Saguenay Fjord Beluga Whale Observatory

The Saguenay Fjord cuts 65 miles inland from the St. Lawrence River, creating a unique ecosystem where roughly 900 beluga whales feed year-round. The Marine Park’s interpretation center at Pointe-Noire offers elevated viewing platforms and telescopes for spotting the white whales, along with minke whales, seals, and porpoises. Late June through September provides the best whale activity, though belugas remain in the fjord through winter.

Access is via Route 138 to Baie-Sainte-Catherine, then Route 172 to the park entrance. The gravel road to Pointe-Noire is suitable for any vehicle. Early morning and late afternoon offer calmer waters for better whale spotting. The interpretation center provides context on the St. Lawrence beluga population’s precarious status — they’re considered endangered with numbers slowly recovering from industrial pollution impacts.

Endangered belugas in North America's southernmost fjord