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

If you’re seeking a different way to soak in Quebec City’s charm, a dinner cruise on the St. Lawrence offers a delightful blend of scenery, cuisine, and entertainment. This experience promises a memorable evening where you can enjoy a gourmet meal against a backdrop of historic buildings, rolling landscapes, and the illuminated skyline. It’s a popular choice for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a relaxed, luxurious atmosphere.

What we particularly like about this cruise is how seamlessly it balances delicious local-inspired food with breathtaking views—especially at sunset—and then ramps up the fun with a DJ and dancing under the stars. The option to upgrade to a Red Carpet experience adds a layer of exclusivity if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want the VIP treatment.

One thing to consider, however, is the duration—at 3.5 hours, some might find it a bit long, especially if you’re sensitive to boat motion or tight schedules. This cruise is best suited for travelers eager to indulge in a scenic, gastronomic, and lively experience all in one evening, making it ideal for couples, groups, or anyone looking to enjoy Quebec City from a different perspective.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Offers iconic sights like Château Frontenac and Montmorency Falls during sunset.
• Gourmet Dining: Features a well-curated 3 or 5-course menu inspired by local ingredients.
• Entertainment & Atmosphere: Live DJ or music, with dancing on the deck, creates a lively vibe.
• Flexible Experience: Options to upgrade to VIP with additional perks and lobster tail.
• Valuable for All: Suitable for those interested in sightseeing, food, or a fun night out.
• Accessibility: Not wheelchair accessible, so check your needs before booking.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Scenic Evening on the St. Lawrence

Imagine cruising the mighty St. Lawrence River as the sun dips behind Quebec’s skyline. That’s just what this dinner cruise offers. The boat departs from Chouinard Pier at around 6 p.m., giving you plenty of time to settle in before the ship slips away into the evening glow. As you leave the dock, you’re greeted with a welcome cocktail or a glass of wine if you’ve upgraded.

The boat itself is well maintained, certified by Transport Canada, and environmentally conscious—so you can enjoy the scenery guilt-free. The journey lasts about 3.5 hours, a length that balances enough time for a full meal and some entertainment without feeling too drawn out.

The Dining Experience: Local Flavors & Gourmet Cuisine

What sets this cruise apart is its bistronomic menu inspired by Quebec’s local ingredients. The culinary quality is notable—everything is prepared onboard by an executive chef, promising fresh, flavorful dishes. The menu includes a variety of options, from seafood like Atlantic salmon and lobster tails to hearty beef cheeks or chicken, ensuring there’s something for all.

Each course is timed carefully, allowing you to savor the food while enjoying the views. The amuse-bouche sets a refined tone with smoked shrimp or mackerel, and the dessert—a chocolate mousse dome with caramel and raspberry custard—adds a sweet finish. Reviews describe the food as “fantastic,” with special dietary needs graciously accommodated, which is a key plus for many travelers.

The Red Carpet upgrade enhances the experience with priority boarding, a reserved window seat, and exclusive dishes like filet mignon and lobster tail. Plus, it includes a welcome cocktail, a bottle of wine for two, and a digestif, making it perfect for celebrating a special night.

Breathtaking Views & Scenic Highlights

Throughout the cruise, panoramic vistas are plentiful. You’ll see the illuminated Château Frontenac, the Old Québec area glowing softly at night, and Île d’Orléans‘ lush landscapes. As the boat passes by Montmorency Falls, usually visible from the deck, you get a sense of the grandeur of Quebec’s natural scenery. The commentary provided (though not overly detailed) adds context, explaining the significance of the sights and region.

Guests often praise the stunning sunset and the serene atmosphere during dinner, making it a peaceful yet lively experience. After dinner, the upstairs deck opens up with a lively dance floor, where the DJ spins popular hits, and the crowd enjoys dancing under the stars. Reviewers mention that the music quality is good, and the atmosphere fun, although some note that the length of the cruise might be a bit long for some.

The Dance & Evening Entertainment

Once dinner wraps up, the party kicks into gear. The DJ or live music sets the tone for a lively dance floor. Guests can enjoy a relaxed, social vibe, with many mentioning how they appreciated the chance to mingle and chat with others, sometimes even striking up conversations with Canadians at neighboring tables.

The evening dance is a highlight for many, with some reviewers describing it as “so fun” and “a perfect way to end the night.” The lively music contrasts nicely with the tranquil dinner, providing a dynamic experience that appeals to those wanting both a serene scenic journey and a bit of lively entertainment.

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Practical Tips & Considerations

Booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure the preferred options like the Red Carpet upgrade. The price of $126 per person is fair when you consider the three-course meal, scenic cruise, live entertainment, and the overall experience. It’s a good value for a special night out, especially if you’re looking to combine sightseeing, fine dining, and fun.

Parking is not included—paid parking is available at Chouinard Pier or nearby. Make sure to arrive early to exchange your voucher and find a spot. Remember, credit cards only are accepted onboard, so leave cash at home.

For those with dietary restrictions, it’s best to inform your server in advance, as the menu has options for vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free diets. Also, be aware that the boat is not wheelchair accessible due to its multiple decks, so plan accordingly if mobility is an issue.

Reviews & Authentic Voices

Guests consistently praise the quality of food and service, often highlighting how well their dietary needs were accommodated. One reviewer called the experience “perfect,” noting the “delicious food” and “great music.” Others appreciated the stunning views and the chance to dance under the stars after a delicious meal.

Some mention the cruise length as a minor point—”a little too long at 3.5 hours”—but most agree that the pace is comfortable. The friendly staff and the scenic backdrop make it a memorable experience, especially for those celebrating something special or wanting to see Quebec in a relaxed, elegant way.

This dinner cruise offers a balanced mix of spectacular scenery, delicious local cuisine, and lively entertainment. It’s a great choice for couples, groups of friends, or families who want to enjoy Quebec City from the water, especially at sunset. The gourmet menu and optional VIP treatment make it feel special without being overly formal or stuffy.

While it’s not ideal for wheelchair users due to accessibility constraints, most travelers who enjoy good food, scenic views, and a bit of dancing will find this a worthwhile splurge. It’s especially well-suited for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to indulge in a relaxed, memorable evening.

If you’re visiting Quebec City and looking for a unique experience that combines sightseeing with fine dining and fun, this dinner cruise checks all boxes. It’s a flexible, enjoyable way to appreciate the city’s beauty after dark and enjoy some quality food and music. Just remember to book early, arrive prepared with ID and a credit card, and get ready for a lovely night on the water.

FAQ

Is the dinner cruise suitable for vegetarians or special diets?
Yes. The menu can accommodate vegetarians, vegans, and gluten-free options if you inform your server in advance.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately 3.5 hours, starting at 6 p.m. and returning around 10:30 p.m.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers a 3 or 5-course meal, tea & coffee, welcome cocktail, wine, digestif (if upgraded), live entertainment, and commentary.

Can I upgrade to a VIP or Red Carpet experience?
Yes. Upgrading provides priority boarding, a reserved window seat, special dishes like filet mignon and lobster tail, plus extra beverages.

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

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchair users?
No. The boat’s multiple decks are not suited to mobility devices.

What should I bring?
Bring a photo ID, credit card, and dress comfortably for the boat environment.

Are pets allowed onboard?
No, pets are not permitted on the cruise.

What is the dress code?
While not strictly formal, smart casual is recommended for a more enjoyable experience.

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

You can check availability for your dates here: