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

If you’re looking to add a touch of elegance and romance to your Montreal visit, the Bateau-Mouche dinner cruise offers a unique way to enjoy the city’s stunning waterfront. While it’s not a cheap night out, the combination of scenic views, good food, and live music can make for a memorable experience. We’ve looked into what this cruise really offers, from the atmosphere onboard to the quality of the food, and here’s what you need to know before booking.

What we love about this experience is the beautiful vantage point it provides of Montreal’s skyline and landmarks, like the Old Montreal district and the Pont Jacques-Cartier. The up to 6-course à la carte menu is another highlight, giving you the flexibility to pick dishes that suit your palate. On the flip side, one thing to consider is that food and drinks are not included in the ticket price, meaning extra costs during the cruise. This cruise is well-suited for those seeking a relaxing evening with scenic views, good food, and a touch of class — perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone celebrating a special occasion.

Key Points

• Stunning views of Montreal’s skyline and landmarks along the St. Lawrence River.
• Flexible dining options with up to six courses available à la carte.
• Live music onboard enhances the ambiance, sometimes featuring a musical trio.
• Boarding at Old Montreal’s Quai Jacques-Cartier offers easy access to some of the city’s most historic areas.
• Price around $61 per person, but food and drinks are paid separately.
• Weather can influence the experience, with the roof possibly staying closed in poor conditions.
• Limited accessibility for those with mobility impairments or in wheelchairs.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Montreal Bateau-Mouche Dinner Cruise

The Itinerary and Setting

The cruise begins with boarding at 6:30 PM at Quai Jacques-Cartier in the Old Port of Montreal. It’s recommended to arrive half an hour early to exchange your voucher and settle in. From there, the boat departs at 7 PM, with a return expected around 10 PM after a roughly three-hour voyage.

The boat itself has been recently redesigned to blend ambient lighting with panoramic windows, creating a cozy yet elegant environment. As you settle into your seat, you’ll notice the close proximity of other guests — some reviews mention tight tables, especially if you’re seated near the window, which can make for a crowded experience if you’re hoping for privacy or space.

The Views and Atmosphere

Once underway, the primary draw becomes the breathtaking scenery. You’ll pass by Montreal’s skyline, with views of Old Montreal’s historic architecture and the modern downtown area. The Pont Jacques-Cartier bridge provides a spectacular backdrop, especially at sunset or when lit up at night. Reviewers have described the scenery as “as good as what one can expect on the river” and “a lot more of the port than I had thought, but still nice”.

Music onboard, sometimes provided by a live trio, adds a sophisticated touch. During certain evenings, jazz or traditional tunes create a relaxed, romantic vibe that pairs well with the scenic backdrop. Many reviewers mention the music enhances the experience, with some calling it “relaxing” or “super enjoyable.”

Dining: The Up to 6-Course A La Carte Menu

Here’s where the experience varies quite a bit. The ticket price, around $61 per person, covers the cruise itself but not the meal. Guests choose their dishes onboard from a thoughtfully curated menu, which offers up to six courses. The menu is prepared in collaboration with a Montreal-based catering company, emphasizing quality and presentation.

A common thread in reviews is high praise for the quality of the food. One guest highly recommends the filet mignon, describing it as “delicious,” and others enjoyed dishes like duck and tapas-style bites. Some mention that the menu is gourmet, with plenty of options to keep everyone satisfied. However, one review pointed out that the bar and wine cellar are well-stocked, making it easy to pair your meal with a glass of wine or a cocktail, though this, too, comes at an extra charge.

Pricing for drinks and additional food can add up, with some guests noting that a full meal and drinks can push the cost significantly higher, sometimes around $100+ per person when you factor in drinks and gratuity. If you’re budget-conscious, it’s worth planning for these extra expenses.

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Service and Staff

Guests consistently highlight the attentive service onboard. From the moment you step aboard, the crew works to ensure your experience is smooth. Several reviews mention particularly helpful servers and a welcoming atmosphere. One guest noted that a staff member named Erick was “awesome,” emphasizing the friendly, professional service.

Weather and Practical Tips

Since the cruise occurs rain or shine, it’s important to prepare accordingly. The roof may stay closed if the weather turns poor, which can limit your views somewhat. The terrace remains accessible during the cruise, offering an open-air experience if the weather permits, but it can be small and crowded when busy.

Passengers are advised to bring warm clothing, especially for night cruises in spring, fall, or chilly evenings. Smoking, large luggage, or coolers are not permitted onboard, so pack light.

Accessibility and Limitations

This cruise isn’t suitable for travelers with mobility impairments or wheelchair users. The vessel’s design limits access, so it’s best to consider this if mobility is a concern.

Authentic Experiences and Real Guest Opinions

The mix of reviews paints a clear picture: many guests rave about the views and the food. One reviewer mentioned that the sunset dinner was “wonderful” and praised the delicious fillet. Others appreciated the live jazz music and the relaxing atmosphere. The small group setting and attentive service make it feel intimate, even if the boat can get busy.

However, some guests note that the space onboard can be cramped, especially at tables near the windows. The check-in process, according to one review, could be clearer — so arriving early and confirming details helps avoid confusion.

Value for Money

While the cruise offers a glamorous setting and spectacular views, the additional costs for food and drinks mean it’s not the most budget-friendly option. Still, many guests feel the experience is worth the price — particularly if you love scenic cruises combined with gourmet dining.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is best suited for those wanting a romantic evening, special celebration, or a unique way to see Montreal’s waterfront from a different perspective. It’s ideal for small groups or couples who appreciate good food, live music, and scenic views. Those seeking a more budget-friendly activity might prefer to enjoy the views from the shore or opt for a daytime cruise with no meal.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Bateau-Mouche dinner cruise offers a charming blend of sightseeing, gourmet food, and live music that can turn an ordinary night into something memorable. The stunning cityscape views and the flexibility of choosing your meal make it a special experience, especially if you’re celebrating an occasion or want a romantic night out.

However, it’s important to factor in the extra costs for food and drinks and that space can be tight. If you’re looking for a relaxed, scenic dinner with top-notch views, this cruise delivers. But if budget is a concern, or you prefer more space and fewer extra expenses, you might consider simpler options around Old Montreal or daytime cruises.

All in all, this experience balances value and charm fairly well, especially for those who prioritize ambiance and scenery. It’s not the cheapest way to see Montreal by water, but it’s certainly one to remember.

FAQ

Is the meal included in the ticket price?
No, the ticket price covers the cruise and onboard entertainment, but the meal is ordered à la carte and paid for separately during the cruise.

What is the duration of the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3 hours, starting at 7 PM and returning around 10 PM.

Can I access the outdoor terrace during the cruise?
Yes, the terrace remains accessible at all times from 6:30 PM, weather permitting. Keep in mind the space is limited.

Is this cruise suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for those with mobility impairments or in wheelchairs due to vessel design.

What should I bring for the cruise?
Bring credit cards for additional purchases, and warm clothing for evening chills. Be aware that luggage or large bags are not permitted onboard.

Are children allowed on this cruise?
While not explicitly stated, most reviews and policies suggest it’s geared toward adults, and small group size might not be ideal for children.

What’s the best time of year to go?
The cruise takes place rain or shine, so the best time is during warmer months, but be ready for potential weather-related closures or roof covering.

Whether you cherish scenic views, gourmet dining, or a touch of romance, the Montreal Bateau-Mouche dinner cruise has plenty to offer — just remember to budget for extras and come prepared for weather.

You can check availability for your dates here: