Montréal: 3 or 5-Course Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing

Imagine gliding across the St. Lawrence River, a stunning sunset casting golden hues over Montréal’s skyline, while you indulge in a carefully crafted dinner and dance the night away. That’s the essence of the Montréal Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing, an experience designed to combine gourmet food with breathtaking scenery. Offered by AML Cruises, this cruise promises a relaxed yet lively evening full of good eats, scenic views, and lively entertainment.

Our review is based on the detailed info provided, along with genuine feedback from past guests who have enjoyed this adventure. We’ll explore what you can expect, the highlights and possible drawbacks, and why this experience might be just what you’re looking for during your trip.

What makes this cruise stand out?

• The chance to relish a locally inspired 3 or 5-course meal prepared onboard with high-quality ingredients
• Stunning views of Montréal’s illuminated landmarks like the Biosphere, Olympic Stadium, and Jacques-Cartier Bridge
• An energetic dance party with a DJ after dinner, perfect for unwinding and enjoying the night
• The option to upgrade to a VIP “Red Carpet” experience for extra indulgence and personalized service

A potential consideration is that the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible due to its multiple decks, and there’s no parking included in the price. Still, the overall value, especially with options like the Red Carpet upgrade, makes this a memorable night out for many travelers. This cruise suits those looking for an elegant yet fun evening combining fine dining, scenic views, and lively entertainment.

Good To Know

• Gourmet Dining: Enjoy a 3 or 5-course meal inspired by local ingredients, expertly prepared onboard
• Stunning Views: See Montréal’s cityscape, Biosphere, Olympic Stadium, and Jacques-Cartier Bridge illuminated at night
• Evening Entertainment: Dance to a DJ set after dinner or relax on the upper deck with scenic views
• Flexible Options: Upgrade to the Red Carpet VIP experience with priority boarding, lobster tail, and wine
• Duration & Schedule: About 3.5 hours, mostly in the evening, with a well-structured timetable
• Convenient Extras: Tips, beverages, and live commentary included; parking options available nearby

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

Boarding and Starting the Cruise

The experience begins with a quick visit to the ticket booth at the Old Port of Montréal to collect your physical ticket—an essential step for boarding. The cruise usually departs at 7:00 p.m., with boarding starting around 6:00 p.m. It lasts approximately 3.5 hours, offering a good balance of scenic cruising, dining, and entertainment.

Past guests mention that the staff, including guides and servers, are friendly and attentive, with some praising specific staff members like Rania for her helpfulness. The crew is fully certified by Transport Canada, ensuring a safe journey, though the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible due to its multiple decks.

The Scenic Route and Views

Once underway, the boat heads east, offering a panoramic view of Montréal’s iconic skyline. Guests are treated to sights such as the Old Port, Île Sainte-Hélène with the Biosphere and La Ronde amusement park, and the Olympic Stadium. The cruise then continues past Îles de Boucherville and back, revealing the city lit up as night falls, creating a magical backdrop for photos.

Guests find that the views are particularly striking with the city lights reflecting on the river, an ideal setting for capturing memorable shots, especially with the Jacques-Cartier Bridge as a dramatic foreground. Several reviews mention the boat’s commentary, which adds context about the sights, enriching the experience.

The Gourmet Meal

The highlight for many is the bistronomic meal, inspired by local ingredients and crafted onboard by an executive chef. The 3 or 5-course menu varies seasonally but generally includes appetizers like smoked shrimp or mackerel, and main courses such as chicken supreme, Atlantic salmon, beef cheek, or Canadian beef tenderloin with lobster tail (with the Red Carpet upgrade).

Guests rave about the quality of the food. One reviewer noted, “The food was very good… there was plenty served, and I did not leave hungry.” Another highlighted that the menu’s richness and presentation elevate the experience beyond typical cruise fare. The desserts, including a chocolate mousse dome with caramel and raspberry custard, provide a sweet ending.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

After Dinner: Dance & Relaxation

Following the meal, the atmosphere shifts to lively and upbeat as the DJ kicks off the dance floor—an aspect well-loved by guests. The music includes a variety of hits, Latin tunes, and popular dance tracks, although some reviewers mention that the DJ’s playlist could be more diverse (e.g., calypso or reggae). Still, the energy is generally high, and guests of all ages enjoy the chance to dance or simply soak in the scenery from the upper deck.

One guest praised the relaxing vibe of the upper deck, noting it’s a perfect spot for quiet photos or conversations while watching the illuminated city pass by.

The Red Carpet VIP Upgrade

For those seeking a more indulgent experience, the Red Carpet option offers VIP perks like priority boarding, a reserved table, a main course of filet mignon with lobster tail, a welcome cocktail, wine for two, and a digestif. Guests who opt for this upgrade often find it enhances the evening’s exclusivity, making it feel more special. Multiple reviews mention that the additional cost is justified by the extras and personalized service.

Practical Details & Considerations

The cruise is priced at around $140 per person, which includes the meal, beverages, tips, entertainment, and commentary. While there’s no parking included in the fare, the Grand Quais paid lot nearby accommodates up to 250 vehicles, with bicycle parking and electric stations, making it a convenient option for drivers.

Remember to bring essentials such as your passport or ID, credit card, and a jacket—especially since it can get breezy on the water. The cruise schedule is predictable, with boarding at 6:00 p.m., departure at 7:00 p.m., and return around 10:30 p.m. The evening includes a mix of dining, sightseeing, and dancing, providing a well-rounded experience.

Authentic Guest Perspectives

Many reviews underscore the overall quality and enjoyment of the cruise. Jessica from the United States said, “The food was very good, and the dance party near the end was fun,” while Chris from Canada called the dinner and dancing the “highlight” of his trip. Others appreciated the friendly staff, with one reviewer noting that Rania was “amazing, helpful, and full of joy,” demonstrating the crew’s commitment to guest satisfaction.

Several travelers also mentioned the high value of the Red Carpet upgrade, describing it as “worth it” and highlighting the added luxury with lobster and VIP service. Even those who found the scenery not as visually stunning as hoped still enjoyed the lively atmosphere and tasty food.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Cruise?

This dinner cruise is perfect for travelers seeking a relaxed yet lively evening that combines delicious local cuisine, scenic views, and entertainment. It offers excellent value for money, especially if you opt for the VIP Red Carpet upgrade, which enhances the overall experience with extra touches of luxury.

If you’re visiting Montréal and want a memorable night that blends sightseeing, gastronomy, and dancing, this cruise checks all the boxes. It’s suitable for couples, groups of friends, or even solo travelers who enjoy good food and a fun vibe. Just keep in mind that it’s not wheelchair accessible, and parking isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

For those eager to see the city from a different perspective and indulge in a gourmet meal while enjoying lively music, this cruise promises a well-rounded, enjoyable experience that many guests remember fondly.

FAQ

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3.5 hours, primarily in the evening, from boarding around 6:00 p.m. to disembarking at 10:30 p.m.

How many courses are served on the meal?
Guests have the choice of a 3 or 5-course meal, with options inspired by local ingredients. The Red Carpet upgrade includes a main course of filet mignon and lobster tail.

Can I upgrade to a VIP experience?
Yes, the Red Carpet option offers priority boarding, a reserved table, a premium main course, welcome cocktail, wine, and digestif.

Are drinks included in the price?
Beverages such as coffee, tea, and a variety of drinks are available; with the Red Carpet upgrade, you also receive a welcome cocktail, wine for two, and a digestif.

Is parking available?
Parking is not included in the cruise fare. However, the nearby Grand Quais paid lot can accommodate up to 250 vehicles, and there are additional paid parking options nearby.

Is the boat accessible for wheelchair users?
No, the boat is not wheelchair accessible due to its multiple decks.

Can I bring my pet?
Pets are not allowed onboard.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, a credit card for payment, and a jacket for the evening breeze.

Are vegetarian or special dietary options available?
Yes, inform your server about dietary restrictions like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free preferences—guests should notify staff if they have allergies.

What is the dress code?
While not strictly formal, smart casual attire is appropriate for a dinner cruise of this caliber.

You can check if your dates are available here:

The Montréal dinner cruise with DJ & Dancing offers a wonderful blend of scenic views, delectable food, and lively entertainment. It’s a great way to add a touch of elegance and fun to your trip, especially if you appreciate good cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a memorable night out, this experience is likely to leave a positive impression.