azimut aventure inc.

We had taken a tour with Azimut back in 2009, and while the Saguenay fjord was beautiful, the trip was extremely frustrating since you have to paddle at the speed of your slowest member, which is usually someone who spends the whole time learning how to hold their paddle in the right direction. We traveled maybe 1-2 km up the fjord, and then rode the current/tide back in.When we returned to the region this year, we decided to try the Azimut shuttle service, where they take you to a location up the fjord, and you paddle out to the St. Lawrence. Our group included my wife and I, and my parents. All of us are experienced paddlers. My wife and I did a canoe trip through the Everglades earlier this year, so we thought that we knew something about tides.Nope.The first 10 km of our trip was a breeze, as we rode the tail end of the outgoing tide, and the beginning of the new incoming tide. We stopped for lunch, and then headed out again. Because of the huge cliffs, and the strange perspective that you get from having few markers along the shore, we didn't realize how slowly we were moving against the tide and wind, but it turned out that we only traveled 500-1000 metres forward in an hour, while crossing the fjord twice to look for a more favourable current. Finally we reached a patch of water that was churned up by all sorts of cross-currents, and a group of minke whales were in the middle of a complete feeding frenzy. We had absolutely no chance of moving forward at this point, and actually started getting pushed back. We ended up finding a place to land, and waited a couple of hours for the outgoing tide. The rest of the trip was much better, although we were all pretty tired by this point, so were moving slower than we would have expected. We then got stuck waiting 30 minutes for the ferries that connect the 138 to get out of the way so that we could finish our journey into Baie Sainte Catherine. By the time we got back, Azimut was closed, so we left our stuff outside with the rest of their equipment. It seems that theft isn't a huge concern.The next day as we were leaving, we saw people flying out of the fjord on the tide, without paddling at all! What had taken us at least 30 minutes probably took them five.Basically, this is an excellent service in a beautiful whale-watching location, but you must know what you're getting into. Plan with the tides, as 4-6 m fluxes in water level are not to be laughed at...

First of, I have to second the positive comments of the previous reviewers. The company is very well run, and the equipment is immaculate despite the salt water we were paddling in.I chose azimut adventures because I found Tadoussac's geography interesting and wanted a true flavor of sea water kayaking. In addition, it was important to me to work with a locally owned company. Justin and Janice were our guides. They were knowledgeable, safe, enthusiastic, friendly and funny. I love being with people who show up in the morning with a big smile and who are ready for the day.They were both and then some. I fell in love with the breathtaking Saguenay and absolutely plan to kayak with Azimut Adventures again next year. This time, I would like to paddle a longer tour. Justin's English was very good. Yet, I do plan to expand my French before traveling in the area again.

Very safe and pleasent place to get the most of your Kayak trips.Guides are funny and professional.

We did the kayaka excursion which included 2 days of kayaking on the beautiful Saguenay fjord. Our guide Janice was knowledgable and friendly. The excursion was awesome and is highly recommended! Jean francois manages the place very well! Good job! A+