More about Saguenay
Why go to Saguenay?
A main draw is the awe-inspiring Saguenay Fjord and its stunning surrounding beauty
You need to travel outside the port village to best explore Saguenay
La Baie's village center charms with friendly locals, artisan boutiques and tempting eateries
Saguenay Cruise Port Facilities?
Ships dock or anchor at La Baie, on the shores of Ha Ha Bay. Actors of the iconic "La Fabuleuse" show often greet cruisers garbed in colorful costumes, doing handstands, juggling and other impressive feats. After enjoying their dockside mini-performance, head inside to the resource-filled cruise pavilion. Besides crafters hawking wares, there's an excellent information desk, spotless restrooms, a cafe and complimentary Wi-Fi.
Good to Know?
Canadian French is different in its accent and expressions from the French we know a la France. So don't be surprised if your high school French fails you (beyond the basics) in Canada. Fortunately, locals speak some English, and are overwhelmingly friendly and eager to assist visiting cruisers. And like anywhere in the world, thank you (merci in French), goes a long way.
Getting Around?
On Foot: It's a five-minute stroll from the pier into La Baie's village center to shops and eateries. The village itself consists of just a few streets. It's nearly impossible to get lost, but if you need directions back to the pier, locals are only too willing to assist.
By Hop-on, Hop-Off Bus: This shuttle bus offers two Saguenay tours; one is the 60-minute Fjord Museum Circuit, with stops including a shopping center, fjord museum and glassmaker and sculpture studio. The second, the 75-minute Downtown and Cultural Area Circuit, features visits to a cathedral, regional museum and public market. These shuttles usually run every 20 minutes when ships are in town and charge $15 for adults.
By Taxi: You can book a taxi at the cruise pavilion. The taxis offer tours around the region or will simply take you where you want to go. Credit cards and U.S. dollars are accepted.
By Car Rental: National Car Rental office is located within the cruise pavilion. You can download their mobile app for a self-guided tour.
Currency & Best Way to Get Money?
Canada's currency is the Canadian dollar. Visit www.xe.com or www.oanda.com for current rates. Credit cards, particularly MasterCard and Visa, are accepted nearly everywhere. Local shops usually accept U.S. dollars, but change will be given in Canadian currency. The closest ATM to the cruise terminal is across the street, in front of Au Pavillon Noir restaurant.
Language?
The region is primarily French-speaking and signage is mostly in French. But English is spoken in tourism and service areas, including the cruise port terminal.
