Gannets Of Gaspe Photography Workshop
Join wildlife photographer Michael Bertelsen on Canada's East Coast where one of the world’s largest nesting colonies
of Northern Gannets reside.
0112 Gannet in Flight
play
We will be staying in the charming little town of
Percé, Quebec.
Each day our group will make the short boat ride to Bonaventure Island's famous bird
sanctuary and national park. Bonaventure is home to one of the largest colonies of
gannets in the world
(approx. 50,000 birds).
Day 0
Arrive in Percé Quebec. The most direct way to reach Percé is to fly to Quebec City , then fly to Gaspé. From Gaspe take a taxi, bus or rent a car. Driving time is approximately 45 minutes. That evening, a short slideshow and orientation meeting.
Day 1-2
I have hired a Captain and his zodiac that seats 12 persons. There will be ample space since there is only 7 of us. He will navigate our group in and around Bonaventure Island and the steep cliff walls to photograph Common Murres, Gannets, Black-Legged Kittiwakes, Grey Seals and more. There is even a chance to see Minke and Humpback Whales. The zodiac will pause at any location that provides suitable birds or wildlife for us to photograph. We will then be dropped at the landing of the bird sanctuary on Bonaventure Island as soon as it opens (9am). Our gear will be transported across the island by a 4x4 vehicle so that guests can walk the 45 minute trail unencumbered by the weight of their gear. The east side of the island is an ideal nesting site for the gannets. Photographers are provided with many excellent locations along the trail to photograph the gannets. There is a small concession stand that sells drinks and light snacks. They are quite expensive but handy for those who do not wish to carry their own food and drink. Picnic tables are also available to enjoy the view and have lunch with friends. Washrooms are located a short distance from the photography location.
Day 3
After breakfast a short walk or drive to the Perce dock where we will board the first ferry of the morning. The 15 minute boat ride takes us to Bonaventure Island. Where we will photograph Northern Gannets flying in with and without nesting material, chicks in many stages of maturity, as well as adults building nests and going through mating rituals.
Day 4
Breakfast together and a brief farewell.
Accommodations
Our hotel is situated in the town of Percé
with a fabulous view of the famous Percé rock and Bonaventure Island. It is also within walking distance of all restaurants,
the grocery store and the island ferry. There are quaint tourist shops, little
art galleries, a museum and a delicious bakery /café (My wife learned that you
have to get up early to score some famous almond croissants before they are
sold out!) . The rooms come with two
queen-sized beds and are clean and simple. This historic town gets its name from the spectacular sculpted limestone rock island that has an arch in one end. (Percé means “pierced” in French ). Percé rock is one of the world’s largest arches over water, and provides beautiful sculptural interest for any of you intrested in landscapes.
The Itinerary Includes:
3 full days of photography
Accommodations.
All permits and park fees
All tour boat and zodiak fees
Personalized instruction offered at all times.
Not included:
All meals and beverages
Transportation to and from Percé
July 26 to July 30, 2017. 3 days & 4 nights Gannets of Gaspe Workshop - Total Cost $1990.00 + 13% HST = $2248.70 cdn funds or $1,807.97 usd (double occupancy) Arrive on July 26, 2017 in Perce Qc. Depart on July 30, 2017 from Perce Qc. 6 openings available
* Maximum 6 photographers *
* Single Supplement: $375.00 additional
Deposit & Registration for Tours/Workshops
A non-refundable $1000.00 deposit is required to reserve your spot. Please make deposit payable to Michael Bertelsen and send to 1 Lake Drive, Huntsville , ON, Canada P1H 1G1
Remaining amount to be paid 60 days prior to trip.
Contact Michael if you have further questions or to request a booking.
