14 Best Boat Tours & Cruises In Ottawa (With Prices)

Ottawa’s waterways are an ideal way to explore the city’s charm, history, and lively atmosphere. Unlike many cities, Ottawa offers a variety of boat tours and cruises that showcase its iconic landmarks from the water, providing a fresh perspective.

Whether you’re after a relaxed ride along the UNESCO-listed Rideau Canal or an evening cruise with sweeping views of Parliament Hill, there’s something to suit every interest.

We particularly enjoy the Ottawa: Rideau Canal Cruise for its deep dive into local history and the Floating Tiki Bar Cruise for its fun, tropical twist—both showing how Ottawa’s waterways can be lively and scenic.

If you’re wondering which cruise is right for you, this guide compares the most popular options, highlighting what makes each unique, from family-friendly daytime outings to romantic sunset sails. Read on to find your ideal water adventure in Ottawa.

1. Ottawa: Rideau Canal Cruise

This 1.5-hour cruise takes you along the historic Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage site, from Dow’s Lake to the Ottawa River. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed experience with plenty of insight. The boat features live commentary, which makes the journey more engaging as you learn about the canal’s engineering and its significance to Canadian history.

The cruise offers unobstructed views of landmarks like the Parliament Buildings, Nepean Point, and the Canadian Museum of Nature.

What makes this tour stand out is its balance of beautiful scenery and educational content at a very reasonable price ($39 per person). Reviewers praise its “relaxed atmosphere and friendly guides,” making it ideal for families or history lovers.

It’s a straightforward, affordable way to appreciate Ottawa’s waterways without sacrificing depth. Bottom line: If you want a scenic, informative cruise that’s easy to fit into your day, this is your best bet.

2. Ottawa: Sightseeing River Cruise

This 1.5-hour bilingual cruise offers a lively tour of Ottawa’s most famous landmarks, with commentary in both English and French. For $37 per person, you get the chance to see the Parliament Hill, Rideau Falls, and the Canadian Museum of History from a comfortable boat.

The guide’s storytelling is both entertaining and informative, making this cruise a great choice for anyone interested in Canadian culture and history.

Guests love the unforgettable views and the bilingual commentary, which makes it accessible for a diverse audience. The boat’s open-air decks allow for great photo opportunities. The tour emphasizes landmarks visible from the water, giving a different perspective than land-based tours.

If you’re keen on a friendly, engaging overview of Ottawa’s icons, this cruise is a solid choice. Bottom line: It’s perfect for those wanting to combine scenic beauty with fun facts in a lively setting.

3. Ottawa Boat Cruise – Paul’s Boat Line

For around $40, the Ottawa Boat Cruise offers a 1.5-hour narrated adventure along the Ottawa River, with multiple departure times to suit your schedule. You can choose your preferred departure point and enjoy bilingual commentary about sights like Parliament Hill, Nepean Point, and the Supreme Court. The two viewing decks give plenty of space to relax and take in the scenery.

What sets this tour apart is the flexibility of departure times and the relaxed atmosphere. Many reviews mention the friendly guide Wendy, who shares her knowledge with humor and warmth. The boat features large upper decks and a lower level, so you can pick your favorite spot.

The tour offers excellent value for a relaxed, in-depth look at Ottawa’s highlights. Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, comfortable cruise with flexible scheduling.

4. Ottawa: Floating Tiki Bar Cruise on the Ottawa River

This 1.5-hour cruise combines fun and relaxation with its Hawaiian-style palapa hut and floating tiki bar. At $62 per person, it’s one of the more unique experiences, especially for those looking to unwind with drinks and karaoke. You’ll glide past Ottawa’s landmarks, such as Parliament Hill and Rideau Falls, soaking in the river views while sipping tropical cocktails or listening to lively music.

Guests rave about the fun atmosphere and the chance to relax with family or friends. The boat’s fun, party vibe makes it less educational but more about enjoying the moment. Ideal for a casual, lively outing, especially if you want an alternative to traditional sightseeing cruises. Bottom line: Perfect for groups seeking entertainment and a tropical twist on Ottawa’s river life.

5. Ottawa Premium Driving Tour with Rideau Canal Cruise

This 4-hour tour combines a smaller group driving experience with a Rideau Canal cruise, all for $110.79 per person. It’s designed for those who want a rundown, including Rockcliffe Park, Parliament Hill, and the Museum of History. The air-conditioned minivan allows access to sights that larger buses can’t reach, like Rockcliffe Park’s lookout.

The highlight is the combination of driving and boat experience, giving a well-rounded day. Reviewers appreciate the personalized attention and the expert commentary. This tour suits travelers with limited time who want to see major highlights without cramming. Bottom line: Great for those who want a balance of land and water adventures in a small-group setting.

6. Ottawa Premium Small Group Tour with Canal Cruise

This 4-hour small-group experience for up to 6 guests includes a Rideau Canal cruise and guided sightseeing. At $114, it offers a more intimate look at Ottawa’s top sights, with hotel pick-up included. You’ll visit Parliament Hill, Rockcliffe Park, and the Canadian Museum of History, all narrated by a knowledgeable guide.

The tour’s small-group format makes for a more personalized experience, with plenty of time for questions. The cruise offers a great way to see the city from the water without the crowds. Reviewers highlight the professional guides and flexible schedule. Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a personalized, comprehensive tour with a touch of luxury.

7. Ottawa: Small Group Night Tour With River Cruise

At $79 per person, this 2.5-hour tour offers a unique look at Ottawa after dark. It kicks off with a sunset river cruise, followed by a guided drive through illuminated landmarks like Parliament Hill and Major’s Hill Park. The combo highlights how the city transforms at night, with excellent photo opportunities.

Reviewers love the personalized experience and the beautiful city lights. The tour ends with dessert and a chance to soak in Ottawa’s evening ambiance. It’s perfect for romantic couples or anyone curious about Ottawa’s nighttime beauty. Bottom line: A memorable way to see Ottawa’s landmarks in a different light.

8. Ottawa Premium Night Driving Tour with River Cruise

This 2.5-hour experience for about $81.66 combines a sunset cruise with a nighttime driving tour. Starting with a 1-hour river cruise, you’ll admire Ottawa’s landmarks like Parliament Hill and Rideau Falls illuminated at night. Afterward, a guided drive shows you the city’s best-lit sights, including Nepean Point.

The tour receives praise for its combination of scenic water views and city lights, providing a full picture of Ottawa at night. It’s suited for travelers who want a relaxed, photo-friendly experience. The small-group size ensures a personal touch. Bottom line: Excellent for those wanting a comprehensive night tour with relaxing views.

9. Full-Day Montreal City Tour from Ottawa and optional city cruise

If you’re willing to venture a bit further, this 10-11 hour tour offers a full day exploring Montreal’s highlights, including Mount Royal, Saint Joseph’s Oratory, and Old Montreal. It also features a St. Lawrence River cruise for an extra water perspective. For $73.49, you get a mix of land and water exploration.

Guests praise the knowledgeable guides and the comprehensive itinerary. The cruise adds a special touch, offering scenic views of Montreal’s skyline. It’s best suited for travelers with a full day to spare and a desire to see Quebec’s two major cities. Bottom line: A great way to combine Ottawa and Montreal if your schedule allows.

10. Ottawa: Downtown Yacht Cruise – Wed-Sun @ 6PM – 75 Minutes

This one-hour and fifteen-minute yacht cruise at $90 per person is perfect for a late-afternoon or early-evening outing. It offers an intimate cruise for up to 12 people, with no narration—just the music, views, and skyline. It’s particularly popular for sunset views of Parliament and the city’s illuminated landmarks.

Many reviews mention the relaxing atmosphere and the attentive crew. It’s an ideal experience for romantic evenings or special celebrations. Bottom line: A luxurious, quiet way to enjoy Ottawa’s skyline at sunset.

11. Ottawa Small Group Walking Tour with Rideau Canal Cruise

This 3.5-hour tour combines walking and boat for a well-rounded view of Ottawa. Starting at the Giant Spider sculpture, it visits ByWard Market, the Royal Mint, and the Centennial Flame, ending with a river cruise. For $69.82, it’s a more active way to see the city.

Reviewers enjoy the friendly guides and the mix of outdoor sightseeing with a relaxing boat ride. It’s best for travelers who like a bit of walking and want to see a variety of sights up close. Bottom line: A balanced tour for active explorers.

12. Ottawa Boat Cruise – Rideau Canal Cruise

This 1.5-hour electric boat cruise offers a quiet, eco-friendly way to explore the Rideau Canal. Priced at $42.33, it provides uninterrupted views over landmarks like Château Laurier and Dow’s Lake. It’s the best choice for environmentally conscious travelers who prefer a peaceful ride.

The certified, 100%-electric vessel makes it stand out as a sustainable option. Reviewers mention the interesting commentary and the relaxing pace. It’s suitable for all ages and perfect for lazy afternoons. Bottom line: An eco-friendly, serene way to enjoy Ottawa’s historic canal.

13. Ottawa: 6PM Shared River Cruise Aboard a Real Yacht

For around $92.79, this evening yacht cruise offers a relaxed, social experience. You can mingle, take in views, or just sit back with a cold beverage (available for purchase). It’s ideal for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying Ottawa’s skyline at sunset.

Reviewers highlight the friendly crew and the stunning views of Rideau Falls and Parliament Hill. The surround sound system adds to the relaxed vibe. Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking a sophisticated yet easygoing water experience.

14. Ottawa: Small-Group Walking Tour with Boat Cruise

This 3.5-hour tour combines walking through Ottawa’s highlights with a river cruise. Starting at the Giant Spider sculpture, it visits ByWard Market, the Royal Mint, and ends with a relaxing boat ride on the Ottawa River. At $71, it’s a good option for active travelers who want variety.

Reviewers appreciate the friendly guide and the combination of outdoor exploration with water views. It’s suited for those who enjoy walking and want a comprehensive look at Ottawa’s landmarks. Bottom line: A flexible, engaging way to see multiple sides of Ottawa.

How to Choose the Right Ottawa Boat Tour or Cruise

Picking the perfect water experience depends on your interests, schedule, and budget. If you’re after a deep dive into Ottawa’s history, the Rideau Canal Cruise or the Premium Small Group Tour offer great insight. Want a lively, fun atmosphere? The Floating Tiki Bar will fit the bill. If your focus is on scenic views at sunset, the Downtown Yacht Cruise or the Night Tours provide stunning visuals.

Consider how much time you have—half-hour boat rides suit a quick taste, while full-day options like the Montreal city tour are best for those with spare days. For eco-conscious travelers, the electric Rideau Canal cruise is a perfect fit. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular sunset and night cruises.

Ottawa’s water-based tours offer a variety of ways to see the city from a new angle. Whether you prefer a peaceful daytime cruise, a lively tiki bar experience, or a romantic sunset sail, there’s something here for every traveler. Two or three days of boat tours will give you a well-rounded view of Canada’s capital from the water.

We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure you get your preferred time and experience. Happy sailing!