Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site

Grosse Île and the Irish Memorial National Historic Site (Lieu historique national de la Grosse-Île-et-le-Mémorial-des-Irlandais) is in the St. Lawrence River and is reached by ferry from Les Croisières Lachance in Berthier-sur-Mer. The island was once known as Quarantine Station because of the great number of immigrants who were quarantined here during the period 1832-1937. More than 4 million immigrants passed through the Québec City port during this period.

A Celtic cross on the summit of the island's western section commemorates the Great Famine and the tragic events of 1847 on Grosse Île, when 100,000 mostly Irish immigrants arrived—thousands of them died of typhus fever and are buried in Grosse Île's Irish cemetery. Today more than 25 historic buildings are on the island; many are being restored. Guided tours include a visit to the disinfection building, a 60-minute walking tour and a 60-minute tram tour; narration in English is available.

Private watercraft are not permitted to dock on the island.

Guided tours are available. Food is available. Time: Allow 4 hours minimum.