Did you know that you can observe penguins just a few minutes away from Quebec? Learn more

 Whale breathing expulsion

FAQ Whale Watching Cruise

  • Are there parking lots near the boarding points for whale-watching cruises departing from Tadoussac, Charlevoix and Rivière-du-Loup?

    Parking lots are available near the whale-watching cruise departure points in Tadoussac, Charlevoix and Rivière-du-Loup. Click here for all the parking lots near the whale watching cruises and their rates.

  • In what type of boats can I do a whale-watching cruise?

    The AML Grand Fleuve and AML Zéphyr, departing from Tadoussac and Baie-Sainte-Catherine, as well as the AML Levant, departing from Rivière-du-Loup, are boats specially designed for whale-watching with an observation platform and panoramic windows.

    The VIP St-Laurent Lounge of the AML Grand Fleuve and the VIP Lounge of the AML Levant take the whale-watching experience to another level!

    Departing from Tadoussac and Baie-Sainte-Catherine, the 24 and 60-passenger Zodiacs offer a privileged contact with the river and marine mammals as well as an adventure with guaranteed thrills.

     

    Click here for all whale-watching cruises.

  • Do whale-watching cruises take place even if it is raining and/or foggy?

    Unless the weather conditions are a danger for the safety of our passengers, our whale-watching cruises are not cancelled in case of rain or fog. The whales are there rain or shine!

  • Do I need to bring special clothing for a whale-watching cruise?

    Yes, because the temperature in the heart of the St. Lawrence River is 10 to 15 degrees Celsius cooler than the temperature near the coast of the river!

    On a whale-watching cruise aboard one of our large boats, you should bring a warm long-sleeved shirt, long pants and closed shoes. For those who are more chilly, it is also recommended to have gloves and a hat with you. Be aware that it is always possible to warm up in the interior spaces, but it is more difficult to see the whales from there!

    When whale-watching aboard one of our Zodiacs, we recommend that you dress warmly as there are no indoor areas to keep warm. Although we provide a windproof wetsuit, it does not provide complete protection from the water or the cold.

     

  • What is the best time of the year or day to see whales?

    Most of the species seen in the St. Lawrence Estuary gradually arrive in the Tadoussac area in April and May of each year. As soon as the river is free of its winter ice, the excursions are rich in observation!

    On a whale-watching cruise, there is no better time of the day. The whales are in their natural environment, so they can make a show of themselves at any time. All you have to do is be on the lookout!

  • What types of whales can we see during our whale-watching cruise?

    Did you know that it is possible to encounter up to 13 species of marine mammals in the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park? Click here to discover the most frequently sighted whales!

  • Is seeing whales guaranteed?

    Since our cruises are in a natural site in the heart of the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park, our observation rate is close to 100%. We also offer a Whale Warranty. If during your cruise, the ship’s captain acknowledges that no marine mammal observation was possible, you will receive a ticket allowing you to come back on a Whale Watching Boat Tour on the date of your choosing during the same touristic season. This warranty is not valid for Zodiac Tours. Understand that the type of embarkation chosen to honor the Whale Warranty is at AML Cruises’ discretion.

  • Is it possible to buy food and beverages during the whale-watching cruise?

    Yes, the AML Grand Fleuve, AML Zéphyr and AML Levant have a bistro counter where a variety of meals, snacks and beverages are offered. Consult the menu of the bistro counter here.

    It is also possible to order a lunch box.

  • Can we bring our lunch during the whale-watching cruise?

    Snacks are tolerated during whale-watching cruises aboard the AML Grand Fleuve, the AML Zephyr and the AML Levant. However, meals and beverages are not permitted since our three whale-watching boats have a bistro counter where a varied menu is offered.

  • Do you take into account the food constraints on a whale-watching cruise?

    Available at the bistro counters of the AML Grand Fleuve, AML Zephyr and AML Levant, we are proud to offer a varied menu that meets the tastes and needs of our whale-watching cruise guests, including vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. When you make your reservation, don't forget to mention your allergies and dietary restrictions!

  • I don't drink alcohol. Is there a replacement for the alcoholic beverages included in the VIP St-Laurent Lounge of the AML Grand Fleuve and in VIP Lounge of the AML Levant?

    Of course! Non-alcoholic beverages are served according to the requests and restrictions of our VIP whale-watching guests.