Montreal: Port of Montreal Tower Entry & Cruise Combo

Looking for a way to see Montreal that goes beyond the usual city walks? This combo experience offers a guided cruise along the St. Lawrence River paired with a visit to the Port of Montreal Tower, giving you both a water-level perspective and spectacular heights to appreciate the city’s layout. It’s ideal for travelers who want a balanced mixture of scenery, history, and panoramic views without breaking the bank.

What we like most about this experience is the insightful commentary from bilingual guides that bring Montreal’s landmarks to life, and the stunning vistas you get from both the boat and the tower. On the downside, some travelers have noted that the tower visit is unguided, so you’re on your own for that part. Still, if you enjoy getting different angles of a city—especially one as lively and historic as Montreal—this tour offers solid value and authentic sights in just a couple of hours. It suits visitors who appreciate scenic, educational experiences and don’t mind a bit of sightseeing from the water and sky.

Key Points

• Scenic River Cruise gives a relaxed way to see Montreal’s Old Port, Biosphere, Olympic Stadium, and more.
• Expert guides enhance the experience with engaging commentary in multiple languages.
• The Port of Montreal Tower features a 65-metre-high glass deck and multimedia exhibits.
• The glass cage provides a unique thrill and 360° panoramic views.
• The tour lasts around 2 hours, making it a manageable addition to your day.
• Located in the historic Old Montreal district, with convenient parking options.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Starting Point and Logistics

The tour begins at the Grand Quay pier in Old Montreal, an area packed with cobbled streets, historic buildings, and a lively atmosphere. The location is easy to find, and there’s ample parking nearby—though it’s paid parking with some options including a lot that can accommodate up to 250 vehicles and features electric charging stations.

Before boarding, you’ll need to pick up your ticket at the Croisières AML ticket booth. Keep in mind that cash is not accepted onboard, only credit cards, which is convenient but worth noting for budget travelers. The cruise itself lasts about 90 minutes, and during that time, you’ll enjoy outdoor decks with views of the city’s monuments and landmarks.

The Scenic Cruise

The boat departs from historic Old Montreal, a neighborhood that’s been part of the city for nearly 400 years. As you glide eastward, the scenery includes the Old Port, Île Sainte-Hélène, Biosphere, and the La Ronde amusement park. The guide provides detailed narration about Montreal’s history, port operations, and cultural highlights, making the boat ride as educational as it is relaxing.

Multiple reviews mention the excellent guide who shared stories about ships navigating the harbor, Olympic Park, and the city’s development over the years. One traveler from Australia even called the guide “the best we’ve ever had,” which hints at the quality of the commentary.

The cruise also offers a chance to sit back with a drink or snack from the onboard bistro, which features a variety of beverages—alcoholic and non-alcoholic—and light bites. It’s a pleasant way to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed, especially as the boat cruises past illuminated cityscapes at sunset.

The Port of Montreal Tower Visit

After the cruise, the second highlight is the Port of Montreal Tower. Standing 65 meters tall, this sleek, glass-clad structure gives you a 360° view of the city and the river. The visit isn’t guided, but the multimedia exhibition inside offers fascinating insights into Montreal from the perspective of the tower.

For thrill-seekers, the glass cage—a transparent enclosure that extends from the tower—provides an exhilarating chance to see the city from an entirely different angle. The views cover iconic landmarks like the Olympic Stadium and the river, helping you connect the water-level perspective from the cruise to the aerial view from above.

More Great Tours Nearby

What Makes This Tour Stand Out

The combination of water and sky perspectives makes this a well-rounded experience. One reviewer noted, “You see better the city in the tower than from the Ferris wheel,” reflecting the tower’s impressive vantage point. The multimedia exhibits add a layer of engaging education, perfect for those interested in seeing Montreal through a modern lens.

Considerations and Tips

While the tour offers a good mix of scenery and information, some viewers pointed out that the tower visit is unguided, so you’ll need to spend some time exploring on your own. If you prefer guided explanations at every stop, this might be a minor downside.

Weather is another factor; the cruise operates rain or shine, unless safety issues arise, so dress accordingly. Peak times can mean heavy traffic and parking challenges, so arriving early or using public transit is recommended.

Pricing and Value

The tour provides a compact, 2-hour experience that packs in both scenic views and informative commentary at an accessible price point. While the exact cost varies depending on where and when you book, it’s a good value for those wanting a balanced introduction to Montreal’s waterfront and skyline.

Authentic Experiences and Authentic Perspectives

What makes this tour appealing are the authentic sights—not just the typical tourist spots but also the hidden stories the guides share. For example, one review highlighted how the guide’s narration brought the harbor’s history to life, enriching the experience beyond just sightseeing.

The delicious food and drinks onboard add to the comfort, making it suitable for a relaxed afternoon. Meanwhile, the tower’s multimedia exhibits deepen your understanding of Montreal’s urban landscape.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This combo is perfect for first-time visitors wanting an overview of Montreal from multiple angles. It also suits families and couples looking for a relaxed yet enriching activity. If you love panoramic vistas and enjoy learning about a city’s evolution, this experience hits the mark.

The Sum Up

This Port of Montreal Tower and Cruise Combo offers a well-balanced look at Montreal’s waterfront, history, and skyline. The guided cruise provides expert insights and a peaceful way to see the city from the river, while the tower visit delivers breathtaking, panoramic views and interactive exhibits. It’s an experience that combines education, scenic beauty, and a touch of thrill—perfect for travelers seeking a meaningful, fun outing.

While not the cheapest option out there, the value lies in the quality of the guides, the diverse perspectives of water and sky, and the authenticity of the sights. It’s best suited for those who want a compact, informative, and visually stunning taste of Montreal without spending a whole day.

For anyone wanting to connect with the city’s maritime spirit and urban landscape in one go, this tour offers a genuine, memorable experience.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, the tour is not suitable for wheelchair users as the tour of the tower is unguided and the cruise may have accessibility limitations.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts approximately 90 minutes, offering a relaxed pace to enjoy the scenery and commentary.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve ahead, especially during busy seasons, and you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Can I visit the tower on a different day than the cruise?
Yes, the cruise and tower visit do not have to happen on the same day, giving you flexibility.

What should I bring?
Bring your passport or ID and credit card (cash is not accepted onboard). Dress for the weather as the cruise is outdoors.

Are there food and drink options onboard?
Yes, you can purchase beverages and light snacks from the onboard bistro, making the cruise even more enjoyable.

Is the tour bilingual?
Yes, guides speak both French and English, and an audioguide is available in eight languages.

What about parking?
Parking is in paid lots near the dock, with options including a large lot with electric charging stations, but expect some congestion during peak times.

This comprehensive experience offers a genuine way to see and understand Montreal’s waterfront, blending scenic beauty with educational insight. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, it’s an engaging, worthwhile outing.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby