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NEW BRUNSWICK AND GASPE PENINSULA CULTURAL AND HERITAGE EXPLORER
NEW BRUNSWICK AND GASPE PENINSULA CULTURAL AND HERITAGE EXPLORER
This 14 day adventure through New Brunswick begins in the vibrant hub of Moncton, renowned for its rich arts scene and green spaces. Journey to historic Saint John for a unique Indigenous storytelling walk, then explore the stunning coastal landscapes of St. Andrews-by-the-Sea with a thrilling whale watching tour. Traverse the scenic River Valley Drive to the cultural heart of Fredericton, and cross into Quebec to discover the natural beauty of Riviére-du-Loup and Matane. Experience the outdoor wonders and maritime charm of Gaspé and Percé, before diving into the Acadian heritage and coastal allure of Caraquet. Conclude your trip with a visit to the picturesque village of Saint-Louis-de-Kent, each destination offering a unique blend of history, nature, and local hospitality.
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Start Location: Moncton
End Location: Moncton
TOP HIGHLIGHTS
- Kayak the scenic Hopewell Rocks in Moncton
- Join a historic city tour in Saint John
- Experience a whale watching cruise in St. Andrews
- Explore Forillon National Park
- Visit the Acadian Historic Village
SAMPLE ITINERARY (CUSTOMIZABLE)
Day 1 - Arrive in Moncton
Your trip begins upon arrival in Moncton where you will collect your rental car and stay the night. Moncton is often referred to as "The Hub of the Maritimes" because all railway lines in and out of the region must pass through it. Moncton boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, sporting competitions and unique community activities that take place year-round. Discover the many sights and activities the city offers. Make sure to visit the many cultural institutions and museums, from the Acadian Museum, to LeCentre Culturel Aberdeen. The city's largest green space, Centennial Park, includes many attractions and activities, from hiking and skiing trails to an artificial beach to an aerial treetop obstacle course and zip line.
Overnight: Moncton
Day 2 - Moncton to Saint John
On the second day of your trip, you will drive from Moncton to Saint John. Walk through the charming streets of Uptown Saint John, and step into a vibrant past—with an intriguing modern edge. Here, hundreds of years of history are alive. Feel it in the architecture, parks, and galleries that have survived to delight today’s visitor. Incredible dining, memorable entertainment; striking sights; as the oldest incorporated city in Canada, no other place in the country offers the experiences of Saint John. Prior to the landing of European settlers in what is now called New Brunswick, thriving cultures existed for thousands of years which lived in harmony with the land and the life that resided on it. Survival on this land depended on ingenuity and knowledge wrought from a sometimes harsh and unforgiving environment. Discover the local history of the Wolastoqi and Mi’kmaq peoples from a unique Indigenous point of view while meandering along the Saint John Harbor and the Beautiful River Wolastoq.
Overnight: Saint John, NB
Day 3 - Saint John to St.Andrews-by-the-sea
Travel west along the Fundy Coastal Drive. This dramatically scenic drive introduces you to the Bay of Fundy, one of the Marine Wonders of the World. Arrive in St. Andrews, one of Canada's most beautiful seaside resorts. Enjoy world-class whale and wildlife sightings, scenic lighthouses and small islands teeming with bird life during this Whale and Wildlife Tour. The captain and crew give expert commentary on the region's culture, history, and wildlife! For the Bird Enthusiast there is the opportunity to spot bald eagles, puffins, guillimonts, kittiwakes, eiders, gulls, cormorants and auks. Whale sightings may include Finback, Minke, Humpback, and the rare North Atlantic Right whales and of course it is not uncommon to see seals, porpoise or dolphins as well.
Overnight: St. Andrews by-the-Sea
Day 4 - St.Andrews by-the-sea to Fredricton
Continue north on the River Valley Scenic Drive on to Fredericton, New Brunswick's picturesque capital city noted for its heritage and culture. Spend the afternoon at leisure exploring Fredericton and its attractions. Places to visit include City Hall, Christchurch Cathedral, the Historic Military Compound, Old Government House and the Kings Landing Historical Settlement. King's Landing is a historical experience that explores how history is told and pushes the boundaries! Visit this 300 acre museum, where you'll discover over 40 interactive exhibits, horseback riding, theatre, workshops, immersive programming and a fully 1st person interpreted village where you can step back in time with over 100 costumed characters in 70 historic buildings. The experience of day-to-day life of 19th century Canadians is best enjoyed when guests roll up their sleeves and immerse themselves int he story; from baking bread on an open hearth to helping the blacksmith forge his wares - there is no shortage of memorable experiences.
Overnight: Fredericton
Day 5 - Fredricton to Rivière-du-Loup
Riviére-du-Loup is a small city on the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River in Quebec. The city is surrounded by two majestic rivers, the Riviére du Loup and the St. Lawrence River. Visit the magnificent Le Bic National Park, which will surprise you with its unique panorama of bays, capes, islands, mountains and a diversified wildlife. The Parc des Chutes has ten kilometers of hiking trails, aswell as the Parc de la Pointe which stands out with its stunning view ofthe mountains of Charlevoix. The city center is also full of restaurant sand stores that you may explore.
Overnight: Rivière-du-Loup
Day 6 - Rivière-du-Loup to Matane
Poised on the St. Lawrence estuary at the gateway to Gaspésie, Matane boasts an outstanding location. Its name originates in Mi’kmaq word for “beaver pond,” so it’s no surprise to learn that Matane is a nature destination par excellence. Discover a vibrant downtown whose array of sites and services make it the most attractive city in the eastern Québec. You'll also be charmed by the legendary hospitality of the people of this region that’s by turns urban, rural, industrial and historic—but above all, maritime.
Overnight: Matane
Day 7 - Matane to Gaspé
Gaspé, or Gespeg in the Mi’gmaq language, means “land’s end” and has so many exciting highlights to visit! Located at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, this town has so many activities to experience that combine nature, culture and history. Outdoor lovers will not be disappointed, as Gaspé is home to a vast bay, world-class salmon rivers, fine sand beaches, a national park and many wildlife species. If history peaks your interest, make sure to visit the many local museums and interpretation sites. The Gaspé area is also home to three fascinating lighthouses; Cap-Gaspé Lighthouse in Forillon National Park stands guard on a cliff that's 95 metres (310 feet) high, the Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse is the tallest in Canada with a 34-metre (112-foot) tower, and the Pointe-a-la-Renommée Lighthouse, is the most travelled in the world! Gaspé will leave you with unforgettable memories that will make you want to come back again and again. Board the Narval Ill for a whale-watching adventure that will help make your visit to Forillon National Park a memorable one! This cruise offers the right combination of adventure and untamed nature coupled with guaranteed personal comfort and safety. Unlike other whale-watching areas, Forillon offers true intimacy with the whales without the hassle of other boats. Accompanied by a professional interpreter guide and a certified experienced captain, you will have the opportunity to discover the fascinating lives of these gentle giants of the sea. Throughout the season, depending on the food available, as many as seven different species can be seen in the waters of Gaspe Bay and the Gulf of St. Lawrence such as the Blue Whale (largestwhale in the world), and the spectacular Humpback whale.
Overnight: Gaspé
Day 8 - Gaspé to Percé
A very popular vacation destination for over a century, highly appreciated by artists and boasting a rich and fascinating history, Percé is a must-see in Gaspésie. A landmark for early explorers and sailors, Percé Rock is the iconic symbol of the whole region and has fascinated people for centuries. Wildlife enthusiasts may be interested in the marine life living the waters off Percé, which include Fin whales, minke whales, humpbacks, blue whales, common porpoises, white-sided dolphins as well several species of seals. A visit to the Percé UNESCO Global Geopark is a must while in the village. Activities at the geopark include hiking (self-guided or guided), a suspended glass viewing platform, zip lining, geocaching, camping and a multimedia experience called Tektonik at the Experiential Pavilion near the entrance where visitors can learn more about the formation of Percé Rock. Bonaventure Island is also home to the great seabird colonies. With 375-million years of history, the largest bird sanctuary in North America and fascinating marine mammals, this promises to be a unique experience! Admire the immense limestone block that is Perce Rock - formed at the bottom of the sea during the Devonian period. The boat will have a stop at Bonaventure Island for those who want to explore this island (self guided), home to over 100,000 gannets.
Overnight: Percé
Day 9 - Percé to Caraquet
Caraquet is charming for all who visit with its magnificent beauty of the sea, sandy beaches, welcoming communities, and fresh, local seafood. Caraquet really has it all; music, folklore, food and even the language is a little different from the French spoken in neighbouring Québec. Caraquet is a small, inviting town with undeniable Acadian and Maritime charm, and is also known for the famous Village Historique Acadien, the Festivin wine festival, the Acadie Love event, and the prestigious Acadian Festival.
Day 10 - Village Historique Acadien
Witness to the birth of New Brunswick's Acadie by travelling through 200 years of history! More than a simple open-air museum, the Village historique acadien is a tourism complex built around a 2.2 km circuit bordered with historic buildings, all inhabited by fully bilingual interpretive guides who portray the daily lives of the Acadian people from 1770 to 1949. Created as an interactive journey through the history and day-to-day life of the Acadians, the Acadian Historical Village lets you relive the pastoral charm of days gone by. Surrounded by nature, you will discover within this tourism complex the birth and first steps of Acadie, and the wholehearted hospitality that defines the Acadian people.
Day 11 - Caraquet to Saint-Louis-de-Kent
Often simply called Saint-Louis, the village lies on the Kouchibouguacis River near the main entrance to Kouchibouguac National Park. Saint-Louis is known as the “Cradle of the Acadian Flag”, and from mid-May to mid October, the village's giant Acadian flag floats proudly in the sky. A notable historic attraction is the Forme Railway Station, which was built around 1885, and served Saint-Louis-de-Kent from 1885 to 1900, with the Kent Northern Railway connecting the village to Richibucto. Many of the building’s original indoor and outdoor features have been preserved. Saint Louis de Kent will allow you to experience a typical New Brunswick Acadian village that is in tune with nature and with people. Admire the animal life in and around Kouchibouguacis River and Kouchibouguac coastal waters, from the safety and comfort of the pontoon boat Phoca. Hear impressive local history and learn about the events that made this area what it is today. See bald eagles hunt, stare at the second largest common tern colony in North America and see hundreds of grey seals enjoying the sunshine on sandbars. The tour follows the channel in the Kouchibouguacis River and Saint-Louis Lagoon. Spend an hour traveling down river through the national park, enjoying the scenery and stories, then you will spend half an hour in the gulley where the Gray Seals can be found before traveling back up the river. Water and a small snack will be provided.
Day 12 - Saint-Louis-de-Kent to Fundy National Park
Day at leisure to explore Forillon National Park, renowned for its hiking trails with over 104 km to choose from, ranging from easy loops to a demanding 50 km circuit. The park is a haven for bird watchers, golfers, cyclists, and canoeists. Visit Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park to see the world's highest tides and explore the Flowerpot Rocks. Don't miss the interpretive center, and if time permits, visit Cape Enrage Lighthouse and Mary's Point Bird Sanctuary. Experience Acadian culture at Bouctouche's Le Pays de la Sagouine, offering lively shows, music, theatre, and traditional cuisine. Stroll along the footbridge, meet endearing characters, and enjoy daily shows for children. Savor a bowl of fricot and satisfy your sweet tooth with a pet de soeur. Take part in musical evenings on the terrace. Immerse yourself in Mi'kmaq culture on the award-winning Heritage Path Tour. Begin with a traditional greeting and a smudging ceremony in a community-raised teepee. Follow an interpretive guide along the forested Heritage Path to learn about traditional uses of nature’s gifts. Conclude at the cultural center to ask questions and deepen your understanding of Mi’kmaq culture.
Overnight: Fundy National Park
Day 13 - Kayak the Hopewell Rocks High Tide Tour
A unique, guided sea-kayaking tour where visitors discover, first hand, the awesome might and beauty of the Bay of Fundy's giant tides as they paddle near the spectacular sea stacks at "The Flowerpot Rocks" of Hopewell Cape. To fully appreciate the magnitude of Fundy's tides, participants are encouraged to walk on the ocean floor just before or after their kayaking adventure to record on film "a before and after shot" of their favorite formations. Guests are free to explore the beach on their own or to join a park interpreter.
Overnight: Fundy National Park
Day 14 - Fundy National Park to Moncton
Your trip ends in Moncton once the rental car is returned.
DATES & PRICES
Availability:
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
ACCOMMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
Applicable taxes vary depending on travel destination and are not included. Please ask your sales agent what extra taxes will be payable for your tour.
WHY CHOOSE ANDERSON VACATIONS?
Anderson Vacations
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Independent Travel
See what you want, where you want, how you want. Solo, with a friend, or with a group of friends.Canadian Travel Experts
With at least 30 years of experience.Min. 95% Satisfaction Rate
From past guests.Accreditation and Consumer Protection
Feel confident booking because of a membership in all the following organizations:
Sustainability
Planting one tree for every passenger that travels with us.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
- Accommodation in the listed pre-selected hotels as agreed
- All attractions as listed specifically within the itinerary
- Sightseeing tours and entrance fees as listed within the tour itinerary
- All travel between locations as detailed
EXCLUSIONS
- Airfare unless specified as included within the itinerary
- Taxes as applicable (separately mentioned)
- Travel Insurance and Cancellation Protection (strongly recommended)
- Gratuities for Local Guides, Tour Managers and/or Bus Drivers
- Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
- Items ( attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
Why Take A Custom Tour?
Private & Customizable
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want. A trip that's perfectly timed and well organized.
Unique Experience
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way. Can combine your trip with our group tours. Advice to help you get the most out of your trip.
Freedom to Explore
Time to enjoy and take in each place. Add days in places you want to explore. Do only the activities you want to do.
Can't find what you're looking for?
Our specialists can take away the stress and create a custom trip tailored to your exact interests and budget.
Get A Custom Quote
OR CALL
1.866.814.7378
Custom Trip Plans
You can see what you want, when you want, how you want.
Unique Experiences
Experiences that help you take in the region in a different way.
Freedom To Explore
Time to take in each place with only the tours you want to do.
Booking & Flight Questions
Do you arrange airport transfers?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking airport transfers for you! Some tours have airport transfers included already. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking additional accommodation?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking additional nights of accommodation for you before and/or after your fully escorted tour! Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Can you assist with booking flights?
Yes! We can certainly assist with booking your flights for you! We do not recommend you book any flights until you receive your booking confirmation directly from Anderson Vacations Tours, as some tours are not pre-guaranteed. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Is it possible to book a triple share accommodation?
Yes, it is possible to book triple share accommodations on select trips. Please inquire about this option, as pricing may also vary and it will be subject to availability.
Can we book this tour with our exclusive group?
Anderson Vacations Tours can work with private groups to customize a tour to your needs. Please inquire for further information and pricing.
Tour Questions
What is the average age of passengers for this tour?
Our tours are suitable for all age demographics. The average age of travelers is typically 45+
I am a solo traveler. Is there a single surcharge?
There are options for single travelers to join most tours. Solo Travelers can choose to pay the single supplement and have their own room throughout the tour. For those willing to share, we also have a Twin Share option that is offered for the majority of our tours. This means you will be sharing the hotel rooms with another single, same gender traveller who also books the Twin Share option. If this is the case, there will be no single supplement charged to either of you. If we are unable to match you with another Twin Share traveler, there may be a single surcharge applied to cover the full cost of the rooms on some of our longer tours. Please enquire before finalizing your booking for full details.
How physically demanding is this tour? Are you able to accommodate people with mobility restrictions/limitations?
This tour has a low level of physical demand, although there may be some activities or sightseeing tours that require walking short distances. Please inquire if you have any mobility restrictions before completing your booking to ensure this tour is right for you.
How much luggage should I bring?
Each passenger may bring one large suitcase and one carry-on bag. The weight limit for this suitcase is 32 kilograms/60 pounds. Baggage handling is provided at the hotels in our tour packages. Please advise our reservations staff if you will be bringing additional items such as a cane, walker or wheelchair. You may also bring one small soft-sided carry-on bag, which should easily fit into the overhead shelf of the coach. Each person is responsible for his/her own carryon luggage. Remember to check your airline baggage restrictions if you are flying, as they may differ from Anderson Vacations Tours guidelines.
What is your recommended spending amount for non-included meals?
The suggested allowance for non-included meals is $40.00 — $60.00 CAD per day (includes tipping).
Can you accommodate passengers with dietary restrictions (food allergies, vegan, vegetarian etc.)?
Yes! There are many meals included on our fully escorted tours. Please inform us of any dietary restrictions at the time of booking so we can ensure there are alternative meal choices and arrangements made for you.
Are gratuities included in the tour cost?
For your convenience, gratuities for local guides and meals stated on the itinerary are included in the price of the tour. For meals not included in your tour package please remember that it is customary to tip your server 15-20% in North America. Gratuities for your Motorcoach Driver and Tour Director are left to your discretion. We recommend $4.00 - $5.00 CAD per person, per day for your Motorcoach Driver and $6.00 - $7.00 CAD per person, per day for your Tour Director. if you can't find your
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Seasoned Tour Guides
Get a deeper understanding with storytelling tailored to your interests.
Space To Breathe
We never max out buses even if we use the same size bus as the competition.
All Inclusive
No hidden expenses along the way. Competitors offer activities as an extra - we don't
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Tour Code
14CP
New Brunswick and Gaspe Peninsula Cultural and Heritage Explorer
14 days
Created On: 02 Jul 2024
Highlights
- Kayak the scenic Hopewell Rocks in Moncton
- Join a historic city tour in Saint John
- Experience a whale watching cruise in St. Andrews
- Explore Forillon National Park
- Visit the Acadian Historic Village
Inclusions
- Accommodation in the listed pre-selected hotels as agreed
- All attractions as listed specifically within the itinerary
- Sightseeing tours and entrance fees as listed within the tour itinerary
- All travel between locations as detailed
Exclusions
- Airfare unless specified as included within the itinerary
- Taxes as applicable (separately mentioned)
- Travel Insurance and Cancellation Protection (strongly recommended)
- Gratuities for Local Guides, Tour Managers and/or Bus Drivers
- Meals not specifically mentioned as included in the itinerary
- Items ( attractions and sightseeing & entrance fees) not listed as included in the itinerary
Dates & Prices
ACCOMODATION
START PLACE
END PLACE
PRICE FROM
Moderate Accomodation
Moncton
Moncton
$2,740 USD
All prices are per person based on double occupancy and subject to local taxes - GST, PST or HST.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Arrive in Moncton
Your trip begins upon arrival in Moncton where you will collect your rental car and stay the night. Moncton is often referred to as "The Hub of the Maritimes" because all railway lines in and out of the region must pass through it. Moncton boasts a vibrant arts and culture scene, sporting competitions and unique community activities that take place year-round. Discover the many sights and activities the city offers. Make sure to visit the many cultural institutions and museums, from the Acadian Museum, to LeCentre Culturel Aberdeen. The city's largest green space, Centennial Park, includes many attractions and activities, from hiking and skiing trails to an artificial beach to an aerial treetop obstacle course and zip line.
Overnight: Moncton
Day 2 - Moncton to Saint John
On the second day of your trip, you will drive from Moncton to Saint John. Walk through the charming streets of Uptown Saint John, and step into a vibrant past—with an intriguing modern edge. Here, hundreds of years of history are alive. Feel it in the architecture, parks, and galleries that have survived to delight today’s visitor. Incredible dining, memorable entertainment; striking sights; as the oldest incorporated city in Canada, no other place in the country offers the experiences of Saint John. Prior to the landing of European settlers in what is now called New Brunswick, thriving cultures existed for thousands of years which lived in harmony with the land and the life that resided on it. Survival on this land depended on ingenuity and knowledge wrought from a sometimes harsh and unforgiving environment. Discover the local history of the Wolastoqi and Mi’kmaq peoples from a unique Indigenous point of view while meandering along the Saint John Harbor and the Beautiful River Wolastoq.
Overnight: Saint John, NB
Day 3 - Saint John to St.Andrews-by-the-sea
Travel west along the Fundy Coastal Drive. This dramatically scenic drive introduces you to the Bay of Fundy, one of the Marine Wonders of the World. Arrive in St. Andrews, one of Canada's most beautiful seaside resorts. Enjoy world-class whale and wildlife sightings, scenic lighthouses and small islands teeming with bird life during this Whale and Wildlife Tour. The captain and crew give expert commentary on the region's culture, history, and wildlife! For the Bird Enthusiast there is the opportunity to spot bald eagles, puffins, guillimonts, kittiwakes, eiders, gulls, cormorants and auks. Whale sightings may include Finback, Minke, Humpback, and the rare North Atlantic Right whales and of course it is not uncommon to see seals, porpoise or dolphins as well.
Overnight: St. Andrews by-the-Sea
Day 4 - St.Andrews by-the-sea to Fredricton
Continue north on the River Valley Scenic Drive on to Fredericton, New Brunswick's picturesque capital city noted for its heritage and culture. Spend the afternoon at leisure exploring Fredericton and its attractions. Places to visit include City Hall, Christchurch Cathedral, the Historic Military Compound, Old Government House and the Kings Landing Historical Settlement. King's Landing is a historical experience that explores how history is told and pushes the boundaries! Visit this 300 acre museum, where you'll discover over 40 interactive exhibits, horseback riding, theatre, workshops, immersive programming and a fully 1st person interpreted village where you can step back in time with over 100 costumed characters in 70 historic buildings. The experience of day-to-day life of 19th century Canadians is best enjoyed when guests roll up their sleeves and immerse themselves int he story; from baking bread on an open hearth to helping the blacksmith forge his wares - there is no shortage of memorable experiences.
Overnight: Fredericton
Day 5 - Fredricton to Rivière-du-Loup
Riviére-du-Loup is a small city on the south shore of the Saint Lawrence River in Quebec. The city is surrounded by two majestic rivers, the Riviére du Loup and the St. Lawrence River. Visit the magnificent Le Bic National Park, which will surprise you with its unique panorama of bays, capes, islands, mountains and a diversified wildlife. The Parc des Chutes has ten kilometers of hiking trails, aswell as the Parc de la Pointe which stands out with its stunning view ofthe mountains of Charlevoix. The city center is also full of restaurant sand stores that you may explore.
Overnight: Rivière-du-Loup
Day 6 - Rivière-du-Loup to Matane
Poised on the St. Lawrence estuary at the gateway to Gaspésie, Matane boasts an outstanding location. Its name originates in Mi’kmaq word for “beaver pond,” so it’s no surprise to learn that Matane is a nature destination par excellence. Discover a vibrant downtown whose array of sites and services make it the most attractive city in the eastern Québec. You'll also be charmed by the legendary hospitality of the people of this region that’s by turns urban, rural, industrial and historic—but above all, maritime.
Overnight: Matane
Day 7 - Matane to Gaspé
Gaspé, or Gespeg in the Mi’gmaq language, means “land’s end” and has so many exciting highlights to visit! Located at the tip of the Gaspé Peninsula, this town has so many activities to experience that combine nature, culture and history. Outdoor lovers will not be disappointed, as Gaspé is home to a vast bay, world-class salmon rivers, fine sand beaches, a national park and many wildlife species. If history peaks your interest, make sure to visit the many local museums and interpretation sites. The Gaspé area is also home to three fascinating lighthouses; Cap-Gaspé Lighthouse in Forillon National Park stands guard on a cliff that's 95 metres (310 feet) high, the Cap-des-Rosiers Lighthouse is the tallest in Canada with a 34-metre (112-foot) tower, and the Pointe-a-la-Renommée Lighthouse, is the most travelled in the world! Gaspé will leave you with unforgettable memories that will make you want to come back again and again. Board the Narval Ill for a whale-watching adventure that will help make your visit to Forillon National Park a memorable one! This cruise offers the right combination of adventure and untamed nature coupled with guaranteed personal comfort and safety. Unlike other whale-watching areas, Forillon offers true intimacy with the whales without the hassle of other boats. Accompanied by a professional interpreter guide and a certified experienced captain, you will have the opportunity to discover the fascinating lives of these gentle giants of the sea. Throughout the season, depending on the food available, as many as seven different species can be seen in the waters of Gaspe Bay and the Gulf of St. Lawrence such as the Blue Whale (largestwhale in the world), and the spectacular Humpback whale.
Overnight: Gaspé
Day 8 - Gaspé to Percé
A very popular vacation destination for over a century, highly appreciated by artists and boasting a rich and fascinating history, Percé is a must-see in Gaspésie. A landmark for early explorers and sailors, Percé Rock is the iconic symbol of the whole region and has fascinated people for centuries. Wildlife enthusiasts may be interested in the marine life living the waters off Percé, which include Fin whales, minke whales, humpbacks, blue whales, common porpoises, white-sided dolphins as well several species of seals. A visit to the Percé UNESCO Global Geopark is a must while in the village. Activities at the geopark include hiking (self-guided or guided), a suspended glass viewing platform, zip lining, geocaching, camping and a multimedia experience called Tektonik at the Experiential Pavilion near the entrance where visitors can learn more about the formation of Percé Rock. Bonaventure Island is also home to the great seabird colonies. With 375-million years of history, the largest bird sanctuary in North America and fascinating marine mammals, this promises to be a unique experience! Admire the immense limestone block that is Perce Rock - formed at the bottom of the sea during the Devonian period. The boat will have a stop at Bonaventure Island for those who want to explore this island (self guided), home to over 100,000 gannets.
Overnight: Percé
Day 9 - Percé to Caraquet
Caraquet is charming for all who visit with its magnificent beauty of the sea, sandy beaches, welcoming communities, and fresh, local seafood. Caraquet really has it all; music, folklore, food and even the language is a little different from the French spoken in neighbouring Québec. Caraquet is a small, inviting town with undeniable Acadian and Maritime charm, and is also known for the famous Village Historique Acadien, the Festivin wine festival, the Acadie Love event, and the prestigious Acadian Festival.
Day 10 - Village Historique Acadien
Witness to the birth of New Brunswick's Acadie by travelling through 200 years of history! More than a simple open-air museum, the Village historique acadien is a tourism complex built around a 2.2 km circuit bordered with historic buildings, all inhabited by fully bilingual interpretive guides who portray the daily lives of the Acadian people from 1770 to 1949. Created as an interactive journey through the history and day-to-day life of the Acadians, the Acadian Historical Village lets you relive the pastoral charm of days gone by. Surrounded by nature, you will discover within this tourism complex the birth and first steps of Acadie, and the wholehearted hospitality that defines the Acadian people.
Day 11 - Caraquet to Saint-Louis-de-Kent
Often simply called Saint-Louis, the village lies on the Kouchibouguacis River near the main entrance to Kouchibouguac National Park. Saint-Louis is known as the “Cradle of the Acadian Flag”, and from mid-May to mid October, the village's giant Acadian flag floats proudly in the sky. A notable historic attraction is the Forme Railway Station, which was built around 1885, and served Saint-Louis-de-Kent from 1885 to 1900, with the Kent Northern Railway connecting the village to Richibucto. Many of the building’s original indoor and outdoor features have been preserved. Saint Louis de Kent will allow you to experience a typical New Brunswick Acadian village that is in tune with nature and with people. Admire the animal life in and around Kouchibouguacis River and Kouchibouguac coastal waters, from the safety and comfort of the pontoon boat Phoca. Hear impressive local history and learn about the events that made this area what it is today. See bald eagles hunt, stare at the second largest common tern colony in North America and see hundreds of grey seals enjoying the sunshine on sandbars. The tour follows the channel in the Kouchibouguacis River and Saint-Louis Lagoon. Spend an hour traveling down river through the national park, enjoying the scenery and stories, then you will spend half an hour in the gulley where the Gray Seals can be found before traveling back up the river. Water and a small snack will be provided.
Day 12 - Saint-Louis-de-Kent to Fundy National Park
Day at leisure to explore Forillon National Park, renowned for its hiking trails with over 104 km to choose from, ranging from easy loops to a demanding 50 km circuit. The park is a haven for bird watchers, golfers, cyclists, and canoeists. Visit Hopewell Rocks Provincial Park to see the world's highest tides and explore the Flowerpot Rocks. Don't miss the interpretive center, and if time permits, visit Cape Enrage Lighthouse and Mary's Point Bird Sanctuary. Experience Acadian culture at Bouctouche's Le Pays de la Sagouine, offering lively shows, music, theatre, and traditional cuisine. Stroll along the footbridge, meet endearing characters, and enjoy daily shows for children. Savor a bowl of fricot and satisfy your sweet tooth with a pet de soeur. Take part in musical evenings on the terrace. Immerse yourself in Mi'kmaq culture on the award-winning Heritage Path Tour. Begin with a traditional greeting and a smudging ceremony in a community-raised teepee. Follow an interpretive guide along the forested Heritage Path to learn about traditional uses of nature’s gifts. Conclude at the cultural center to ask questions and deepen your understanding of Mi’kmaq culture.
Overnight: Fundy National Park
Day 13 - Kayak the Hopewell Rocks High Tide Tour
A unique, guided sea-kayaking tour where visitors discover, first hand, the awesome might and beauty of the Bay of Fundy's giant tides as they paddle near the spectacular sea stacks at "The Flowerpot Rocks" of Hopewell Cape. To fully appreciate the magnitude of Fundy's tides, participants are encouraged to walk on the ocean floor just before or after their kayaking adventure to record on film "a before and after shot" of their favorite formations. Guests are free to explore the beach on their own or to join a park interpreter.
Overnight: Fundy National Park
Day 14 - Fundy National Park to Moncton
Your trip ends in Moncton once the rental car is returned.
