Since 2013, Croisières Lachance offers a cruise in the archipelago of Isle-aux-Grues, to observe the Alca torda, also known as little penguins, a name that qualifies penguins that fly.
Alca torda
These birds, from the eastern regions, Gaspésie and the North Shore, of the St. Lawrence, migrate each spring to build their nests and breed on a small rocky island close to the river. This area, where fresh water meets salt water, is prized by this species and many more, due to its abundance of food.
The Alca torda is the cousin of the great penguin, now extinguished. The female lays a single egg per year but will keep the same partner for life. Little penguins feed mainly on herring, capelin, crustaceans and marine worms. Their short, rounded wings, used as fins, allow them to reach depths inaccessible to seagulls. The Razorbill Observation Cruise will allow you to admire this fascination creature.
The Razorbill Observation Cruise
The Razorbill Observation Cruise departs from Berthier-sur-Mer, 35 minutes away from Quebec City. This 4 hours and a half cruise offers food and beverage services aboard. Throughout the expedition, passengers will have the chance to see Grosse-Île, Île Madame, Île Sainte-Marguerite, Île la Sottise, Île du Calumet, Île aux Canards and of course, Isle-aux-Grues. This excursion will help you discover this unique corner of the St. Lawrence. You can even visit Grosse-Île or Isle-aux-Grues during future expeditions aboard the Croisières Lachance. The river is filled with little gems that are worth exploring.
The Captain, a true navigation veteran, will tell you tales and interesting facts during the cruise. Passengers will undoubtedly return with various stories to share about the fascination river that crosses most of the province. You will also get to see wild geese, cormorants and Canada geese. Specialists in ornithology will share their knowledge of local fauna.
Once in the Isle-aux-Grues archipelago, you will see thousands of penguins minding their own business as you take pictures. The river breeze, the marine fragrance and the distinctive cry of the gathering of small penguins will make you forget that you never left the province!
Book your cruise today and enjoy a unique experience on the St. Lawrence River!
