Cruise along the scenic St. Lawrence River and uncover the captivating history of Montreal on this guided sightseeing tour. Departing from the Old Port’s Grand Quai, the journey takes you beneath the iconic Jacques-Cartier Bridge and across the enchanting St. Helens Island. Narrated in French and English, with an 8-language audio guide, this floating adventure offers a comprehensive cultural experience. Gaze out from the al fresco terraces or the glass-enclosed dining area, while savoring refreshments and taking in the city’s picturesque shoreline and landmarks. What secrets await as you set sail on this unique voyage through Montreal’s past?
Key Points
- Captivating journey along the scenic St. Lawrence River with views of the iconic Jacques-Cartier Bridge and the enchanting St. Helens Island.
- Includes a narrated cruise in French and English with an 8-language audio guide, providing historical insights about Montreal’s landmarks.
- Offers on-board amenities such as al fresco terraces, a glass-enclosed dining area, and a selection of light refreshments.
- Departs from the Grand Quai in the Old Port, with public transportation being the recommended option for reaching the meeting point.
- Covers a distance of 22 miles (35 kilometers) along the St. Lawrence River, showcasing the picturesque shoreline and islands of Boucherville.
Overview of the Cruise
The Montreal History Guided Sightseeing Cruise offers passengers a captivating journey along the scenic St. Lawrence River, providing a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and picturesque waterfront.
With 250 reviews praising the experience, the cruise departs from the Old Port’s Grand Quai, inviting travelers to glide under the iconic Jacques-Cartier Bridge and discover the enchanting St. Helens Island.
Narrated in both French and English, the guided tour also provides an audio guide in eight languages, ensuring a well-rounded and immersive experience.
Passengers can relax on the ship’s al fresco terraces or glass-enclosed dining area, savoring the waterfront views and a memorable bistro experience.
Inclusions and Exclusions
Included in the Montreal History Guided Sightseeing Cruise is a captivating St. Lawrence River cruise, where passengers can glide under the Jacques-Cartier Bridge and explore the enchanting St. Helens Island.
Plus, the guided tour is narrated in both French and English, with an audio guide available in eight languages, ensuring an immersive experience for travelers.
However, alcoholic beverages, gratuities, and hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included in the package.
Passengers can relax on the unique floating terrace and enjoy the waterfront views and a memorable bistro experience.
While food and drinks, including muffins, salads, cookies, sandwiches, juice, and cocktails, are available for purchase, the cruise doesn’t provide these complimentary.
Meeting and Pickup Location
The meeting point for the Montreal History Guided Sightseeing Cruise is located at 200 R. de la Commune O, Montréal, QC H2Y 4B2, Canada, at the Grand Quay in the Old Port.
This scenic area along the St. Lawrence River provides an ideal starting point for the cruise.
Travelers should note that parking can be tricky in this part of the city, so public transportation is the recommended way to arrive.
Once at the Grand Quay, guests will find the cruise departure point and be able to easily board the vessel for their journey along the river, passing by Montreal’s iconic landmarks and enjoying the city’s beautiful waterfront views.
Duration and Distance of Cruise
Guests embarking on the Montreal History Guided Sightseeing Cruise can expect to journey 22 miles (35 kilometers) along the scenic St. Lawrence River near the city’s waterfront.
During the cruise, passengers will pass by a variety of famous sights, including:
- The islands of Boucherville
- The iconic Jacques-Cartier Bridge
- Montreal’s picturesque shoreline
The cruise offers both al fresco terraces and a glass-enclosed dining area, allowing guests to sit back, relax, and take in the stunning riverfront views.
Whether you’re interested in the city’s history or simply want to enjoy a leisurely day on the water, this cruise provides a memorable and immersive experience.
Notable Sights Along the Cruise
As the cruise glides along the scenic St. Lawrence River, passengers are treated to a panoramic view of the islands of Boucherville, their lush greenery and serene waterways providing a tranquil counterpoint to the bustling metropolitan skyline of Montreal in the distance.
The iconic Jacques-Cartier Bridge, with its distinctive steel truss design, spans the river, a testament to the city’s engineering prowess.
Passengers can also explore the verdant expanse of St. Helens Island, a popular recreational hub that offers hiking trails, picnic areas, and breathtaking vistas of the river and its surroundings.
Throughout the journey, the knowledgeable guides provide fascinating insights into the rich history and cultural significance of these iconic landmarks, enriching the overall experience.
Onboard Amenities and Experiences
Passengers can bask in the ambiance of the ship’s al fresco terraces, where they’ll find ample space to unwind and soak in the scenic waterfront views of Montreal.
Alternatively, they can retreat to the glass-enclosed dining area to enjoy a selection of muffins, salads, cookies, sandwiches, juice, and cocktails available for purchase, making for a memorable bistro experience on the river.
The cruise offers a range of onboard amenities and experiences:
- Relax on the outdoor decks and terraces
- Indulge in a tasty selection of food and drinks
- Explore the ship’s glass-enclosed dining area
- Discover the vessel’s unique floating terrace
- Enjoy a captivating audioguide in 8 languages
Food and Beverage Options
Aboard the cruise, passengers can indulge in a variety of food and beverage options to enhance their sightseeing experience.
From muffins and salads to cookies and sandwiches, the onboard selection caters to diverse tastes, while a selection of juices and cocktails offers refreshment on the water.
Those looking for a more sophisticated experience can savor a glass of wine or a signature cocktail, available for purchase during the 4 pm cruise.
The floating terrace provides the perfect setting to enjoy these delectable offerings while taking in the stunning views of the St. Lawrence River and the city’s picturesque shoreline.
Transportation and Parking Considerations
The meeting point for the Montreal History Guided Sightseeing Cruise is located at the Grand Quai in the Old Port, where parking can be a challenge.
Public transportation is the recommended option for those attending the tour, as it provides a hassle-free and eco-friendly way to arrive at the departure point.
The cruise organizers suggest considering the following transportation options:
- Taking the metro to the Old Port station
- Catching a bus or taxi to the Grand Quai
- Riding a bike and taking advantage of the nearby bike lanes
- Walking from nearby hotels or attractions in the Old Port area
- Using a ride-sharing service like Uber or Lyft to get to the meeting point
Frequently Asked Questions
How Often Do the Cruises Operate During the Season?
The cruises operate daily during the peak season, with multiple departures throughout the day. Schedules may vary during shoulder seasons, so it’s best to check the operator’s website for the most up-to-date information.
Are There Any Age Restrictions or Special Accommodations for Children?
The cruise welcomes all ages, with special accommodations for children. Families can enjoy the scenic views and onboard amenities together. Infants and toddlers ride for free, while older kids can purchase tickets at reduced rates.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?
Passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks on board, but they can enjoy the cruise’s bistro experience with a selection of snacks, meals, and beverages available for purchase during the journey along the St. Lawrence River.
Are There Discounts or Package Deals Available for the Cruise?
The cruise offers discounted tickets for children, seniors, and students. There are also package deals available that include a combination of the cruise with other Montreal attractions, providing a cost-effective way to experience the city’s highlights.
Can I Book Private or Group Cruises for Special Events?
Yes, the cruise company offers private and group cruises for special events like weddings, corporate functions, and birthday celebrations. They provide customized packages and options to make your event on the St. Lawrence River unique and memorable.
Recap
The Montreal History Guided Sightseeing Cruise offers a captivating way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and scenic waterways.
Gliding along the St. Lawrence River, passengers can enjoy the rich history and culture of Montreal, all while enjoying the convenience of onboard amenities and the stunning views from the comfort of a glass-enclosed or open-air setting.
