Québec City: Weekend River Brunch Cruise

If you’re considering a way to enjoy Québec City beyond its charming streets and historic sites, a Weekend River Brunch Cruise might be just what you need. This experience combines good food, scenic water views, and entertaining stories about the city’s past—all in a relaxing two-and-a-half-hour package.

What caught our eye? First, the delicious 3-course brunch prepared onboard, served with a view that’s hard to beat. Second, the knowledgeable bilingual guide who shares engaging tidbits about Québec’s history and landmarks. The one thing to keep in mind? It’s not a quick snack—this is a full meal and cruise rolled into one, and that might not suit everyone’s pace or budget if you’re in a rush or watching expenses. But if you’re after a laid-back, immersive experience with a bit of good eating, this tour fits the bill nicely.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who enjoy a mix of scenery, storytelling, and a hearty meal, making it perfect for couples, friends, or even families who want a more relaxed day. Just note, it’s not wheelchair accessible, so if mobility is an issue, this might not be the best choice.

Key Points

• Delicious 3-course brunch prepared onboard with locally sourced ingredients
• Stunning views of Québec landmarks like Château Frontenac and Montmorency Falls
• Informative bilingual guide sharing stories of Québec’s history and culture
• Relaxing 2.5-hour experience with options to upgrade for VIP treatment
• Great for photo opportunities with iconic scenery as your backdrop
• River cruise and outdoor terraces offer a chance to unwind in style

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

Once you arrive at Chouinard Pier, the experience kicks off with boarding and brunch service at 10:30 a.m.. The onboard chef prepares a three-course meal, including options like pastries, Greek yogurt, and a main course that spans from hearty casserole dishes to vegan options. The menu is designed to feature locally-sourced ingredients, giving you a taste of the region’s culinary flair.

After about an hour enjoying your meal, the boat departs for the scenic part of the cruise. During this 1.5-hour segment, you’ll cruise along the St. Lawrence River, taking in sights like Ile d’Orléans, Montmorency Falls, and the famous Château Frontenac. The guide provides commentary in both English and French, sharing stories and facts that deepen your appreciation for the city’s history and landmarks.

You’ll love the way the outdoor terraces let you soak up the sun and take unobstructed photos. The guide’s storytelling is engaging, making the scenery even more meaningful. As noted by travelers, “The very informative commentary” adds a layer of interest to the trip, transforming a simple boat ride into a storybook experience.

The Food: A Highlight of the Tour

The brunch itself is a major draw. It’s not just a light snack but a full three-course meal that caters to a range of tastes. The menu features starter pastries and yogurt, with main courses like gourmet casserole, captain’s plate, or a Terroir omelette. For those with dietary preferences, vegan and other dietary options are available—something many travelers appreciate.

The desserts are a sweet finish, with homemade profiteroles topped with chocolate. Beverages like coffee, tea, and orange juice come included, which pair nicely with the meal. Upgrading to the signature brunch provides a more VIP experience, with priority boarding, a chilled mimosa, and guaranteed window seating—worth considering if you want the best views and service.

Based on reviews, the food quality seems to be consistently praised. One traveler mentioned, “Brunch food excellent,” while another appreciated the “delicious and plentiful” meal. These positive remarks suggest the onboard cuisine is a genuine highlight.

Views and Photo Opportunities

The cruise offers more than just good eats; it’s a photographer’s dream. You’ll get fantastic angles of Old Québec, with the cobblestone streets and historic buildings providing a picturesque backdrop. The boat’s outdoor decks and floating terrace allow for unobstructed views, perfect for capturing memories or simply soaking in the scenery.

Sighting the Château Frontenac from the water makes for iconic photos. Plus, the chance to see Montmorency Falls from afar gives you a different perspective than the usual land-based viewpoints. As one review enthusiastically said, “We sat out on the deck after eating and listened to the very informative commentary,” emphasizing how the views and stories combine for a memorable experience.

The Guide and Commentary

The guide’s role is key to making this cruise enjoyable. They’re described as passionate and knowledgeable, sharing stories that help you understand the significance of the sights. Bilingual commentary means both French and English speakers get to learn about Québec’s history, culture, and landmarks in a friendly, accessible way.

The reviews praise the engaging and informative nature of the commentary, which adds depth to the scenic views. It’s clear that the guides aim to make the experience educational yet relaxed, never overwhelming.

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Practical Details and Considerations

The tour costs $72 per person, which includes the full 2.5 hours—an hour of brunch and a 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise. Given the quality of the food, the stunning views, and the storytelling, many travelers find this to be good value. Plus, tips are included, so what you see on the ticket is pretty much what you pay, aside from parking.

Speaking of parking, you’ll need to plan for paid parking at Chouinard Pier or nearby, like SPAQ Canotiers. Make sure to bring your photo ID and a credit card, as cash isn’t accepted onboard.

The schedule begins with boarding and brunch at 10:30 a.m., followed by cruise departure at 11:30 a.m. and disembarkation around 1:00 p.m. It’s typically available in the morning, fitting well into a day of sightseeing.

Note: The boat isn’t wheelchair accessible due to its multiple decks. Also, pets, smoking, outside food, and alcohol are not permitted onboard.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This cruise is ideal for adults and couples looking for a relaxing way to see Québec from the water while enjoying a solid meal. It’s also a good choice if you appreciate scenic views combined with storytelling. Families with older children might enjoy it, especially if they’re keen on food and history, but it’s not suited for those with mobility challenges.

If you’re after a leisurely, well-rounded experience that combines delicious food, stunning scenery, and engaging stories, this cruise ticks those boxes. It’s a way to unwind while learning about Québec’s landscape and history in a comfortable setting.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

In our view, this Weekend River Brunch Cruise offers a unique blend of culinary pleasure, scenic beauty, and cultural insight, making it worth considering if these tick your boxes. The quality of the food, the breathtaking views, and the friendly, informative guide all come together to create a memorable outing.

While it’s not the cheapest activity around, the experience delivers more than just sightseeing—it’s a chance to slow down, enjoy a delicious meal, and soak in some of Québec’s most iconic sights from a new perspective. If you’re visiting Québec City and want a relaxing, engaging way to spend part of your day, this cruise is a solid choice.

FAQ

Is the brunch meal included in the ticket price?
Yes, the 3-course brunch is included in the $72 price. Be sure to inform your server of any food allergies or dietary preferences.

Can I upgrade to a VIP experience?
Yes, there’s a signature brunch option that offers priority boarding, a chilled mimosa, and guaranteed window seating for a more premium experience.

How long is the entire cruise?
The experience lasts about 2.5 hours—one hour for brunch and 1.5 hours for the sightseeing cruise.

What landmarks will I see from the water?
Expect views of Château Frontenac, Montmorency Falls, Île d’Orléans, and scenic parts of Old Québec, all with informative commentary.

Are beverages included?
Yes, coffee, tea, and orange juice are included with your meal.

Is parking available?
Yes, paid parking is available at Chouinard Pier and nearby locations like SPAQ Canotiers.

Is the boat accessible for mobility devices?
No, the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible due to its multiple decks.

When should I arrive for the tour?
Boarding begins at 10:30 a.m., with departure at 11:30 a.m. Be sure to arrive early enough to exchange your voucher and find parking.

Is this tour family-friendly?
While primarily suited for adults, families with older children who enjoy food and scenery will likely enjoy it. It’s not designed for very young children or those with mobility issues.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility in case your plans change.

If you enjoy combining good food with great views and storytelling, this Québec City cruise could be a highlight of your trip. It’s a relaxed, enjoyable way to see the city from a different perspective—definitely worth considering for a memorable day on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: