Ottawa: Rideau Canal Cruise

Exploring the UNESCO-listed Rideau Canal in Ottawa is a must-do activity for visitors. This 1.5-hour cruise aboard an eco-friendly electric boat offers a unique perspective on the city’s iconic landmarks. As passengers glide along the picturesque waterway, they’ll learn about the canal’s rich history from the live commentary. From the stunning architecture of the Canadian Museum of Nature to the grand Château Laurier, this leisurely journey showcases Ottawa’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local seeking a new adventure, the Rideau Canal cruise promises an unforgettable experience. But what truly sets this tour apart is…

This experience made our list of the 12 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Ottawa.

Key Points

• 1.5-hour electric cruise on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rideau Canal, showcasing Ottawa’s historic landmarks and natural beauty.
• Flexible cancellation policy and pay-later option, with starting price of $35.03 per person.
• Wheelchair accessible vessel with comfortable seating and panoramic views, accommodating all ages from 2 to 99.
• Live commentary on over 30 historical sites, including the Canadian Museum of Nature and Château Laurier.
• Departure location behind the National Arts Centre, with recommended arrival 30 minutes prior to departure for a hassle-free experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Activity Overview

The Ottawa: Rideau Canal Cruise offers visitors a 1.5-hour excursion on the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rideau Canal, with prices starting from $35.03 per person.

Guests can enjoy the cruise in English or French, with the vessel being wheelchair accessible. The cancellation policy is flexible, allowing free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Passengers can reserve their spot now and pay later, ensuring a hassle-free booking experience. The cruise departs from downtown Ottawa, with the recommendation to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure.

Both adults and children are welcome on the tour, though unaccompanied minors aren’t permitted.

Experience Highlights

Guests aboard the Ottawa: Rideau Canal Cruise can explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed waterway on a 100% electric vessel, providing an eco-friendly and immersive experience.

The cruise offers stunning views of Ottawa’s iconic landmarks, including:

• The Canadian Museum of Nature, a stunning Victorian-style building

• Château Laurier, a historic luxury hotel with a distinctive castle-like appearance

• Dow’s Lake, a picturesque body of water surrounded by parks and gardens

• The National Arts Centre, an impressive modern performing arts venue

Throughout the relaxing journey, the live commentary provides fascinating insights into over 30 historical sites along the Rideau Canal, from the Trans-Canada Highway to Lansdowne Park, enriching the overall experience.

Meeting Point and Directions

The cruise departs from behind the National Arts Center, located at 1 Elgin St in downtown Ottawa, Canada.

Participants are advised to arrive 30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth boarding process. The meeting point is conveniently situated near major landmarks like the Canadian Museum of Nature and Château Laurier, making it easy for visitors to find.

Once at the departure location, guests will be directed to the electric vessel that will take them on a relaxing journey along the UNESCO-listed Rideau Canal.

With clear signage and friendly staff on hand, the embarkation process is efficient and hassle-free, allowing participants to focus on enjoying the scenic cruise ahead.

Participant Information

With the embarkation process handled smoothly, the cruise welcomes participants of all ages. Adults aged 12-99 years, children from 3-11 years, and even infants 2 years and younger can join this Rideau Canal adventure.

However, children must be accompanied by an adult, and unaccompanied minors aren’t permitted on the tour. Plus, mobility scooters aren’t allowed on the vessel, ensuring a safe and comfortable experience for all passengers.

The cruise caters to a diverse audience:

• Families can create lasting memories as they explore the UNESCO-listed Rideau Canal together.

• Solo travelers can enjoy the relaxing ambiance and live commentary while taking in the sights.

• Groups can bond over the shared experience of this unique Ottawa attraction.

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Customer Feedback

Overwhelmingly, customers have praised the Rideau Canal cruise, with a stellar overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 from 719 reviews. Travelers consistently commend the knowledgeable and engaging tour guides, who earn a 4.7/5 rating for their insightful live commentary on the canal’s 30 historical sites. Passengers also express satisfaction with the transportation, giving the electric vessel a 4.6/5 rating for a smooth and comfortable journey. While most find the experience to be a great value for money with a 4.2/5 rating, some note that excessive talking by fellow passengers can occasionally disrupt the overall experience. Recommendations include sitting in specific areas for better views.

Rating	Score
Overall	4.4/5
Guide	4.7/5
Transportation	4.6/5
Value for Money	4.2/5

Cruise Itinerary

Passengers embarking on the Rideau Canal cruise can expect a 1.5-hour journey that showcases some of Ottawa’s most iconic landmarks and natural wonders.

The fully electric vessel departs from behind the National Arts Centre, providing a relaxing sightseeing experience along the UNESCO World Heritage-listed waterway.

Along the route, passengers will enjoy live commentary on over 30 historical sites, including:

• The Canadian Museum of Nature, a striking limestone building showcasing Canada’s natural heritage

• Châ­teau Laurier, the iconic French château-style hotel overlooking the canal

• Dow’s Lake, a popular recreational hub surrounded by parklands and gardens

The cruise offers a unique perspective on Ottawa’s rich history and natural beauty.

Vessel Information

The Rideau Canal cruise is operated aboard a 100% electric vessel, offering passengers a quiet and eco-friendly journey through the historic waterway.

The boat features comfortable seating, large windows providing panoramic views, and an open-air upper deck for optimal sightseeing.

The vessel’s electric propulsion system ensures a peaceful and emissions-free experience, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the canal.

With a maximum capacity of 150 passengers, the boat provides an intimate and personalized tour, ensuring everyone has a clear view of the passing landmarks.

The thoughtful design and sustainable technology of the cruise boat enhance the overall enjoyment and appreciation of this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Accessibility and Policies

The Rideau Canal cruise is wheelchair accessible, allowing mobility-impaired visitors to fully experience this UNESCO World Heritage site.

Passengers can board the 100% electric vessel with ease, and the boat’s thoughtful design ensures an inclusive and comfortable journey for guests of all abilities.

Children must be accompanied by an adult, and unaccompanied minors aren’t permitted on the tour.

Passengers are advised to arrive 30 minutes prior to departure, and a full refund is available for cancellations made up to 24 hours in advance.

The tour is available in both English and French, catering to a diverse audience.

Passengers can reserve their spot and pay later, providing flexibility in planning their trip.

The Rideau Canal cruise offers a relaxing and informative way to explore the sights of downtown Ottawa.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. However, it’s recommended to check with the cruise operator beforehand, as some may have restrictions or prefer that guests purchase refreshments on board.

Are Pets Allowed on the Cruise?

Pets are generally not allowed on the cruise for safety and hygiene reasons. The cruise operator’s policies prohibit bringing any animals on board, with the exception of service animals that assist passengers with disabilities. Passengers should leave their pets at home when booking the cruise.

Are There Any Photo Opportunities During the Cruise?

There are ample photo opportunities during the cruise. Passengers can capture stunning views of the UNESCO-listed Rideau Canal, as well as landmarks like the Canadian Museum of Nature and Château Laurier. The cruise offers an ideal setting for memorable snapshots.

Can I Get off the Boat at Any Point During the Cruise?

No, passengers cannot get off the boat at any point during the cruise. The tour is a continuous 1.5-hour experience with no scheduled stops along the way. Disembarking before the end of the cruise is not permitted.

Is There a Dress Code for the Cruise?

There is no specific dress code for the cruise. Passengers are advised to dress comfortably for the weather and the boat ride. Casual attire is generally appropriate, though no formal wear is required.

Recap

The Rideau Canal cruise in Ottawa offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and stunning waterways.

Passengers can enjoy breathtaking views of iconic landmarks while learning about the canal’s significance as a UNESCO World Heritage site.

With a 100% electric vessel and live commentary, this family-friendly excursion is an eco-friendly and informative way to experience the beauty of Ottawa.

You can check if your dates are available here: