The Saguenay Fjord is one of Quebec’s most spectacular natural gems. Navigable for more than 100 kilometres between Tadoussac and Saint-Fulgence, this interior arm of the sea with vertiginous walls offers a grandiose spectacle in every season. According to SEPAQ, Parc national du Fjord-du-Saguenay welcomes hundreds of thousands of visitors each year, attracted by its breathtaking panoramas and exceptional marine wildlife.
Whether you’re a fan of the great outdoors or looking for a memorable getaway, a cruise on the Saguenay Fjord is a must-do experience. From your hotel in Chicoutimi, there are several options available to you to discover this natural wonder.
Why take a cruise on the Saguenay Fjord?
The Saguenay Fjord is one of the few navigable fjords in North America. Its cliffs reach 350 meters in height in places and plunge up to 275 meters below the surface of the water. This unique geography creates a fascinating marine ecosystem where belugas, seals, porpoises and a multitude of seabirds live side by side.
On a cruise, you’ll discover sites impossible to reach by road: Eternity Bay and its imposing Cape Trinity statues, the secret coves lined with boreal forest, and the picturesque villages that dot the shores of the fjord. It’s a completely different perspective than the hiking trails in the national park.
The best cruise options from the Saguenay
Whale Watching Cruises
From May to October, the waters of the St. Lawrence Fjord and Estuary are home to several species of whales. Observation cruises depart mainly from Tadoussac and Baie-Sainte-Catherine, about a 2-hour drive from Chicoutimi. Here you can observe the beluga, minke whale, fin whale and, with a bit of luck, the majestic humpback whale.
Panoramic fjord cruises
For those who want to admire the grandiose landscapes of the fjord, panoramic cruises are ideal. These excursions of a few hours sail between the majestic walls of the fjord, offering incomparable views of Cape Trinity, Cape Eternity and the Bay of Ha! Ha!. It is also an opportunity to understand the fascinating geology of this natural formation that is millions of years old.
Zodiac and sea kayaking excursions
For the more adventurous, zodiac or sea kayak excursions on the fjord allow you to live the experience as close as possible to the water. The zodiac offers thrills and a unique proximity to the marine fauna, while the kayak allows a silent immersion in this majestic environment.
When to go on a fjord cruise?
The cruise season usually runs from May to October. Each period offers its advantages:
- May-June : the fjord awakens, the whales arrive, the vegetation is reborn. The crowds are still modest.
- July-August : high season, ideal conditions, all species of whales are present. Book early!
- September-October : the autumn colours transform the banks into a living painting. The crowds are decreasing and the observation remains excellent.
Your stay in Saguenay: much more than a cruise
A fjord cruise combines perfectly with the many activities in the area. While you’re there, explore all that Chicoutimi has to offer : the Pulperie, the Petite Maison Blanche, local microbreweries, and the lively downtown patios.
For a comfortable stay, the Château Cran Chaud, the best hotel in Chicoutimi, welcomes you in the heart of downtown. Its heritage charm, spacious rooms and strategic location make it the ideal starting point for your adventures in the Saguenay.
