Ottawa: Sightseeing River Cruise

The Ottawa River Cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s iconic landmarks from the comfort of a scenic waterway. Priced at just $32 per person, this affordable adventure provides a relaxing way to appreciate the architectural wonders and natural beauty that define Canada’s capital. With bilingual commentary and on-board refreshments, the cruise caters to visitors of all ages and interests, promising an enriching experience that goes beyond the typical sightseeing tour. But the true allure of this experience lies in the chance to witness Ottawa’s vibrant history and culture unfold before your eyes, leaving you eager to uncover more.

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

Key Points

• The 1.5-hour River Cruise in Ottawa offers scenic views of iconic landmarks like the Parliament Buildings and Rideau Canal Locks at an affordable starting price of $32 per person.

• The cruise features bilingual commentary in English and French, providing an inclusive and informative experience for passengers.

• Onboard amenities, including a canteen and bar, ensure passenger comfort and convenience during the sightseeing journey.

• The cruise is designed to be wheelchair accessible and family-friendly, catering to a diverse range of travelers.

• With an overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars and positive feedback on the knowledgeable guides and unique perspectives, the Ottawa River Cruise offers great value for money.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Overview of the River Cruise

The Ottawa Sightseeing River Cruise offers a 1.5-hour journey along the scenic waterways, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to admire the city’s renowned landmarks from the comfort of a boat.

Priced from $32 per person, the cruise boasts free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and a reserve now, pay later option for added convenience.

Passengers can expect bilingual commentary in English and French, as well as an on-board canteen with a bar.

With a high likelihood of selling out, this activity is a must-do for those seeking to explore Ottawa’s iconic sights, including the Parliament Buildings and Rideau Canal Locks, from a refreshing perspective on the water.

Pricing and Cancellation Policy

The Ottawa Sightseeing River Cruise offers prices starting from $32.00 per person, making it an affordable option for visitors to explore the city’s iconic landmarks from the water.

Notably, the cruise provides free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, allowing for flexibility in planning, and a reserve now, pay later feature, which enables guests to secure their spot without an upfront payment.

With a duration of 1.5 hours, the cruise is likely to sell out, so it’s recommended to book in advance.

The affordable pricing, flexible cancellation policy, and convenient booking options make this river cruise an attractive choice for those seeking to discover Ottawa from a unique waterfront perspective.

Highlights of the Experience

From the comfort of the cruise ship, visitors can admire iconic landmarks like the Parliament Buildings and Rideau Canal Locks along the riverfront.

The bilingual commentary in English and French enhances the experience, providing insight into the sights.

On top of that, the cruise offers a unique opportunity to see Ottawa’s attractions from a perspective only accessible by water.

On-board, an available canteen and bar allow passengers to enjoy refreshments as they take in the city’s stunning vistas.

Whether it’s spotting sights that can’t be seen from land or simply relishing the tranquility of the river, the Ottawa Sightseeing River Cruise promises an engaging and memorable experience.

Departure Locations and Times

Two departure docks are available for the Ottawa Sightseeing River Cruise – one in Gatineau and one in Ottawa.

The meeting point may vary depending on the specific cruise option booked, so passengers should check the availability and starting times for their preferred departure location.

Cruises depart from both the Gatineau and Ottawa docks, offering visitors flexibility in choosing their departure point.

Passengers can check the cruise schedule and availability for their desired departure time and location when booking their tickets.

Whether starting from the Gatineau or Ottawa side of the river, guests will enjoy the same breathtaking views of the city’s landmarks during the 1.5-hour excursion.

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Accessibility and Participant Information

Along With the flexible departure options, the Ottawa Sightseeing River Cruise is designed to accommodate a wide range of participants.

It’s wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility challenges. The cruise welcomes both adults aged 13 to 99 and children aged 3 to 12, with infants 2 and younger also able to join the experience.

Multilingual commentary is provided in both English and French, ensuring an inclusive experience for all visitors.

Whether you’re an adult or a family with young children, the Ottawa Sightseeing River Cruise offers an accessible and enjoyable way to explore the city’s landmarks from the water.

Bilingual Commentary

The Ottawa Sightseeing River Cruise provides bilingual commentary in both English and French, ensuring an informative and inclusive experience for all visitors. Whether you’re an Anglophone or a Francophone, you’ll be able to fully appreciate the historical significance and architectural beauty of the city’s landmarks as you cruise along the picturesque Ottawa River.

Feature	Details
Languages	English and French
Guides	Knowledgeable and bilingual
Accessibility	Available for all passengers
Engagement	Interactive and educational
Inclusivity	Caters to diverse language needs

The bilingual commentary enhances the overall tour, allowing passengers to enjoy the city’s rich cultural heritage from multiple perspectives.

On-board Amenities

Passengers aboard the Ottawa Sightseeing River Cruise can typically purchase refreshments and beverages from the on-board canteen and bar, enhancing their overall experience on the water.

The canteen offers a selection of snacks, light meals, and non-alcoholic drinks, catering to varied tastes and dietary needs.

For those looking to indulge, the on-board bar serves a range of alcoholic beverages, from local craft beers to wines and cocktails.

The availability of these amenities allows passengers to enjoy their scenic cruise in comfort, without having to worry about bringing their own food and drinks.

This added convenience contributes to the overall enjoyment of the sightseeing experience.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

Based on the 1,180 reviews, customers have overwhelmingly praised the Ottawa Sightseeing River Cruise, awarding it an impressive overall rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.

Highlighting the knowledgeable and engaging guides as well as the stunning views of the city’s landmarks from the water, reviewers have consistently expressed their satisfaction with the value and quality of the experience.

Passengers particularly appreciated:

• The informative and entertaining commentary provided in both English and French.

• The opportunity to see sights and perspectives only accessible from the river.

• The convenience of the two boarding locations in Gatineau and Ottawa.

• The on-board canteen and bar for refreshments during the 1.5-hour cruise.

• The excellent value for money, with the cruise being reasonably priced.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Yes, passengers are typically allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the sightseeing cruise. However, an on-board canteen and bar are available for those who prefer purchasing refreshments during the tour.

Is There an Option for a Private or Group Booking?

Yes, the Ottawa Sightseeing River Cruise offers private and group booking options. Customers can reserve the entire boat for a private event or join a scheduled group tour, allowing for a more personalized sightseeing experience.

What Is the Best Time of Day to Take the Cruise?

The best time for the sightseeing river cruise depends on personal preferences. Many recommend the early afternoon cruises to avoid crowds and enjoy the most favorable lighting for capturing photos of the city’s landmarks.

Do I Need to Make a Reservation, or Can I Just Show Up?

You generally need to make a reservation for the sightseeing river cruise, as it’s a popular activity that often sells out. However, it may be possible to show up and purchase tickets on the day, depending on availability.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?

The river cruise offers discounts for seniors and students. Seniors (age 65+) can receive a 10% discount, while students (with valid student ID) can get a 5% discount on the standard ticket price. These discounted rates must be requested at the time of booking.

Recap

The Ottawa sightseeing river cruise offers a delightful way to explore the city’s iconic landmarks from the waterways.

Priced affordably at just $32 per person, the 1.5-hour cruise provides bilingual commentary and on-board refreshments, making it an accessible and engaging experience for visitors of all ages.

With stunning views and a relaxing atmosphere, this river cruise is a must-do activity for anyone seeking to enjoy Ottawa’s rich heritage.

You can check if your dates are available here: