Ottawa: Small-Group Walking Tour With Boat Cruise

Discover the captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty that defines Canada’s capital on this immersive small-group walking tour. From the iconic Maman Giant Spider to the vibrant ByWard Market, you’ll uncover the city’s hidden gems and iconic landmarks. But the true highlight? A scenic cruise along the Rideau Canal, offering breathtaking vistas of the Fairmont Château Laurier and Parliament Hill. With an expert guide leading the way, you’re sure to experience Ottawa in a whole new light. Are you ready to unlock the secrets of this charming city?

This experience made our list of the 11 Best Walking Tours In Ottawa.

Good To Know

• Comprehensive 3.5-hour small-group walking tour of Ottawa’s iconic landmarks, including Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica and ByWard Market.
• Guided tour with a maximum of 10 participants for personalized attention, skipping ticket lines at landmarks.
• Relaxing boat cruise on the Ottawa River providing unique perspectives of the city’s waterfront and architecture.
• Tour covers a range of historical, cultural, and architectural highlights, catering to diverse interests.
• Comfortable attire and preparation for weather conditions are recommended for an enjoyable tour experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview

This small-group Ottawa walking tour with a boat cruise offers a comprehensive exploration of the city’s iconic landmarks and lively neighborhoods.

Over 3.5 hours, you’ll explore Ottawa’s rich history and culture, visiting must-see sites like the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica and the Royal Mint.

Explore the vibrant ByWard Market, known for its artisan shops and restaurants, and see the Centennial Flame and Fairmont Chateau Laurier.

The tour culminates in a relaxing cruise along the Ottawa River.

With a maximum of 10 participants, you’ll enjoy personalized attention from your live English-speaking guide and skip the ticket lines.

Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire are recommended for this tour that operates rain or shine.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at the iconic Maman Giant Spider sculpture in front of the National Gallery, setting the stage for an enthralling exploration of Ottawa’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Guests will venture to the stunning Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica and the Royal Mint, where they’ll gain insights into the city’s architectural and industrial heritage.

The lively ByWard Market, renowned for its artisan shops and restaurants, offers a glimpse into local life.

Along the way, travellers will admire the Centennial Flame and the grand Fairmont Chateau Laurier before capping off the experience with a relaxing cruise on the picturesque Ottawa River.

Tour Experience

Small-group participants embark on a captivating walking tour, led by a knowledgeable guide who brings Ottawa’s vibrant history and culture to life.

Strolling through the city, they’ll skip the ticket lines and explore iconic landmarks like the Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica and the Royal Mint.

The group will enjoy the lively ByWard Market, known for its artisan shops and tantalizing restaurants.

The tour culminates with a relaxing cruise along the Ottawa River, offering a unique perspective of the city’s stunning scenery.

With a maximum of 10 participants, this small-group experience ensures an intimate and personalized exploration of Canada’s capital.

Important Information

Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential for participants to fully enjoy this Ottawa walking tour.

The tour operates rain or shine, so guests should be prepared for any conditions. Participants should arrive 10 minutes prior to the start time to ensure a smooth start.

The exact tour length may vary slightly based on individual walking speeds, but the overall duration is approximately 3.5 hours.

• Bring a light jacket or sweater in case of cooler temperatures.
• Wear comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain.
• Carry a small backpack or purse to keep hands free.
• Pack sunscreen and a hat if sunny weather is expected.
• Bring bottled water to stay hydrated during the tour.

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Customer Reviews

The Ottawa walking tour and boat cruise has garnered a mixed response from past participants.

While some travelers praised the guide’s clarity and preparation, others were disappointed when the guide failed to show up.

The boat trip itself was also a point of contention, with one visitor finding it lacking in interest.

Despite these issues, the tour generally maintains a respectable 3/5 rating based on the limited reviews available.

Prospective travelers should weigh these mixed experiences when deciding whether to book the tour, keeping in mind the potential for variability in the quality of the guiding and boat cruise components.

Meet at the Maman Giant Spider

The tour begins at the iconic Maman Giant Spider sculpture, situated in front of the National Gallery of Canada. This larger-than-life arachnid sculpture, created by artist Louise Bourgeois, serves as the gathering point for the walking tour.

Towering over visitors, the Maman Giant Spider sets the stage for the adventure to come.

• Snap a photo with the impressive sculpture, capturing its intricate details and imposing presence.
• Marvel at the National Gallery’s architecture, a stunning backdrop for the meeting point.
• Greet your guide, who’ll provide an overview of the day’s itinerary and share insights about the city’s landmarks.
• Feel the anticipation build as the group prepares to set off on the walking tour, exploring the heart of Ottawa.
• Embrace the opportunity to connect with fellow travelers, sharing excitement for the journey ahead.

Explore ByWard Market

After traversing the streets that lead to the iconic ByWard Market, the group finds themselves immersed in a vibrant hub of artisanal shops, bustling restaurants, and lively energy. They wander through the rows of vendors, admiring the handmade crafts, local produce, and tantalizing aromas wafting from the nearby eateries. The tour guide points out some of the market’s standout features, including the iconic "World’s Tallest Tin Soldier" statue and the historic ByWard Market Building, which houses a mix of specialty stores and casual dining options. The group takes a moment to soak in the lively atmosphere before continuing their exploration of the nation’s capital.

Shop	Cuisine	Produce
Artisan Jewelry	Poutine	Fresh Fruits
Handcrafted Pottery	Shawarma	Local Vegetables
Knitted Accessories	Craft Breweries	Maple Syrup

Relax on the Rideau Canal Cruise

At the conclusion of the walking tour, the group boards a seasonal Rideau Canal cruise, eager to admire the picturesque waterways and landmarks from a new vantage point.

As the boat gently glides along the historic canal, they take in the serene surroundings:

• Admiring the stately architecture of the Fairmont Château Laurier hotel
• Catching a glimpse of the iconic Parliament Hill buildings
• Spotting the Rideau Falls cascading into the Ottawa River
• Marveling at the engineering feats of the Rideau Canal Locks
• Soaking in the tranquil atmosphere and stunning natural scenery

The relaxing cruise provides a perfect finale to the comprehensive walking tour, leaving the group with a deeper appreciation for Ottawa’s rich history and vibrant urban landscape.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat Cruise?

While the tour itself doesn’t mention it, guests are generally allowed to bring their own snacks and drinks on the boat cruise. Just be mindful of any rules or restrictions to ensure an enjoyable experience for all.

Is the Tour Wheelchair Accessible?

The tour may not be fully wheelchair accessible. It’s best to check with the tour provider about accessibility accommodations, as the walking portion and boat cruise could present challenges for those with mobility concerns.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The tour offers discounts for seniors and students. Visitors can save a few euros on this engaging experience by showing valid ID upon check-in. Discounted rates help make this immersive tour more accessible for all.

Can I Extend the Duration of the Boat Cruise?

Unfortunately, the boat cruise duration is fixed as part of the tour package. While you can’t extend it, the 3.5-hour experience includes a relaxing river cruise that completes the immersive exploration of Ottawa’s highlights. Book now to secure your spot!

Is Photography Permitted During the Tour and Cruise?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour and cruise, allowing travelers to capture the sights and scenery. However, it’s best to check with the guide on any restrictions or guidelines for taking photos throughout the experience.

The Sum Up

Embrace the history and charm of Canada’s capital on this captivating small-group walking tour. Discover iconic landmarks, stroll the vibrant ByWard Market, and enjoy a scenic boat cruise with stunning views of Parliament Hill. This immersive experience showcases the best of Ottawa, leaving you with lasting memories of its unique blend of culture and natural beauty.

You can check if your dates are available here: