Water Activities

Whale-Watching Cruises in Gaspé

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From Forillon National Park or the Gaspé marina, boats set out to sea toward one of the St. Lawrence River’s most rich
-rich areas: the Banc-des-Américains Marine Protected Area. Up to thirteen species of whales frequent these feeding grounds, where currents bring an abundance of marine life to the surface.

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Humpback whales, fin whales, minke whales, porpoises, white-sided dolphins, and blue whales—the largest animals ever to have lived on Earth, though unfortunately endangered—catch the visitors’ eye. Harbor seals, gray seals, and seabirds round out the scene. Here, whale watching takes place against a spectacular backdrop. Cliffs, the open sea, and an endless horizon make Gaspé one of the most beautiful places in Quebec to admire these marine giants.

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Companies that offer this activity:

Baie de Gaspé cruises

Cap Gaspé Cruises

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Sailing and Sailing Trips in Gaspé

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The marinas in Gaspé and Rivière-au-Renard welcome both visiting sailors and local boaters—
, where sailing is a natural part of daily life. Many people head out to sea after work, follow the evening breeze, or take part in local regattas.

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Gaspé Bay, vast and naturally sheltered, offers ideal conditions for sailing. Whether it’s a sunset cruise, a sailing lesson, or a stopover during a long sea voyage, the bay invites you to set sail.

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A sailing school located at the Gaspé marina offers lessons for beginners and advanced sailors, while local companies offer guided tours to explore the coast from the deck of a sailboat.

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Companies that offer this activity:

Le Cormoran Sailing School

Gaspé Community Sailing

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Sport Fishing and Deep-Sea Fishing in Gaspé

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In Rivière-au-Renard, as in L’Anse-au-Griffon, fishing has been a part of the landscape for generations. At the Grande-Grave pier in Forillon National Park, fishing lines are cast to the rhythm of the tides and conversation. People come here for mackerel, striped bass, or simply for the pleasure of being by the water.

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Fishing is also practiced at sea, in rivers, and in lakes: crab, lobster
, and shrimp offshore; salmon in rivers; and trout in the region’s lakes. It is an activity deeply rooted in Gaspé culture, and is always practiced in accordance with the seasons and regulations.

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Starting from Cap-des-Rosiers in Forillon National Park, guided tours offer an introduction to deep-sea fishing with all the necessary equipment. It’s a unique opportunity to experience this maritime tradition—and maybe even leave with the guide’s favorite recipe!

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Companies that offer this activity:

Forillon cruise

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Sea Kayaking in Gaspé

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Paddling in Gaspé Bay or along the cliffs of Forillon National Park—
—means exploring the coast from the water’s edge. The quiet of the kayak allows you to observe seals and seabirds while appreciating the serene power of the landscape.

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Departing from Grande-Grave or Cap-aux-Os, guided tours are offered near the seal colony at Petit-Gaspé. These tours are conducted in accordance with observation distances and applicable regulations, allowing visitors to enjoy a unique encounter with wildlife in complete safety.

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Companies that offer this activity:

Cap Aventure

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Stand-Up Paddleboarding, Surfing, and Kitesurfing in Gaspé

At Haldimand Beach and in several areas of the bay, the sea changes with the wind and the tides. Some days, it’s calm and perfect for a leisurely paddleboard ride. Other times, it comes alive and becomes a playground for kitesurfing and surfing.

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Before heading out onto the water, it is essential
to carefully assess the weather conditions, currents, and the effects of the tides. Floatation devices, appropriate clothing, and communication equipment are essential.

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Because here, the bodies of water aren't lakes—it's the sea.

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