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Zodiac Whale Watching 2.5-hour Expedition Tour in Charlevoix

  • Charlevoix, Baie-Sainte-Catherine Dock

  • From May 02 to October 30, 2026

  • Departures at 10:15 AM and 1:30 PM

  • Duration of about 2h30

  • A humpback whale performs a dramatic breach out of the water, splashing as it rises. In the background, a solitary lighthouse stands on calm waters under a clear blue sky, creating a serene and majestic atmosphere.
  • A narrow waterfall flows down a rocky cliff covered in dense vegetation. At the base of the cliff, a small yellow boat floats on dark water, highlighting the grandeur of the rocky wall and the tranquility of the surrounding nature.
  • Two spotted grey seals lie on algae-covered rocks near the water. They calmly look toward the observer, while their rocky surroundings display natural shades of green and brown.
  • A yellow observation boat filled with passengers in life jackets sails on calm waters. In the background, a lighthouse and forested hills under a clear blue sky complete the scene.
  • A humpback whale dives into the water, showcasing its large fan-shaped tail that splashes the surface. In the background, distant hills and a clear blue sky add a sense of serenity to the scene.
  • A captain wearing a cap and sunglasses steers a boat while looking through the windshield. Outside, a sunset over the water is visible, with blurred passengers at the back of the boat. The sky is partly cloudy, creating a warm atmosphere.
  • A yellow observation boat filled with passengers in life jackets floats on calm waters. In the foreground, the back of a whale is visible at the water's surface. The background features blurry hills and a clear blue sky.
1/8
  • 8+ images
  • 8+ images
    A humpback whale performs a dramatic breach out of the water, splashing as it rises. In the background, a solitary lighthouse stands on calm waters under a clear blue sky, creating a serene and majestic atmosphere.
  • 8+ images
    A narrow waterfall flows down a rocky cliff covered in dense vegetation. At the base of the cliff, a small yellow boat floats on dark water, highlighting the grandeur of the rocky wall and the tranquility of the surrounding nature.
1/8
  • A humpback whale performs a dramatic breach out of the water, splashing as it rises. In the background, a solitary lighthouse stands on calm waters under a clear blue sky, creating a serene and majestic atmosphere.
  • A narrow waterfall flows down a rocky cliff covered in dense vegetation. At the base of the cliff, a small yellow boat floats on dark water, highlighting the grandeur of the rocky wall and the tranquility of the surrounding nature.
  • Two spotted grey seals lie on algae-covered rocks near the water. They calmly look toward the observer, while their rocky surroundings display natural shades of green and brown.
  • A yellow observation boat filled with passengers in life jackets sails on calm waters. In the background, a lighthouse and forested hills under a clear blue sky complete the scene.
  • A humpback whale dives into the water, showcasing its large fan-shaped tail that splashes the surface. In the background, distant hills and a clear blue sky add a sense of serenity to the scene.
  • A captain wearing a cap and sunglasses steers a boat while looking through the windshield. Outside, a sunset over the water is visible, with blurred passengers at the back of the boat. The sky is partly cloudy, creating a warm atmosphere.
  • A yellow observation boat filled with passengers in life jackets floats on calm waters. In the foreground, the back of a whale is visible at the water's surface. The background features blurry hills and a clear blue sky.

Starting at

$134.99 /adult

Buy my ticket

The price may vary depending on the cruise date. Optional products and taxes not included.

An exceptional nature expedition!

Hop aboard our Zodiacs with our experienced captains for a thrilling and sporty adventure in the heart of the world's best whale-watching site. This expedition in the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity that you must experience!

You will start by encountering the giants of the sea, including the most frequently observed species such as minke whales, humpback whales, fin whales, harbor porpoises, common seals, and belugas. Your excursion will then take you on a journey into the majestic Saguenay Fjord. 

What to expect:

  • The Location: Embark from the stunning Charlevoix region in the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park, internationally recognized as one of the best places in the world to observe whales.
  • Duration: This whale-watching Zodiac expedition lasts approximately 2.5 hours.
  • Experienced Captains and Guides: A devoted captain will guide you on this expedition aboard our 24-passenger Zodiacs. Additionally, a certified naturalist guide will join you on our 60-passenger Zodiacs to comment on the observations and answer your questions.
  • Panoramic Views: Enjoy the unique perspective from our 24 or 60-passenger Zodiacs, specially designed for marine mammal observation. Sporty and agile, they provide a perfect balance of comfort and adventure.
  • Memorable Moments: Capture unforgettable photos and create lasting memories with some of the planet's most majestic creatures.
  • Onboard Amenities: Benefit from our complimentary waterproof and windproof suits to ensure your comfort. We recommend wearing appropriate clothing and closed-toe shoes.
  • Whale Guarantee: Our observation rate is exceptionally high. However, if no whales are spotted, you can return for a future free whale-watching cruise (whale guarantee does not apply to Zodiac tours).
  • Tips: If you are driving from Montreal or Quebec City for a day trip, consider departing from Baie-Ste-Catherine to save time, avoiding the ferry to Tadoussac.

 

Our Commitment to Eco-Sustainability

Our eco-friendly cruises operate in perfect harmony with the environment, incorporating best practices in sustainable development. Our certified and experienced captains strictly adhere to regulations in the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park to ensure responsible interactions with marine life.

As a partner of the Green Alliance and a founding member of the Eco-Whale Alliance, we are dedicated to marine conservation and promoting environmentally respectful observation practices.

You are in Good Hands

Croisières AML is a family-owned company founded in 1972, still owned by the Hamel family. Despite our human scale, we are the largest cruise excursion company in Canada, operating in 10 ports across Quebec with over 750 employees.

Passenger safety is our top priority, and our crew and vessels are certified by Transport Canada.

Lunch box (optional)

We offer a lunch box service available for purchase on-site or for preorder ($26.99, excluding taxes).

Please note that eating is not permitted on board the Zodiacs. Plan to arrive early to have your meal before boarding.

Lunch box (optional)

  • Choice of sandwich

    • Ciabatta with organic ham, lettuce, and mozzarella cheese

    • Chicken with lettuce and mozzarella, on ciabatta bread

    • Ciabatta with eggs, herbs, lettuce, and mozzarella cheese

  • Salad

    • Rigatoni salad with sun-dried tomatoes and feta (vegetarian)

  • Snack

    • Québec cheese curds

  • Dessert

    • Homemade chocolate chip cookies (2)

  • Drink

    • Can of spring water

    • Gluten-free bread available upon request. Large 7-grain vegetable salad available for vegetarian and gluten free diets.

    • Taxes not included. Menu and price subject to change without notice. Sandwich selection available on-site, subject to availability. We cannot guarantee that food served on board is free of allergens.

About

  • Whale icon

    World-Class Location

    The Saguenay-Saint-Lawrence Marine Park is recognized as the best site in the world for observing whales and other marine mammals.

    Find out why
  • Whale icon

    Whale Warranty

    If you don’t see any marine mammals during your cruise, don’t worry. We will provide you with a complimentary pass for another whale watching boat tour.

    Learn more
  • Lifebuoy Icon

    Safe Cruise

    Your safety is our top priority. Our vessels are regularly inspected and maintained to the highest standards, and our crew is thoroughly trained in emergency procedures.

    Learn more
  • Speaker icon

    AML-FLEX and AML-FLEX+

    Pair this cruise with the AML-FLEX or AML-FLEX+ options, allowing you to reschedule your cruise once.

    Learn more

  • Paid Parking

    Paid parking is located nearby. The rate is $7 per day for cars and $14 per day for recreational vehicles.

Schedule and Pricing

  • Departure at 10:15 AM
  • Departure at 1:30 PM

  • Please note that the departures on October 31 and November 1 are only available from Tadoussac.

Schedule is subject to change without notice.

Boarding will take place 30 minutes before your departure

Duration of about 2h30

Departures at

  • 10:15 AM
  • 1:30 PM

Pricing is subject to change without notice. Taxes are not included.

Pricing list

Pricing is subject to change without notice. Taxes are not included.

2026 Pricing
Adults Ages 13 and up $134.99 /person
Children * Ages 6 to 12 $114.99 /person
  • * For safety reasons, children under 6 years old are not allowed aboard Zodiacs.
Buy my ticket

Boarding

Additional Information

  • Child icon

    Child policy

    For safety reasons, children under 6 years old are not allowed aboard a Zodiac.

  • Ban icon

    Restrictions

    • No smoking.

    • No animals allowed.

    • No alcohol or meal can be brought onboard our ships. Family snacks are allowed.

  • Accessibility icon

    Accessibility

    If you have functional limitations, please contact one of our agents by phone to make your reservation.

    Learn more about the accessibility conditions
  • Boat icon

    Passenger capacity aboard a Zodiac

    Our fleet contains 24 or 60-passenger Zodiacs. The choice of ship will be based on logistic reasons, the size of the ship is not guaranteed.

    Learn more

  • Excursion into the fjord

    When marine mammals are observed farther away than usual in the marine park, the journey into the fjord may not be possible due to time constraints.

FAQ

  • What makes the Zodiac whale watching 2.5-hour tour different from the boat tour?

    The Zodiac tour offers a thrilling, more adventurous experience closer to the water. During the 2.5-hour Zodiac Expedition in Charlevoix, you first head out to observe whales in the Saguenay–Saint-Lawrence Marine Park, and then the excursion concludes with a journey into the Saguenay Fjord. When marine mammals are located farther away than usual within the marine park, it may not be possible to enter the fjord due to time constraints.

  • How long is the tour and what are the departure times?

    The expedition lasts approximately 2.5 hours. It is available from May 2 to October 30, 2026, with departures at 10:15 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. from the Baie-Sainte-Catherine Wharf.

  • What type of Zodiac is used and is there a guide on board?

    Croisières AML operates a fleet of Zodiacs that can accommodate either 24 or 60 passengers, depending on operational requirements. Aboard the 24-passenger Zodiac, the expedition is led by an experienced captain who shares insights throughout the journey. Aboard the 60-passenger Zodiac, a certified naturalist guide also accompanies the crew.

  • Which departure should I choose: Charlevoix or Tadoussac?

    Your choice mainly depends on your itinerary. If you are arriving from Quebec City or the Charlevoix region, we recommend departing from Baie-Sainte-Catherine (Charlevoix), allowing you to avoid taking the ferry to Tadoussac. If you are arriving from Eastern Quebec or already planning to stop in Tadoussac, that departure point is equally convenient. In all cases, the experience remains the same: the vessel stops at both wharves to welcome passengers, and the whale watching tour is identical regardless of your departure location.

  • How should I dress for this type of Zodiac tour?

    A waterproof and windproof suit is provided to ensure your comfort during the excursion. However, we recommend wearing warm clothing underneath, including long pants and a long-sleeved shirt, as well as closed-toe shoes. Even during summer, temperatures on the river can be cooler than on shore.

  • Can children join this Zodiac tour?

    For safety reasons, children under 6 years old are not permitted aboard the Zodiacs. For families with younger children, we recommend the whale watching boat tour in Charlevoix.

  • What are the rates for this Zodiac whale watching 2.5-hour expedition tour in Charlevoix?

    Prices start at $134.99 per adult (ages 13 and up) and $114.99 for children aged 6 to 12 (taxes extra).

  • Can I eat on board the Zodiac?

    Food is not permitted aboard the Zodiacs. A boxed lunch is available as an optional add-on, either by pre-order or on-site purchase, for $26.99 plus taxes. We recommend arriving a little early to eat before boarding or enjoying your meal after your excursion.

Zodiac Whale Watching 2.5-hour Expedition Tour in Charlevoix

Charlevoix, Baie-Sainte-Catherine Dock

Starting at

$134.99 /adult

Buy my ticket

The price may vary depending on the cruise date. Optional products and taxes not included.

Starting at

$134.99 /adult

The price may vary depending on the cruise date. Optional products and taxes not included.

Buy my ticket

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