2-Hour Private Montreal Boat Cruise

Discover Montreal from the Water: A 2-Hour Private Boat Cruise Review

If you’re looking to add a unique splash of adventure to your Montreal visit, a 2-hour private boat cruise on the St. Lawrence River might just be the ticket. Although I haven’t personally taken this tour, based on detailed descriptions and traveler reviews, it promises a relaxed, flexible way to see some of the city’s most famous sights while enjoying the company of friends, family, or even colleagues.

What immediately catches the eye is the customized nature of this experience—your group, up to 12 people, can enjoy a leisurely cruise that’s perfect for celebrations, romantic outings, or simply a break from city streets. Two standouts are the flexibility—bring your own food and drinks—and the personalized service provided by a licensed captain and a professional guide.

That said, a potential consideration is the cost—at around $334 for up to 12 passengers, it’s an investment for sure, but for a private, tailored experience with stunning views, it could be well worth it. Overall, it seems best suited for those wanting a luxurious, intimate experience that offers more than just sightseeing—think celebrating milestones or hosting a special gathering on the water.

Key Points

• Private and customizable experience ideal for celebrations or family outings
• Iconic Montreal sights like Habitat 67, Jacques-Cartier Bridge, and the Clock Tower
• Bring your own food and drinks with a cooler included—perfect for picnics or party setups
• Flexible and relaxing way to enjoy Montreal from the St. Lawrence River
• Includes safety gear and a licensed captain for peace of mind
• Great value for smaller groups looking for an exclusive experience

Why You’ll Love the Montreal Boat Cruise

This private boat tour offers a refreshingly different perspective of Montreal, away from busy streets and crowded viewpoints. It’s a chance to see the city’s iconic landmarks from the calm waters of the St. Lawrence River. The intimate setting makes it ideal for small groups seeking a personalized, memorable outing, whether for a celebration, a family day, or a corporate event. The relaxed pace and scenic route let you soak in views at your leisure, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise.

A big selling point is the ability to connect your own music via Bluetooth—you can set the soundtrack for your cruise, whether that’s relaxing tunes, a playlist for a party, or some background music for a romantic moment. Plus, the cooler for drinks and snacks allows you to keep refreshments handy while swaying gently on the water.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

The cruise’s route covers some of Montreal’s most recognizable sights, with each stop offering its own flavor of the city’s history and architecture. The Jacques Cartier Bridge is often a highlight, especially with the Moment Factory’s light display, which adds a colorful, modern twist to the city’s oldest river crossing. Passing under this bridge gives you a sense of connection between Montreal’s past and present.

Next is the Old Port of Montreal, where you can enjoy spectacular views of the historic district’s old buildings paired with the bustling downtown skyline. It’s a perfect photo op, giving a feel for Montreal’s blend of history and modern vibrancy.

A visit to Habitat 67 is particularly striking. This iconic housing complex, built for Expo 67, is a marvel of design and engineering. Seeing it from the water emphasizes its modular, futuristic architecture. The Montreal Clock Tower is both a landmark and a memorial, adding a touch of maritime history to your cruise.

The Biosphere at Parc Jean-Drapeau is a unique sight—its striking spherical shape is instantly recognizable and offers a splash of environmental activism. Cruising underneath the Victoria Jubilee Bridge provides another opportunity to admire Montreal’s engineering feats.

You’ll also glimpse La Ronde, the city’s amusement park, which provides a lively backdrop, and glide between Notre-Dame Island and St-Helene Island, both man-made and loaded with history and modern attractions, including the F1 race track.

Finally, a detour to Parc des Iles de Boucherville offers a peaceful escape into nature, where you might spot herons, beavers, and turtles—perfect for wildlife enthusiasts. Though this part is a longer, hour-long extension and not included in the main two hours, it hints at the diverse experiences possible on the water.

What the Experience Includes — And What It Doesn’t

The tour is designed for comfort and safety, providing insurance, a licensed captain, live onboard commentary, safety equipment, and a cooler for your snacks and drinks. The Bluetooth sound system turns your boat into a floating party or relaxing lounge, depending on your mood.

However, food and drinks are not included, so you’ll want to bring your own. This flexibility is great for picnics or celebrating with wine and snacks, but it does require some planning. While the tour is not a traditional guided sightseeing—your captain will focus on navigating and safety—the onboard commentary offers insights into the sights you pass.

The meeting point at the Ferry Dock in Old Montreal is easily accessible via public transportation, which is helpful if you’re staying downtown. The tour lasts about 2 hours, a manageable length that balances sightseeing with relaxation.

What Travelers Say

One traveler, Keith H., called it a “great experience,” highlighting how much they learned and enjoyed the day. He particularly appreciated the fabulous wines and the delicious food, emphasizing that it was a highlight of their week in Montreal.

Others praise the knowledgeable guides and the ability to customize their outing. The reviews also note that the boat is well-equipped, with safety gear and a sound system that adds to the fun. The overall valued the private, exclusive nature of the experience—something you just can’t get on a big tour boat.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This cruise appeals most to small groups seeking a personalized, relaxed way to explore Montreal from the water. It’s perfect for celebrations—bachelorette parties, birthdays, or anniversaries—and for families or friends wanting a fun, intimate outing. Corporate groups looking for a team-building activity will also appreciate the private, customizable aspect.

If you’re after a scenic, leisurely cruise with the option to bring your own food and music, this tour offers excellent value. It’s not for those looking for an all-inclusive experience or a large-group tour—its charm lies in its exclusivity and flexibility.

Summary: Is It Worth It?

In sum, the 2-hour private Montreal boat cruise is a well-rounded, intimate way to see the city’s most famous sights from a different perspective. The beautiful views, personalized service, and flexible setup make it a standout for those willing to spend a bit more for a memorable experience.

It’s especially suited for celebrations, small family gatherings, or romantic outings. If you’re a traveler who values comfort, privacy, and a relaxed pace, this cruise could be a highlight of your Montreal trip.

For the price, you’re getting a private boat, expert guidance, and the freedom to customize your experience—a worthwhile investment when you want something special and memorable.

FAQs

How many people can participate in this boat cruise?
Up to 12 guests can join, making it ideal for small groups seeking exclusivity and intimacy.

What’s included in the price?
The fee covers the private boat, a licensed captain, live commentary, safety equipment, and a cooler for drinks and snacks. You must bring your own food and beverages.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Ferry Dock in Old Montreal (Quai d’accostage) and returns to the same point after approximately 2 hours.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but children must be accompanied by an adult. The experience is family-friendly but depends on the group’s preferences.

Can I bring my own music?
Absolutely. The boat has Bluetooth connectivity so you can play your favorite tunes during the cruise.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The tour requires good weather; if canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Is there a minimum number of travelers required?
Yes, there is a minimum number for operation. If the minimum isn’t met, you may be offered a different date or a refund.

Can I cancel the booking?
Yes, cancellations are free if made at least 24 hours in advance. Less notice means no refund, so plan accordingly.

To sum it up, this private boat cruise offers a delightful way to explore Montreal from the water with a personal touch. It’s best suited for those who want a flexible, scenic, and exclusive experience—perfect for celebrations or just a relaxing day on the river. With stunning views, a knowledgeable captain, and the freedom to customize your outing, it’s a worthwhile choice for small groups eager to see Montreal in style.