Wednesday, August 13, 2025
It was our second tour and our second day for a room service breakfast served promptly at 7:00.
Our HAL tour today: Ile Niapiskau
ABOUT THE EXCURSION: Discover the exceptional beauty of the Mingan Archipelago on a boat trip departing from Havre-Saint-Pierre.
A scenic cruise — an experience in itself — takes you to Ile Niapiskau. You’re accompanied by a Parks Canada heritage presenter, who will lead you back in time to help you understand the amazing geological formations around you. It’s a story that is nearly 500 million years old.
Enjoy an easy-to-moderate walk around Ile Niapiskau where you will see the Dame de Niapisca and the Small Graduating Owl limestone monoliths immortalized by poet Roland Jomphe. There are many in all different shapes and sizes. Each has a name and a story — can you guess them?
After your walk, reboard the boat for the return trip and take time to enjoy the scenery from a different perspective. Keep an eye out for local fauna and flora.
Notes: Dress warmly in layers with a wind- and waterproof outer layer; bring gloves, a scarf and a warm hat. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. Duration may vary slightly.
We met on the pier and walked as a group to the boat dock. It was very foggy. Looked like the ship was sitting on clouds.
We arrived at the National Park and were met by two park rangers. We were split into two groups. We got a geology lesson on how the stone structures were formed by sea water and glaciers.
We then walked a short way through the park as the ranger pointed out some of the natural structures.
Most of the path was a boardwalk but some of it was sand and rocks. They recommended sturdy shoes, and they were not kidding.
We had 1.5 hours on the island and that was plenty of time. The boat came back for us and brought another group of tourists. It was a nice tour, and the day wasn’t as unbearably hot as it was yesterday.
Once we were back at the dock we walked around the port area and found a prayer grotto near the hospital. It was a peaceful area.
The afternoon passed quickly and it was soon time to get ready for the evening. We decided not to go to the Orange Party as it was going to be held in the Crow’s Nest and it is a small venue.
We went to the Casino and then went to the show which featured both the Comedian and the Vocalist. It was a good show.
We have another tour tomorrow, so we called it a night.
Tomorrow: Baie-Comeau, Quebec
The town has a rich history influenced by Indigenous Innu peoples, Acadians, and Quebecers.
Home to Mingan Archipelago National Park Reserve: This park is a highlight of the region, featuring over 40 islands and islets known for their unique limestone formations, often referred to as “flowerpots.” These formations have been sculpted by the sea over thousands of years and are home to diverse wildlife, including seals and seabirds.
The waters surrounding Havre-Saint-Pierre are prime whale-watching territory. Visitors can often see various species of whales, including belugas and minke whales.