How to Explore Tadoussac, Quebec
Tadoussac is a small town about three hours drive north from Quebec City deep in the heart of French Canada. Nestled in the hills where the St Lawrence waterway meets the only fjord on the east coast of North America, the Saguenay. Because of this ideal location Tadoussac was the first trading outpost set up by French explorers in New France. Nowadays tourists flock to the rugged village for its quaint beauty, easy hiking trails, and its facilities for whale watching.
The main draw for me of course is the whales. Even though I get to see whales all the time in Alaska and Hawaii through my work I love experiences different whales in different parts of the world. Here in Tadoussac you can see not just humpbacks, but also blue, fin, minke, and beluga whales. Most are here in the height of summer for feeding on the upwelling just offshore, although the belugas live here year round. You can see the whales from shore but the best way to encounter them is to hop on a whale watching cruise for up close and personal encounters.
There are two main companies that take out the bulk of the whale watchers here. I have used AML both times I've visited with very good results. The naturalist onboard answer your questions and give you a good idea of what species you are watching and information about the different behaviors. They will naturalize in both French and English. Both the big boat and the zodiac are wonderful platforms for whale watching here. I would suggest trying both, although if there is a chance of rain and you want to bring a camera then the big boat is the only way to go. Otis Excursions is the other zodiac only option that sends out multiple whale watching trips daily. I was surprised to see both companies heading out into extreme foggy conditions and come back with reports of good whale encounters.
The weather in summer can go from hot to cold, foggy to clear in a matter of minutes. So be prepared for it all. It will always be cold while underway in the zodiacs, although the companies do set you up with pretty heavy duty survival suits and waterproof pants before you head out. Taking care of your camera gear is top priority during inclement weather. The companies suggest against taking out cameras but leave it to your own discretion. Another option is to rent a kayak and head out on your own to enjoy the beautiful coastline. Sometimes whales will pop up a few yards off the rocks where spectators sit and picnic.
Besides the whales there are fun hiking trails through and around town which can give you wonderful views of the surrounding area. One trail that leads around the point from the main docks also leads to some wonderful tide pools at low tide. Sea stars, limpets, snails, and other small marine critters can be seen in the pools while shore birds and mink can also be spied.
Plus the food options in Tadoussac are to die for. Just outside of town the Restaurant du Boise serves up heaping portions of locally caught seafood like mussels, lobster, salmon, crab, and tiny but tasty shrimp. Reservations and a healthy appetite are recommended. In town Le Cafe Boheme serves up some of the best coffee and espresso around with some amazing dishes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. It is a can't miss.
The best part of visiting Tadoussac is the ability to drive a few hours and feel like you are in a part of Europe. French is spoken all around, although it is possible to get by with English. People are welcoming, the helpings are generous, and the whales right offshore. If it is quiet and peaceful in an exotic way that you desire, it is only a days drive away.
Hope you enjoyed the journey to this adorable piece of France tucked away in a whale watchers paradise in Canada.
-Dai Mar