Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park

The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park is a protected marine area. Its mission is to preserve marine life while promoting scientific research and educational and recreational activities for the sake of today’s and tomorrow’s generations.

Covering an area of 1245 km² (480 sq. mi.), the Marine Park protects part of the St. Lawrence Estuary, from La Malbaie to Les Escoumins, as well as part of the Saguenay Fjord. Its protection extends to every living organism, from the seabed to the surface of the water.

During a sea excursion and while visiting the various interpretation centres that surround the park, you can admire park scenery, discover marine life and learn about the area’s history.

Come and find out why the Marine Park is one of the best whale-watching sites in the world. Learn more about the history of the Aboriginal people, the Basque whalers and the lighthouse keepers. Observation sites, campsites and hiking trails offer you stunning views of the Marine Park.

The Marine Park offers visitors the opportunity to experience unique maritime adventures and discover marine life.

Opening dates

Most park services are offered during the summer months, from May to October. However, some are available in winter too.

Schedule

Varies depending on the site and activity

Cost

Varies depending on the site and activity

Note for this reservation

Recommended for sea excursions

Activities available in spring

Aboriginal Heritage

For centuries, this area was a meeting point for the first European settlers and the Aboriginal people who have inhabited this coast for some 8000 years. This rich history is an important part of our heritage.

Gardens and Natural Science

Visit one of the last large spartina marshes in the St. Lawrence Estuary or any of the many estuarine islands to discover the beauty and rich bounty of this area.

Hiking

Hike around the Marine Park and admire breathtaking views of the Saguenay Fjord and the St. Lawrence Estuary. Some trails include interpretation panels that focus on the area’s natural and cultural heritage.

Interpretation Sites

Have fun while learning by visiting one of the many interpretation centres located on the park’s shores. Discover the history of the region and learn about marine mammals and their habitats. It is a whole new world to discover!

Lighthouses

Immerse yourself in maritime life by learning about the fascinating history of the lighthouses and their inhabitants. Used as navigational aids for years, these lighthouses bear witness to the dramatic meeting of land and sea.

Maritime Heritage

A part of our history that is worth discovering! A meeting point for European settlers and Aboriginal people, the Tadoussac area is an important historic site. Explore the vestiges of the past from yesteryear to today.

National Parks and Wildlife Reserves

The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park protects a unique marine environment covering an area of 1245 sq. km (440 sq. mi.) including one of the longest fjords in the world, a paradise for marine mammals and an aboriginal presence going back 8000 years.

Scuba Diving

Enjoy unique experiences in one of the most beautiful diving sites in North America. Observe starfish, anemones and other mysterious marine organisms. Find out about the measures you should adopt to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Sea Excursions

Share unforgettable moments with loved ones during a sea excursion as you observe whales and seals. A set of regulations govern marine activities to ensure the protection of marine mammals.

Sea Kayaking

The Marine Park offers you the opportunity to experience a thrilling maritime adventure: accompanied by an experienced guide, discover the pleasures of sea kayaking. Find out more about this sport to ensure you have a safe and enjoyable experience.

Whale Watching

Visitors come from all over the world to observe the 13 species of whales in this park, including the endangered St. Lawrence belugas and the blue whales, the largest mammals to have ever lived on earth.

Wildlife Observation

The Marine Park is home to a profusion of marine life! Come and observe whales, seals and seabirds, and participate in interactive dives with biologist divers.

See what this partner is offering in fall, in summer or in winter.

How to get there

Visitors can explore the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park via land or water. Numerous lookouts and interpretation centres give you the opportunities to admire park scenery and marine wildlife while learning more about the park and the history of this area. To visit the park on water, participate in a sightseeing or sea kayaking excursion. Pleasure crafters can access the Marine Park via the many boat ramps found in the territory bordering the park.

Visitors can drive to the edge of the park along the following roads:
- Via Route 138, from La Malbaie in the Saint-Fidèle sector of the Charlevoix region to Les Escoumins in Manicouagan, Côte-Nord.
- Via routes 170 and 172 along either side of the Saguenay Fjord: Route 170 goes from Saint-Siméon to the town of Saguenay, while Route 172 goes from Taddoussac to Saguenay.
- Via Route 132 or Highway 20 in Bas-Saint-Laurent, from Rivière-du-Loup to Trois-Pistoles.

Affiliations and distinctions

The Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park is jointly managed by Parks Canada and Parcs Québec. It is one of the first protected marine areas in Canada and one of the best whale-watching sites in the world.