Montreal’s waterfront excursions offer practical ways to see the city from a fresh angle. The St. Lawrence River cruises pack the most sights per hour, gliding past the Jacques-Cartier Bridge and Olympic Park with informative commentary. I love the small electric boat tours on the Lachine Canal – they’re quiet, environmentally smart, and get you close to historic industrial architecture. For a special evening, the dinner cruises combine good food with city views, though they’re pricier than standard tours.
I’m especially fond of the basic sightseeing cruise – it’s affordable and hits all the key landmarks in 90 minutes. The evening dinner cruise, while expensive, delivers a memorable splurge with surprisingly good food and live entertainment.
Let’s explore the best boat tours Montreal has to offer.
Key Points
- The Montreal History Guided Sightseeing Cruise offers a 1.5-hour tour covering 22 miles on the St. Lawrence River with guided commentary in multiple languages.
- The Guided Sightseeing Tour for Cruise Passengers provides a 3-hour bilingual tour showcasing key attractions in Old Montreal, Old Port, and Mount Royal Park.
- The Quebec City Full-Day Tour departs from Montreal, including a St. Lawrence River cruise and visits to major landmarks in Quebec City.
- The Electric Boat Cruise Experience offers a 45-minute eco-friendly sightseeing tour of Montreal’s skyline and landmarks, with an onboard bar.
- The Guided Electric Boat Tour on Lachine Canal provides an intimate experience exploring the historic canal locks, with alcoholic beverages available.
Montreal History Guided Sightseeing Cruise
For those seeking a scenic journey on the St. Lawrence River, the Montreal History Guided Sightseeing Cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s waterfront.
The cruise sails aboard the AML Cavalier Maxim, equipped with sunny terraces and a glass-enclosed dining area. Over 1.5 hours, the tour covers 22 miles, showcasing notable landmarks like the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, Olympic Park, and the Biosphere.
While the guided commentary is available in French and English, with an audioguide in 8 languages, some reviewers note insufficient historical information.
The onboard café serves light refreshments, and one alcoholic drink is included during the 4 PM cruise.
Read our full review: Montreal History Guided Sightseeing Cruise Review
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Montreal: Guided Electric Boat Cruise With Onboard Bar
The Montreal: Guided Electric Boat Cruise With Onboard Bar offers an alternative to the traditional sightseeing cruises on the St. Lawrence River. This 45-minute tour allows travelers to experience the city from the water while enjoying the environmental benefits of an electric boat.
Priced from $26.13 per person, the cruise has a maximum capacity of 30 travelers and is recommended by 93% of past participants. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour departs from a convenient location near public transportation.
Onboard, guests can purchase alcoholic beverages and appreciate the city’s landmarks and skyline. This electric boat cruise provides a relaxing and informative way to explore Montreal from a unique perspective.
Read our full review: Montreal: Guided Electric Boat Cruise With Onboard Bar Review
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Montreal Shore Excursion: Pre- or Post-Cruise Guided Sightseeing Tour of Montreal
This guided sightseeing tour of Montreal is the perfect shore excursion for cruise passengers seeking a rundown of the city’s top attractions.
Lasting 3 hours, the tour is conducted by a bilingual guide and covers key highlights like Old Montreal, the Old Port, and Mount Royal Park.
Participants can enjoy sightseeing aboard a deluxe coach with opportunities for short walking tours. The tour includes pickup and drop-off, as well as a worry-free guarantee that ensures return to the cruise port on time.
While some travelers noted issues with the shuttle service and desired more time at certain attractions, the tour generally receives positive feedback for its informative guides and comprehensive coverage of the city.
Read our full review: Montreal Shore Excursion: Pre- or Post-Cruise Guided Sightseeing Tour of Montreal Review
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Full-Day Quebec City and Cruise Tour
Travelers seeking a comprehensive look at the historic charm of Quebec City can embark on this full-day guided tour from Montreal.
The tour includes a cruise along the St. Lawrence River and visits to top landmarks like the Chateau Frontenac and Place Royale. Guests will learn about Quebec City’s rich culture and history from a multilingual guide.
The tour also features stops at Montmorency Falls and the Petit Champlain district. While the schedule is packed, some travelers have noted a desire for more time at the falls and in Old Quebec.
Read our full review: Full-Day Quebec City and Cruise Tour Review
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Montreal Gourmet Dinner Cruise With Music
For a scenic sightseeing experience on the St. Lawrence River, the Montreal Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Music offers a unique dining adventure.
Guests can enjoy a 3.5-hour cruise featuring a 5-course gastronomic meal, live music, and stunning views of the city’s waterfront and skyline.
The modern Cavalier Maxim ship boasts three glass-enclosed dining rooms and two open-air terraces, providing ample space to take in the sights.
While customer feedback has been mixed, with some reporting issues with noise and service, the cruise generally receives positive reviews for its food quality, ambiance, and memorable experience.
Read our full review: Montreal Gourmet Dinner Cruise With Music Review
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Best of Montreal Small Group Tour With River Cruise Notre Dame
Ideal for time-constrained visitors, the Best of Montreal Small Group Tour with River Cruise Notre Dame offers a comprehensive sightseeing experience across the city’s key attractions.
Accommodating a maximum of six participants, the tour provides a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides who share insights into Montreal’s history and culture.
Highlights include the Olympic Park, Notre Dame Basilica, and a scenic boat cruise on the St. Lawrence River.
With pickup and drop-off at downtown hotels, the tour caters to accessibility needs, though some walking is involved.
Customer reviews praise the guides’ expertise and the tour’s ability to showcase a broad range of Montreal’s must-see sights.
Read our full review: Best of Montreal Small Group Tour With River Cruise Notre Dame Review
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Le Bateau-Mouche Sightseeing Cruise in Montreal
While the Best of Montreal Small Group Tour with River Cruise Notre Dame provides a rundown of the city’s top attractions, those seeking a more leisurely and focused sightseeing experience may opt for the Le Bateau-Mouche Sightseeing Cruise in Montreal.
The 90-minute boat tour along the St. Lawrence River offers scenic views of the city’s waterfront and historical sites.
However, the quality of the commentary has received mixed reviews, with some finding it informative while others struggled to understand due to rapid speech and language switching.
The cruise remains a popular option, with visitors enjoying the relaxed atmosphere and on-board refreshments.
Read our full review: Le Bateau-Mouche Sightseeing Cruise in Montreal Review
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AURA Experience at Notre-Dame Basilica and Guided Cruise
The AURA Experience at Notre-Dame Basilica and guided cruise offers visitors a captivating combination of visual and on-the-water sightseeing. Priced at ₹6,034.80 per person, the 90-minute guided cruise in French and English provides a unique perspective of Montreal’s iconic landmarks.
While the AURA Experience at the basilica isn’t guided, it allows guests to enjoy a mesmerizing light show. Though the experience isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
With an overall rating of 4.0 from 29 reviews, the tour has received praise for its uniqueness, but also faced criticism regarding scheduling and communication issues. Travelers are advised to arrive early, check details thoroughly, and contact agents for clarity on schedules.
Read our full review: AURA Experience at Notre-Dame Basilica and Guided Cruise Review
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Old Port of Montreal Private Boat Tour
For those seeking a private and intimate sightseeing experience along the Old Port of Montreal, the Old Port of Montreal Private Boat Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity.
This 5.0-rated tour provides a private boat for your group, allowing you to enjoy the stunning views of the city’s historic waterfront at your own pace. Included in the tour are bottled water, alcoholic beverages, a bottle of sparkling drink, and safety equipment.
The tour starts and ends at the Old Port, with agents meeting you at the dock. While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller-friendly and accessible by public transportation.
Most travelers can participate, with the exception of those with back problems, pregnant women, or serious medical conditions.
Read our full review: Old Port of Montreal Private Boat Tour Review
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Le Bateau-Mouche Picnic Cruise in Montreal
Expanding from the private boat tours of the Old Port, the Le Bateau-Mouche Picnic Cruise in Montreal offers a unique sightseeing experience on the city’s waterways.
Priced from $65.33 per person, this air-conditioned cruise includes a gourmet picnic box lunch and alcoholic beverages.
While not wheelchair accessible, the cruise is stroller-friendly and welcomes service animals.
Unfortunately, the cruise has only two reviews, both of which rate it at 1.5 stars.
Operated by Le Bateau-Mouche au Vieux-Port de Montreal the cruise departs at 11:00 am, and advance booking is recommended to check availability for specific dates.
Read our full review: Le Bateau-Mouche Picnic Cruise in Montreal Review
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Evening Cruise in Montreal
Offering a captivating evening on the Saint Laurent River, the Evening Cruise in Montreal provides a unique sightseeing experience for up to 150 travelers.
This 3-hour and 30-minute cruise boasts amenities such as a restroom, bar service, and a dinner included in the ticket price. Guests can enjoy live music on the terrace as they take in the city’s landmarks.
The cruise departs and returns to the same location, making it convenient for travelers. Reviews of the cruise have been generally positive, with praise for the friendly staff and quality meals.
Read our full review: Evening Cruise in Montreal Review
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Private Transfer From Montreal City to Montreal Cruise Port
Travelers visiting Montreal who need to get from the city to the cruise port can conveniently arrange a private transfer service.
This private transfer provides air-conditioned transportation from any location in Montreal to the Montreal Cruise Terminal. The service operates 24/7 and can accommodate passengers with their luggage, strollers, and service animals.
Booking is easy, and travelers can specify their preferred pickup time, cruise ship name, and terminal number.
With a lowest price guarantee and free cancellation up to 24 hours before the transfer, this private transfer service offers a reliable and hassle-free way to start or end a Montreal cruise vacation.
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Private Transfer From Montreal Cruise Port to Montreal City
For travelers disembarking from their Montreal cruise, arranging a private transfer from the cruise port to the city center is a convenient option.
This service provides an air-conditioned vehicle and private transportation with all fees and taxes included. The driver will hold a sign with the lead traveler’s name, and it’s important to advise the number of luggage, cruise vessel name, and terminal number during booking.
The drop-off point is located in Montreal, Quebec. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and infant seats are available.
Based on a 5-star review, the service is described as delightful, timely, and thoughtful.
Read our full review: Private Transfer From Montreal Cruise Port to Montreal City Review
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Montreal: Guided Exclusive Electric Boat Tour on Lachine Canal
Departing from the Jacques Cartier Pier, the Guided Exclusive Electric Boat Tour on Lachine Canal provides a leisurely journey through the historic waterways of Montreal.
Operating under the company Le Petit Navire, this tour accommodates up to 20 travelers and departs at 10 AM, ending around 1 PM near the Atwater Market.
Guests can enjoy alcoholic beverages throughout the tour, which features accessibility near public transportation, though it isn’t wheelchair-accessible.
With an average rating of 4.5/5 from past participants, the tour offers an intimate experience highlighted by the small boat size and the fascinating passage through the canal’s locks.
Read our full review: Montreal: Guided Exclusive Electric Boat Tour on Lachine Canal Review
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Full Day Private Shore Tour in Montreal From Montreal Cruise Port
Offering a comprehensive exploration of Montreal’s highlights, the Full Day Private Shore Tour in Montreal From Montreal Cruise Port provides cruise passengers with a personalized and immersive experience.
Covering the city’s top attractions, this private tour offers modern, air-conditioned transportation, a professional local guide, and no entrance fees. Guests will be picked up directly from the Montreal Cruise Terminal and returned to the same location at the end of the day.
With a start time of 9:00 am and a flexible duration subject to docking times, this tour is an efficient and hassle-free way to make the most of a Montreal cruise stop.
Read our full review: Full Day Private Shore Tour in Montreal From Montreal Cruise Port Review
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Le Terminal Cruise Port to Québec Airport YQB Departure Transfer
Passengers departing Montreal’s Le Terminal Cruise Port can conveniently transfer to Québec City Jean Lesage International Airport (YQB) with the private transportation service.
The service operates 24/7 and includes air-conditioned private vehicles, all fees and taxes. Travelers can confirm their preferred pickup time and luggage details during booking, and the driver will meet them in the arrival area with a signboard displaying the lead traveler’s name.
The service also offers the option to drop off at a specified hotel or address. While not wheelchair accessible, the service is stroller accessible and allows service animals.
However, the current rating is 2.0 based on one review, with no 5-star or 4-star ratings received.
Read our full review: Le Terminal Cruise Port to Québec Airport YQB Departure Transfer Review
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Common Questions
Are Life Jackets Provided on the Boat Tours?
Most boat tour operators provide life jackets for passengers’ safety. They ensure all participants wear a life jacket throughout the tour as a standard safety precaution, regardless of the tour location or type of boat used.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruises?
Passengers can typically bring their own food and drinks on the cruises, though some operators may have restrictions or provide refreshments for purchase. It’s best to check the specific cruise company’s policies before setting sail.
What Are the Accessibility Options for Passengers With Disabilities?
Accessibility options for passengers with disabilities typically include ramps, elevators, and designated seating areas. Many boat tours and cruises also offer assistance with boarding and disembarking. Travelers should check with the specific company for details on accessibility accommodations.
Do the Tours Have Multilingual Guides Available?
Many boat tours offer multilingual guides, providing options for passengers who don’t speak the primary language. Guides may be available in several languages, ensuring all passengers can fully enjoy the experience regardless of their linguistic background.
Is There an Age Limit or Restrictions for the Boat Tours?
Most boat tours don’t have age restrictions, but some may have minimum age requirements or restrictions for young children. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to ensure the tour is suitable for all members of your group.
The Sum Up
Montreal offers a variety of boat tours and cruises for visitors to explore the city’s waterways and historic landmarks. From guided sightseeing cruises to gourmet dinner cruises, there’s something to suit every interest. Whether you’re looking for a pre- or post-cruise activity or a standalone excursion, Montreal’s boat tour options provide a unique way to experience the city’s natural beauty and rich history.