Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
This section provides answers to frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Essipit vacations.
If you don’t find your answer here, do not hesitate to call or email our Reservation and Information Centre.
1 418 233-2266
1 888 868-6666
Whale-Watching Tours
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What is the best time for whale watching?
You can see whales on every cruise, at any time of day, since whales need to surface for air.
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Is there a charge for children and babies?
Yes.
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Is there a minimum age for children on the Zodiac boat cruises?
If the weather is not favourable, children under 8 years can be refused for safety and health reasons (frostbite). Children 2 years of age or younger are not allowed.
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Is there a parking lot near the wharf?
Yes.
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Can I go on the cruise if I’m pregnant?
It is not advisable for a pregnant woman to go out on one of the Zodiac boats.
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If it rains, will the cruise be cancelled?
No. Cruises are only cancelled due to strong winds or heavy fog. The captain’s decision is final.
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How long are the cruises?
The cruises last 2 hours. We ask you to be at the Bergeronnes wharf 45 minutes before departure.
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What is the maximum capacity of a Zodiac boat?
Maximum of 12 or 36 passengers depending on the type of boat.
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Is clothing provided for the cruise?
Yes. We provide life jackets, waterproof pants, tuques and mittens if you need them. However, we recommend that you wear warm and spare clothes.
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Is the cruise safe?
Yes. All our captains are trained to ensure maximum safety for their passengers.
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Can we take pictures and videos?
Yes, but you should take all the necessary precautions for the salt water environment.
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Can the captain give us explanations in English?
Yes.
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How soon before a cruise can we cancel without being penalized?
You can cancel;
-15 days and more before the activity: no penalty full refund
-8 to 14 days before the activity: 50% of the reservation as a penalty
-7 days and less: 100% of the reservation in penalty
-Cancellation made by Vacances/Croisières Essipit: full refund Further
-Plus taxes
Condo-Hotel Units
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What is the difference between a condo-hotel unit and a cottage?
The condo-hotel units are apartments in a building made up of 4 units: 2 on the ground floor and 2 upstairs. Cottages are small free-standing houses built close to each other.
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Do we need to reserve well in advance?
It is better to make an advance reservation, particularly if you will be coming during the summer.
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Do all the condo-hotel units have views of the river?
Yes.
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Can whales be seen from the condo-hotel units?
Yes, this is possible.
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Are there BBQs on site?
No.
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Can we bring a portable BBQ?
Yes, but the balconies are built of wood, so you must take care not to damage them.
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Can we build a campfire?
No, campfires are not allowed.
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Are fondue pots provided?
Yes.
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Do we need to bring our own bed linens and towels?
No. Bed linens and towels are provided. The towels are changed every 2 days, and a change of bed linens is provided on the 8th day (for longer stays).
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Does the cleaning staff come by every day?
No. You are expected to keep your unit clean for the duration of your stay. Our staff will bring clean towels every 2 days and a change of bed linens on the 8th day so that you can change your sheets.
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Will I be able to wash and iron clothes?
Yes. We have a coin-operated laundry for you to use.
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Is wireless Internet (Wi-Fi) available on site?
Yes, Wi-Fi Internet access is available. However, the signal may be unstable, so a cable is provided to ensure that you always have a reliable connection.
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Are there restaurants nearby?
Yes, there are restaurants only a few minutes away by car.
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May I check out after 11 am?
No, you need to have left your unit and returned your keys BEFORE 11 am on the date of your departure.
Cottages
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What is the difference between a condo-hotel unit and a cottage?
Condo-hotel units are apartments in a building containing a total of 4 units: 2 on the ground floor and 2 upstairs. Cottages are small free-standing houses built close to each other.
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Do we need to reserve well in advance?
It is better to make an advance reservation, particularly if you will be coming during the summer.
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Can whales be seen from the cottages?
Yes, this is possible.
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Are there BBQs on site?
No.
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Can we bring a portable BBQ?
Yes, but the balconies are built of wood, so you must take care not to damage them.
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Can we build a campfire?
Yes, each of our cottages has an outdoor fire pit.
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Are fondue pots provided?
Yes.
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Do we need to bring our own bed linens and towels?
No. Bed linens and towels are provided. The towels are changed every 2 days, and a change of bed linens is provided on the 8th day (for longer stays).
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Does the cleaning staff come by every day?
No. You are expected to keep your unit clean for the duration of your stay. Our staff will bring clean towels every 2 days and a change of bed linens on the 8th day so that you can change your sheets.
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Will I be able to wash and iron clothes?
Yes. A laundry room is accessible to you. However, you must pay for the use.
No for Jimmy Lakes Cottages, no on-site laundry.
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Is wireless Internet (Wi-Fi) available on site?
Yes, for Shipek cottages and Anse-à-Jos and Anse à Yves cottages.
No, for the Jimmy Lakes cottages, no internet connection is available.
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Are there restaurants nearby?
Yes, there are restaurants only a few minutes away by car.
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May I check out after noon?
No, you need to have left your unit and returned your keys BEFORE 11 am on the date of your departure.
Campgrounds
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What is the difference between the Tipi and Tadoussac campgrounds?
Tipi Campground
This 50-site campground is located in the Aboriginal community called Essipit, near Escoumins. Hiking paths lead down to the shore where you can watch whales in the river coming up to breathe.Tadoussac Campground
This much larger, 200-site campground is located at Tadoussac and has a spectacular view over the Saguenay fjord. -
Can we see the river?
Tipi Campground
To see the river, you will need to hike down one of the trails from the campground to the shore of the river. From there, you watch the whales and see boats navigating up and down the river.Tadoussac Campground
This campground has a magnificent view of the Saguenay fjord and the St. Lawrence River. -
Are the campsites separated by trees?
Tipi Campground
No.Tadoussac Campground
Yes. -
Are dogs allowed?
Yes, dogs are allowed at both campgrounds (Tipi and Tadoussac. However, they must be kept on a leash and always under your supervision.
No, for the ready-to-camp section of the Tadoussac Campground and Tipi).
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Will we be able to hear the sound of cars on Highway 138?
Tipi Campground
No.Tadoussac Campground
Very little, depending on your campsite. -
Is there a swimming pool?
Tipi Campground
Yes, near the Essipit community. For a small fee, campers can use it during pool hours.Tadoussac Campground
No. -
Do the campgrounds have wireless Internet (Wi-Fi)?
Tipi Campground
The signal is best near at sanitary building.Tadoussac Campground
Ask the staff at the reception desk for the password. For the best signal, stay close to the reception area. -
Can we rent a tipi?
Tipi Campground and Tadoussac Campground
No, but you should consider the ready-to-camp area at the Tadoussac Campground and Campground Tipi, where you can rent a tent, ready for use, for one or more nights. -
Do you have sites for seasonal camping?
Tipi Campground
Yes.Tadoussac Campground
If you submit a request we will analyze it. -
What is the cancellation policy?
Tipi Campground and Tadoussac Campground
A one-night, non-refundable deposit is required on reservations.
Outfitters
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What is the condition of the forestry road (the main access road)?
It is a gravel road, but it is well maintained. We ask that you drive carefully and within the posted speed limits.
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Are there flies in the forest?
Yes. We recommend that you use insect repellent.
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Can we bring an ATV?
Yes. You can use an ATV as long as you are respectful of other guests.
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What types of fish do your lakes have?
Native brook trout and eastern speckled trout (not stocked).
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How big are the fish?
The average fish is 6 to 12 inches long.
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Are bed linens and towels provided?
No, you need to bring your own sleeping bags or comforters as well as towels and washcloths. Only dish towels are provided.
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Can we pay the outfitter by credit card?
Lacs à Jimmy
Yes. You can pay by credit card when you arrive, at the reception desk.Lac des Cœurs,Lac Gilles,Lac Loup,Lac Claire,Lac Bernier
Yes, but an additional 5% charge will apply, since the security guard will need to call the Reservation and Information Centre to charge your credit card. -
How big are the boats?
Most of the boats are 14 feet long, but some are 12 feet long.
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How many people are allowed per boat?
A maximum of 2 people are allowed in one boat. If you have young children, the maximum is 2adults and 2 children per boat.
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Is the motor included in the package?
No, but you can bring your own. However, you should check with the Reservation and Information Centre to know the maximum motor size accepted by your outfitter.
You can also rent a motor from the outfitter. For more information, contact the Reservation and Information Centre.
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If we rent a motor, is gasoline included?
No, you will need to buy gasoline on site.
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Do the cottages have electrical services?
Most of the cottages at our outfitters use propane (lighting, stove, refrigerator).
At the Lac Gilles site, on the Domaine du Lac des Cœurs, we have a system of solar panels that provides electricity for the lights and refrigerators in the cottages. However, stoves and hot water heaters still run on propane.
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Can we build a campfire?
Yes, but always check with the security guard to know whether it is allowed. If the forest fire advisory does not prevent it, he will show you where you can build a fire.
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Do all the cottages include a view of the lake?
Yes.
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What is the cancellation policy?
Please check with the Reservation and Information Centre for information on our cancellation policies.
Bear watching
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How do I get to the observation site?
Access to the site is by car on an unpaved road. Parking is available about 20 m from the shelter.
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How long is the activity?
The activity lasts from 1h30 to 2h00. You must arrive 45 minutes before the start of the activity.
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What personal effects can I bring to the observation site?
Your camera, other electronic equipment and water. Food is strictly forbidden in the observation shelter.
Sea kayaking
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Can I make a reservation if I'm alone?
Yes, you will be paired with a client or a guide.
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Can i bring my dog?
No.
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How should I dress for the kayak activity?
Wear thin synthetic sportswear/swimwear under the equipment. Cotton clothes are not recommended.
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In case of rain, is the outing cancelled?
No.
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What is the best time for whale watching?
You can see whales on every outing, at any time of day, since whales need to surface for air.
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At what age can children take part in kayaking activities?
From age 7, depending on the activity.