Ottawa Boat Cruise - Rideau Canal Cruise

Ottawa , Canada

Ottawa Boat Cruise - Rideau Canal Cruise

Active

(1128 reviews)

All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

The most unique way to discover Ottawa is on board the world's-largest, certified, 100%-electric, passenger vessel. You will sail for 90 minutes on the iconic Rideau Canal and have a novel view of downtown Ottawa! The National Arts Centre, Lansdowne Park, Dow’s Lake, and many more scenic views await you! You will discover more with the live bilingual commentary and the free audio guide application. Come to 2 Rideau Street for your tickets, just across the street from Parliament Hill. The schedule is mid-May to mid-October, 6 departures per day, 7 days a week.

Available options

Rideau Canal Cruise

Taxes and fees are included

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Guide

Detailed itinerary

The cruises will let you discover the wonderful Rideau Canal, from Dow's Lake to the Ottawa River. Be surprised by the richness and the historical landmarks that will be offered on the cruise!

During your cruise you will discover the heritage of the city of Ottawa in a very different way! From the Chateau Laurier to Dow's Lake, you will have the chance to learn about thirty different sites that have marked the history of the city. In addition, several miscellaneous fun and often surprising facts will be presented!

You will also have the chance to learn about the following historical sites:

University of Ottawa campus, German Embassy, Armenian Embassy, Trans-Canada Highway, Pretoria Bridge, Canadian Museum of Nature, St. Patrick Statue, Canal Ritz, Lansdowne Park, TD Place Stadium, TD Place Arena, Bank Street Bridge, Dow’s Lake, Commissioners Park, Dominion Arboretum, and many more.

Stop 2 Pass by

See the sites of Canada's Capital city from it's unique canal including the Canadian Museum of Nature

See the sites of Ottawa!

Stop 4

Travel down the Rideau Canal in Canada's Capital

Travel down the unique Rideau canal and see the sites of Ottawa including Lansdowne Park

See the sites from the unique Rideau Canal including Dow's Lake

See the City Hall of Ottawa

See the Shaw Centre from the Rideau Canal

Stop 9 Pass by

See the world famous Ottawa Locks from the boat

See the campus of the University of Ottawa from the Rideau Canal

See the sites of Ottawa

What's not included

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Available languages

Guide guide

EN FR

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.2

483 reviews

5★

287

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.4

645 reviews

5★

431

4★

111

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Children must be accompanied by an adult

Please note- there is no rescheduling

Meeting point

Departures are on the National Art Center side of the canal
We are located behind the National Art Center (1 Elgin Street). Right beside the 1 Elgin St Cafe.
Directions: Below the Plaza Bridge (Rideau Street Bridge)

Important notes

Please arrive 20 minutes before departure time. We are located behind the National Arts Centre (1 Elgin street). Right beside the 1 Elgin St cafe.
Still lost? Go to our ticket kiosk at 2 Rideau St for directions.

Please note- there is no rescheduling

Please note- there is no rescheduling

About Ottawa

Ottawa, the capital of Canada, is a city rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. It's known for its stunning architecture, vibrant festivals, and the iconic Parliament Hill. The city offers a unique blend of urban sophistication and outdoor adventures along the scenic Rideau Canal and Gatineau Park.

Top Attractions

Parliament Hill

The political and cultural heart of Canada, featuring the iconic Parliament Buildings and the Peace Tower.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (tours may have fees)

Rideau Canal

A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Rideau Canal is the longest skating rink in the world in winter and a popular spot for boating in summer.

Nature 1-2 hours Free (skate rentals available in winter)

ByWard Market

A historic market area with a vibrant mix of shops, restaurants, bars, and nightlife.

Cultural 1-2 hours Free to explore (costs vary for food and shopping)

National Gallery of Canada

A premier art museum featuring Canadian and international art, including works by the Group of Seven and Indigenous artists.

Museum 1-2 hours CAD 18 (free for youth under 12)

Gatineau Park

A vast natural park across the Ottawa River in Gatineau, Quebec, offering hiking, biking, and scenic views.

Nature Half-day to full-day Free (parking fees may apply)

Must-Try Local Dishes

BeaverTails

Fried dough pastries stretched to resemble a beaver's tail, topped with various sweet toppings like cinnamon sugar, Nutella, and maple butter.

Dessert Vegetarian (check for specific toppings)

Poutine

A Canadian classic made with French fries, cheese curds, and gravy.

Main Course Vegetarian options available (check for specific ingredients)

Tourtière

A traditional Quebecois meat pie, often made with minced pork, veal, or beef, and seasoned with spices.

Main Course Contains meat

Popular Activities

Hiking in Gatineau Park Skiing in Mont-Tremblant Whitewater rafting on the Ottawa River Boating on the Rideau Canal Picnicking in Major's Hill Park Spa treatments Visiting museums (National Gallery, Canadian War Museum) Exploring historic sites (Parliament Hill, Rideau Hall)

Best Time to Visit

June to August, October

Summer is the peak tourist season with warm weather, outdoor festivals, and all attractions open. October is also popular for fall foliage.

15°C to 30°C 59°F to 86°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English, French
Widely spoken: English, French, and other immigrant languages
English: Widely spoken

Currency

Canadian Dollar (CAD)

Time Zone

EST (GMT-5) or EDT (GMT-4) during daylight saving time

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Ottawa is generally safe with low crime rates. However, as with any city, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.