There are different ways of getting to the Magdalen Islands, but we’re convinced that the most enjoyable is by sea. This popular and traditional cruise to the islands, offered by Voyages AML and the CTMA cruises is essential to discover this region fully benefit from the picturesque panorama of the St. Lawrence River, its environment and the many attractions. A variety of cruises are available depending on the adventure you wish to experience on these magnificent and legendary islands. Let’s discover them together.
Regular Cruises
Come aboard the CTMA Vacancier, a 126-metre ship with accommodations for 450 passengers, 220 comfortable rooms and many services (cinema, exercise room, boutique, beauty salon, kindergarten, etc.).
Le CTMA Vacancier leaves the Port of Montreal to undertake its crossing. As you leave the dock, you can enjoy the view the Old Port of Montreal. You can also catch a glimpse of the Notre-Dame and Sainte-Hélène Islands. A few hours later, you will cruise along the beautiful Berthier-Sorel archipelago, the city of Trois-Rivières and peek the Notre-Dame-du-Cap Basilica. Don’t go to bed too early if you don’t want to miss the most beautiful view of the day. It’s around midnight that you will be able to appreciate the magnificent landscape of Quebec City, illuminated by a thousands lights.
On Saturday, enjoy a relaxing day on the river. Close to Tadoussac, as the boat cruises from the North Shore to the South Shore, you will be able to admire the Gaspé coast in all its splendor. Take the time to marvel at the surrounding scenery, the gorgeous view of the Nordais wind mill of Cap-Chat, the impressive Sainte-Anne-des-Monts coastline, the imposing Chic-Chocs mountains, the enchantment of Forillon Park, as well as the magnificent Gaspé Bay.
You will arrive at your destination on the next morning. The day will begin with a hearty breakfast served aboard. You will then have three days on your own to take over the islands. Voyages AML offers an all-inclusive package to help you discover the roads and treasures of the archipelago. Independent travelers can visit the islands on their own according to their interests. Enjoy your adventure but don’t your return trip!
All-inclusive packages
During the cruise, enhance your trip with one of our all-inclusive packages that will help you discover the must-see attractions of the islands.
Flavor Package
The Madelinots live mainly from fishing and breeding which explains their great interest towards gastronomy. Proud of their products and creations, they have set up an impressive variety of gourmet shops. This package celebrates the culinary products specific to the islands, with a circuit that will allow you to meet local chefs and craftsmen.
Cheese factory, microbrewery, restaurants, smoke houses and tastings are offered, in an enchanting decor. A culinary feast promised every day.
Art and Culture Package
The Islands inspire a lot of of artists who have taken up residence there which is why the region is culturally rich. This route will allow you to discover and rub shoulders with local artists and craftsmen in museums, workshops or art galleries. Meals will be savoured in inspiring places or will be planned around events such as dinner shows.
Those who are artists at heart will be delighted by this tour. Several moments will be allotted on historic sites to take memorable photos. What would be a visit of the Islands, without a view of the panoramic routes that immortalize its beauty?
Bike and Outdoor Package
The Magdalen Islands offer a variety of landscapes, spread throughout its territory. Voyages AML invites you to discover these majestic sites on your bike, thanks to an extraordinary circuit which offers stops to take advantage of the archipelago’s main attractions. You will also sample some of its gastronomy and unique culture. More than a hundred kilometres will be covered during your stay.
The return
After three incredible days exploring the daily life of its residents, it will be time to leave and get back on board to begin the return journey.
During your cruise, in addition to the Magdalen Islands, you will have the pleasure of visiting the Gaspésie region during a one day stop-over. You will set foot in Gaspé and, at your leisure, explore the surroundings as well as the famous Rocher-Percé and the Bonaventure Island.
As the ship passes by the North Shore of the St. Lawrence River in the Tadoussac Region, you will have get to enjoy whale watching. You will have front-row seats to admire Charlevoix landscapes, Côte-de-Beaupré, Île d’Orléans and the Montmorency Falls. Also included is an excellent vantage point on the Château Frontenac, as we pass by Quebec City.
The next morning, the Old Port of Montreal will come into sight. Breakfast will be served on board, letting you enjoy a few extra hours of your unforgettable experience before heading back home.
Themed Cruises
During the cruise season to the Magdalen Islands, Voyages AML also offers five exclusive themed cruises to make your trip even more memorable!
Maritime Flavors
If you are a seafood lover, you probably already know that there is no better time to enjoy this delicacy than when the fishing season is in full swing. During your cruise aboard the CTMA Vacancier, take advantage of the presence of several chefs and discover the flavors of the Islands.
Arnaud Marchand, Chef and co-owner of Chez Boulay-bistro boréal in Quebec City and culinary contributor on the morning TV show Salut Bonjour!, will cook your dinners. Each meal will be a gourmet experience showcasing local products.
A culinary workshop will be hosted by none other than Chef Trainer André Lagacé. Him and his students will introduce you to new flavors through this tasting workshop.
Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy a lecture given by Lynn Albert, part of the LA Renaissance group. She will explain everything about fishing techniques, as well as processing and exporting lobster.
You will finally get to hear from tales about a fisherman’s life living on the Islands.
Tribute to Quebec
What better way to celebrate Quebec’s National Holiday than by exploring its landmark cities and enchanting landscapes? The CTMA Vacancier will dress up for the event. Our guest Jici Lauzon, singer and comedian, will make you revisit Quebec’s greatest musical hits.
The entire boat will have a festive and entertaining atmosphere. The outside decks will come alive with Quebec’s music and films. Karaoke lovers can also sing if they feel like it.
This special itinerary also takes you to Baie-Comeau and of course the National Capital.
Wealth of the St. Lawrence
Although we see it daily, the St. Lawrence River remains an enigma for a large part of the population. During this expedition, you will have the chance to meet experts who will be eager to inform you about this majestic waterway criss-crossing the province and its navigation.
You will be able to expand your knowledge with a workshop on mariculture and oyster farming. Christian Vigneau, maricultutist and Madelinot entrepreneur, will be happy to explain all the tricks of the trade.
You will have the opportunity to explore the seabed and its residents through an interpretation session, in open air, on the outer decks. Our experts will give you a portrait of the mammals inhabiting the river. Perhaps you will have the chance to see some while aboard the CTMA Vacancier. Keep your eyes wide open!
A special itinerary is planned to help you unveil some of the secrets of the St. Lawrence. As you cruise along, you will see the Rocher-Percé as well as enjoy a short stop in Pointe-au-Pic.
Islands immersion
The best way to really understand a region is by familiarizing yourself with its culture. This theme puts forward the traditions and colours of the islands, either through its music or gastronomy. We will take it upon ourselves to make you discover this corner of the province filled with history.
You will savor the typical island cuisine thanks to the renowned Chef Johanne Vigneau from La Table des Roy. You’ll never want to eat seafood any other way!
After feasting on salmon and lobster, you can learn all about fishing, during the workshop-conference offered aboard the CTMA Vacancier. Escape to the world at sea, thanks to the tales of our story teller, Cédric Landry. The Madelinot group Suroît will also be on board to liven up your evening and make you dance until the wee hours of the morning.
A full day will be allotted to discover the beauty and nostalgia that dwells in Havre-Saint-Pierre, as well as a few hours to cruise in the impressive Saguenay Fjord.
Wine and Gastronomy
Since many Madelinots earn their living from fishing, they have adapted their menu according to seasons. A master chef and sommelier will make you benefit from their expertise and offer you fine food, perfectly paired with delicious wines.
You can savor fine cuisine during your gourmet dinners, courtesy of Jean-Luc Boulay, co-owner of Chez Boulay-bistro boréal, of the Saint-Amour in Quebec City and culinary contributor on the morning TV show Salut Bonjour!
The gourmet pleasure doesn’t stop there. Culinary demonstration and discovery of local Quebec food products will also be provided. You can also try different wines, all exquisite, in the company of the famous sommelier Elyse Lambert during a tasting workshop.
An itinerary specially designed for this cruise will allow you to stay two days on the Magdalen Islands, as well as benefit from a few stopovers on the third day. You will have the opportunity to explore the cities of La Baie and Quebec City.
The Magdalen Islands have a lot to offer and that’s why we present a variety of experiences so every wish can be fullfilled. For more information on our cruises or to make your reservation, visit our website. Don’t miss this unique chance to explore the finest corners of the province!
