The Montérégie region is bordered by the St. Lawrence River and laced with waterways such as the Richelieu and Yamaska rivers. It is dotted with magnificent places perfectly suited for various aquatic activities. Whether you are a thrill-seeker or just looking for a quiet good time, you will find the spot that fits your needs. You can go for an underwater dive, kayak in a natural reserve, take a romantic cruise, or even go a little nuts with inflatable structures and an electric surfing session! Discover unusual places and enjoy your favourite water activities. Splashes and smiles guaranteed!
On the surface or underwater, it’s up to you!
It’s time to leave the city to enjoy the charms of the Montérégie and the soothing properties of water. Just 30 minutes away from Montreal, in the town of Sainte-Catherine to be exact, the young company Évasiô invites you to embark on one- or two-seater kayaks or on paddle boards to discover a part of the St. Lawrence River unknown to the public. Close to the Lachine Rapids, you will have the opportunity to cruise on the river between Herons Island and Nuns’ Island, with the majestic view of the city of Montreal in the distance. Excursions will also be offered shortly. If you are tempted to swim underwater, visit the city of Salaberry-de-Valleyfield where the company EcoDive will introduce you to scuba diving for a few hours, from mid-May to the end of October. You get to choose between diving in a pool or in a natural environment surrounded by marine life, in complete safety, of course! The company also offers excursions on Lake Saint-François, an activity accessible to all divers, even beginners, with no fewer than 12 underwater wrecks to visit. This experience will satisfy the need for adventure in anyone!
Lake Saint-François, a Treasure of Biodiversity
If you’re near Lake St. François, take the opportunity to visit the Lake Saint-François National Wildlife Area in Dundee. This habitat is home to a rich biodiversity, which you can take in as you explore it in a kayak or a canoe, or as part of a group aboard a large rabascaw. Departure is from the Baie-aux-Grenouilles, at the end of a scenic pathway through hawthorn trees. As its name indicates, the area is home to a variety of animals and plants, notably to many amphibians. All along your route from Fraser Creek to the heart of Lake Saint-François, you might get to see herons and ospreys overhead, and with a little luck, you might even come across a family of beavers on the shore. This kind of memorable encounter highlights the beauty of this place, and friendly guides will be happy to answer your questions and share their knowledge of the rich and varied biodiversity of the site.
It’s time to go take a trip on the water!
Feel like hitting the water? There are many cruises and excursions offered to families, friends and couples by Croisières Navark, with several departure points in the Montérégie region. For example, you could go on a romantic cruise leaving from Sorel-Tracy on the majestic fleuve Saint-Laurent, with Statera, to admire the sunset aboard a tour boat. Or you could take the whole family aboard the luxurious and fascinating little houseboat of Vacation Sunset Dreams. Live an unforgettable experience, and be charmed by this boat which will literally give you the impression of being in a cabin on the water.
Activities for thrill seekers!
You don’t have to go far-off places to enjoy the beach when you can simply head for the beach in Saint-Zotique. The place offers a wide range of activities such as swimming lessons, sailing, beach volleyball and paddle boarding. But will you be bold enough to take on the WipeOut-style Eau Défi water obstacle course? You’ll have to make your way through more than 30 water structures, each one crazier than the next, and perform feats of strength, balancing and agility. Will you be the next adventurer to reach the end? On your marks, get set, go! And if you feel the need for speed, you can visit Sabrevois and experience the services offered by Ecosurf. You’ll be able to rent electric surfboards, which are controlled from a Bluetooth remote, to ride at full speed on the Richelieu River. Guaranteed excitement! This is the only company to offer this incredible experience, and it has been a great success. The activity is supervised and totally safe, in addition to being respectful of the environment and biodiversity. Given the newfound popularity of electric surfboards, it is advisable to make reservations in advance.
Find out about even more water activities offered in Montérégie by clicking here!
You will definitely find an activity that’s just right for you!