Montreal: Guided Electric Boat Cruise with Onboard Drinks

When visiting Montreal, the idea of exploring the city from its waterways offers a fresh perspective on a familiar skyline. For just around $27, you can hop aboard a 45-minute guided electric boat cruise that promises scenic views, insightful commentary, and a chance to relax with a drink in hand. Led by friendly guides, this tour takes you through historic ports, under iconic bridges, and past some of Montreal’s most photography-worthy landmarks.

What we love about this experience is how it combines environmental responsibility with sheer enjoyment—an electric boat is a smart choice in an era where eco-conscious travel is more important than ever. Plus, the opportunity to purchase drinks onboard adds a social and leisure element that makes the journey feel more like a laid-back cruise than a formal tour.

A slight consideration is that the tour does tend to be somewhat crowded, which might affect your view or comfort if you prefer a more intimate experience. Also, unless you’re hoping for a detailed commentary in French, you might want to sit on the left side for the best view, as some reviews mention a language barrier or sightline issues.

This tour is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a quick, scenic overview of Montreal’s waterfront, families seeking a relaxed outing, or anyone curious about the city’s landmarks from a different angle. It’s also a wonderful choice for those who want a fun, social atmosphere without taking up too much time or budget.

• Eco-Friendly Travel: The boat is 100% electric, making it a greener way to explore Montreal’s waterways.
• Onboard Drinks: You can purchase beers, wines, or soft drinks onboard, adding a leisurely touch to the cruise.
• Stunning Views: Offers a different perspective of Montreal’s skyline, bridges, and historic landmarks, especially at sunset.
• Informative Guides: Many reviews highlight knowledgeable and friendly commentary that adds value to the experience.
• Short and Sweet: At about 45 minutes, it’s a compact tour that fits well into a busy sightseeing schedule.
• Crowd Considerations: The vessel can be crowded, so arriving early or sitting on the less viewed side might improve your experience.

The Experience in a Nutshell

This guided electric boat cruise is a neat way to see Montreal without the buzz of motor engines, thanks to its eco-friendly design. Starting from Le Petit Navire, the tour lasts around 45 minutes, a perfect timeframe for a quick yet scenic glimpse of the city’s waterfront. The boat’s guided commentary brings history and local stories to life, with many travelers noting the guides’ knowledge and helpfulness.

For just $26.69 per person, you gain access to a relaxed, informative ride that’s equally suitable for solo travelers, couples, or small groups. The tour’s popularity is evident, booked more than five times within a 12-hour span, and with a rating of 4.5 out of 5 based on 246 reviews, it’s clear most visitors find it worthwhile.

What’s Included, What’s Not

The price covers your ticket, including GST, and the boat ride itself. You’ll board at the historic King Edward Quay and enjoy a narrated trip passing multiple significant landmarks. Be aware, though, that alcoholic beverages are available for purchase onboard if you’re 18 or older, which many reviews praise as a nice touch for relaxation. Parking fees are not included, so plan ahead if you’re driving.

The Itinerary — Highlights and Landmarks

The boat’s route is thoughtfully designed to showcase Montreal’s waterfront history and modern architecture. Here’s a breakdown:

• King Edward Quay: Once the bustling Old Port, this site reflects Montreal’s maritime past. The late 70s saw it abandoned for a newer port, but today it’s a lively hub for travelers and locals alike.
• Old Montreal Harbour Commissioners’ Building: This Italianate structure, designed in 1875, once housed the Harbour Commission and now serves as a historical landmark—passing it offers a glimpse into the city’s maritime infrastructure.
• Lachine Canal: This 13.5 km canal is a major feature of Montreal’s waterways, offering a scenic corridor between the Old Port and Lake Saint-Louis. It’s a favorite spot for locals and visitors seeking outdoor activities.
• Habitat 67: Designed by Moshe Safdie for Expo 67, this iconic housing complex is a marvel of modern architecture. Though you only pass it by boat, many travelers appreciate seeing this historic structure from the water.
• Jacques Cartier Bridge: An imposing steel span since 1930, connecting Montreal to the south shore. Many reviews mention the bridge’s impressive size and the view of the city skyline from beneath.
• Yacht Club de Montreal & Montreal Clock Tower: Both symbolize the city’s maritime luxury and memorial history. The Clock Tower, built in 1922, commemorates merchant sailors lost at sea—an elegant, sobering sight.

Authentic Experiences and Real Traveler Insights

One of the biggest highlights noted in reviews is the knowledgeable guides who add context and unlock stories behind each landmark. Many mention that the commentary is informative and engaging, making the ride both educational and entertaining.

A common theme from reviews is the view of Montreal at sunset — many guests find that the city’s skyline looks particularly stunning during the evening light, making the timing of the cruise quite important if you want the best photo opportunities.

The onboard bar is another appreciated feature. While drinks are not included in the ticket price, most reviewers felt the chance to sip a local beer or wine while cruising added to the laid-back atmosphere. Some, however, noted the drinks can be pricey ($10 each) with limited variety, so manage your expectations accordingly.

Practical Details for Travelers

The boat is accessible near public transportation, which is convenient if you’re relying on Montreal’s transit system. The group tends to stay under 30 travelers, maintaining a cozy and manageable environment, though some reviews mention the boat can get crowded, especially during peak hours. Arriving early might help secure a better seat, particularly on the side with the best views.

The tour is most suitable for all ages, as it’s quite easy to enjoy, but keep in mind that most commentary is in English and French, so those with language preferences should sit accordingly. The 45-minute duration means it fits well into a busy sightseeing day, giving you a scenic break without taking up too much time.

Weather and Cancellation Policies

Since the tour is weather-dependent, poor weather may result in cancellation or rescheduling. Fortunately, if the tour is canceled due to bad weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund. You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled time, which provides some flexibility.

Summing Up: Is It Worth It?

Considering the value for money, the ecological aspect, and the positive reviews about guide quality, this cruise offers a well-rounded experience at a reasonable price. It’s a great introduction to Montreal’s waterfront for first-timers or those wanting a relaxing break from walking. The short duration means it’s perfect as part of a larger day of sightseeing, especially if you want a different perspective on the city’s architecture and history.

This cruise is ideal for those wanting a relaxed, scenic overview of Montreal that’s both informative and fun. It suits travelers with limited time who prefer a calm experience over a lengthy tour. Families or couples looking for a light, social outing will find it particularly enjoyable. If you’re a fan of city views at sunset, or keen to learn about Montreal’s landmarks from a knowledgeable guide, this is a good choice. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate eco-friendly travel and want to support sustainable tourism.

Is the boat ride suitable for children?
Yes, the ride is generally suitable for most ages, but it’s best to check if younger children are comfortable with a 45-minute boat trip.

Can I buy drinks onboard?
Yes, alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are available for purchase, but they tend to be priced around $10 each with limited options.

Is there a language preference I should specify?
Most commentary is in both English and French, but if you have a language preference, sitting on the left side might help, as some reviews suggest.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 45 minutes, making it a perfect short activity that can fit into a broader sightseeing schedule.

Where does the tour start and end?
It starts and ends at Le Petit Navire at King Edward Quay, close to public transportation and other waterfront attractions.

Can I cancel if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour can be canceled due to poor weather, with a full refund or rescheduling offered.

How crowded does it get?
The boat can get somewhat crowded, especially during peak times, so arriving early is recommended.

Is parking included?
No, parking fees are not included; plan ahead if you’re driving.

What is the price for this tour?
The ticket costs around $26.69 per person, offering a good balance between affordability and quality.

If you’re looking for a pleasant, eco-conscious way to see Montreal’s waterfront, this guided electric boat cruise ticks the boxes. It offers a relaxing atmosphere, insightful commentary, and beautiful city views — especially at sunset. The onboard drinks and friendly guides make it feel more like a social outing than a stiff tour, perfect for groups or solo travelers alike.

While it’s not a lengthy adventure, the 45-minute ride packs a lot of visual and cultural richness into a manageable package. It’s an excellent choice for those wanting a brief escape on the water with plenty of photo opportunities, some local beverages, and a chance to learn about Montreal’s history and landmarks from a comfortable vantage point.

If you enjoy comfortable, educational experiences with a touch of leisure, this tour is well worth considering during your Montreal visit.