Québec City: Whale Watching Tour with Bus Transportation
Overview
Available languages
11 hours
Mobile ticket
Embark on a hassle-free adventure from historic Québec City and journey to the stunning Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park for a breathtaking whale watching tour. Choose between a spacious observation boat or an intimate Zodiac ride and encounter up to 13 captivating whale species with guidance from expert naturalists. Sit back and relax with round-trip bus transportation, enjoying a scenic journey through picturesque landscapes along the St. Lawrence River.
- Skip driving and enjoy comfortable travel by bus for this full-day adventure
- Discover breathtaking Charlevoix landscapes on the journey from historic Québec City
- Pick your adventure upon booking between boat or Zodiac, for a unique whale watching experience
- Get the chance to observe up to 13 whale species with commentary by naturalist guides
- Immerse yourself in the enchanting vistas of the Saguenay Fjord and its surrounding mountains
Additional Info
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meals are not included. You can either pack a lunch and/or snacks, or you can buy a preprepared lunchbox from our lunchbox service upon arrival at Baie-Sainte-Catherine (depending on availability). Our lunchboxes are also available for preorder.
Please note that yours meal is not allowed aboard our boats. A one-hour lunch break is scheduled before the cruise, where you can enjoy your meal.
Please dress warmly, as it can be quite cold on the river. An insulated jacket, hat, gloves and closed-toes shoes are highly recommended.
Minimum age is 6 years for the zodiac boat
Cruises operate rain or shine unless weather conditions pose a safety risk to passengers. Rest assured, the big boat features an enclosed area for your comfort.
Whale Guarantee: Our sighting rate is extremely high, but as the marine park is a natural environment, sometimes mammals can be more elusive. If no sightings are made, we'll offer you another whale watching tour (boat tour only)
The round-trip bus journey from Québec City to Baie-Sainte-Catherine, Charlevoix takes approximately 3 hours each way.
Zodiac excursions are not advisable, and even prohibited for certain persons such as young children (under the age of 6), pregnant women, people suffering from articulation, back, or autonomy problems, or persons in wheelchairs. If you or any members of your group fall under these criteria, we recommend choosing our whale watching boat tour for a comfortable and equally exciting experience.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What‘s Included
Expert and certified naturalist guide onboard
Waterproof jacket and pants (if choosing the Zodiac option)
All Fees and Taxes
2.5-hour or 3-hour whale-watching cruise
Bilingual commentary
Food and drink
Binoculars
What To Expect
Your full-day journey begins with pickup from your accommodation before meeting your group at Fontaine de Tourny. Board a coach for a scenic drive along the St. Lawrence River to Baie-Sainte-Catherine, Charlevoix—home to the world’s top whale watching sites. Majestic Whales: Our certified bilingual naturalist guides will share fascinating insights about the 13 whale species that frequent the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park. The best season for sightings is from May to October, so get ready for an unforgettable adventure! Boat or Zodiac Option: Step aboard our state-of-the-art observation boats, designed for maximum comfort and optimal whale watching, or opt for one of our sleek Zodiacs, designed for an immersive experience and minimal environmental impact. Whale Guarantee: Our sighting rate is extremely high, but as the marine park is a natural environment, sometimes mammals can be more elusive. If no sightings are made, we'll offer you another whale watching tour (boat tour only). Relaxing Return: After your cruise, unwind on the motorcoach back to Québec City, soaking in the scenic landscapes along the St. Lawrence River as you reflect on your incredible adventure.
Options
Zodiac Cruise
A small, faster, open-air boat that holds either 24 or 60 passengers and allows you to get very close to the whales.
Big Boat Cruise
Boat Cruise: Whale-watching cruise on a large, three-level, 105-foot (32-meter) boat with a glassed-in main deck, observation platform and covered upper deck.
Reviews
407 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
This was a great...
Christine Y,
Aug 7, 2025
- Viator
5.00This was a great experience, we got to see Whales right away. The whale guide on the boat was knowledgeable and really good. I would recommend to bring snacks and drinks and prepare for a long day, you may or may not get a seat on the boat, depends on how crowded it is. We stood most of the time. The whales did not disappoint and our bus travel guide was lovely.
Nice day on the boat
Deborah K,
Aug 6, 2025
- Viator
4.00We went on the big boat - it’s a nice ride and very scenic. We saw a few whales, but just barely breaking the surface of the water. Saw some seals sunbathing. Not exactly a bang up show, but fortunately the boat ride is lovely enough on its own. I had read some reviews that made it unclear whether there is stop along the 3 hour bus ride. Yes - the bus stops halfway on the ride to the boat at a nice lil shop that features lots of cheese and there are restrooms available. You can purchase a lunch when you arrive at the marina before getting on the boat. The bus does not stop on the ride back to the city. It’s a long day, but we enjoyed it.
Beautiful landscapes....
Morgane S,
Aug 2, 2025
- Viator
5.00Beautiful landscapes. Claudelle was a very good guide. Great cruise. However, we did not have an hour to eat before boarding. We had to eat on the boat.
Whale watch..bucket list. ✔️
Sherri C,
Jul 21, 2025
- Viator
5.00We had a blast on this excursion! We met that morning and greeted by the bus driver and our host of the day. Both were friendly and spoke English well. It takes 3 hours both ways on a comfortable bus, that has a toilette, but no sink, so bring hand sanitizer. We stopped once to buy cheeses and the small maple syrups were the cheapest I had found around @ $5. We were fortunate to see an orca, humpback, and seals. If you are on the smaller boat, be sure to dress warm, you will get sprays of water at times. We brought a change of clothes, but didnt need it. We brought our own food too. I highly recommend this trip and the preferred Zodiac , if you can. It is thrilling!
Good tour, the tour Director was very knowledgeable and helpful
Maria M,
Jul 18, 2025
- Viator
5.00Bring a change of clothes, my daughter and I got soaked, regardless the protective water proof garments provided
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