Ottawa River Cruise - Capital Cruises

Embark on an extraordinary adventure through the heart of Canada's capital city with an Ottawa River Cruise. This 1.5-hour scenic journey along the majestic Ottawa River offers an immersive experience, showcasing the region's stunning beauty and iconic landmarks. Whether you choose to board in Ottawa or Gatineau, you'll be captivated by the breathtaking views and entertained by knowledgeable bilingual guides who share fascinating stories about the area's rich history and cultural significance. Get ready to discover the capital's hidden gems and witness its unparalleled spectacular views from a unique perspective.

What to Know

Before embarking on your Ottawa River Cruise, it's important to note a few details. The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, providing ample time to soak in the scenic beauty and learn about the region's history. The tours operate from May to October, allowing visitors to experience the river's splendor during the warmer months. The cruises are available in both English and French, ensuring that all guests can fully appreciate the entertaining and informative commentary. The vessels are equipped with washrooms, and a fully licensed bar and snack menu are available on board for your convenience.

How to Get There

There are two departure docks for the Ottawa Boat Cruise: one in Gatineau and the other in Ottawa. To reach the Ottawa departure dock, walk left of the Locks along 1 Canal Lane, past the Bytown Museum to the River. If you're departing from Gatineau, head to the Hull Marina at 160 Laurier Avenue. Both locations are easily accessible, and parking is available at the Ottawa River Cruise Hull Marina in Gatineau. Please plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process.

The best way to reach the departure docks is by booking a Private Ottawa Tour which features VIP transportation from your hotel in Ottawa. Sit back and relax as you hop aboard the Rideau Canal Cruise to explore the UNESCO World Heritage site! You'll be treated to Ottawa's best sights and sounds on North America’s largest 100% electric passenger vessel. As a bonus, you'll get to explore the largest and oldest standing church in the city — Notre-Dame Cathedral Basilica. So what are you waiting for? Book your guided tour now! 

Hours of Operation

The Ottawa River Cruise operates from May to October, offering a delightful experience during the warmer months of the year. The duration of the cruise is approximately 1.5 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the sights, engage with the guides, and capture memorable moments.

Best Time to Visit

While the Ottawa River Cruise is an enchanting experience throughout the operating season, the best time to visit depends on personal preferences. Spring and summer allow you to witness the region's vibrant beauty as nature awakens and lush greenery surrounds the riverbanks. The warm weather and longer days provide an ideal atmosphere for a leisurely cruise. Fall, with its colorful foliage, offers a different kind of charm, creating a picturesque backdrop as you navigate the river. Whichever season you choose, the Ottawa River Cruise promises a captivating journey through the capital's natural and architectural wonders.

Highlights

Prepare to be amazed by the array of highlights that await you on the Ottawa River Cruise. From the stunning Parliament Buildings and the historic Rideau Canal Locks to the majestic Rideau Falls and the renowned Canadian Museum of History, each landmark tells a story of Ottawa's rich heritage and cultural significance. As you sail along the sparkling waters of the Ottawa River, take in the breathtaking views of the capital city, including the iconic Chateau Laurier Hotel, the National Gallery of Canada, and the Supreme Court of Canada. Your tour guide will provide engaging commentary, sharing fascinating facts and anecdotes about the sights, ensuring an immersive and educational experience.

Features

The Ottawa River Cruise offers a range of features that enhance your journey and ensure your comfort. Step onto the spacious upper deck, where you can relax and enjoy the refreshing breeze as you take in the panoramic view of the city. The fully licensed bar on board allows you to indulge in a cool beverage of your choice (at your own expense) while admiring the stunning surroundings. The closed-in lower deck provides shelter from the elements and offers a canteen with a bar, ensuring your comfort throughout the cruise. With bilingual commentary available in English and French, all guests can fully immerse themselves in the captivating tales and interesting facts shared by the knowledgeable guides.

As you set sail on the Ottawa River Cruise, prepare to be captivated by the beauty, history, and cultural significance of Canada's capital. This scenic journey along the Ottawa River offers a unique perspective on the city's landmarks and showcases the region's natural splendor. Book your Ottawa River Cruise today and embark on an unforgettable adventure through Ottawa's captivating past and breathtaking present.