Québec City: 3 or 5-Course Dinner Cruise with DJ & Dancing

Planning an evening in Quebec City that combines scenic beauty, delicious cuisine, and a touch of nightlife? This dinner cruise offers an elegant way to see the city from the water while enjoying a carefully curated meal and lively entertainment. It’s a popular choice for those wanting a memorable experience—whether celebrating a special occasion or just looking to enjoy some relaxing, scenic downtime.

What makes this cruise stand out? We love the gourmet bistronomic menu inspired by local ingredients—think fresh seafood, Quebec game, and seasonal produce—served in a relaxed, elegant setting. The stunning sunset views of Château Frontenac, Montmorency Falls, and Old Québec are truly breathtaking. Plus, the opportunity to dance under the stars with a DJ adds a fun, energetic touch to the evening.

However, a potential consideration is the length of the cruise—at 3.5 hours, some might find it a tad long, especially if they prefer shorter outings. Also, the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, which is worth noting for travelers with mobility concerns.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate good food, scenic views, a relaxed yet lively atmosphere, and don’t mind a seated dinner followed by dancing. It’s ideal for those celebrating something special or just wanting to indulge in a unique way to see Quebec City from the water.

Key Points

• Gourmet local cuisine: The 3 or 5-course menu features ingredients inspired by Quebec’s culinary traditions.
• Stunning vistas: Enjoy panoramic views of Château Frontenac, Old Québec, Montmorency Falls, and Île d’Orléans.
• Evening ambiance: Sunset timing and illuminated cityscapes create a magical backdrop.
• Entertainment options: After dinner, dance to a DJ or unwind on the upper deck with scenic views.
• Flexible options: Choose between a shorter 3-course meal or the more indulgent 5-course experience, with a Red Carpet upgrade for extra luxury.
• Authentic atmosphere: The combination of fine dining, scenic beauty, and lively music makes for a memorable night.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Dinner Cruise Experience

Setting Sail in Style

The cruise departs from Chouinard Pier in Quebec City, a convenient starting point with nearby parking options like the SPAQ Canotiers lot. Boarding begins around 6:00 p.m., and the vessel is fully certified by Transport Canada—a reassurance for safety-conscious travelers. You’ll exchange your voucher for tickets at the ticket booth just next to the boat, so arrive early enough to settle in comfortably.

The Voyage and Views

Once aboard, you’re welcomed with a glass of wine or a cocktail, depending on your package. As the boat slowly departs the dock, the real show begins. Sunset cruises are particularly popular because they allow you to witness the changing light over the historic landscape. The majestic Château Frontenac looms impressively as you glide past, framing the scene perfectly for photos. The commentary provided during the cruise adds context—highlighting landmarks like Île d’Orléans and Montmorency Falls, which you might find especially captivating in the evening light.

Gourmet Dining at Sea

The highlight for many is the meal itself. The menu is described as “bistronomic,” meaning it balances gourmet quality with a relaxed, approachable style. It features local ingredients and a variety of options. The standard 3-course menu includes an amuse-bouche of smoked shrimp and mackerel, a Guinea fowl salad or other appetizers, and a choice of main courses such as chicken, salmon, beef cheek, or Canadian beef tenderloin with lobster (with the Red Carpet upgrade). Desserts like a chocolate mousse dome add a sweet finish.

Guests have shared glowing reviews about the food’s quality and presentation. One reviewer noted that even special dietary requests were “graciously accommodated,” which speaks to the attentive service onboard. The pairing of wine, coffee, and tea enhances the dining experience, making it feel indulgent but not overly formal.

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Scenic Highlights

During dinner, you’ll enjoy views of Old Québec’s historic rooftops and cobbled streets illuminated by evening lights. Montmorency Falls, a natural marvel, is visible in the distance—sometimes with a light show or mist that enhances the scenery. The cruise also offers vistas of Île d’Orléans and the illuminated bridges connecting different parts of the city, transforming the landscape into a glowing tableau.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

After dinner, the dancefloor opens with a DJ spinning current hits and classics. Many reviews highlight how lively and fun this part of the cruise can be. One guest said, “The DJ and dancing were so fun—I had a great time.” For those preferring a quieter moment, the upper deck provides a calmer space with unobstructed views of the lit-up city and stars overhead.

The Perfect Ending

The cruise wraps up around 10:30 p.m., returning to dock just as the city lights are at their brightest. The overall experience blends culinary delight, scenic beauty, and relaxed entertainment—a combination that’s hard to beat for a memorable evening in Quebec City.

Price and Value

At $126 per person, this cruise strikes a good balance for what’s included. The 3-course meal alone would cost quite a bit in a restaurant, especially with local ingredients and onboard preparation. The addition of scenic views, live commentary, and evening entertainment makes it a well-rounded experience. The Red Carpet option ups the luxury with priority boarding, a reserved table, and upgraded mains like filet mignon and lobster tail, which many reviews say is worth the extra splurge.

While it isn’t inexpensive, the value lies in combining a gourmet meal with an unforgettable view and entertainment in one elegant package. It’s especially appealing for travelers wanting to treat themselves or celebrate something special.

Practical Tips for Your Cruise

• Arrive early enough to exchange your voucher and settle in before departure.
• Bring your passport or ID and credit card (cash isn’t accepted on board).
• Consider the weather—it’s often best to dress in layers as evenings can be cool, especially on the water.
• If you have dietary restrictions, notify the staff when booking or ordering.
• Parking is available nearby, but it’s paid—plan accordingly.
• The cruise is approximately 3.5 hours long, so be prepared for a relaxed, leisurely pace.
• Note that the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, so plan ahead if mobility is a concern.

Who Would Enjoy This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for food lovers, scenic enthusiasts, and nightlife seekers. It suits couples celebrating an anniversary, friends looking for a fun evening, or visitors wanting an authentic taste of Quebec’s local fare with stunning views. Families with older children might also enjoy the lively atmosphere, but it’s less suitable for very young kids or those requiring wheelchair access.

FAQ

Is there a dress code?
Smart casual is a good rule of thumb. Many guests dress nicely but comfortably—think nice pants and a blouse or a casual dress. For the Red Carpet upgrade, a slightly more polished look might be appropriate.

Can I bring my own drinks on board?
No, outside alcohol and food aren’t permitted. Beverages are available for purchase, and included options like wine and cocktails are part of the Red Carpet package.

What happens if I have dietary restrictions?
You should inform the cruise provider when booking. The reviews indicate that special dietary requests, such as vegetarian or other preferences, are graciously accommodated.

How long is the cruise?
The typical cruise lasts about 3.5 hours, starting around 7:00 p.m. and returning by approximately 10:30 p.m.

Is parking available?
Yes, paid parking options are at Chouinard Pier and nearby locations like SPAQ Canotiers parking. It’s recommended to arrive early for easy access.

Is the boat accessible for people with mobility issues?
No, the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible due to its multiple decks. Consider this if mobility is a concern.

What’s included in the Red Carpet option?
Priority boarding, a reserved table, a welcome cocktail, a bottle of wine for two, upgraded mains including filet mignon, lobster tail, and a digestif.

Final Thoughts

This dinner cruise combines the best of Quebec City’s scenic beauty, culinary talent, and lively entertainment. You’ll enjoy a thoughtfully prepared meal inspired by local ingredients, set against a backdrop of iconic landmarks and natural wonders. Whether you’re celebrating, seeking romance, or just in need of a relaxing evening, it’s a splendid way to spend an evening on the St. Lawrence.

The experience offers solid value—especially when you consider the quality of the food, the stunning views, and the lively atmosphere. Keep in mind the duration and accessibility considerations, but overall, this cruise provides an authentic taste of Quebec’s charm with a touch of luxury and fun. It’s a memorable way to see the city from a different perspective, and many guests leave with a smile and some great photos to remember it by.

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