Guided cruise to discover Orleans Island and Quebec City

If you’re visiting Quebec and want a fresh perspective on its most iconic sights, a guided cruise along the Saint Lawrence River might just be what you’re looking for. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but based on reviews and detailed descriptions, it promises a unique way to see the region’s beauty, history, and scenery from a small, speedy Zodiac boat.

What caught our eye? First, the stunning views of key landmarks like Château Frontenac and Montmorency Falls from the water are a real highlight. Second, the small group setting ensures a more intimate experience and better interaction with the guide. A potential consideration? Since there’s no mention of onboard restrooms, you might want to plan accordingly if you’re sensitive to that. This tour seems well-suited for travelers who love scenic outings with a dash of maritime adventure and are eager to see Quebec’s sights from a different angle.

Key Points

• Unique water-based perspective on Quebec City and Ile d’Orleans
• Small group for a more personalized experience
• Includes transportation from downtown Quebec City to the marina
• 2-hour cruise with a professional captain and guide
• Breathtaking views of Montmorency Falls, Château Frontenac, and the river
• No onboard restrooms, so plan accordingly

You can check availability for your dates here:

What Is This Tour All About?

This guided cruise is designed to offer travelers a 2-hour voyage along the Saint Lawrence River, giving a fresh look at some of the region’s most celebrated sights. Unlike the usual land-based tours, this experience is all about seeing Quebec City, Ile d’Orleans, and Levis from the water—an angle that reveals new details and offers incredible photo opportunities.

The experience is led by a professional captain and guide, who will introduce you to the history and stories of the area while navigating the waters in a Zodiac boat. The small group size guarantees a more relaxed, engaging environment, perfect for those who prefer an intimate outing over large crowds.

Transportation from downtown Quebec City to the marina is included, making it easy to start your adventure without extra fuss. Just meet up at the Saint-Laurent-Ile-Orleans marina, with the Croisieres Orleans stand nearby, and you’re set to go.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

The cruise kicks off with a brief safety briefing and a quick introduction to your captain, who will be your storyteller and guide for the next two hours. Once on the water, the real fun begins.

Navigating the Saint Lawrence River

You’ll first cruise along the river, with views of Quebec City’s skyline in the distance. The highlight here is the view of Château Frontenac, which looks even more impressive from the water. The guide shares insights about the city’s history and architecture, giving you context that might be missed on land.

Discovering Ile d’Orleans

Next, the boat will glide toward Ile d’Orleans, a charming island just outside Quebec. From the water, you’ll get a different perspective of its farmland, quaint villages, and scenic beauty. The views of the island from the river are often praised as breathtaking, especially when the light hits the landscape just right.

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Exploring Montmorency Falls and Levis

As the cruise continues, you’ll head towards Montmorency Falls, which are often described as more spectacular from the water. Although the tour doesn’t appear to stop at the falls, you’ll see them from a vantage point that’s usually only available from the river.

The boat then moves towards Levis, on the opposite side of the river. From here, you’ll enjoy excellent views of Quebec City’s historic walls and landmarks. Many reviews mention the “spectacular views of Quebec City, including the Château Frontenac,” as a real highlight.

Why Travelers Love This Experience

Based on reviews, the most praised aspect is the stunning scenery. One reviewer called it “absolutely beautiful,” emphasizing the “different way to see Montmorency Falls, fall color, and Quebec City.” The guide’s commentary adds a lot of value, sharing stories and context that enrich the experience.

The small group size is also highly appreciated. Jean-Bernard from Canada mentioned, “the captain was really very kind,” and the intimate setting made the day special. Jane L from the US highlighted how the Captain shared information throughout, making it more than just a boat ride.

What Could Be Better?

One minor drawback is that there are no onboard restrooms, so if you’re prone to needing facilities, it’s worth planning ahead. Also, since the tour lasts just two hours, it’s an efficient way to see the sights but might leave some wanting more time to linger at each location.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $57 per person, this cruise is a reasonably priced way to see Quebec from the water. When you consider the included transportation, the expertise of the guide, and the beautiful scenery, it offers good value—especially if you love unique vantage points and engaging stories.

This isn’t a long, exhaustive tour, but it’s perfect as a quick, memorable excursion that complements land-based sightseeing. It’s especially good for those who want a relaxed, scenic activity without the crowds or long waits.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is great for travelers who love water-based views and are interested in seeing Quebec’s landmarks from a different angle. It’s suitable for those who enjoy small-group settings and want a more personalized experience. Keep in mind, if you’re traveling with someone who has back problems or prefers facilities on board, this might not be the best fit.

It’s ideal for visitors who want a short, scenic escape from the hustle of the city, or for anyone looking to add a unique maritime touch to their Quebec trip.

This Zodiac cruise to Orleans Island and Quebec City offers a beautiful, different perspective on the region’s famous sights. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the views of Château Frontenac and Montmorency Falls from the water are sure to be memorable.

The small-group atmosphere combined with insightful commentary and easy transportation makes it a hassle-free option for those seeking a scenic, informative outing. While it’s a relatively short experience, it adds a special touch to your Quebec itinerary that’s worth considering.

If you’re after a reasonably priced, scenic adventure with plenty of photo opportunities and engaging storytelling, this cruise might just be your next favorite activity in Quebec.

Is there transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation from downtown Quebec City to the marina is included, making it easy to start your adventure without extra arrangements.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, offering a compact but scenic experience.

What sights will I see?
You’ll see stunning views of Quebec City’s skyline, Ile d’Orleans, Montmorency Falls, and the city of Levis, as well as the surrounding bays and waters.

Are the guides available in multiple languages?
Yes, the tour guide speaks both English and French.

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
The information doesn’t specify age restrictions, but the small, adventurous Zodiac boat might be less ideal for very young children or families with small kids.

Are there any facilities on board?
No, there are no restrooms on the boat, so plan ahead if needed.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, a jacket, and long-sleeved shirts for comfort during the cruise.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

How much does it cost?
The tour is priced at $57 per person, which includes all taxes and fees.

Whether you’re after an easy-paced scenic cruise or a whole new view of Quebec’s landmarks, this Zodiac trip to Orleans Island and Quebec City seems like a worthwhile addition to your trip. It combines natural beauty, a touch of history, and the thrill of being on the water—all in just two hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: