Nina Out and About contains affiliate links and is a member of the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program. If you make a purchase using one of these Amazon links, I may receive compensation at no extra cost to you. See my Disclosure Policy for more information.
Whale Watching in Quebec: 9 Best Tours in 2024
Are you looking for the best whale watching in Quebec?
It is hard to go whale watching in Quebec City proper, but the city is close to both the Saint Lawrence Marine Park and the Saguenay River and Saint Lawrence Marine Park, which are excellent whale watching destinations.
But before booking your whale watching tour, you’ll want to know which type of boat to book, the best spots to go, and the best time for whale watching in Quebec.
I’ve been whale watching multiple times and love to visit Quebec from my home base of Ottawa! So, I feel confident sharing precisely what to look for on a whale watching trip in Quebec.
Here is a list of the absolute best 9 top tours for whale watching in Quebec, including cost, trip duration, and other essential information on what makes each tour a unique experience!
My Top 3 Picks: Whale Watching in Quebec
#1 TOP PICK
#2 PICK
#3 PICK
Best Tours for Whale Watching in Quebec
1. Full-Day Whale Watching Cruise from Quebec City
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 11 hours | ✅ Book it!
This Full-Day Whale Watching Cruise from Quebec City includes a bus tour and whale watching on the St. Lawrence River. You will have the opportunity to see beluga whales, mink whales, and humpback whales, as well as beautiful views of Saguenay-Saint Lawrence Marine Park.
“Fantastic tour company. They know lots of information for your ride to the site and then the company for the whale tour on the water was amazing. They all knew right where to go to see the most whales, were respectful of the whales, and knew lots of facts. I highly recommend this tour.” – Jessica (Read more reviews)
AML Cruises will pick you up in Quebec City and take you on a scenic bus ride along the St. Lawrence River until you arrive at Baie-Sainte-Catherine. At this point, everyone will board the boat for roughly 3 hours of whale watching!
While booking, you can choose between the Grand Fleuve Cruise Boat or Zodiac Boat for this tour.
- The Grand Fleuve Cruise has seating inside, a large outdoor platform to view whales, and some basic amenities (like bathrooms, a cafeteria, and a boutique shop).
- Zodiac Boats are smaller, faster, and can get closer to the whales. So this option is definitely more exciting, but you will get wet. AML Cruises provides waterproof pants & jackets for all guests on Zodiac cruises.
Note: The tour does not include food and drinks, so bring extra cash for drinks and snacks.
Duration: 11 hours
Starting Point: Fontaine de Tourny (No Hotel Pick-up)
Price: $$$
2. Tadoussac & Baie-Ste-Catherine: Whale Watching Boat Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
AML Cruises also operate this Whale-Watching Tour in Quebec, but it does not include transportation to/from Todoussac.
It’s an excellent tour for people already staying for a few days in Todoussac/Baie-Ste-Catherine, but you could also drive to the starting point if you have your own vehicle or are renting a car in Quebec City.
“The Zodiac Whale watch activity was definitely a highlight for us. At one point we were surrounded by a very large school of grey seals. There was also a sighting of a beluga whale in the distance. ” – GetYourGuide Traveler, Canada (Read more reviews)
This tour cruises through Saguenay Fjords National Park and the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park offers an excellent chance to see humpbacks and other types of whales.
And since this tour is a Zodiac Cruise, you will have the chance to see them close up!
Duration: 2 – 2.5 hours
Starting Point: Tadoussac Pier OR Baie-Ste-Cathrine Pier
Price: $$
3. Tadoussac or Baie-Sainte-Catherine: Whale Watching Cruise
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!
This Whale Watching Cruise in Quebec is VERY similar to the previous cruise, with panoramic views of Saguenay Fjords National Park and whale watching in Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park.
However, instead of embarking on a Zodiac boat, this cruise will take place on an observation deck. So, on this tour, you will have a more relaxed and dry experience whale-watching in Quebec.
“We were totally pleasantly stunned with the experience. So many different types of whales and a non stop sighting trip. The commentator made the whole experience ethereal.” – GetYourGuide Traveler, Canada. (Read more reviews)
Throughout the journey, you will also have a professional guide with bilingual commentary (French & English).
The area sometimes has blue whales, mink whales, and fin whales, but the most common species to spot is its colony of belugas whales.
Duration: 3 hours
Starting Point: Tadoussac Pier OR Baie-Ste-Cathrine Pier
Price: $$
4. Saguenay: VIP Lounge or Upper Deck Whale Watching Cruise
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!
If you are hoping for a little bit of luxury on your whale watching tour in Quebec, AML Cruises offers a unique VIP Experience that you can book on their large observation boat.
“Amazing tour in the vip lounge especially as we were with a 2 year old, 5 year olds and a 9 year old and 6 adults so could relax inside where it was warm and go outside periodically for pics. Would totally recommend this vip lounge tour!” – GetYourGuide Traveler, Canada (Read more reviews)
On the cruise, VIP members can spend their time on an exclusive walkway on the top of the ship, offering the best views of any tour in the area. Or you can hang out in the ship’s brand-new VIP lounge, enjoying a gourmet lunch and complimentary drinks from the comfort of a glass-enclosed lounge.
On this VIP Tour, you will also get priority “skip the line” boarding and security checks.
You can receive a full refund for cancellation up to 24 hours before departure, but AML Cruises will not cancel the tour due to poor weather. There are indoor viewing areas in the case of rain.
Duration: 3 hours
Starting Point: Tadoussac Pier OR Baie-Ste-Cathrine Pier
Price: $$$
5. Tadoussac & Baie-St-Catherine: Whale & Bear Wildlife Tour
⭐️ RATING: 3.7/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: Full Day | ✅ Book it!
This combination tour with AML Cruises is a really cool way to spend a day in Quebec.
The tour starts with a 3-hour whale watching cruise through the St. Lawrence Marine Park. You will have a bi-lingual naturist guide along the way to teach you about each whale species in the area.
Then after the tour, your guide will take you to Ferme 5 étoiles, an animal refuge in Rivière-Sainte-Marguerite. The entrance is free with the tour, and you can see many different animals, including Bison, lynx, moose, wolves, and goats.
And finally, as the sun sets, your guide will lead you into the forest, where you can search for black bears in their natural habitat (although spotting one is not guaranteed).
It’s a full day but excellent value for your dollar and a great way to see lots of different wildlife in Quebec!
Duration: Full-Day
Starting Point: Tadoussac Pier OR Baie-Ste-Cathrine Pier
Price: $$$
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
6. Crosieres Essipit
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: varies | ✅ Book it!
A tour with Crosieres Essipit (Essipit Cruises) offers a personalized 2-hour tour in a zodiac boat to see whales in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a close-up whale watching experience as the captain explains ancient Innuendo beliefs about the whales. The guides are very entertaining, with fun commentary and exceptional knowledge about the marine mammals in the St.Lawrence River.
“Fantastic experience! This is the second time I have gone whale watching with Croisieres Essipit, and they have been absolutely fantastic. We were a large group of 18 and everything was seamless.” – Mary J (Read more reviews)
Reviews praise them for their organization and punctuality, which is huge for a planner like me. I always appreciate a seamless experience whale watching without a bunch of hiccups.
Be aware that waves can easily splash over the side of a zodiac boat. But most tours, including Crosieres Essipit, will provide you with a waterproof kit (jacket and pants) to help keep you dry on the whale watching excursion.
Duration: varies
Starting Point: Essipit Innu
Price: $
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
7. Croisiere Escoumins
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2 hours | ✅ Book it!
Croisiere Escoumins (Escoumins Cruises) prides itself on an excellent whale-watching experience with its ecological zodiac boats, and it’s the only tour in Quebec that offers a “Whale Watching Guarantee,” which will provide you a full refund if you don’t see any whales on this tour!
On this 2-hour excursion, you will look for whales, porpoises, and dolphins. You can book larger zodiac boats with 40-60 passengers or smaller VIP zodiac boats with just 12 passengers and offer an extra intimate whale watching experience.
“Fabulous day whale watching. It was a foggy day and I was afraid we wouldn’t see whales, but after about 30 minutes to driving down the coast we were fortunate to see a Minke whale, a fin whale and 7-10 humpback whales. I highly recommend” -Saharareddog, Canada (Read more reviews)
It’s almost certain you will see Minke whales and Belugas on this tour, and there is even a private picnic area along the St. Lawrence River where you can see whales right offshore.
The guides are very knowledgeable and experts in locating the whales without a negative impact on their environment.
Duration: 2 hrs
Starting Point: Les Escoumins, Quebec
Price: $
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
8. Whale-Watching Cruise in Forillon National Park
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 2.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
If you want to see a blue whale or a humpback whale, this Whale Watching Cruise in Forillon National Park gives you the best chance!
Forillon National Park is in Gaspe Bay, which is significantly further towards the Atlantic Ocean, just north of Perci Bay. These waters are much deeper and more suited for bigger whale sightings.
“We did this whale watching cruise today and it much better than expected! We saw probably 20 or more whales and seals from different species! I highly recommend it!” -Cardieri, Canada (Read more reviews)
The whale-watching tour lasts 2.5 hours, and while you are almost sure to see whales, it’s also common to see seals and small pods of dolphins!
There are two boat options for this whale cruise. You can choose the Narval III (a large 47-passenger ship) or the Rocher Le Vieux ( a small 12-passenger ship.
Note: Gappe Bay is roughly 7 hours from Quebec City, so this is an off-the-beaten-path adventure much less touristy than the whale-watching tours in Tadoussac!
Duration: 2 hr 30 min
Starting Point: Gaspe, Quebec
Price: $$
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
9. Saguenay Aventures
⭐️ RATING: 4.5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3 hours | ✅ Book it!
Saguenay Adventures has three whale watching Quebec packages. They all include whale watching on their 48-passenger covered zodiac down the Fjord du Saguenay to the Sint-Lawrence River, but they have some slight differences.
“We had a very memorable day on the Saguenay and Saint Lawrence Rivers. Very comfortable boat with good protection for bad weather, yet great visibility. Knowledgable crew, and mother nature did not disappoint. The one hour ride to the whales filled with beautiful scenery and belugas! Highly recommend!” – Jennifer J (Read more reviews)
- The Adventure – 3-hour tour. Before departing, you will have the chance to explore and learn about the micro-fauna along the shore.
- The Comfort – 4-hour tour (one hour longer than the other options).
- Trio Fjord Whales and Tadoussac – Land viewing of the whales plus a visit to the village of Tadoussac and the Marine Mammal Interpretation Center.
Their whale watching in Quebec prices are consistent with most companies in the area, but they offer slight discounts for children and package deals for families.
Duration: 1 hr -3 hrs
Starting Point: Village-Vacances Petit-Saguenay
Price: $
What to Expect: Quebec Whale Watching
The Bas-Saint-Laurent (St. Lawrence Estuary) is one of the best places in the world to go whale watching, and the most prominent spot is near the Saguenay River and the St. Lawrence Marine Park.
The waters are a normal part of the whales’ migration patterns, full of marine life, and an excellent spot for whales to find food.
Types of Wild Whales in Quebec
There are a total of 13 different whale species that populate the waters of Quebec. Eight of these species are toothed whales, and 5 are baleen whales, which have baleen instead of teeth to collect tiny microorganisms.
Toothed Whales in Quebec:
- Harbor porpoise
- Atlantic white-sided dolphin
- White-beaked dolphin
- Beluga whales (canaries of the sea)
- Long-finned pilot whale
- Killer whales/orcas (rare)
- Northern bottlenose whale
- Sperm whale
Baleen Whales in Quebec:
- Minke whale
- Humpback whale
- North Atlantic right whale
- Fin whale (second largest animal on the planet)
- Blue whale (largest animal on the planet)
Where to Whale Watch on Land in Quebec
There are many small towns and fishing villages along the St. Lawrence River where you can whale watch on land. The farther up the river you go (toward the Atlantic Ocean), the higher the chance of spotting a whale!
This is especially true for more giant whales. For example, if you can travel to Gaspe Bay or Perce Bay, you will have a much higher chance of seeing blue whales and fin whales.
These are all arguably the best place for whale watching in Quebec on land:
When to go Whale Watching in Quebec
Quebec’s Whale watching season goes from May through October, but the best months will be July through October. In the later summer months, you will have a higher chance of spotting whales. Larger marine mammals, particularly blue whales, so you need to come whale watching in Quebec in September for the best chance to see them.
Types of Quebec Whale-Watching Boats
While you have many different size boats, there are three main categories of whale-watching boat choices.
Types of Whale-Watching Boats:
- Observation Boat
- Zodiac Boat
A Zodiac Boat is a smaller, faster boat with just 40-60 passengers. This boat is more exciting as you can get extremely close to the whales, but you will get wet, and no amenities are on board.
Observation boats are huge multi-level boats that hold hundreds of passengers. The boats have many amenities like food, drinks, restrooms, and indoor viewing rooms for when it’s raining. However, they cannot get as close to the whales.
Quebec Whale-Watching Tips
Leave time for Parking – Parking is not readily available at all whale-watching tour starting points, so plan to spend extra time finding a parking spot.
Wear Warm Clothes – Even on a warm and sunny day, it’s cold on the water. Wear layers and a water-resistant jacket to stay comfortable. Some Zodiac Tours actually provide water-resistant outer layers for you.
Bring Binoculars – This applies to tours on the Observation Boat, so you can get a closer look at the whales breaching.
Motion Sickness Tablets or Wristbands – It’s not always choppy whale watching in St. Lawrence on the River, but you should bring motion-sickness tablets or a wristband just in case.
Wear Closed-Toed Shoes with Good Grip – Closed-toed shoes with good grip are essential on slippery boat decks.
Be Patient: Whales often hold their breath for 15-20 minutes, so be patient and stay attentive until they come up for air! Your tour guides will help you know where and when to look!
FAQs About Whale Watching in Quebec
How Far is Whale Watching from Quebec City?
The best whale watching is 215 kilometers from Quebec City in the smaller town of Tadoussac. This section of Canada is known as the “Whale Route.” This route follows the St. Lawrence River along Route 138 for over 800 kilometers up to northeastern Quebec.
Where can you go whale watching in Quebec?
You can go whale watching in Quebec at Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park estuary, Tadoussac, Anticosti Island, Gaspe Bay, and Perce Bay. These are all famous areas of Quebec for whale sightings. In each area, you can find several tour groups offering whale-watching excursions.
What time of year is best for whale watching in Canada?
The best time of year for whale watching in Canada is between May and October because many whale species migrate down the St. Lawrence River during summer. If you want to see large whales (such as blue whales), you will have the best chance toward the end of the season.
When can you see belugas in Quebec?
Belugas can be seen in Quebec year round, although the best time to see them is between May and October. This is whale-watching season in the St. Lawrence River and many belugas migrate thorough the bay during the summer and fall months.
How many days are enough for Quebec City?
Spending three days in Quebec City is perfect for exploring the city and taking one day to do a whale watching tour. However, there are many people who spend a week or two in Quebec City without getting bored. The city is full of beautiful architecture, delicious restaurants and excitign day trips to natural wonders.
It takes a full day to go whale watching from Quebec city because you will be driving about 6 horus roundtrip.
Is Tadoussac Worth a visit?
Tadoussac is a beautiful area full of marine life and different ecosystems. It’s also the point where the Saguenay River flows into the Saint Lawrence Marine Park and eventually the Saint Lawrence Gulf. Whale watching in Tadoussac is some of the best in all Canada, and there are plenty of other outdoor activities to enjoy, too!
Final Thoughts on Whale Watching in Quebec
Whale watching is one of the top excursions in Quebec. It’s a great way to get our of the city and get a close up look at the world larges creatures.
Many of the whale watching tours in Quebec start in Tadoussac, but you can book a day trip with transportation from Quebec City. This tour with AML Cruises provides transportation and is the most convenient tour on this list. If you want to go on a different route, you can also check out 7 Best Whale Watching Tours in Vancouver Canada.
Happy whale watching!
More Fun Things to Do in Quebec:
- Best Quebec White Water Rafting Tours
- Quebec Dog Sledding Tours
- Best Whale Watching in Tadoussac Quebec: Tour Reviews
- Ultimate Scenic Quebec Road Trip Ideas and 2-Week Itinerary
- Moving to Quebec from Ontario: Benefits, Costs & More
- Moving to Ontario from Quebec: Costs, Benefits & More!
- What is the Cost of Living In Montreal?
- Living in Toronto vs. Montreal: Which City is Right for You?
- Moving to Toronto from Montreal: Is it Worth it?
- Honest Hotel Review: Manoir Chamberland in Montebello
- Best Quebec Wine Tours: Ultimate Tasting Guide
- Whale Watching in Quebec: 9 Best Tours
- Best Quebec City Bike Tours
- Best Quebec City Food Tours From A Canadian
- Notre Dame Quebec: Ultimate Visitor’s Travel Guide
- Quebec Hot Springs for Ultimate Relaxation this Winter
- Best Spas in Quebec City For Ultimate Relaxation
- Local’s Guide to Quebec in December: 31 Things to Do
- Best Day Trips From Quebec City
- Best Things to Do in Mont Tremblant in Summer
More Whale Watching Tours:
- 9 Best Places for Whale Watching Canada: Know Before You Go!
- 11 Best Whale Watching Tours in Victoria, BC: An Honest Review
- 6 Best Whale Watching in Tadoussac Quebec: Tour Reviews
- 7 Best Whale Watching Halifax Tours: Where to See Whales in Nova Scotia
- 7 Best Whale Watching Tours in Vancouver Canada
- 3 Best Whale Watching Tours in Tofino
- Whale Watching in Quebec: 9 Best Tours
Canada Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Canada travel insurance?
100% YES! — Canada has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Foreigners visiting need travel insurance in case anything happens on their visit. I recommend World Nomads – starting at just $5 a day!
💧Can you drink the water in Canada?
Yes — In all major cities in Canada, you can drink the tap water. There are very few, rural areas that you can’t. However, you should never drink river or lake water anywhere in the country! I recommend a Brita Water Bottle for long hikes and backcountry camping to stay safe and hydrated.
🚙💨 Is it safe to rent a car in Canada?
Yes — Renting a car is a necessity in most of Canada! If you want to go on road trips or adventures outside of the major cities, you’ll need to rent a car. (Read more)
📲 Will my phone work in Canada?
Maybe — Some American companies work in Canada, but many will not. If your phone doesn’t work in Canada, I recommend getting a Canadian SIM card so you can get around and stay in contact with loved ones. We don’t have a lot of free WIFI in Canada, so you’ll need your phone for maps.
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Canada accommodations?
My go-to for Canadian hotels is Booking.com. For hostels, I use Hostel World. If you want a home-y feeling, check out VRBO (which is cheaper and safer than Airbnb).
Or get free accommodations with Trusted Housesitters!
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Canada flights?
For finding cheap Canadian flights, I recommend Skyscanner.
🎫 Do I need a visa for Canada?
Likely Not — US, UK, and EU passport holders don’t need Canadian visas. However, some other countries do (check here!). And if you plan to stay for more than 4 weeks (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into visas to live in Canada.
