Excursion Archipelago scenic zodiac cruise tour at Sept Iles

A cruise of the archipelago offers visitors front-row seats to a unique spectacle, with the blue sea and sky as a backdrop and the cries of the seabirds as the musical accompaniment to complete this magic tour. Discover the flora, fauna, history and mysteries of the archipelago during an unforgettable adventure.

Zodiac Cruise

Depart the pier and walk to the marina where you will board the zodiac. Don a life jacket and get ready for an unforgettable two hour zodiac experience. During the tour your guide will tell the sad history of two shipwrecks that occurred in the area, the Le Corossol and the Jean-Marc Soucy. Navigate around Manowin Island, also a bird sanctuary. This island is known not only for its unique bird-nesting cliffs, but also for its limestone rock formations and it owes its name to the Innu word manouan, meaning "where we collect eggs."

Panoramic Views, Local Wildlife

Marvel at the myriad seabirds (murres, eiders, ducks, razorbills, Atlantic puffins, auks, black guillemots, long-tailed ducks) that occupy the Île du Corossol bird sanctuary. This sanctuary is one of the most important protected marine bird sanctuaries in Eastern Canada because of the diversity of species present. Corossol Island also has one of the many lighthouses built in the area to help navigate the mighty St. Lawrence, one of the last vestiges of the golden era of maritime trade. Pass by Petite Basque and Grande Basque Islands which were named in honor of the Basque people, who for more than one hundred years came to the region to fish, hunt whales and trade furs.

Return to the marina and walk back to the pier.

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion include: Sept-Îles Archipelago, Îlets De Quen, Manowin Island Bird Sanctuary and Limestone Cliffs, Du Corossol Island and Lighthouse, Petite and Grande Basque Islands

Note

Please note: This tour is recommended only for guests in good physical condition. The walk to/from the boat is approximately 270 yards (350 metres). Although little walking is required, guests must be able to manoeuvre in and out of the zodiac which involves a high step. Ocean ride involves fast acceleration and may be a bumpy at times. This tour is not suitable for guests with limited mobility, back/neck/hip problems or those who suffer from motion sickness, or guests who utilise a wheelchair. Dress in layers, bring a jacket, wear sturdy closed-toe shoes and appropriate outdoor clothing as Sept-Îles has a subarctic climate despite its location at around 50 degrees latitude. The operation of this tour is subject to wind and weather conditions. Some islands may not be reachable depending on weather conditions. Although frequently encountered on this type of tour, wildlife and marine life sightings are not guaranteed. Space on this tour is very limited; we suggest you book in advance to avoid disappointment.