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LOON QUEST
Photograph loons from a stable boat

Now Booking for July 8-12 2026

Quick Facts:
 

- located in Algonquin Park, Ontario, Canada
- I personally pre-scout multiple lakes for several days to locate chick hatches
- explore prime loon locations via stable boat to get close and low to the action
- Daily bookings, which include 1 morning + 1 evening shoot

- maximum 3 guests + myself

Mother Loon and Chicks

Things you'll love

about this one of a kind tour

01

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. I will help keep us at just the right angle, taking lighting and background into consideration.

02

Pre-Location Scouting for Chicks!

My dates coincide with the best time of year for 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).

03

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.

04

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 is 1 day in duration (1 morning shoot + 1 evening shoot)

with the option to add extra outings

ITINERARY:

On location around dawn (~5:15am, or slightly later if you would prefer) to board the boat and head out. We will pursue loon photography for about 2 or 3 hours, or until the lighting becomes too harsh. If things are going well I am happy to stay longer. Loons are often a tame and photogenic bird, frequently splashing around, making calls which will send a tingle down your spine, and will be actively involved in the care of their chicks. Bring your landscape lenses as well because Algonquin's morning scenery can be next level! We may see other wildlife, such as herons, beavers, and moose.

 

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

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

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Contact Me Below

to book or make an inquiry

$449 per person for 1 day (1 morning + 1 evening shoot)

(price includes multiple pre-location scouting days on my part)

DATES:

July 8 (1 spot available)

July 9 (fully booked)
July 10-12 (3 spots available on each day)

Thanks for your message! Make sure to keep an eye on your Junk Mail in case my reply ends up there.

Frequently asked questions

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).

©Chris McQuarrie       Instagram @myinnerwild

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