Montreal Gourmet Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing

Thinking about a special night out in Montreal? The Montreal Gourmet Dinner Cruise offers an elegant way to enjoy the city’s beautiful waterfront, delectable food, and lively entertainment all at once. While we haven’t personally taken this cruise, reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a memorable experience that combines sightseeing, gourmet dining, and a lively dance floor.

What we love most? The stunning views of Montreal’s skyline and the surrounding islands from the deck, and the delicious, locally inspired 3- or 5-course meal that’s thoughtfully prepared on board. Plus, the option of dancing to a DJ under the stars makes it a fun, social evening. One thing to consider is that the experience might feel a bit rushed, especially if the cruise duration is affected by weather or technical issues. This tour is best suited for couples, groups celebrating special occasions, or anyone wanting a relaxed yet lively way to take in Montreal from the water.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of Montreal’s skyline, Olympic Stadium, Biosphere, and more
• Gourmet 3- or 5-course meal with options like Nordic shrimp, braised beef cheek, and chocolate-blueberry dessert
• Lively entertainment with a DJ, live harpist and saxophone players, plus space for dancing
• Comfortable, glass-enclosed dining rooms and outdoor terraces with panoramic views
• Great value for the price given the combination of dinner, scenic cruise, and entertainment
• Flexible options like the Red Carpet upgrade, including wine and digestif, for a more indulgent experience

An Introduction to the Montreal Gourmet Dinner Cruise

This cruise offers a blend of scenic sightseeing and fine dining, making it a standout option for those wanting to enjoy Montreal from a fresh perspective. The experience is roughly three and a half hours long, departing from the historic Old Port, which itself is a lively hub filled with activities and summer events. The boat, the Cavalier Maxim, is modern and comfortable, with large picture windows and outdoor terraces, so you can soak in the views no matter your seating choice.

Two main attractions make this tour appealing: the breathtaking scenery along the Saint Lawrence River and the gourmet cuisine crafted right onboard. The reviews consistently praise the quality of the food—much better than some might expect on a boat—and the friendly, attentive service. Plus, the added music and dance opportunities keep the atmosphere lively, especially after dinner.

A minor consideration is that outside visibility can be limited if the weather turns bad or if the boat gets crowded (though reviews show most travelers find the experience quite enjoyable). Also, the cruise doesn’t include hotel transfers or parking, so plan accordingly. This cruise is best suited for those seeking a relaxed yet lively way to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy Montreal’s waterfront.

What Makes This Experience Special

The main draw is the combination of scenic views, gourmet dining, and entertainment. You’ll pass iconic Montreal landmarks like the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, the Biosphere, La Ronde amusement park, and the Olympic Stadium—all from a perspective that’s hard to beat. The cruise’s design ensures every seat has a good view, thanks to the large windows and outdoor terraces.

The 5-course dinner offers a variety of options, including fresh salmon, chicken, and braised beef, plus a chef’s dessert. Many reviews highlight the meal’s quality, describing the dishes as “cooked to perfection” and “delicious,” with some even mentioning the wine steward’s thoughtful beverage suggestions. The Red Carpet upgrade adds a welcome touch of luxury, with a welcome cocktail, bottle of wine, and digestif included.

After dinner, the mood shifts to lively as the DJ takes over, and guests are encouraged to dance under the stars. Some reviews mention live performances like harp and saxophone music, which add an elegant, festive touch to the evening. It’s the kind of experience that feels both refined and fun.

The Itinerary and Stops: What to Expect

The cruise departs from the Conveyor Pier (Quai des Convoyeurs) in Montreal’s Old Port at 7:00 pm, a lively area packed with activity during summer months. The cruise then glides along the Saint Lawrence River, offering sweeping views of Montreal’s skyline, the Jacques-Cartier Bridge, and the neighboring islands.

One of the highlights is the view of the Montreal Biosphere, a landmark dedicated to the environment, which you’ll see from the water—something many reviews praise as “beautiful” at night. The cruise also passes by the Olympic Stadium, the iconic Clock Tower, and the Promenade Bellerive, giving a comprehensive look at Montreal’s waterfront identity.

While the itinerary doesn’t include multiple stops, the cruise itself is an experience of moving scenery. The boat provides commentary throughout, helping you identify landmarks and appreciate Montreal’s riverfront from a relaxed, comfortable setting.

The Dining Experience: Gourmet on the Water

The dining aboard is designed to impress. The menu features a choice of appetizers, main courses, and desserts—each carefully prepared and served in the elegant, glass-enclosed dining rooms, which offer unobstructed views of the river. The food has received positive comments from travelers who found it “unexpectedly good” and “cooked to perfection.” Some reviews note that the seafood, chicken, and beef were highlights, with vegetables also receiving praise.

The beverage options vary based on your package. The standard cruise includes water and coffee or tea, but the Red Carpet upgrade adds a welcome cocktail, a bottle of wine, and a digestif, elevating the experience. The onboard wine steward offers suggestions to match your meal, making it a true dining experience right on the water.

The atmosphere during dinner varies from lively to relaxed. Some travelers mention the restaurant’s noise level being high, which can make conversation challenging, especially if the boat is crowded or busy. This is worth considering if you prefer a quieter meal.

Entertainment and Dancing: Keep the Night Alive

Post-dinner, the cruise transforms into a dance floor. The DJ plays music suitable for a broad audience, and some reviews highlight the lively, energetic atmosphere. Many guests find themselves up and dancing, especially on the outdoor terraces where the cool night air and views add to the fun.

Some reviewers have enjoyed live music, like harp and saxophone performances, which elevate the ambiance and add a touch of elegance. The mix of gourmet food and music makes for a memorable, celebratory evening.

While the entertainment is lively, a few reviews mention the need for a bit more romance or slow dancing options—something to think about if you’re planning a romantic getaway. Still, the overall vibe is friendly and festive.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, starting at 7:00 pm. It’s a relaxed schedule that allows plenty of time to enjoy your meal, take in the sights, and dance into the night. The group size is capped at around 150 travelers, creating an intimate yet lively atmosphere.

The meeting point is accessible via public transport and situated in a vibrant part of the Old Port. However, parking isn’t included, so if you’re driving, plan ahead for parking fees or alternative transportation.

The experience is weather-dependent, with a full refund or rescheduling offered if canceled due to poor conditions. Light rain isn’t a dealbreaker—most reviews mention the views as still enjoyable—though heavy rain or technical issues, like engine failure, can affect the cruise (the latter happened in one review).

Value for Money

At roughly $130 per person, this cruise offers a solid combination of scenery, gourmet dining, and entertainment. Considering the quality of the food, the panoramic views, and the lively atmosphere, many travelers agree it’s a good value—especially for a special night out or celebration.

The Red Carpet option adds luxury with wine and digestif, which many reviews find worth the extra cost. The fact that the cruise includes live commentary and music further enhances the experience, making it feel like a well-rounded package.

The Sum Up

This Montreal Gourmet Dinner Cruise is a delightful way to see the city from the water while enjoying a gourmet meal and lively entertainment. It’s especially suited for couples, groups celebrating a special occasion, or anyone looking to combine sightseeing with a relaxed, fun night out. The views are stunning, the food is generally praised, and the dancing keeps the energy high.

While it may not be the best choice if you’re craving a quiet, romantic dinner or if you’re sensitive to noise, the overall experience offers excellent value and a taste of Montreal’s vibrant waterfront. The combination of scenic beauty, delicious cuisine, and vibrant music makes it a memorable outing — one that’s worth considering if you want a taste of Montreal’s lively, water-bound side.

FAQs

Is this cruise suitable for all ages?
Yes, generally most travelers can participate, but it’s more geared toward adults and older children who enjoy dining and dancing.

Does the cruise include hotel pickup?
No, hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transportation to the meeting point in Old Montreal.

What is the departure time?
The cruise starts at 7:00 pm, giving you plenty of time to enjoy a relaxing evening.

Are there vegetarian options?
The menu details aren’t specified, but most meals are based on seafood, beef, or chicken. It’s best to check directly with the provider if you need vegetarian choices.

Is parking available nearby?
Parking isn’t included, and the tour description doesn’t specify parking options. Public transportation or nearby parking facilities are recommended.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the start time, with a full refund.

What is the duration of the cruise?
Approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes, including the time for boarding, dining, sightseeing, and dancing.

Are drinks included?
Basic beverages like coffee and tea are included; upgrading to the Red Carpet package adds wine, a welcome cocktail, and digestif.

What kind of entertainment is on board?
A DJ provides lively music, with some cruises featuring live harp and saxophone performances for added elegance.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, the cruise requires good weather. Cancellations due to poor weather are fully refunded or rescheduled.

Would this experience be good for a romantic date?
Absolutely—especially with the stunning nighttime views and gourmet meal. However, note that the lively music and outdoor dancing might be more suited for fun and celebration than quiet intimacy.

Whether you’re celebrating something special or simply want to see Montreal from a new angle, this dinner cruise offers a mix of sights, flavors, and fun that’s hard to beat.