Montreal: Bateau-Mouche Cruise with A La Carte Dinner Option

Montreal: Bateau-Mouche Cruise with A La Carte Dinner Option — An Honest Look

If you’re considering a dinner cruise in Montreal, the Bateau-Mouche experience offers a relaxing way to take in the city’s sights along the St. Lawrence River. We haven’t done this specific cruise ourselves, but based on the reviews and details available, it’s a popular activity that blends scenic views with good food and a touch of elegance.

What we really like about this cruise is the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking views of Montreal’s skyline—especially landmarks like the Old Montreal, Downtown, and the impressive Pont Jacques-Cartier—all from the water. Plus, the onboard music, including a musical trio on certain evenings, adds a lively, atmospheric touch.

One thing to keep in mind is that the meal isn’t included in the ticket price, which might surprise some travelers. With the option to choose up to a 6-course gourmet meal, you’ll want to budget for food and drinks separately. This cruise tends to suit those who value scenic beauty and a relaxed dining experience over a package deal. It’s especially ideal for couples or small groups looking for a special evening, but probably less so for families with small children or travelers seeking a more casual, inclusive outing.

Key Points

• Stunning water-level views of Montreal’s landmarks from the river.
• Flexible dining options with a customizable up to 6-course menu (not included in the ticket price).
• Live music and onboard ambiance make the experience more memorable.
• Beautiful sunset and cityscape views, especially notable for photography.
• Boarding at Quai Jacques-Cartier in Old Port, with a relaxed 3-hour schedule.
• Weather goes rain or shine, with the roof possibly staying closed if needed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience: What You Can Expect on the Bateau-Mouche Dinner Cruise

Imagine stepping aboard a sleek, newly designed boat in Montreal’s charming Old Port—the quintessential starting point for this journey. As the vessel gently departs around 7 PM, you’ll immediately notice the ambient lighting and sophisticated setting that sets the tone for a special night. The three-hour cruise offers plenty of time to observe the city’s illuminated skyline while floating along the river.

The Scenic Route and Views

The main highlight of this cruise is the spectacular scenery. From your vantage point, you’ll get a different perspective on Montreal’s most iconic sights. Many reviews mention the views of Old Montreal, with its historic architecture, and the downtown skyline — some even note the Pont Jacques-Cartier, an impressive bridge that you’ll admire from the water. One reviewer shared, “The scenery was as good as what one can expect on the river,” confirming that it’s a worthwhile visual treat.

The Food and Beverage Experience

The menu is a key part of the cruise, but it’s important to remember that food isn’t included in the ticket price—you’ll select your dishes onboard and pay at the end. The up to 6-course gourmet menu is designed for those who want a fine dining experience while soaking in the sights. Several reviews praise the quality of the food, especially mentioning filet mignon and duck as standout dishes.

A major plus is the customizability of your meal, allowing you to tailor your dining experience. But be aware that additional costs can add up quickly—one reviewer noted you’d spend around $100 per person on food and drinks, especially if you indulge in wine or cocktails.

Onboard Atmosphere and Entertainment

Music plays a big role in enhancing the cruise. On certain evenings, a musical trio performs live, adding a lively or relaxing background depending on the vibe. Others mention relaxing jazz music during dinner, which complements the gentle river cruise atmosphere. The onboard crew receives praise for being attentive and efficient, ensuring your experience is smooth and enjoyable.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Deck and Viewing Opportunities

You’ll have access to an outdoor terrace during the cruise, which is especially enjoyable for getting a closer view of the illuminated cityscape. However, some reviews mention that the outdoor space can be cramped—not ideal if you’re hoping for spacious seating or planning to move around freely.

Practical Details and Considerations

• Board at 6:30 PM, cruise departs at 7 PM, and returns around 10 PM.
• Weather-wise, the cruise goes ahead rain or shine. The roof may stay closed if the weather turns poor, so dress warmly and bring layers.
• The meeting point is at the Quai Jacques-Cartier, with instructions to arrive 30 minutes early and exchange your voucher.
• Not suitable for people with mobility impairments or wheelchair users—the boat’s access might be limited.
• Luggage and large bags aren’t allowed, and smoking or coolers are prohibited onboard.

What the Reviews Say

We’ve pulled from actual experiences to give you a better sense of what to expect. Many travelers rave about the views and the food. For instance, Colleen from the US shared, “The sunset dinner cruise was wonderful! The food was way above our expectation—the fillet was delicious.” Others highlight the friendly, efficient service and the enjoyable onboard music.

However, some point out cramped seating—not surprising given the small size of some tables, especially for couples hoping for window seats. One review notes, “The space was so cramped that some guests wouldn’t fit, and the table was quite small.”

The cost can be a surprise for some, especially if you’re planning on adding wine or extra drinks. As one reviewer noted, “be prepared to spend an additional $100 per person.” So, if you’re on a tight budget, this might feel a bit steep, considering the price doesn’t include food or drinks.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This cruise is best suited for those who appreciate scenic waterways and city views paired with a fine dining experience. If you love the idea of luxury, good food, and live music, you’ll enjoy this. It’s also ideal for romantic evenings or special occasions, thanks to the lovely sunset views and elegant setting.

On the flip side, if you’re looking for a casual, family-friendly outing or are concerned about space and comfort, you might find this cruise a bit restrictive. The cost of food and drinks can also make it less appealing for budget travelers.

Final Thoughts

For travelers seeking a refined way to see Montreal from the water, the Bateau-Mouche dinner cruise offers a memorable experience. The stunning views, especially at sunset or at night, combined with the option to enjoy a gourmet meal, make it a worthwhile splurge. The onboard music and ambiance elevate the experience, turning an ordinary evening into something special.

While it’s not perfect—seating can be tight, and the cost adds up—the overall feedback is positive, especially for those wanting a romantic or sophisticated outing. Just be sure to budget for additional food and drinks, dress warmly, and prepare for a full evening of relaxation and visual delight.

This cruise is a good fit if you’re looking to combine sightseeing, fine dining, and a little entertainment in one elegant package. Perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting to take in Montreal’s riverfront in style.

FAQ

Is the meal included in the ticket price?
No, the ticket price covers the cruise itself. You’ll need to select and pay for your meal onboard, with options up to a 6-course gourmet menu.

Can I see the city’s landmarks from the boat?
Absolutely. Many reviews mention excellent views of Old Montreal, Downtown, and the Pont Jacques-Cartier bridge. The water level provides a unique perspective you won’t get from land.

What time should I arrive?
It’s best to arrive 30 minutes early—around 6:30 PM—so you can check in and settle in before departure at 7 PM.

Is the cruise suitable in bad weather?
Yes, the cruise runs rain or shine. The roof might stay closed if weather conditions are poor, so bring warm clothing and prepare for all weather.

Are children allowed?
The information suggests it’s not suitable for people with mobility issues or wheelchair users, but there’s no specific mention of age restrictions. If you’re considering bringing children, it’s worth noting that the experience is more relaxed and grown-up in nature.

Is this good for a romantic evening?
Definitely. The scenic views, sunset, live music, and overall ambiance make it a popular choice for couples celebrating a special occasion.

What should I budget for food and drinks?
Many travelers find themselves spending around $100 per person, especially if they order wine or cocktails along with their meal.

Ultimately, if you’re after a scenic, elegant meal on the water with the chance to see Montreal from a fresh perspective, the Bateau-Mouche dinner cruise could very well be worth it. Just be prepared for extra costs and cramped seating, and you’ll be set for a memorable night.

You can check availability for your dates here: