Discover the beauty of marine life from starfish to whales: Observe whales, seals and seabirds from the shore, only a few feet from the water. An experienced guide will help you identify these animals and learn more about them. This is a site you won’t want to miss along the Whale Route!
Observe whales from the shore: The Marine Environment Discovery Centre is an ideal place to observe whales and seals because these marine mammals often swim near the shore! Regardless of the time of day or the tides, your chances of spotting a whale are good during the period that the centre is open (see the schedule). The centre’s terrace offers an accessible viewpoint.
Explore one of North America’s most beautiful underwater environments: The Marine Environment Discovery Centre is located about 35 km (20 mi.) east of Tadoussac.
Visit the exhibition and participate in activities: From mid-June to early September, daily activities include “Estuary Punch” and “St. Lawrence Sharks.” The exhibition will tell you everything you need to know about the marine life found in the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park.
Enjoy a virtual dive in the St. Lawrence: The “St. Lawrence Live” activity gives you the opportunity to ask divers questions and request that they look for a specific animal for you. You will be captivated! Consult the schedule. (This activity is offered in French, but you are welcome to ask questions in English.)
Go scuba diving or snorkelling at one of the best equipped diving bases in Québec: Take advantage of the amenities and services available on site: guided dives, equipment rentals, air filling station, hot showers and freshwater tank to rinse your gear. Safe and easy access to the water. Professional divers available to guide you.
Stop for a picnic and enjoy the view of the sea.
For children: Do your children love to explore? Request the Parks Canada Xplorers booklet. Children will enjoy the play area inspired by the whales.
Accessible facilities: The Marine Environment Discovery Centre is accessible to people with reduced mobility from the gravel parking lot, providing access to the exhibition, screening room and observation terrace.
Tickets include admission to other Parks Canada interpretation centres on the same day, including the Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre (Les Bergeronnes).
Opening dates
June 20 to October 2020
Schedule
CENTRE: June 20 to September 7: Monday to Friday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. September 8 to October 12: Friday to Sunday and statutory holidays, from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. “ST. LAWRENCE LIVE” ACTIVITY: June 27 to July 12: Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. July 13 to August 9: Wednesday to Sunday at 2:30 p.m. August 10 to 15: Thursday, Saturday and Sunday at 2:30 p.m. OTHER ACTIVITIES: June 20 to September 7: daily at 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m.Cost
$7.90/adult (18-64), $6.90/senior (65+), free for child under 18, $16/family (maximum 7 people travelling in a single vehicle), $4.90 for the “St. Lawrence Live” activity; annual passes available on site or onlineReservations
Recommended for groupsPayment methods
-
Visa
-
MasterCard
-
American Express
-
Interac
-
Cheque
-
Cash
-
Travelers Cheque
Activities available
Services
- Picnic area
- Pets allowed on leashes only
- Boutique
- Free parking
- Other: diving base
- Guide services
How to get there
Take Route 138 to Les Escoumins and follow the signs for the Marine Environment Discovery Centre (Centre de découverte du milieu marin).
The Marine Environment Discovery Centre is located 36 km (22 mi.) from Tadoussac, 150 km (95 mi.) from Saguenay, 165 km (100 mi.) from Baie-Comeau and 250 km (155 mi.) from Québec City.
Affiliations and distinctions
Affiliations
- Canada Parks
- Tourisme Côte-Nord
- Whale Route
- Réseau d’observation des baleines (network of land-based whale-watching sites)
- Eco-Whale Alliance
