Discover the beauty and marvels of Quebec through the St. Lawrence River, the third longest river in Canada, that played a significant role in shaping the history of the province. Sail across beautiful rivers where you can spot whales and other sea creatures, such as seals and belugas, on a boat tour in Québec.

You can also make stops along the way to explore charming riverside towns and see important landmarks, including the famous Château Frontenac and the Montmorency Falls.

From dinner cruises to whale-watching tours and more, here you will find all you need to know about boat tours, one of the most fun outdoor activities in Québec.

What are the most popular boat tours in Québec?

Québec boat tours offer various forms of entertainment, such as whale-watching, sightseeing, live music and more. Many tours also offer dining experiences, including five-course dinners.

Whale-watching tours in Québec

Spot majestic whales on a Québec cruise and stop to explore Baie-Sainte-Catherine or Tadoussac. You will take a scenic drive by the St. Lawrence River, then board your boat and look out for whales, belugas and seals.

Québec City sightseeing cruise

There are no stops on these Québec boat tours, so you can relax on deck and enjoy sightseeing from the boat. You can choose a day or night tour, then enjoy views of Montmorency Falls and the Laurentian Mountains as you sail along the St. Lawrence River.

Grosse-île cruise

Visit the historic Grosse Île island on this 6-hour Québec boat excursion. A Parks Canada guide will lead you on the tour to give you insight into the island’s history.

Québec City boat tour with entertainment

This Québec City boat tour also offers great views of the St. Lawrence River with the added bonus of live entertainment. The boat’s DJ will play you some tunes as you look out over the deck.

Three-course brunch cruise

Sit back and enjoy views of the St. Lawrence River, as you eat a three-course brunch on this Québec boat tour. Brunch is served inside enclosed glass dining rooms or on outside terraces, where you can sightsee while enjoying a delicious meal.

Five-course dinner cruise

This dinner cruise offers a five-course meal and live entertainment while you sail across the river. You can sightsee, as you try out the delicious food and listen to the onboard music. The tour takes place around sunset, so the views are always scenic.

How much do boat tours in Québec cost?

Boat tours in Québec vary greatly in price:

Whale-watching tours cost about US$110 to US$140 per person
Québec City sightseeing cruises cost about US$40 per person for a one-hour trip and roughly US$50 per person for a 3-hour trip. You can buy food on the boat at your own expense.
Grosse-île cruises cost roughly US$80 per adult, and US$50 for children aged 5 to 12.
Five-course dinner cruises cost roughly US$150 per adult and US$130 per child ages 2 to 12. This includes your entertainment and food.
Brunch cruises cost about US$80 per adult and US$50 per child aged 2 to 12.
Québec City boat tours with entertainment cost US$50 per person, including the cost of the live show.

Which places are visited with a boat tour in Québec?

Château Frontenac

You can see from your boat on the St. Lawrence River the Château Frontenac, a 100-year-old historic hotel and a National Historic Site of Canada. It has 18 floors, which makes it a grand sight, even from afar.

Grosse-île

Some boat tours in Québec make stops at Grosse-île, an island in the St. Lawrence River. The island used to be Canada’s main entry point for immigrants, so it’s home to many historical landmarks like the Irish Memorial National Historic Site.

The Laurentian Mountains

You can spot the Laurentian Mountains north of the St. Lawrence River, as you sail towards the horizon. The mountain range stands over 1,100 meters tall, so you can admire the various peaks from your boat.

Île d'Orléans

Québec boat tours sail past Île d'Orléans, an island in the St. Lawrence River. Île d'Orléans has many scenic natural landscapes which you can see from afar while you cruise down the river.

How long does a boat trip last?

Half-day boat tours in Quebec usually last 2 to 3 hours, while full-day trips go on for 4 to 7 hours. Multi-day boat tours can last anywhere from 2 to 5 nights.

Where do boat tours leave from?

Québec boat tours depart from Quai Chouinard, a launch site for boats on the St. Lawrence River. Some tours will pick you up from your accommodation within a specified pickup area. Other tours will require you to meet at the Quai Chouinard at the start of the tour.

When is the best time for a boat trip in Québec?

The best time for a boat trip in Québec is in the summer months, as it will not be too cold on the water, and you can enjoy ample sunshine. Sunrise and sunset tours are particularly enjoyable due to the views on the horizon.

Which other outdoor activities can be done in Québec?

Travel tips

Bring drinking water to stay hydrated.
Bring a camera or a cellphone, so you can take photographs.
Wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
Bring a light jacket as it is windier on the water.
Wear sunscreen and a hat for sunny days.

Boat Tours in Quebec City