tour dates, we recommend staying at the Hotel Pur. This is our Quebec City tour hotel for your trip. It is conveniently located for meeting the group, as well as extending your stay on either side of our tour. However, there are many hotel options in Quebec, some of which are located closer to Old Quebec and many of the main tourist attractions. You may elect to stay somewhere closer to Old Quebec if you are planning to extend your stay before or after the tour. Please note: hotels before and after your tour begins are not included in your trip cost and will need to be arranged on your own.
Is there a single supplement fee for solo travelers?
Our tour costs are based on double occupancy on any included hotel nights. Solo travelers who would like their own single hotel room can pay a single supplement (see "Dates & Rates" above for the single supplement price for this tour), or can be matched up with another solo traveler of the same gender if one is available and willing to share. If we are unable to pair you with another solo traveler, we must apply the single supplement charge to cover our hotel costs.
Can I bring a drone on the trip?
Due to regulations in the Saguenay Fjord, drones can only be operated by special permit. Because of this, and the potential of impacting wildlife as well as others' experiences on our trips, we ask guests not to bring drones.
What are your Terms and Conditions?
Please see our full Terms & Conditions HERE.
Reviews
Outstanding
My wife and I recently went on a 7-day tour of the Saguenay Fjord in Quebec. Our guide, Felix, and his colleagues were excellent. We enjoyed two and a half days of kayaking and a day and a half of hiking, as well as a whale watch and a sunset cruise. We went to two good museums and ate at some really good restaurants. Almost everything about the trip was top-notch, though the quality of some of the lodging was a little below what we'd expected. Overall, though the company is outstanding, responds to feedback, and takes care of its clients.
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