SEPT-ÎLES IS WELCOMING THREE CRUISE SHIPS ON SEPTEMBER 22, SEPTEMBER 27 AND OCTOBER 2. THE MS MAASDAM OF HOLLAND AMERICA STOPPED FOR THE DAY ON MAY 8. “WE HAVE WELCOMING ACTIVITIES SUCH AS MINI SHOWS FEATURING LOCAL ARTISTS AND OTHER TYPES OF ENTERTAINMENT, AS WELL AS A VARIETY OF SHORE EXCURSIONS FOCUSING ON THE INNU EXPERIENCE,” SAID MARIO SÉVIGNY OF DESTINATION SEPT-ÎLES NAKAUINANU, WHO IS RESPONSIBLE FOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE PORT’S CRUISE BUSINESS.
Located at the mouth of the Gulf of St. Lawrence, Sept-Îles is an important deepwater port for the sprawling iron ore and aluminum industries. The history of Sept-Îles is closely linked to the rich natural resources of the surrounding territory, while this cradle of the Innu First Nations community has welcomed countless trappers, fishermen, and forestry and mining companies for centuries.
The traditional Virée des îles (Tour of the Islands) is enhanced by an interpretation of the region’s history, economy, culture and social life. Whale and other marine mammal watching is a popular activity, as is a trip to the bird sanctuary on Corossol Island. Biology excursions focusing on crustaceans and molluscs are also offered. There are morning and evening cruises, diving, snorkelling, scuba diving, kayak rentals and a three-hour guided excursion three times a day.
Nearby Grande Basque Island is a recreational and tourist centre offering close to ten kilometres of walking trails, six beautiful beaches, as well as interpretation activities, guided tours and thematic activities including mycology, ornithology, and geology.
In terms of cultural activities, the Vieux poste de Sept-Îles (trading post) dates to around 1676 when it was managed by a French commercial society, of which the famous explorer Louis Jolliet was a member. The site’s buildings were rebuilt in 1967. The general store, observation tower, chapel, home and the grounds offer a varied interpretive program consisting of shows, exhibits, archaeology, history and Innu culture.
Port of Sept-Îles, the City of Sept-Îles, and the Innu Takuaikan Uashat mak Mani-Utenam Band Council have organized Destination Sept-Îles Nakauinanu to promote the establishment and growth of tourist attractions, and to promote Sept-Îles as a cruise destination.