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SIGNATURE MOMENT
Enjoying views from the cliffs of île d’Entrée
SIGNATURE MOMENT
Exploring patches of boreal forest
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Embracing the delicious local gastronomy
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Photographing the colourful island architecture
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Spotting migratory shorebirds on a beach…

The Magdalen Islands II

Sep 21-27, 2025

7 days | Canada | Alumni Expeditions

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!
Alumni Expeditions
Tour Cost (per person):
Approx. C$3395 + 14.75% 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 naturalist study leader Alan Watson and a local guide

"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.
"Alan was excellent. He provided information, was pleasant, and accommodating. I would go on another trip led by Alan." - Anne W.
"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

DayActivity
1Meet in the Magdalen Islands, welcome dinner
1 - 6Exploring the Magdalens
7Depart
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Your Tour Leader

As a former faculty member in the School of Environmental Sciences at the University of Guelph, Alan Watson taught nature interpretation, environmental stewardship and a conservation field course. With over 25 years of experience leading nature tours, Alan has guided groups in southern Ontario, Canada's Maritime Provinces, Trinidad and Tobago, the Lesser Antilles, Costa Rica, Brazil, Tanzania, and the Galapagos.

Alumni Expeditions
Tour Cost (per person):
Approx. C$3395 + 14.75% 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 naturalist study leader Alan Watson and a local guide

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The Magdalen Islands II

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