Montréal: Weekend River Brunch Cruise

A brunch cruise on the St. Lawrence River in Montreal offers a unique way to combine good food with stunning city views. While not a full city tour, this experience balances scenic cruising with a delicious meal, making it perfect for anyone looking to enjoy Montreal from a different perspective.

What we love about this cruise is the spectacular panoramic views of Montreal’s skyline, the locally inspired three-course brunch, and the friendly, bilingual guides who share insightful stories about the city’s landmarks. One potential drawback is that the ship isn’t wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility challenges should consider this before booking.

This experience suits those who enjoy relaxing outings with scenic views and good food, families, couples, or anyone wanting a laid-back way to soak up Montreal’s most famous sights. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a leisurely morning, this cruise provides a well-rounded, value-packed experience.

Good To Know

• Stunning Views: Pass under the Jacques Cartier Bridge and glimpse iconic landmarks like Old Port and the Biosphere.
• Gourmet Brunch: Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared three-course meal using locally sourced ingredients.
• Bilingual Commentary: Learn about Montreal’s history and culture from engaging guides in English and French.
• Relaxing Atmosphere: Float on the city’s finest floating terrace, with outdoor seating to soak up the sun.
• Family Friendly: The cruise is suitable for all ages, with kid-friendly menu options.
• Eco-Conscious: Operated by a family-owned company with a focus on sustainability.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Booking and Pricing

For $72 per person, you’re signing up for a 2.5-hour combo of brunch and sightseeing—a reasonable price given the quality and variety of the food, as well as the scenic cruise. The signature upgrade offers VIP perks like priority boarding, guaranteed window seats, and a complimentary mimosa, which adds a touch of luxury without breaking the bank.

You can reserve your spot with the flexibility of paying later, and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This makes it an attractive option for those with uncertain schedules or last-minute plans.

Meeting Point and Logistics

The cruise departs from the Old Port of Montreal. You’ll need to pick up your ticket at the ticket booth before boarding**—a process that might take a few minutes if directions aren’t entirely clear, as some reviewers noted. Parking is available at the Grand Quays paid lot, with options for reduced mobility, bicycle parking, and electric vehicle charging stations.

Remember: cash isn’t accepted onboard, so be prepared with a credit card. The cruise schedule is precise, starting with boarding at 10:30 a.m., brunch until 11:30 a.m., then a 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise with commentary.

The Brunch Experience

The onboard meal is a highlight for many guests, praised for its attention to quality and local ingredients. The menu features a variety of options catering to different tastes, from savory casseroles with eggs, bacon, and cheese curds, to sweet waffles topped with maple sauce and berries.

Kids aren’t left out—there’s a dedicated kids’ menu with scrambled eggs, potatoes, bacon, and fresh fruit. Dessert options like profiteroles with homemade chocolate coulis add a sweet end to the meal.

Some guests have mentioned that the brunch is more than enough in quantity and quality, with one reviewer describing it as “delicious and elegant.” A few noted that certain dishes, like the gourmet casserole, can be overly rich, so if you’re mindful of sauces or portion sizes, you might want to pace yourself.

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The Scenic Cruise

Once the meal concludes, the boat gently cruises along the St. Lawrence, offering breathtaking views of Montreal’s skyline, including the Old Port, Biosphere, and the Jacques Cartier Bridge. Passing under the iconic bridge is a visual treat, especially when paired with an outdoor terrace experience.

Many reviews highlight the peaceful ambiance and the opportunity to enjoy sun in comfortable outdoor seating. The boat’s large windows also allow for good viewing if you prefer to stay indoors or if the weather isn’t perfect.

Commentary and Guides

The bilingual guides add an educational element, sharing stories and facts about Montreal’s landmarks, history, and culture. While some guests like Alfred appreciated the informative narration, others noted that the guide’s commentary was less audible or not as engaging, which might depend on the seating location or the guide on the day.

The crew, as described by multiple reviewers, is friendly, helpful, and attentive, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Overall Value and Atmosphere

At its core, this cruise offers great value, combining scenery, culture, and cuisine in a relaxed setting. Guests frequently mention the quality of the food being excellent and the service being attentive.

The family-friendly environment and options for vegetarians and vegans make it accessible to a broad audience. Although not wheelchair accessible due to the boat’s multiple decks, the experience is well-suited for those seeking a leisurely, scenic, and tasty outing.

Why It Works

Many guests have described this cruise as a perfect Sunday morning activity or a romantic outing, thanks to the peaceful atmosphere and beautiful views. For families, the combination of good food and scenic sightseeing is hard to beat, especially with the accommodating staff.

The eco-conscious approach—being part of Green Marine and Eco-Baleines—adds an extra layer of appeal for environmentally-minded travelers.

Final Thoughts

If you’re in Montreal and want a combination of scenic vistas and culinary indulgence, this cruise is a smart choice. It’s ideal for those who appreciate good food, relaxed environments, and learning a bit about the city from knowledgeable guides.

While the lack of wheelchair accessibility might exclude some, the overall experience provides great value for the price and a memorable way to see Montreal from the water.

This outing works wonderfully for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to enjoy a peaceful, scenic morning with excellent local cuisine. The option to upgrade to VIP adds a special touch for celebrating a birthday, anniversary, or just treating yourself.

FAQs

Is parking available at the departure point?
Yes, parking is available at the Grand Quays paid lot next to the Old Port, with options for reduced mobility, bicycles, and electric charging.

How long is the cruise?
The total experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours—starting with an hour-long brunch, followed by a 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a three-course brunch, coffee, tea, orange juice, the 1.5-hour scenic cruise, bilingual commentary, and tips.

Can I upgrade to a VIP experience?
Yes, the signature package includes priority boarding, a chilled mimosa, and guaranteed window seating, adding a touch of luxury.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?
Yes, the menu includes vegetarian dishes, and vegan casserole options are available. Be sure to specify dietary preferences when booking.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, with kid-friendly menu options, though parents should note that the boat’s multiple decks are not wheelchair accessible.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID, credit card (cash isn’t accepted onboard), and perhaps some sunglasses or a hat for sun protection during outdoor seating.

Is the guide’s commentary audible throughout the boat?
It can vary; some guests found the narration very informative, while others felt it was less audible depending on seating location.

In essence, the Montréal Weekend River Brunch Cruise offers a charming, tasty, and scenic way to experience the city’s waters. It’s a delightful outing for anyone wanting a blend of good food, beautiful views, and a relaxed atmosphere—perfect for a memorable morning in Montreal.

You can check if your dates are available here: