Whale watching on the St. Lawrence River

The St. Lawrence River, which flows through Quebec City and Montreal and joins the Great Lakes of Canada and the United States, is a particularly long river, stretching 1,197 km. Its estuary is the largest in the world, with a width of 48 km and a length of 370 km. The explorer Jacques Cartier, who discovered and named Canada, arrived on this river on the feast day of Lorenzo of Rome. He decided to name it the St. Lawrence. The river flows through Quebec City and is a major commercial artery.

Discover Quebec City on a guided cruise

Discover Quebec City in a different way by observing it from the Louis Jolliet, one of AML's cruise ships.

On the programme:

From Old Quebec to Montmorency Falls, you'll pass by Île d'Orléans and enjoy a breathtaking view of the Château de Frontenac and the Dufferin terraces.

The boat's bistro is open for snacks at any time of day.

The tour is commented. A guide will tell you all about the history of the city, the waterway that runs through it and the monuments that make it up.

The cruise lasts 1 hour 30 minutes and departs from the Quai Chouinard.

Find out more about cruise fares on the AML website.

The Quebec City Signature Brunch Cruise

The Quebec City Signature Brunch Cruise takes you aboard the Louis Jolliet for a moment of relaxation as you admire the panoramic view of Quebec City. On board, you can sample the chef's specialities. The crew will welcome you with a glass of mimosa on arrival. A moment to share with family, friends or lovers. The cruise lasts 1 h 30 and departs from the Quai Chouinard.

Find out more about the fares for your next cruise on the AML website.

The St. Lawrence River has created a number of islands, including Île d'Orléans, a paradise just a stone's throw from Quebec City.

A touch of the stars on board the Tapis Rouge cruise in Quebec City

For 3 hours and 30 minutes, relax in front of the sunset over the St. Lawrence River, a romantic moment during your holiday in Quebec City. Enjoy a 5-course menu, accompanied by a bottle of wine and an aperitif at the end of the meal. Throughout the evening, entertainment is organised in the dining room and on the deck of the boat. The cruise lasts 3 hours and departs from the Tadoussac quay.

Find out more about cruise prices on the AML website.

Admire the whales on a Quebec City cruise

A little further north, up the St. Lawrence River, lies the Saguenay-St. Lawrence Marine Park. Several times a year, this protected park is the meeting point for different pods of whales. The blue whale and the humpback whale come to swim in the waters of the river during the summer season. Aboard the AML boat, enjoy a breathtaking experience alongside the whales of the Great North. You can reserve or buy a box lunch on site. A naturalist guide accompanies you on this magical cruise to tell you all about the animals you see, and children particularly enjoy this activity. The cruise lasts 3 hours and departs from the Tadoussac quay.

Find out more about cruise prices on the AML website.

If you don't see any marine mammals during your cruise, don't worry, the captain will give you a pass to come back the next day and try again.

Zodiac whale-watching cruises

Based on the same principle, zodiac cruises are also available. The experience is even more breathtaking. Be prepared to feel very small aboard the zodiac. The maximum capacity is 24 people.

The cruise lasts 2 h 30 and departs from the Tadoussac quay.

Discover the prices for your zodiac cruise on the AML website.

If you can't take a dip in the river, you can discover its tumultuous waters by boat. It's also one of the best places to admire the city's magnificent architecture and the Château de Frontenac.

A cruise on the St. Lawrence River is an enjoyable experience for all the family. There are many cruises and packages to choose from, depending on what you prefer.

Eating near Quebec City's river station

Bistro Sous le Fort

In a warm, rustic atmosphere, the bistro serves gourmet burgers, truffle ravioli and homemade fish and chips!