Step ashore the jewel of the Mingan Archipelago — Petite Île au Marteau — where a lovingly restored 19th-century lighthouse stands sentinel over Gulf waters teeming with whales and seabirds. History, wilderness, and silence in one extraordinary stop.
What to expect
After a scenic Gulf crossing, step onto the wooden dock of Petite Île au Marteau and enter a perfectly preserved 19th-century lightkeeper's world. Parks Canada heritage interpreters lead you through the keeper's dwelling, the fog-alarm building, and the tower itself, recounting the isolation and drama of life on this exposed promontory. Outside, the boardwalk winds past carpets of Arctic flora and overlooks a favourite seal haul-out. Whales — minke and fin — are commonly spotted from the island's southern tip between July and September.
Good to know
Combine with the Services Maritimes Boréale island-hopping tour, which includes this island on select itineraries. Confirm the stop when booking. Sturdy shoes essential — dock landing can be slippery. All-aboard timing: allow at least 4 hours total including transit.
Sail there
Luxury cruises that call at Havre St. Pierre — book through us, the fare is identical and your concierge stays on your side.
More to do in Havre St. Pierre
- Mingan Archipelago: Private Island-Hopping Boat Expedition
- Cap Ferré Coastal Hike: Clifftops, Caves & Seal Colonies
- Ekuanitshit (Mingan): Innu Cultural Immersion with Local Guides
- Maison de la Culture Roland-Jomphe: Fishermen, Settlers & the Gulf
- Havre-Saint-Pierre by E-Bike: The Côte-Nord in Panoramic Style