2-Hour Private Montreal Boat Cruise

Picture gliding smoothly along the St. Lawrence River, with the Montreal skyline unfolding around you, and iconic sights passing by just a boat length away. That’s exactly what the 2-Hour Private Montreal Boat Cruise offers — a chance to see the city from a unique perspective, whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a family outing, or simply craving a peaceful escape on the water.

From my research and reviews, what really stands out about this experience are the flexibility, the scenic stops, and the personalized touch of a private vessel. You get to customize your time on the river, enjoy impressive views like Habitat 67 and Jacques-Cartier Bridge, and even bring your own food and drinks. One thing to keep in mind: at $334.05 for up to 12 people, it’s an investment, but one that promises memorable moments and great value for a private, tailored experience.

If you’re someone who loves a combination of sightseeing, relaxed fun, and the option to celebrate with friends or family, this cruise could be the perfect pick. It’s especially ideal for groups seeking a private, customizable adventure on the water. However, those looking for a more structured, guided tour with a fixed itinerary might find it a little too informal.

Good To Know

• Private and customizable experience tailored to your group’s needs
• Scenic views of Montreal’s landmarks like Habitat 67 and Jacques-Cartier Bridge
• Relaxed atmosphere with Bluetooth music, swimming, and sunbathing options
• Great for celebrations such as birthdays, bachelorette parties, or corporate events
• Includes safety equipment and a licensed captain for peace of mind
• Weather-dependent; cancellations possible if conditions aren’t suitable

An In-Depth Look at the 2-Hour Montreal Boat Cruise

What’s Included and Why It Matters

One of the biggest perks of this tour is that it’s completely private, with only your group aboard. This ensures a relaxed, personalized experience free from strangers, perfect for celebrations or just a quiet day out. The boat is equipped with a Bluetooth sound system, allowing you to connect your playlist — whether it’s jazz, pop, or a special playlist for a birthday.

Safety is a priority, with life jackets for all passengers and a licensed captain steering the vessel. The price of $334.05 is inclusive of insurance, GST, and professional guidance, making it straightforward and transparent without hidden costs.

The Itinerary – What You’ll See and Do

The cruise kicks off at the Ferry Dock Quai d’accostage in Old Port Montreal, a central location easy to access via public transit. Over the next two hours, you’ll pass by some of Montreal’s most photogenic landmarks, with plenty of opportunities for photos, swimming, or just soaking up the scenery.

Jacques Cartier Bridge is the first stop — a stunning sight especially if you catch it at sunset or when lit up at night, as noted by reviewers. You’ll cruise under this iconic structure, which is illuminated by the Moment factory, creating a striking backdrop.

Next is the Old Port of Montreal, offering sweeping views of downtown and the historic district’s charming old buildings. From the water, the Old Port provides a unique perspective that’s both lively and picturesque.

One of the highlights is Habitat 67, a famous housing complex from the 1967 Expo. Its modular design makes it instantly recognizable, and the boat cruise offers a stunning vantage point that’s hard to match from land.

The Montreal Clock Tower, a historical sailors’ memorial, stands proud along the waterfront. Many reviews mention how beautiful and evocative it is, especially when the sunlight hits it just right.

Further along, the Biosphere at Parc Jean-Drapeau presents a striking geodesic dome, a symbol of environmental consciousness. It’s another photo-worthy stop, with plenty of space to relax on the boat’s deck.

The Victoria Bridge, Montreal’s oldest, allows you to see the city’s engineering marvels up close. Navigating under it provides a sense of the city’s history and resilience.

For a touch of fun, the boat passes near La Ronde, Montreal’s famous amusement park, visible from the water, adding a playful element to your cruise.

Finally, you’ll cruise between St-Helen and Notre-Dame Islands. Notre-Dame Island, built from metro excavation material, is home to Montreal’s F1 race track, making it one of the more unusual sights from the water.

Additional Stops for Nature and Relaxation

Beyond the main landmarks, the cruise can include a visit to Parc des Îles de Boucherville, a serene area where you can enjoy wildlife encounters with herons, turtles, and beavers. While this stop isn’t included in the base price, many reviewers appreciated the peaceful moments and natural beauty experienced along the river.

Reviews and Authentic Tips

Reviewers like “Keith_H” mentioned that the experience was “a great experience,” praising how much they learned and enjoyed the sights, especially the views of the city’s landmarks. The boat’s cooler for drinks and the ability to bring your own food really add to the relaxed vibe.

One reviewer highlighted the knowledgeable guide and the excellent sound system, which meant their playlist added to the fun atmosphere. Others appreciated the flexibility of the itinerary, enjoying the chance to swim or sunbathe onboard — a rare treat in city sightseeing.

Practical Considerations

The cruise departs from Old Port Montreal, a location well served by public transportation, making it easy for most travelers to access. The booking window averages about 24 days in advance, so plan ahead if you want to secure a spot for a special date.

Since the experience is weather-dependent, cloudy or rainy days might cause cancellations. However, the provider offers full refunds if weather conditions are unfavorable, providing peace of mind.

The boat accommodates up to 12 guests, making it perfect for small groups or intimate celebrations. The cost per group might seem high at first glance, but considering the exclusivity and personalized nature, it often proves a good value for private events.

Who’s This Experience Best For?

This cruise is ideal for groups celebrating special occasions, such as birthdays, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or anniversaries, aiming for a memorable, private outing. Families and friends can also enjoy the relaxed, flexible itinerary with plenty of photo opportunities and downtime to swim or sunbathe.

It’s a good choice for corporate outings or team-building, especially since it offers a comfortable, scenic environment away from crowded city streets. If you’re someone who appreciates an authentic, tailored experience rather than a scripted tour, this private cruise hits the mark.

On the flip side, if you’re seeking a guided tour with detailed commentary on Montreal’s history, this might feel a bit too informal. Also, the price can be a consideration for larger groups or budget travelers, although it’s balanced by the exclusivity and beautiful sights.

FAQs

Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own food and drinks, and a cooler is provided on board. Many guests enjoy packing snacks or a celebratory bottle of wine.

Is the tour suitable for children?
Most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The relaxed environment makes it family-friendly, especially if you’re looking for a scenic family outing.

How far in advance should I book?
On average, this experience is booked 24 days ahead. It’s advisable to reserve early, especially during peak season or for popular dates.

What if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather for safety and enjoyment. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or full refund.

Are there any age restrictions?
Most travelers can join, but children must be with an adult. The tour doesn’t specify any minimum age, but it’s best to check with the provider if you have very young children.

Is this tour bilingual or multilingual?
It may be operated by a multi-lingual guide, enhancing the experience for international travelers.

What does the price include?
The fee covers the private boat, licensed captain, safety equipment, insurance, GST, and live commentary.

Can I connect my music?
Yes, the boat has a Bluetooth sound system, so you can play your preferred playlist during the cruise.

Is there parking nearby?
While not explicitly mentioned, the start point in Old Port Montreal is accessible via public transportation, which is recommended.

How long does the tour last?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, providing a relaxed pace with plenty of time to enjoy the sights and onboard amenities.

Final Thoughts

This 2-Hour Private Montreal Boat Cruise offers a charming, flexible way to explore the city’s scenic waterfront. It’s perfect for groups seeking privacy, customization, and a mix of sightseeing and leisure. With stunning views of landmarks like Habitat 67, Jacques-Cartier Bridge, and the Biosphere, it guarantees plenty of photo ops and memorable moments.

The ability to bring your own food and music, combined with the peaceful environment and knowledgeable captain, makes it a standout choice for celebrations, family fun, or just a relaxing day on the water. The privately booked vessel ensures an intimate experience, making it more than just a sightseeing tour — it’s a personalized outing tailored to your group’s interests.

While weather can be a factor, the refund policy and advance booking window make it a low-risk option for those looking to combine sightseeing with a bit of luxury. Whether for a special occasion or a unique way to see Montreal, this cruise offers excellent value and a chance to experience the city from a truly different perspective.

In summary, if you’re after a private, scenic, and customizable water adventure in Montreal, this cruise is well worth considering. It’s especially suitable for groups wanting a relaxed, fun, and memorable outing with beautiful views and the flexibility to tailor the experience to their desires.