Ottawa’s waterways offer travelers the best vantage points to appreciate Canada’s capital city. The standout options include intimate canal cruises combining walking tours (perfect for history buffs), comfortable yacht excursions on the Ottawa River (great views of Parliament), and educational trips along the UNESCO-listed Rideau Canal. The evening tropical cruise gets my vote for pure fun – sipping cocktails while watching the sunset over the city beats fighting crowds on land. Most vessels are wheelchair-friendly and welcome families with kids.
I especially love the small group canal tours – the local guides share fascinating stories about Ottawa’s transformation from lumber town to capital city. For first-timers, the Rideau Canal cruise provides excellent orientation and context.
Let’s check out Ottawa’s most worthwhile water tours…
Key Points
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The Rideau Canal Cruise provides a scenic 1.5-hour journey along the UNESCO-designated Rideau Canal, showcasing Ottawa’s landmarks and history.
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The Floating Tiki Bar offers a unique, laidback experience with tropical-themed cocktails and views of the Ottawa River cityscape.
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The Ottawa Yacht Cruises on the Ottawa River feature luxury accommodations, an onboard bar, and positive reviews for cleanliness and staff service.
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The Ottawa Small Group Night Tour includes a scenic river cruise and light show, exploring historic neighborhoods and sharing haunted tales.
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The Ottawa Boat Cruise – Pauls Boat Line provides a 4.3-rated sightseeing experience along the Ottawa River with bilingual commentary and wheelchair accessibility.
Best of Ottawa Small Group Walking Tour With Boat Cruise
The Best of Ottawa Small Group Walking Tour with Boat Cruise offers an immersive exploration of Canada’s capital city.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour takes visitors past key attractions like the giant spider sculpture, Royal Mint, and Byward Market.
The walking portion is complemented by a seasonal cruise on the Rideau Canal, providing a unique perspective of the city.
While most customers praise the informative guides and enjoyable experiences, some have noted issues with communication and organization.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and infants can join on laps.
Advance booking is recommended to secure a spot in the maximum group size of 10 travelers.
Read our full review: Best of Ottawa Small Group Walking Tour With Boat Cruise Review
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Ottawa: Yacht Cruises on Ottawa River – Wed, Thu, or Fri
On the picturesque Ottawa River, visitors can experience luxury yacht cruises with scheduled departures throughout the week.
These 1.5-2 hour cruises accommodate up to 12 passengers, providing personalized service in English and French. Priced at $60.73 per person, the cruises allow for a reserve now and pay later option, along with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Aboard the world-class Sea Ray yacht, guests can enjoy an onboard bar, spacious cockpit, sundeck, and immersive sound system. While not a guided tour, the cruises offer a comfortable and relaxing experience on the water.
With positive reviews highlighting cleanliness and staff service, these yacht cruises are recommended for couples, solo travelers, and groups alike.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Yacht Cruises on Ottawa River – Wed, Thu, or Fri Review
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Ottawa Boat Cruise – Pauls Boat Line
For visitors seeking a narrated sightseeing experience along the Ottawa River, the Ottawa Boat Cruise by Pauls Boat Line offers a popular option.
Rated 4.3 based on 728 reviews, the tour highlights include views of Parliament Hill and Nepean Point. Bilingual commentary is provided in French and English, and departure times are flexible.
The tour includes all fees and taxes, with hotel pick-up and drop-off available. While the boat is wheelchair accessible only at the Hull Marina, strollers and service animals are allowed.
However, some customers have noted issues with booking and accessing the boat dock. The cruise provides an educational and relaxing way to explore Ottawa’s waterfront.
Read our full review: Ottawa Boat Cruise – Pauls Boat Line Review
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Ottawa: Small Group Night Tour W/River Cruise & Light Show
Visitors can look forward to a captivating night exploration of Ottawa on this small group tour that combines a scenic river cruise and a dazzling light show.
Over 75 minutes, the tour takes guests through the city’s historic neighborhoods, regaling them with tales of Ottawa’s haunted past.
The highlight is a 1.5-hour cruise along the Ottawa River, where travelers can admire the illuminated landmarks and enjoy a choreographed light show on the water.
Priced from $20.18 per person, this tour offers an immersive way to experience the capital’s nightlife and natural beauty.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Small Group Night Tour W/River Cruise & Light Show Review
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Ottawa Boat Cruise – Rideau Canal Cruise
Situated along the UNESCO-designated Rideau Canal, the Ottawa Boat Cruise offers travelers a 1.5-hour journey through the heart of Canada’s capital.
Aboard a fully-electric passenger vessel, guests can enjoy live commentary from a knowledgeable guide while taking in sights like the Canadian Museum of Nature, Château Laurier, and Ottawa Locks.
With a maximum capacity of 95 travelers, the cruise provides an intimate experience to explore Ottawa’s history and heritage.
While most reviews praise the smooth ride and informative guides, some customers have noted discomfort with the seating and issues with parking.
Read our full review: Ottawa Boat Cruise – Rideau Canal Cruise Review
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Ottawa: Best of Ottawa Small-Group Tour With Canal Cruise
Exploring Canada’s capital city of Ottawa has never been easier with the “Best of Ottawa Small-Group Tour With Canal Cruise.”
This immersive 4-hour experience takes travelers on a comprehensive journey through the city’s most iconic landmarks and hidden gems. Priced at $113.61 per person, the tour includes a relaxing Rideau Canal cruise, a narrated driving tour, and photo stops at key attractions like Parliament Hill and the Canadian Museum of History.
With hotel pickup and drop-off, complimentary transportation, and a small group size, this tour offers an unparalleled way to discover the best of Ottawa.
Positive reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and insightful tours, making this a must-do activity for visitors.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Best of Ottawa Small-Group Tour With Canal Cruise Review
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Ottawa Small Group Night Tour With River Cruise + Light Show
This 2.5-hour Ottawa Small Group Night Tour with River Cruise and Light Show provides an enchanting way to experience the capital city after dark.
The tour departs from downtown hotels and transports you in a luxury van to various landmarks, including a scenic sunset cruise on the Ottawa River. You’ll also visit the Byward Market and enjoy the Seasonal Sound and Light Show on Parliament Hill, when available.
The tour’s small group size of 6 participants maximum ensures a more personalized experience. While reviews are mixed, many praise the knowledgeable guides and comfortable transportation.
Dress warmly for the evening boat ride and book in advance to secure your spot on this unique Ottawa adventure.
Read our full review: Ottawa Small Group Night Tour With River Cruise + Light Show Review
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Ottawa: Small-Group Walking Tour With Boat Cruise
For those seeking an in-depth exploration of Ottawa’s historic landmarks and picturesque waterways, the Ottawa Small-Group Walking Tour with Boat Cruise delivers an engaging and comprehensive experience.
Priced at $70.74 per person, this 3.5-hour tour takes participants on a small-group journey through the city’s notable sights, including the Royal Mint, Notre Dame Cathedral Basilica, and ByWard Market.
The walking tour culminates in a scenic cruise along the Rideau Canal, offering breathtaking views of downtown Ottawa.
Led by a live guide, the experience includes visits to cultural institutions and is suitable for all weather conditions.
With a maximum group size of 10 and free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, this tour provides a personalized and flexible way to discover the capital city.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Small-Group Walking Tour With Boat Cruise Review
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Best of Ottawa Small Group Tour With River Cruise
The Best of Ottawa Small Group Tour with River Cruise offers an engaging way to discover the capital city’s key landmarks and scenic waterways.
Over approximately 4 hours, this small-group tour (maximum 9 travelers) showcases the city’s highlights, including Rockcliffe Park, Parliament Buildings, and a scenic Ottawa River cruise.
Knowledgeable guides provide narrated commentary, while the air-conditioned minivan and boat transportation ensure comfort.
Reviewers praise the tour’s efficiency in covering major attractions, the friendly and informative guides, and the unique access to off-limits areas.
Though the tour may not be suitable for those with mobility issues, it’s an excellent option for visitors seeking a comprehensive and personalized Ottawa experience.
Read our full review: Best of Ottawa Small Group Tour With River Cruise Review
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Ottawa: Sightseeing River Cruise
Tourists seeking to explore Ottawa’s iconic landmarks from a unique vantage point will find the Ottawa Sightseeing River Cruise an ideal choice.
Priced from Kč 752 per person, the 1.5-hour tour offers bilingual commentary in English and French, providing insights into the city’s history and the river’s significance as a transportation route.
The cruise showcases views of the Parliament Buildings, Rideau Canal Locks, and Gatineau from the large open-air upper deck or the closed-in lower deck with a bar and canteen.
With an overall rating of 4.3/5 and positive feedback on the engaging guides and beautiful scenery, this cruise is a must for visitors looking to see Ottawa from the water.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Sightseeing River Cruise Review
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Ottawa: Floating Tiki Bar Cruise on the Ottawa River
A unique and fun way to experience the beauty of the Ottawa River is the Floating Tiki Bar Cruise.
This 1.5-hour cruise allows you to relax on a tropical-themed boat with a full bar and Caribbean-inspired cocktails.
Cruising along the Ottawa River, you’ll take in the stunning views of the city skyline and surrounding nature.
The Floating Tiki Bar Cruise is a great option for groups or couples looking for a laidback, social experience on the water.
Priced at Kč 823 per person, it’s one of the more affordable river cruises in Ottawa, making it an accessible way to enjoy the city from a new perspective.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Floating Tiki Bar Cruise on the Ottawa River Review
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Ottawa: Rideau Canal Cruise
One of the most popular and iconic boat tours in Ottawa is the Rideau Canal Cruise. Priced from $34.44 per person, this 1.5-hour tour aboard a 100% electric vessel allows you to discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rideau Canal.
Along the way, you’ll admire landmarks like the Canadian Museum of Nature and Château Laurier while enjoying live commentary in English and French. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and audio guides are available in multiple languages.
With an overall rating of 4.4/5 from 845 reviews, the Rideau Canal Cruise is a scenic and informative way to experience Ottawa’s waterways.
Read our full review: Ottawa: Rideau Canal Cruise Review
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Recap
Ottawa offers an array of captivating boat tours and cruises for visitors to experience the city’s picturesque waterways. From scenic river cruises to themed excursions like the Floating Tiki Bar, there’s something for all to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a serene daytime outing or a lively evening on the water, these tours provide a unique perspective on the nation’s capital.