Exploramer is a science museum that showcases the St. Lawrence and raises public awareness about conserving and recognizing the marine ecosystem as a vital part of our environment. 

Aquarium

Discover the mysteries of marine life in the St. Lawrence in various aquariums, including a large new ecosystem aquarium, which are home to a living collection of fish and other organisms. Accompanied by a scientific guide, dip your fingers into five touch pools to touch some of the species found in the St. Lawrence, including rock crabs, starfish and sea urchins.

Museum

• Tentacles and Company

This exhibition gives visitors the opportunity to discover the importance of tentacles, which are sensory appendage present in some marine species. Through interactive tools, visitors can learn more about the anatomical and physiological characteristics of these animals as well as about their role and evolution within Canada’s natural/cultural history and marine biodiversity. The exhibition will also feature tales and legends inspired by tentacled animals as well as the environmental issues facing these species and the scientific research being carried out on them and their marine ecosystems.

• Northern Gannets: Sentinels of the St. Lawrence

An island in the middle of the St. Lawrence, birds that change their behaviour, chicks that die… What is behind these strange phenomena?

Come and discover northern gannets in an exhibition that focuses on the food chain and the subtle balance between predator and prey. Follow the journey of these and other seabirds, from land to sea.

• Exceptional Beings: When Science Rivals Fiction

What makes marine life so diverse? A long series of transformations known as evolution! Through interactive touch screens, digital games and scientific research content, discover the many species found in the St. Lawrence as well as the mysterious and unusual world of these exceptional beings.

Sea excursions

Board the C-E Marin Exploramer for a sea excursion. Learn about the ecosystem of the St. Lawrence, watch crab and whelk traps being hauled in and collect scientific samples. This is your opportunity to discover marine life in the St. Lawrence for real!

Fish-harvesting activity

Put on a pair of waders and follow your guide. Participate in an experience that will allow you to explore the coastline and discover the species caught in a fishing net.

Note that this activity is offered at low tide only (download the schedule found on this page).

“Dare to Taste!” activity

This guided tasting activity will give you the opportunity to discover responsible seafood options offered by the St. Lawrence and taste five marine species promoted by the Smarter Seafood program.

Smarter Seafood program

Exploramer launched the Smarter Seafood certification program to encourage restaurants and fish markets to introduce consumer to little-known seafood species in an effort to preserve species at risk.

Day camp

The Masked Porpoise Squad is a science day camp offered to children aged 6 to 11 every Monday and Friday from June 24 to August 16, 2024, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Reservations are required.

Please note that this day camp is available in French only. It could provide a good French immersion experience for children with some prior knowledge of the language.

Gift shop

Exploramer also has a gift shop you can browse for souvenirs and local handicrafts. Why not take home a piece of the sea in your luggage!

Exploramer is located on the Sainte-Anne-des-Monts wharf, diagonally opposite the church:

• From Route 132, head north on Route du Parc (Route 299) at the lights. You will see the steeple; we are just past the church on the left.
• From Route 299, keep driving north until you reach the St. Lawrence.

Affiliations

• Canadian Museums Association
• Québec Museums Association (SMQ)
• Tourisme Gaspésie
• Must-See Attractions Gaspésie
• Smarter Seafood
• Certified by Kéroul (accessible to people with physical disabilities)

Distinctions

• Winner of an environmental excellence award from the Gaspésie–Îles-de-la-Madeleine Regional Environmental Council (2014)
• One of Destination Canada’s Canadian Signature Experiences (since 2012)
• Winner of a Phénix award for the environment in the “Responsible Consumption” category from the Ministry of the Environment (2010)
• Awarded a “citizen company” award in the cooperative sector by L’Actualité magazine (2010)
• Winner of a Québec tourism award in the “Sustainable Development” category (2008)