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

Imagine cruising along the St. Lawrence River at sunset, the sky painted in shades of orange and pink, while indulging in a gourmet meal and then dancing under the stars. That’s exactly what this dinner cruise offers—an elegant blend of scenery, cuisine, and lively entertainment right in the heart of Montréal’s Old Port. Whether you’re celebrating something special or just want to enjoy a different perspective of this vibrant city, this cruise is designed to deliver.

What we love about this experience is the delicious locally inspired menu and the stunning views of Montréal’s illuminated skyline. The added bonus? Dancing to a DJ after dinner, turning a lovely evening into a true night to remember. One thing to consider, however, is the cost—$140 per person—so it’s a bit of an investment, but one that many feel is justified given the quality of the experience. This cruise suits travelers who appreciate good food, scenic vistas, and a lively social atmosphere, making it ideal for couples, groups, or anyone looking for a memorable night out in Montréal.

Key Points

• Beautiful scenic views of Montréal’s skyline, Biosphere, Olympic Stadium, and Jacques-Cartier Bridge.
• Locally inspired 3- or 5-course gourmet menu featuring fresh ingredients.
• Evening entertainment with a DJ and dancing, perfect for relaxing after dinner.
• Outdoor terraces for cocktails and city photos.
• Flexible options including a Red Carpet VIP upgrade.
• Excellent reviews highlight quality food, attentive service, and fun atmosphere.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Dinner Cruise Experience

The Itinerary and What to Expect

From the moment you arrive at the Old Port of Montréal, the anticipation builds. You’ll need to visit the ticket booth ahead of boarding to collect your physical ticket—think of it as your boarding pass to a memorable evening. The cruise lasts about 3.5 hours, starting with boarding around 6:00 p.m., with departure at 7:00 p.m. The timing is perfect for enjoying the sunset, and the crew’s punctuality helps you make the most of the night.

As the boat gently pulls away from the dock, you’ll begin to appreciate the city’s outline. The cruise heads east along the river, offering your first glimpses of the Old Port, Île Sainte-Hélène, and the iconic Biosphere. The cruise then passes the Olympic Stadium and the Îles de Boucherville, before returning to dock around 10:30 p.m. Throughout, commentary provides context about the sights, adding an educational touch to the scenic journey.

The Cuisine: Gourmet, Locally Inspired, and Well-Executed

The real highlight for many guests is the bistronomic menu—a term that hints at elevated, French-inspired comfort food. The chef on board prepares dishes using local ingredients, which ensures freshness and supports regional producers. The menu offers a choice of three or five courses, with the option to upgrade to the Red Carpet VIP experience for an extra touch of luxury.

Sample dishes include a shrimp and mackerel amuse-bouche, a guinea fowl confit salad, and a Wapiti terrine—a nod to Québec’s wild game. Main courses vary from chicken supreme, Atlantic salmon, to slow-braised beef cheek. The Red Carpet option even offers a filet mignon with lobster tail, adding a special touch for those willing to splurge. Desserts are equally decadent, with a chocolate mousse dome and raspberry custard.

Guests consistently praise the meals, with reviews emphasizing the generous portions and flavorful ingredients. Several note that the service is attentive, and the onboard chef manages to turn local ingredients into sophisticated plates. Beverages, including wine, coffee, and tea, are included, especially with the VIP upgrade, making the experience feel even more indulgent.

The Views: Perfect for Photography and Sightseeing

The scenery during the cruise is what makes this experience stand out. As the boat glides past illuminated landmarks, you’ll want your camera ready. The Jacques-Cartier Bridge makes for a striking backdrop, especially at night when the city lights twinkle. Guests have raved about how stunning the city looks from the water, with some saying it’s the best way to see Montréal’s skyline.

The outdoor terraces are an excellent spot for cocktails and photos, offering unobstructed views. The cruise also highlights landmarks such as the Biosphere, the Olympic Stadium, and the La Ronde amusement park, giving you a scenic tour of Montréal’s most recognizable sights.

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Entertainment and Atmosphere

After dinner, the dancefloor opens with a DJ spinning a mix of hits and Latin tunes, according to reviews. It’s a popular part of the cruise, especially for those wanting to dance and enjoy the lively vibe. For those who prefer a quieter moment, the upper deck offers a peaceful spot to soak in the lights and the gentle river breeze.

Guests have appreciated the relaxed yet festive atmosphere, with many commenting that the music selection is good, and the overall vibe is friendly and not overly formal. If you’re looking for a night of fun, this cruise delivers a lively yet sophisticated experience.

Practical Details and Tips

• Pricing: At $140 per person, this cruise offers good value considering the included dinner, drinks, entertainment, and the scenic experience.
• Timing: Evening cruises start with boarding at 6 p.m., giving you plenty of time to enjoy the sunset and then transition into dancing.
• Dress Code: Smart-casual is appropriate—think nice jeans or trousers, and a collared shirt or dress.
• Accessibility: Unfortunately, the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible due to its multiple decks, so plan accordingly if mobility is an issue.
• Parking: The Grand Quais paid lot is available, with bicycle parking and e-charging stations. Additional parking options are nearby.
• Weather: Since part of the experience is outdoors, dress warmly or bring a jacket, especially in cooler months.
• Food Preferences: Vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free options are available upon request, just let the staff know.
• Sustainability: The boats are environmentally friendly, inspected, and certified by Transport Canada, aligning with eco-conscious travelers’ values.

Authentic Experiences and Guest Feedback

Many reviews highlight the quality of the food and the attentiveness of the staff. One guest from the US said, “The food was very good…and I did not leave the boat hungry,” while another from Hungary appreciated the “delicious foods” and “friendly” staff. Guests also mention the good value for the experience, especially with the VIP Red Carpet upgrade, which offers a more luxurious experience with priority boarding and extra treats.

The scenery garners consistent praise, with many noting that the views of Montréal’s cityscape at night are unforgettable. The entertainment—especially the dance afterward—receives high marks for fun, with many guests saying it was the highlight of their evening.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This dinner cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a memorable evening in Montréal, combining good food, spectacular views, and lively entertainment. It’s especially suited for couples celebrating a special occasion, groups wanting a unique night out, or anyone eager to see Montréal’s skyline from a different perspective. If you enjoy gourmet cuisine, scenic cruises, and dancing, you’ll find plenty to love here.

However, those with mobility issues or looking for a more casual, low-key experience might want to explore other options. Also, keep in mind that the cruise is primarily intended for evening entertainment, so it might not be suitable for very early travelers or those with strict daytime schedules.

The Sum Up

This Montréal dinner cruise offers a well-rounded package: gourmet local cuisine, breathtaking views, and entertainment that turns an ordinary evening into a special event. It’s a fantastic choice for those who appreciate good food and scenic beauty, with the added bonus of dancing and socializing under the stars. The excellent reviews confirm it’s a popular, high-value experience, especially with the VIP upgrade.

While it’s priced at a premium, many guests feel the quality of the food, the ambiance, and the sights justify the expense. Just be sure to dress warmly, arrive on time, and bring your camera—this cruise promises a memorable night out in Montréal.

FAQs

How long is the dinner cruise?
The cruise lasts about 3.5 hours, starting with boarding around 6 p.m. and returning to dock at 10:30 p.m.

Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve your spot ahead of time. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers a 3- or 5-course meal with options, tea and coffee, a welcome cocktail, wine, and a digestif with the VIP Red Carpet upgrade. Entertainment and cruise commentary are also included.

Are dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, please inform the staff of any allergies or special diets like vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free when booking or upon arrival.

Is parking available?
Yes, the Grand Quais paid lot has parking, bicycle racks, and electric vehicle chargers. Additional paid parking options are nearby.

Can I take photos during the cruise?
Absolutely—especially from the outdoor terraces. The illuminated cityscape and landmarks like the Jacques-Cartier Bridge make for great photo opportunities.

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

What should I wear?
Smart-casual attire is appropriate. Bringing a jacket is advisable, especially if you plan to spend time on the outdoor terraces.

In sum, the Montréal dinner cruise with DJ and dancing is a delightful way to enjoy the city’s beauty and flavors after sunset. It’s a refined yet lively experience, perfect for creating lasting memories in one of Canada’s most vibrant cities.

You can check availability for your dates here: