🛥️ Best for: Wildlife watching, bird colonies, coastal views & easy hiking
⏰ Tip: Buy your boat tickets the day before at the ticket office — summer sells out fast

Visiting Bonaventure Island was honestly one of the absolute highlights of our Gaspésie trip. We took the boat tour from Percé, and I really recommend getting your tickets a day in advance. In high season, same-day spots often fill up, so planning ahead saves you a lot of stress.

Leave early in the morning if you can — the views are clearer, the sea breeze is refreshing, and you’ll have plenty of time to explore the island at your own pace. On the way, the boat gets close to the Roché Percé, gives explanations about the wildlife, and if you’re lucky, you might even spot seals in the water.

Once on the island, you can join a guided tour, and I highly recommend it. It completely changed how I understood the flora, fauna, and the fascinating history of the island. Plus, reaching the huge northern gannet colony is unforgettable — thousands of birds, dramatic cliffs, the sound, the smell, the sheer energy of nature.

The trails are easy, and you can loop around the island to discover hidden beaches and viewpoints. It really felt like stepping into a different world.

Just keep in mind:

• The birds are very active in summer — binoculars help a lot

• Bring a windproof layer and hiking shoes

• Services are minimal, so pack water & picnic or snacks

• Boats run seasonally and only in good weather

• Pets and off-trail wandering aren’t allowed to protect the colony

We spent several hours wandering around and taking everything in. It’s peaceful, wild, and incredibly beautiful — a must-do if you’re passing through Percé.