SIGNATURE MOMENT

Enjoying views from the cliffs of île d’Entrée

SIGNATURE MOMENT

Exploring patches of boreal forest

SIGNATURE MOMENT

Embracing the delicious local gastronomy

SIGNATURE MOMENT

Photographing the colourful island architecture

SIGNATURE MOMENT

Spotting migratory shorebirds on a beach…

The Magdalen Islands II

Sep 21-27, 2025

7 days | Canada | Alumni Expeditions

This tour is presented by the alumni associations of the University of Alberta, the University of Saskatchewan, McGill University, McMaster University, University of Western Ontario, and University of Guelph. All are welcome!

Many miles from the closest mainland, the tiny crescent-shaped archipelago of the Magdalen Islands (Îles-de-la-Madeleine) feels remote in so many ways. Here, far away from the outside world, a constant breeze sweeping over these 12 islands has sculpted red sandstone cliffs, dwarfed the forests, and formed sand dunes, connecting some islands together and enclosing a series of lagoons protected from the open seas. Settled permanently since the 18th century, the people here have also adapted to this remarkable environment and created a unique culture. Over the course of our week here based in our sea-view auberge, we have a chance to explore this world apart and experience a sense of solitude and connection where time seems to have stood still.

Walk sand-dune trails with delicate plants and explore the interdunal bogs, fens, and saltmarshes, watching for sundews and other fragile plant life. Attune to the sights and sounds of migratory shorebirds and resident waterbirds (including highly localized Black-headed Gulls!) as they rest and feed along unspoiled beaches and in the lagoons. Watch for Grey and Harbour Seals looking back at us as they course the shallows. While walking along paths at higher altitudes, we may see a number of songbirds in a surprisingly boreal habitat and get sweeping views of the archipelago as we enjoy the fresh sea air. We also gain a sense of the cultural mosaic deriving from French-speaking Acadia and the British Isles as we visit the friendly island communities. Our meals are always a highlight, and we can expect selections featuring seafood and more with local flair! Each day is sure to yield something different.

For a short, restorative trip to an out-of-the-way part of Canada, join us as we enjoy a week of discoveries on the Magdalens!

Tour Cost (per person):

C$3395 + 5% GST Incl. gratuities.

Group Size:

10 - 14 participants

What’s included: Accommodation in double occupancy in the Magdalen Islands; all meals and activities as described in the itinerary; gratuities for services provided by Worldwide Quest; ground transportation; park entrance fees; services of Worldwide Quest Tour Host Wendi Lacusta and a local guide

FEATURED ON THE BLOG

When Beachcombing Meets Technology

By: Justin Peter

"I felt this [learning] was one of the strongest components of the trip. Whether it was about local insights, ecology, culture, or other topics, I learned so much on this trip from the tour host, the local guides, and my fellow travellers." - Alumni traveller on The Magdalen Islands 2023 tour.

"Accommodations were very comfortable and clean. Food was terrific. Staff were outgoing, friendly and very helpful - staff treated the group like family. La Salicorne is a wonderful place to stay." - Alumni traveller on The Magdalen Islands 2023 tour.

Itinerary at a Glance

Day	Activity
1	Meet in the Magdalen Islands, welcome dinner
1 - 6	Exploring the Magdalens
7	Depart

Download Itinerary

Your Tour Leader

Wendi Lacusta is our Concierge in Charge. Hailing from Nova Scotia where she grew up sailing and open ocean swimming, Wendi has lived many years since on Canada’s West Coast. Wendi is an inveterate (and veteran) solo world traveller and since her first retirement, has also undertaken work aboard polar expedition cruise vessels.

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