Francis Valiquette

Whitewater & Swiftwater Rescue Instructor

Francis’ parents introduced him to whitewater before he could walk. They passed on their passion for the river, even if it was in their old homemade fibreglass canoe. Since 2007, Francis has been working on the rivers and lakes of Québec as a canoe and raft guide. Francis is also into whitewater kayaking, and he has travelled to different countries to paddle, including Ecuador, Chile, Argentina, and the United States. He also likes to help people learn and grow a passion for sport, which is why he studied Physical Education in college.

Originally from Baie-Saint-Paul, Francis now lives in Gaspé where he works as a teacher at the Cégep de la Gaspésie et des Îles in the Adventure Tourism program: the dream! He has been teaching whitewater rescue courses with Boreal River since 2018, and he also teaches canoeing skills. He lives off of his passion for the outdoors and he is eager to share his knowledge and enthusiasm with you!

Francis’ certifications include:

• CKQ Canoe Instructor Level 3
• Professional Avalanche Operations Level 1
• Wilderness First Responder