Boat trips

Some Gaspé-based companies offer offshore excursions to observe whales. Departing from Forillon, you can encounter marine mammals aboard the Narval III operated by Croisières Baie de Gaspé. In the Percé region, Croisières Julien Cloutier and Les Bateliers de Percé also offer boat trips. Both companies operate a fleet of several boats and offer up to three departures a day in the high season. For each trip out to sea, a guide/interpreter will provide a wealth of information on whales and answer your questions.

Stay on the lookout, even if you aren’t planning on taking a whale-watching cruise. You are likely to see marine mammals on the way out to Bonaventure Island! Minke whales and white-sided dolphins are sometimes encountered on the boat trip between Percé and the island.

As is the case throughout Canada, offshore whale-watching activities in the Gaspésie are regulated by law. A distance of at least 100 metres must be maintained between a watercraft and a whale.

As is the case throughout Canada, offshore whale-watching activities in the Gaspésie are regulated by law. A distance of at least 100 metres must be maintained between a watercraft and a whale.

From shore

It is at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula that we find the best land-based observation sites. Take a look around Forillon National Park, particularly in the Cap-Gaspé, Cap-Bon-Ami, Cap-des-Rosiers and Gaspé Bay sectors. Whales and dolphins can also be seen in and around Île-Bonaventure-et-du-Rocher-Percé National Park.

In those sections of Route 132 that overlook the Gulf (Haute-Gaspésie), take the time to scan the St. Lawrence. You may get lucky and spot a minke whale near the shore!

Sea kayaking

If you prefer non-motorized watercraft, why not watch whales while paddling a sea kayak? Cap Aventure, in Forillon National Park, offers kayaking trips with an experienced guide to discover marine mammals. Avolo Plein Air also offers kayak tours out of Percé. In addition to cetaceans, it is highly likely that you will spot seals at close range. But remember, a 100-meter distance is mandatory between a marine mammal and your kayak.

From the ferry

Stay alert if you cross from one shore to the other. Whether departing from or arriving in Matane, or going to the Magdalen Island, it is possible to see whales during the two-hour crossing!

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