Montreal: Evening Cruise with DJ and Dance Floor

Imagine cruising along the St. Lawrence River at sunset, drink in hand, with the city’s skyline glowing behind you. That’s exactly what the Montreal Evening Cruise with DJ and Dance Floor promises—an energetic, scenic way to enjoy Montreal’s summer nights. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or a special someone, this 3.5-hour outing offers a lively mix of sightseeing, music, and socializing.

What sets this experience apart? First, its panoramic views of Montreal’s illuminated landmarks—La Grande Roue, Jacques Cartier Bridge, and the Old Port—are truly stunning. Second, the onboard dance floor with a DJ spinning the latest hits makes it more than just a boat trip; it’s a floating party with an authentic local vibe.

A possible consideration? The cruise doesn’t include food or beverages (beyond a complimentary drink on the 2-hour option), so you may want to bring your own snacks or plan to visit a nearby restaurant afterward. Plus, it’s not suited for wheelchair users, which might limit some travelers.

This cruise suits those after a relaxed yet lively way to see Montreal from the water while enjoying good music and a fun, social atmosphere. If you love a mix of sightseeing and dancing, this could be a highlight of your trip.

Key Points

• Spectacular city views from a unique vantage point along the St. Lawrence River.
• Lively atmosphere with a DJ and dance floor onboard.
• Multiple outdoor decks and bars for drinks, snacks, and soaking in the scenery.
• Informative yet relaxed experience with knowledgeable crew and beautiful sights.
• Affordable price point compared to other high-end river cruises.
• Limited accessibility for wheelchair users; check in advance if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Authentic Montreal Experience with a Modern Twist

If you’re seeking an authentic way to enjoy Montreal’s vibrant summer nights, this cruise hits the mark. It’s not just about the views—though those are undeniably impressive—but also about the atmosphere. You’re on a fully equipped boat, complete with multiple bars, a dance floor, and four decks, each offering different perspectives and comfort levels.

The cruise departs from the heart of Old Montreal, at the Grand Quay Pier, making it very accessible for travelers staying nearby. As soon as you set sail, you’re treated to a moving postcard of Montreal’s lit-up skyline, with sights like the Biosphere, La Ronde amusement park, and the Jacques Cartier Bridge all in view.

We loved the way the boat’s design maximizes panoramic views, especially from the outdoor decks, where the city’s glow creates a magical backdrop. The cruise’s itinerary takes you past historic and modern landmarks, offering a narrated glimpse of the city’s waterway landmarks, which adds an educational touch to the fun.

From the reviews, many travelers mention the excellent vibe and music as a real highlight. One reviewer shared, “Great experience, excellent vibe and great music,” capturing the energy onboard. Others appreciated the knowledgeable staff who made the experience smooth and enjoyable.

The complimentary drink during the 2-hour option is a nice touch, but if you’re thirsty or hungry, you’ll want to explore the onboard bars or bring your own snacks (note: food and additional drinks are not included). The onboard bistro offers local-inspired snacks and meals, perfect for a casual dinner or light bites while enjoying the views.

A Closer Look at the Itinerary and Experience

The cruise begins at the Grand Quay Pier, a lively starting point that’s easy to reach for most travelers. After boarding, the boat moves eastward, passing by the historic Old Port area and Île Sainte-Hélène. This stretch offers a fantastic perspective of Montreal’s waterfront and landmarks. As you glide past the Biosphere—a striking geodesic dome—and La Ronde amusement park, the atmosphere becomes more festive.

The route continues towards the Olympic Stadium and Îles de Boucherville before looping back toward the city. This route isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s designed to maximize the sunset and night views of Montreal’s skyline, which transition from dusk to night, lighting up the cityscape. You’ll get great photo opportunities, especially from the outdoor decks.

The highlight for many is the floating dance floor, where the DJ spins popular hits, encouraging everyone to dance under the stars. From the reviews, we see that the music and vibe are key draws, making it more than just a sightseeing cruise—it’s a party on water. The onboard crew ensures the atmosphere remains lively and friendly, and the multiple decks allow for socializing or relaxing as you prefer.

The Value and Practicalities

At $62 per person, this cruise offers a unique combination of scenic beauty and lively entertainment at a reasonable price. Consider that a typical dinner cruise elsewhere might cost significantly more with fewer views or less entertainment. Here, the value lies in the combination of stunning scenery, lively music, and a social environment—perfect for a summer evening.

The cruise lasts between 2 and 3.5 hours, depending on your ticket choice, giving ample time for both sightseeing and dancing. The 2-hour cruise is ideal for those with limited time or looking for a quick lively activity, while the 3.5-hour option offers a more relaxed experience with more time to enjoy the scenery and drinks.

Be mindful that food and additional drinks aren’t included, which might influence your overall experience. You’ll want to prepare accordingly—whether that means bringing your own snacks, purchasing from onboard bars, or planning to explore Old Montreal’s vibrant dining scene afterward.

Parking is available at the Grand Quay paid lot, with other options nearby. The process is straightforward: pick up your ticket at the AML Cruises booth before boarding. The entire experience is conducted with safety in mind, with boats inspected and crew certified by Canadian authorities.

Who Will Enjoy This Cruise?

This cruise is particularly well-suited for young travelers, couples, or groups of friends wanting a lively night out with impressive views. It’s perfect if you love music, dancing, and a festive atmosphere. However, if you’re seeking a quiet, romantic cruise with fine dining, this might not be your best fit.

Travelers who enjoy a social scene and want to experience Montreal from the water in a relaxed, yet energetic environment** will find this cruise rewarding. It’s also a great way to combine sightseeing with entertainment, especially on a warm summer evening.

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Final Thoughts

The Montreal Evening Cruise with DJ and Dance Floor offers a distinctive way to enjoy the city’s skyline while mingling, dancing, and soaking in the summer ambiance. It balances scenic beauty with lively entertainment, making it an ideal outing for anyone wanting to add a splash of fun to their Montreal trip.

While it’s not a gourmet dinner cruise and isn’t accessible for wheelchair users, it makes up for those limitations with its vibrant atmosphere, stunning views, and affordability. You’ll leave with memorable photos, a playlist of great music, and a taste of Montreal’s lively spirit.

If you value a mix of sightseeing, socializing, and dancing in a beautiful setting, this cruise is certainly worth considering. Just remember to bring your ID and credit card, and prepare for a night that might just become a highlight of your Montreal visit.

FAQ

Is food included in the cruise? No, food and additional drinks are not included. There are bars onboard, and the ship has a bistro with snacks and meals inspired by local flavors.

How long does the cruise last? The cruise duration varies between 2 hours and 3.5 hours, depending on the ticket option you select.

Can I bring my own drinks or snacks? No, food and drinks are not allowed to be brought onboard, but you can purchase from the onboard bars or enjoy the complimentary drink on the 2-hour cruise.

Is parking available nearby? Yes, the Grand Quay paid lot can accommodate up to 250 vehicles. Other parking options are available nearby, and you should check the Old Port of Montreal website for details.

Is there a dress code? The tour doesn’t specify a dress code, but casual summer wear with comfortable shoes is recommended, especially if you plan to dance.

Is this cruise accessible for wheelchairs? No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users.

Do I need to book in advance? Yes, it’s best to book ahead to secure your spot, especially in peak summer months.

What languages are the guides or crew available in? The activity is offered in both English and French, with hosts or greeters speaking these languages.

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