Live the Saguenay–Saint Lawrence

Peak whale-watching season is usually from July to mid-October. They arrive in late April and early May and leave in late October (except for the beluga, which stays all year round). At the height of summer, weather conditions are favorable and very pleasant. September and October are a good time of year, as the whales are generally numerous and very active.

Many factors can influence their presence (biology, currents, temperatures, tides, etc.) So it's difficult to guarantee the best time of year, but if you show up on these dates, your chances of seeing one are excellent.

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For whales, time doesn't matter. They eat when they like and live at their own pace, making each day unique! According to scientists at GREMM (Groupe de Recherche et d'Éducation sur les Mammifères Marins), they are not active at one particular time of day than another. That said, some observation conditions are better than others.

It's almost guaranteed! It's quite rare not to see one, but of course it's never guaranteed. Whales are wild animals and the "aquarium" in which they live is very large.

As for ideal conditions, weather conditions (temperature, wind, rain) have little influence on the behavior of whales, which have to come to the surface to breathe anyway. Rather, they influence our ability to spot whales.
Ideal conditions would be a calm, windless day, so that white waves are not mistaken for beluga backs, a non-blinding sun (sunrise is good for spotting blowholes, but difficult for seeing beluga backs), clear weather and no fog.

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Approach distances may vary according to the class of permit granted. Here are the main rules to observe when boating in the marine park (some exceptions apply):

- You must keep a distance of at least 400m at all times from endangered marine mammals (beluga, blue and right whales).

- Keep a minimum distance of 200m from other whales and seals.

- Never stop in the presence of beluga whales. Keep a distance of 5 to 10 knots until you are far enough away not to see them.

The Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park Regulations govern activities at sea to protect marine mammals, including species at risk. Regardless of the type of craft (boat, sailboat, kayak, paddleboard, etc.) or activity (diving, fishing, swimming, etc.), you must know and respect the Regulations.

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It all depends on what you want to experience! Each boat has its own particularities and appeal.

Zodiac 
- You'll have more thrills and be closer to the water
- Fewer tourists on board
- You can see all over the boat
- The zodiac goes faster and moves quickly to reach an observation area
- The whales seem more impressive, as the zodiac is closer to water level

Boat
- Move around the boat to observe from different view points
- Several services available on board (toilets, food purchases, etc.)
- In case of rain, the boat is covered to keep you dry
- Opportunity to see other historical sites during the cruise (depending on the company chosen)

To ensure that your cruise is well adapted to your group's needs, we recommend that you discuss any possible restrictions with the company you choose for your expedition.

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To make your expedition as pleasant as possible, here are our tips: 

- Dress warmly. It's always cold on the river, no matter how nice the weather! Depending on the season, bring a warm sweater, hat and gloves. The view will make you forget you ever had to dress that way, I promise!

- Bring your camera. If you're taking your cell phone, remember to bring a pouch to protect it from the water.

- Don't forget your sunglasses and sunscreen. Expeditions last several hours. The sun can be tiring on the eyes and hard on the skin.

- Binoculars. Marine mammals can stay well away from boats, so they'll make sure you don't miss a thing.

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