Quebec City Guided Sightseeing Cruise

Quebec City’s iconic skyline, with its historic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac hotel, is a sight to behold. Nestled along the St. Lawrence River, the city offers a unique opportunity to explore its rich history and stunning natural beauty through a guided sightseeing cruise. This 1.5-hour tour aboard the AML Louis Jolliet ship provides passengers with captivating insights into the city’s past, delivered by a costumed guide portraying the famous explorer himself. As the ship glides along the river, passengers can enjoy panoramic views from the outdoor terraces or the indoor dining area, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

This experience made our list of the 21 Best Cruises And Boat Tours In Quebec City.

Key Points

• This 1.5-hour guided sightseeing cruise aboard the AML Louis Jolliet ship showcases Quebec City’s iconic skyline, Montmorency Falls, and Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.
• The cruise features live narration by a costumed guide portraying Louis Jolliet, providing insights into the city’s history and key sights.
• Passengers can enjoy the views from three exterior terraces or the indoor dining area, with a range of food and beverage options available.
• The cruise departs from Chouinard Pier, which is easily accessible by public transportation, and guests should arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure.
• Highlights of the cruise include admiring the Cap Diamant promontory, the majestic Montmorency Falls, the historic Île d’Orléans, and the iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac.

Overview of the Cruise

The Quebec City Sightseeing Cruise is a 1.5-hour guided tour that showcases the city’s iconic skyline, the majestic Montmorency Falls, and the famous Fairmont Le Château Frontenac hotel.

Aboard the AML Louis Jolliet ship, passengers can choose from three exterior terraces or an indoor dining area to enjoy the scenic views. A costumed guide portraying Louis Jolliet provides live narration, sharing the history and points of interest along the St. Lawrence River.

While the cruise includes GST and the guided experience, guests will need to pay for any additional food, drinks, or gratuities.

Public transportation is recommended as parking and traffic in the area can be challenging.

What’s Included in the Tour

The Quebec City Sightseeing Cruise includes the Goods and Services Tax (GST) as well as a guided tour experience aboard the AML Louis Jolliet ship.

Passengers can enjoy the spectacular view of Old Quebec from one of the ship’s three exterior terraces or the indoor dining area.

The tour features live narration by a costumed guide portraying Louis Jolliet, who shares insights about the city’s history, the St. Lawrence River, and the key sights along the way.

While food and drinks are available for purchase, gratuities and hotel pickup/drop-off aren’t included in the tour price.

Meeting Point and Pickup

The meeting point for the Quebec City Sightseeing Cruise is Chouinard Pier, located at 10 Rue Dalhousie in Quebec City.

Parking and traffic in the area can be challenging, so public transportation is recommended for getting to the departure point.

The pier is easily accessible by public transit, with nearby bus and ferry stops.

Guests are advised to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time to ensure a smooth embarkation process.

The cruise company recommends allowing extra time for transportation and parking, if necessary, to avoid any delays in starting the tour on time.

Once at the pier, guests will find the AML Louis Jolliet ship awaiting their arrival for the 1.5-hour sightseeing cruise.

Cruise Experience Highlights

Guests can expect a delightful cruise aboard the AML Louis Jolliet ship, which offers three exterior terraces and an indoor dining area for optimal viewing and comfort throughout the 1.5-hour journey.

During the cruise, a costumed guide portraying the famous explorer Louis Jolliet will provide live narration, sharing captivating insights about the history, river, and points of interest along the way.

Key highlights of the experience include:

1. Spectacular views of the Quebec City skyline and iconic Fairmont Le Château Frontenac hotel.

2. Panoramic perspectives of the majestic Montmorency Falls, which stands 83 meters high, taller than Niagara Falls.

3. Exploration of the historical Île d’Orléans, a charming island borough along the St. Lawrence River.

Beverages and snacks are available for purchase, allowing guests to fully enjoy the sights and sounds of this memorable cruise.

Key Sights Along the Route

As the cruise sets sail, passengers can look forward to admiring several key landmarks and natural wonders along the route.

Towering over the city, the iconic Cap Diamant promontory provides a stunning backdrop, while the mighty Montmorency Falls, standing 83 meters high and surpassing even Niagara Falls, impresses with its sheer power and grandeur.

The cruise also passes by the historical Île d’Orléans, a borough rich in cultural heritage, and the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, the iconic hotel that has become a symbol of Quebec City’s timeless elegance.

These captivating sights, combined with the guided commentary, offer a comprehensive and enriching experience for all who embark on this Quebec City sightseeing cruise.

Duration and Highlights

This 1.5-hour guided sightseeing cruise provides passengers with a spectacular view of Quebec City’s iconic skyline, including the towering Montmorency Falls and the Fairmont Le Château Frontenac hotel.

The highlights of the tour include:

1. Admiring the breathtaking Quebec City skyline from the comfort of the AML Louis Jolliet ship.

2. Marveling at the impressive Montmorency Falls, which stands 83 meters high – higher than Niagara Falls.

3. Witnessing the historic Île d’Orléans and the world-renowned Fairmont Le Château Frontenac, one of the city’s most iconic landmarks.

The cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the city’s rich history and natural beauty while enjoying the convenience of a guided tour.

Parking and Public Transport

Due to the potential difficulties with parking and traffic in the area, public transportation is recommended for getting to the Chouinard Pier, the meeting point for the Quebec City Sightseeing Cruise.

Parking may be limited and challenging to find, especially during peak tourist seasons.

The cruise organizers encourage visitors to use public transit options like buses or the city’s efficient public transportation system.

This won’t only make the journey more seamless but also help reduce congestion and environmental impact.

Detailed information on the nearest bus stops and routes is available on the cruise operator’s website to help plan the trip.

Choosing public transport is the easiest and most convenient way to arrive at the cruise departure point.

Beverages and Snacks Available

Aboard the AML Louis Jolliet ship, visitors can purchase a variety of beverages and snacks to enjoy during the Quebec City sightseeing cruise.

Whether thirsty for a refreshing drink or craving a light bite, the on-board concessions offer a selection to suit different tastes and preferences. The menu features:

• A range of hot and cold non-alcoholic beverages, including coffee, tea, juices, and soft drinks
• A variety of beer and wine options for those seeking an alcoholic libation
• A selection of pre-packaged snacks, such as chips, granola bars, and sweet treats

Passengers can indulge in these offerings as they take in the stunning views of Quebec City’s iconic landmarks during the memorable cruise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are There Any Age Restrictions for the Cruise?

The cruise generally does not have any age restrictions. Children of all ages are typically welcome to join the sightseeing tour. However, it’s recommended to check with the tour operator for any specific policies or requirements regarding minors.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?

Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on board the cruise. However, the cruise line may have specific policies regarding outside food and beverages, so it’s best to check with them before the trip.

Are There Any Discounts Available for Children or Seniors?

Yes, many sightseeing cruises offer discounts for children and seniors. Typical discounts range from 10-20% off the regular adult fare. Customers should inquire about available discounts when booking their tickets to take advantage of potential savings.

How Accessible Is the Vessel for Guests With Disabilities?

The vessel offers good accessibility, with ramps for boarding and ample space for wheelchair users. Staff are trained to assist guests with disabilities. However, some areas like the upper decks may have limited accessibility.

Can I Book Private or Group Tours for the Cruise?

Yes, the cruise company offers private and group tours for the Quebec City sightseeing cruise. Guests can book these specialized tours in advance to ensure availability and accommodate their group’s needs and preferences.

Recap

The Quebec City Guided Sightseeing Cruise offers a comprehensive tour showcasing the city’s iconic landmarks and natural wonders.

Passengers can enjoy stunning views from various vantage points while a knowledgeable guide provides insights into the region’s rich history.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this cruise is a great way to explore and appreciate the beauty of Quebec City.