A truly unique activity
Ice canoeing is a unique activity in the world, practiced only in Quebec. A crew consists of 5 people, including a captain and 4 crew members. When the river is open water, the canoe moves with large oars. On the ice, the oars are left in the boat, and the paddlers take the "scooter" position. With crampons on their feet, they slide the canoe across the ice in sync.
General Outline
Preparation
Our team awaits you to prepare you for your initiation. We present the historical role of ice canoeing in maritime connections on the St. Lawrence. Then, we put on the specialized equipment! The guides demonstrate ice canoeing techniques on land before heading to the river.
The Activity on the River
Let’s go! The crew sets off on the river to find the best ice. Participants will be able to try rowing and scootering! Mid-way, we take a well-deserved break. On the menu: hot chocolate and pastries from the bakery! Around us, the panorama is breathtaking.
The Return
We return to solid ground, where participants warm up and discuss their experience. The guides retrieve the photos and videos taken during the outing and prepare them for transfer to the clients. A convivial moment concludes the activity with access to the sauna and Nordic bathing for the most adventurous!
Prepare for your activity
- What to bring?
- UPPER BODY
- Technical base layer shirt (1): breathable garment that acts as a base layer (Lifa, merino, etc.).
- Technical mid-layer shirt (optional): depending on your comfort needs, you can add a technical mid-layer garment for more warmth.
- Light winter jacket: softshell or windbreaker type, the light winter jacket protects against wind and cold.
- LOWER BODY
- Socks (2 pairs): one thin pair and one warm pair (e.g., merino wool)
- Leggings (1): tight-fitting pants that act as a base layer (Lifa, merino, etc.).
- Technical mid-layer pants (1): tight-fitting technical pants for the lower body. A bit thicker than the base layer, they provide warmth and wind insulation. Snow pants are also suitable.
- ACCESSORIES
- Head: Bring a toque and a neck warmer, made of breathable materials and designed for sports.
- Sunglasses: they are not necessary, but recommended if you have light sensitivity.
- Mittens: mittens adapted for ice canoeing are provided.
- All our packages include:
- Welcome and practical training
- Loan of specialized equipment
- Souvenir photos
- Access to our Nordic sauna (on-site)
A little more information
To ensure safe ice canoeing outings, our guides apply strict safety protocols:
- Analysis and anticipation of weather conditions
- Validation of ice conditions
- Analysis of tide scenarios
- Awareness of maritime traffic
- Complete weekly inspections of boats and equipment
Each guide carries communication and distress equipment certified by Transport Canada. Everyone’s safety is our priority.
Am I fit enough for this? Ice canoeing does not require any particular skill, just a minimum level of physical fitness. Do you hike, ski, go to the gym, or cycle? You belong in an ice canoe! Our guides adapt the outings according to everyone’s abilities. The important thing is to have fun!
Will I be cold? Once in the canoe, all participants contribute to moving it forward. Whether rowing or scootering, clients and guides combine their energies. Bodies warm up, and winter is quickly forgotten!
Will I get wet? During an ice canoeing outing, clients do indeed dip their feet in the icy waters of the St. Lawrence… but DON’T PANIC! The provided neoprene socks and boots protect feet and calves from the cold. The rest of the body does not come into contact with the water.
How should I dress? Do you think you’ll be doing your first ice canoeing outing warmly dressed in your Canada Goose? Think again! The necessary clothing is similar to that used for cross-country skiing. The list of clothing you need to provide is detailed in each of our experiences, such as the Ice Baptism.