LOON QUEST
now offering a CHICK guarantee
(details below)

Quick Facts:

- located in Algonquin Park, Ontario, Canada
- I personally will pre-scout multiple locations to increase the chances of chicks
- explore prime loon locations via stable boat to get close and LOW to the action
- 2 days in duration (4 outings)

- maximum 3 guests + myself

Things you'll love

about this one of a kind tour

A Stable Boat to Shoot From

A flat-bottom, stable boat is the perfect way to get close to the action. I'll be keeping you in position with a quiet, electric trolling motor.

Pre-Location Scouting for Chicks!

My dates coincide with the best time of year of chicks as they interact with their parents and potentially ride on their backs. I will personally be out multiple days in advance of this tour scouting reliable locations (please consider this when reviewing the value you get in this tour).

Proximity

Loons are a tolerant bird and the boat will allow us to get closer than otherwise possible. When we get a good drift going, I will be shooting photos as well from the back of the boat, but I will prioritize the experience for you by continually using a quiet trolling motor to stay in position.

Misty Mornings

Though I can't guarantee perfect weather, there's a high chance we'll have misty, golden shooting conditions which would make for dramatic photos.

The Details

Welcome to Loon Quest, located in the world renowned Algonquin Park, Canada. I'm excited to have you along for the journey as we photograph loons and chicks from a stable ~16 foot boat.

There's a good chance we'll experience glass-like conditions on the lake which would allow for incredible loon and scenery reflections. With the use of a quiet electric trolling motor, I'll be positioning the boat to take advantage of the best possible lighting and backgrounds.

If you need any photography or videography tips and tricks I will assist you with these as well.

The Tour consists of 4 individual photography sessions.

ITINERARY:

Day 1: On location just before dawn (~5:15am) to board the boat and heat out. We will pursue loon photography for about 2 or 3 hours, or until the lighting becomes too harsh. Loons are a very tame and photogenic bird, often splashing around, making calls which will send a tingle down your spine, and will be actively involved in their care of the chicks. Bring your landscape lenses as well because Algonquin's morning scenery can be next level!

We'll then return to shore where everyone will take a mid day break until evening. There is lots for you to see and enjoy mid-day along the Highway 60 corridor of Algonquin Park, including the visitor centre, several gift shops, food stops, scenic lookouts, and the chance for other wildlife encounters (such as moose, bears, wolves). We will meet again around 5:30pm to head out on the boat to continue photographing loons for about 3 more hours. We'll then return to shore shortly after sunset (a little after 9pm).

(NOTE: Lodging/meals are not provided, but there are many lodging or camping options within the area)

Day 2: exact same as Day 1 - a morning outing, mid day break, and an evening outing.

Please note this tour does not include lodging or meals, but I am happy to provide recommendations in the area.

The meeting location will be disclosed after booking - I personally will be out location scouting in advance of the tour to find the best spots for loons and chicks, so the exact location may vary. For now, a preliminary reference area is: near the Algonquin Park Visitor Centre.

THE LOON CHICK GUARANTEE:

I guarantee we see a chick/chicks on at LEAST one of the four photography sessions and you are presented with reasonable photography opportunities. Note that once I've located chicks, it is likely we will see them on all four sessions. If this condition cannot be met, I will reimburse 75% of your payment for the tour. Please note I cannot make weather guarantees and we will operate rain/shine, only postponing for unsafe travelling conditions.

Contact Me Below

to book or make an inquiry

2 day tour (4 individual outings): $799 USD per person

(includes multiple pre-location scouting days on my part)
July 2nd+3rd
other custom dates available on request

What level of photography experience is recommended?

All levels are welcome (even non-photographers who are simply nature enthusiasts). The tour is, however, primarily geared towards beginner and intermediate photographers who are looking to learn photography tips and tricks along the way.
What exactly does this tour entail?

There are many different areas I can guide you, and it will largely depend on time of year and the goals you have in mind. For instance - for loons, I might recommend we get out on my boat on a certain lake. For moose, I might recommend a certain short hike, or a certain area to drive around. For lake sunrises I have certain areas in mind. For autumn colours, there are a whole new set of places I would take us. Therefore, in order to curate the best possible experience for you, I look forward to learning your hopes + goals, and each tour will be unique!
Will we see wildlife?

Though I'd love to be able to, I simply cannot guarantee we'll see wildlife. However, there are certain things we can do to vastly increase our chances depending on which animals you are most interested in seeing. (If you are REALLY serious about moose, consider joining my Moose Quest trip which guarantees moose sightings) (If you are REALLY serious about loons and chicks, consider joining my Loon Quest trip)
What time of year is best for wildlife?

I'd recommend May and early June for most wildlife, though autumn can be good too.
Where does the tour take place?

The location will be at a designated meeting spot along highway 60 in Algonquin Provincial Park. After booking, more information will be disclosed. We will travel around together but in separate vehicles.
What about bad weather?

Aside from severe weather, we plan to run the trip rain or shine.
Will I need my own transportation?

Yes - guests will meet with me at an established location, and we will travel around together but in separate vehicles.
Are accommodations provided if I choose multiple days of guiding?

Guests are responsible for their own accommodations. There are many options in Huntsville + Dwight (west end of Algonquin) and Whitney (east end) in addition to camping in Algonquin Park.
What is the maximum group size?

4 guests in addition to myself. I also offer private guiding on request.
What is the cancellation policy?

A 50% refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. This is 100% refundable up until 60 days prior to the trip start date at which point it is non refundable. The remaining 50% is required 30 days prior to the trip start date (a reminder in advance of this approaching date will be sent out).

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Participants will be required to sign a liability waiver prior to the tour.

A 50% refundable deposit is required at the time of booking. This is 100% refundable up until 60 days prior to the trip start date at which point it is non refundable. The remaining 50% is required 60 days prior to the trip start date (a reminder in advance of this approaching date will be sent out).

LOON QUEST *now offering a CHICK guarantee* (details below)