Québec City: Weekend River Brunch Cruise

Imagine cruising along the St. Lawrence River in a comfortable boat while enjoying a hearty 3-course brunch and soaking in views of Québec’s most iconic sights. That’s exactly what the Québec City Weekend River Brunch Cruise offers. It’s an experience that combines good food, fascinating stories, and breathtaking scenery—perfect for those who want to slow down and see the city from a different angle.

What we love about this cruise is how effortlessly it blends delicious local cuisine with informative guiding and spectacular vistas. The boat’s outdoor terrace provides a great spot to relax, chat, and take photos. The only thing to consider is that it runs for about two and a half hours, so it’s best suited for travelers who enjoy a relaxed pace and good company. Perfect for families, couples, or anyone looking to enjoy Québec’s water and history in style.

This cruise would be especially appealing if you appreciate authentic experiences, scenic views, and a leisurely meal with a view. It’s a balanced outing—more than just a boat ride, less than a full-day tour—making it an excellent choice for a morning or early afternoon activity.

Key Points

• Scenic water views of Québec City’s most famous sights, including Château Frontenac and Montmorency Falls.
• Hearty, locally sourced 3-course brunch made onboard by an executive chef.
• Expert, bilingual guide offering engaging stories about the city’s history and culture.
• Relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere with outdoor terraces to soak up sunshine.
• Value-packed experience at $72 per person for 2.5 hours of food, scenery, and storytelling.
• Signature VIP upgrade includes priority boarding and guaranteed window seats for the best views.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Québec City Brunch Cruise

Setting Sail on the St. Lawrence River

The adventure begins at Chouinard Pier, a convenient spot close to the heart of old Québec. After exchanging your voucher and showing photo ID, you board a comfortably appointed boat that’s equipped with multiple decks—though not wheelchair accessible. The boat’s design invites you to enjoy the fresh air and breathtaking vistas from the outdoor terrace, which is perfect for taking photos or just soaking in the sun.

The timing is well thought out, with boarding at 10:30 a.m. and a full schedule that keeps you engaged without feeling rushed. You’ll start with your delicious brunch—a highlight of the experience—before setting off for a scenic cruise that circles around the city’s waterfront.

The Brunch Experience

The onboard 3-course brunch is carefully prepared using locally sourced ingredients. The menu varies seasonally but typically includes an array of pastries, hearty main courses, and sweet treats. The starter usually features a selection of pastries, setting a continental tone. The appetizer might be Greek yogurt with wild blueberry preserves, a nod to local flavors.

The main course options are hearty and diverse. For instance, a gourmet casserole with scrambled eggs, potatoes, peppers, cheese curds, bacon, and chicken sausage offers a filling start to the day, especially if you’re traveling with a bigger appetite. The Captain’s Plate includes traditional breakfast staples such as eggs, meat pie, and baked beans, ensuring there’s something for all.

Vegetarians and vegans aren’t left out—there’s usually a vegan casserole with potatoes, vegan sausage, and roasted vegetables, plus gluten-free options. For the sweet tooth, golden waffles topped with maple sauce and wild berries are a sure-fire hit, while the kids’ menu features simple favorites like scrambled eggs and bacon.

Beverages include coffee, tea, and orange juice, and those seeking a more celebratory start can upgrade to the signature brunch, which grants priority boarding, a chilled mimosa, and window seating. This upgrade especially appeals if you want the best views and a bit of luxury.

The Scenic Cruise

After brunch, the boat departs on a 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise. This segment is where the magic of water-based sightseeing shines. As you gently glide along the river, you’ll see the Château Frontenac, with its fairy-tale turrets, majestically overlooking the Old City. The guide shares stories about the landmarks—stories that make the sights come alive.

You’ll also pass Montmorency Falls, which is almost as tall as Niagara and makes for stunning photos from the water. The tour includes views of Île d’Orléans, a picturesque island known for its farms, wineries, and charming villages. The guide’s commentary is bilingual, friendly, and informative—“very passionate,” according to reviews, which adds authenticity and depth.

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Why Travelers Love It

Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the stunning scenery. One said, “The brunch was delicious and plentiful,” while another appreciated the informative commentary that made the sights even more meaningful. The outdoor deck gets especially high marks for providing ample space to relax and take photos amid the panoramic views.

Considerations and Practical Tips

The cruise is family-friendly but not wheelchair accessible, due to its multi-deck design. Parking is paid and available nearby, which travelers note is convenient. Be sure to bring weather-appropriate clothing—the boat is open-air, and weather can change quickly. Also, alert your server about any food allergies or dietary restrictions, as the menu features plenty of options.

Pricing at $72 per person offers good value considering the length of the cruise, the quality of the food, and the scenic experience. The VIP upgrade costs extra but can be worthwhile for those wanting the best seats and a more exclusive experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who enjoy good food and want a relaxed way to see Québec’s highlights. It suits families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a scenic, leisurely activity. If you’re interested in local cuisine, stunning water views, and informative guidance, this experience ticks all those boxes.

It’s less suited for travelers seeking a full-day tour or those with mobility challenges due to accessibility constraints. Also, if you prefer keeping your activities flexible or spontaneous, booking ahead is recommended, especially for the VIP upgrade.

Final Thoughts

The Québec City Weekend River Brunch Cruise delivers a combination of scenic beauty, delectable food, and engaging storytelling. It’s a well-rounded experience that offers a peaceful escape from the busy streets of Old Québec. The local sourcing of ingredients, bilingual guides, and spectacular views make it stand out as a special treat.

A great way to see the city from the water, this cruise provides value for money with its mix of sightseeing, dining, and storytelling—all wrapped into 2.5 hours. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to relax and enjoy Québec’s natural and architectural beauty, this cruise is likely to leave you with memorable photos and stories.

FAQs

How long does the cruise last?
The entire experience lasts about 2.5 hours, including one hour for brunch and 1.5 hours for the sightseeing cruise.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers a 3-course brunch, tea, coffee, orange juice, the 1.5-hour cruise, bilingual commentary, and tips.

Is there a VIP upgrade available?
Yes, for an extra fee, you can enjoy priority boarding, a chilled mimosa, and guaranteed window seating to maximize the scenic experience.

Where do I meet for the cruise?
Board at Chouinard Pier, next to the boat. Be sure to exchange your voucher for your ticket at the nearby ticket booth.

Can I bring my pet or food onboard?
Pets, outside food, drinks, alcohol, and smoking are not allowed onboard.

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

Is the boat accessible for wheelchairs?
No, the boat is not wheelchair accessible due to its multiple decks.

This River Brunch Cruise offers a delightful way to enjoy Québec in a relaxed, scenic setting. It’s a perfect outing for those who want to combine good food, stunning views, and a touch of local history—all in one smooth, enjoyable package.

You can check availability for your dates here: