Discovery activities
Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park
Gateways to the Marine Park, the three interpretation centres administered by Parks Canada offer a variety of activities that enable visitors to immerse themselves in the region’s marine biodiversity while learning more about the extraordinary wildlife that inhabits its waters. Whether you’re a marine mammal lover, curious about the seabed or simply looking for a memorable experience for the entire family, there’s something here for everyone!
Pointe-Noire Interpretation and Observation Centre
An observation point with a breathtaking view of the mouth of the Saguenay Fjord
Located in Baie-Sainte-Catherine, the Pointe-Noire Interpretation and Observation Centre is a must-stop spot for observing belugas and enjoying an exceptional view of the Saguenay Fjord. Interpretive guides are available on-site to answer your questions and share their knowledge of marine mammals and their unique habitat in an engaging way.
Whales at risk, it's our move!
The marine park is home to endangered whales such as the beluga and the blue whale. Meet a guide-interpreter to learn what Parks Canada is doing to protect them and find out how you can also help protect them.
Betweem 1:30 p.m. to 3 p.m.
June 24 to September 1, 2025
Wednesday to Sunday
Belugas meet the currents of the fjord and estuary
The Pointe-Noire Interpretation and Observation Centre has been a beluga whale observation site for a long time. Visit the exhibition on ocean currents and the history of beluga research. Researchers study the patterns of belugas in this habitat at the confluence of the St. Lawrence River and the Saguenay Fjord.
Since 1875, Pointe-Noire has been guiding ships to the entrance to the Saguenay Fjord. Once inhabited by lightkeepers, it continues to play an important role for navigators.
Cap-de-Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre
An exceptional site to watch whales from shore
Located in Les Bergeronnes, the Cap de Bon-Désir Interpretation and Observation Centre is a place for learning where interpretive guides share their expertise on marine wildlife and the history of the St. Lawrence. Travel back in time to the years when the site was inhabited by lighthouse keepers and their families and discover how they lived. You can also learn more about the whales that frequent the Marine Park in addition to taking advantage of an exceptional panorama of the river to admire them directly from shore.
Highs and lows on the water’s edge
On the beaches at low tide, a fascinating world comes out of hiding. Follow an interpretive guide to discover the little creatures that inhabit the coastline and understand how they adapt to their environment.
The schedule varies according to the tides. The activity takes place at low tide. | Duration: 60 minutes
June 24 to September 1, 2025: Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday and Sunday
The lighthouse station and its keepers
Walk through the 1958 lighthouse station, admire the lighthouse from the outside, and enter the foghorn building to learn more about those mysterious sounds lighthouse stations make.
The lightkeeper's house houses the "On the Lookout" exhibition while the assistant lightkeeper's house invites you to relax in a 1960s atmosphere. A space is provided for coffee breaks or picnics. You may find something at the shop to bring back as a souvenir of your vacation.
On the lookout
Cap-de-Bon-Désir has long been a strategic site for monitoring the St. Lawrence. Whether it is to ensure the safety of navigators and goods or to observe marine wildlife, the Cape is still an exceptional observation site.
In the lightkeeper's house, you will learn about the history of this site and about the work involved in operating a lighthouse station until the 1980s.
Through scale models of the six most frequently observed whale species, learn how to differentiate them before going to the observation on the shore of the river.
Marine Environment Discovery Centre
Located in Les Escoumins, this interpretation centre is a unique venue from which to explore the river from a new angle. The main draw here is scuba diving! Divers explore the frigid waters nearby while discovery activities showcase life under the waters of the St. Lawrence. Visitors can also observe seabirds and marine mammals from shore or chat with passionate interpretive guides. Les Escoumins is also home to a diving base that offers nordic scuba activities.
Underwater! The Unexpected Universe of the Seabeds
Dive into adventure with this exciting activity created in partnership with Explos-Nature! Get ready to explore a vibrant underwater world teeming with dazzling colors and fascinating species. No need to get wet—just sit back, relax in our cozy projection room, and let your guide take you on an unforgettable journey beneath the surface!
Duration: 20 minutes
June 21 to September 1, 2025: everyday at 1:30 p.m.
Consult fees
Tickets will be sold on-site on the day of the event and are non-refundable. Ticket sales end 10 minutes before showtime. Seating is limited.
Behind the sea
Discover curious animals that live on the St. Lawrence seabed. A guide-interpreter presents some of animals brought back from the depths by divers.
Duration: 60 minutes
July 12 to August 13, 2025: Wednesday and Saturday at 10:30 a.m.
The St. Lawrence estuary: stunning scenery on a current of mystery
Take a deep breath and dive into the St. Lawrence Estuary. The exhibition will reveal the mysteries and wonders that are hidden at various depths of the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park.
Sailor's stop
Bring your toddlers to have fun in the new space specially created for them. Discover the animals of the ocean floor with educational games that encourage the use of the five senses.
Visiting with young children? Explore with Club Parka!
Parka is eagerly waiting to introduce your child to the wonders of Parks Canada places. Ask at the staff for a copy of the new Club Parka activity booklet!
Discover Parka!
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