12 Best Ottawa Boat Tours (2024 Local’s Guide)
If your idea of a great time is to cruise along a UNESCO World Heritage Site or kayak through a centuries-old trading route, a boat ride in Ottawa is the perfect opportunity!
Which Ottawa boat tour is worth the experience? I’m here to help!
I live in Ottawa and know all the best things to do in the city. So, to help you narrow your search for the best Ottawa tours, I’ll share my top picks for Ottawa River cruises, Rideau Canal cruises, kayak tours, and more.
Here are my tops picks for the best Ottawa Boat Tours!
My Top 3 Picks
#1 TOP PICK
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Full-Day Ottawa City and Cruise VIP Tour
✔️ 13 hours
✔️ Roundtrip transport to and from Hotel
#2 PICK
Half-Day Private Ottawa Tour With Rideau Canal Cruise
✔️ 4 hours
✔️ Complimentary Downtown Ottawa hotel pick-up
#3 PICK
1. Full-Day Ottawa City and Cruise VIP Tour
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 13 hours | ✅ Book it!
This comprehensive Ottawa City & Cruise VIP Tour starts bright and early from Montréal.
The Ottawa River Cruise is the main highlight of the tour. Enjoy a unique viewpoint as you cruise past downtown Ottawa attractions like the majestic Royal Canadian Mint and the National Gallery of Canada. You’ll get scenic views of the Chateau Laurier, the Rideau walking trail, and the lock stations.
Spend the rest of the day visiting Ottawa’s most popular spots, including Parliament Hill and the Canadian Museum of History.
”Beautiful and enjoyable tour! One day was too short a visit to do justice to the city. Will go back again sometime when we can spend more time!” – cr0ssben (Read more reviews)
The tour includes round-trip transport to and from your Montréal hotel by luxury coach or mini-bus. Sales tax is included as well.
Language(s): English and French
Tour Size: 50 persons
Starting Point: Complimentary Montréal hotel pick-up
2. Half-Day Private Ottawa Tour With Rideau Canal Cruise
⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | ✅ Book it!
You’re in for an unforgettable Ottawa Rideau Canal Cruise on this Private Ottawa Tour!
The UNESCO World Heritage Site Rideau Canal makes for an epic Ottawa boat tour. You’ll cruise over 50 points of interest. Keep a lookout for the breathtaking Rideau Falls!
This tour also includes a Parliament Hill walking tour and a drive-by of more of Ottawa’s must-see spots like the Supreme Court and the Prime Minister’s Residence.
“The tour was interesting. Our tour guides Chase and Nicholas provided so many interesting facts and information. The experience was overall very fun. Thank you!” – Samantha (Read more reviews)
The half-day Ottawa tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in Downtown Ottawa, VIP transportation, a private tour guide, all attraction admission fees, and skip-the-line admissions entry.
Language(s): English
Tour Size: 6 persons
Starting Point: Complimentary Downtown Ottawa Hotel pick-up
3. Half-Day Ultimate Ottawa Tour With Rideau Canal Cruise
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 4 hours | ✅ Book it!
This Ultimate Ottawa Tour is excellent if the Rideau Canal is on your travel bucket list. Fun fact: This 19th-century construction is North America’s best-preserved slack water canal!
Complete the Ottawa experience with a walking tour of Parliament Hill and a driving tour of Rockcliffe Park Pavilion, Notre-Dame Basilica, and more must-see attractions.
Enjoy the different sites of Ottawa on this relaxing tour.
The tour includes hotel pick-up and drop-off in Downtown Ottawa and transportation by air-conditioned minivan.
“Our tour guide Jason did a terrific job and was very knowledgeable about the sights and places of interest. The boat ride was great too. Great tour!” – Bob (Read more reviews)
Language(s): English
Tour Size: 6 persons
Starting Point: Complimentary Downtown Ottawa hotel pick-up
4. Half-Day Night Tour With Ottawa Sunset Cruise
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 3.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
Take in the glittering views of Ottawa by night on this Ottawa Sunset Cruise Night Tour!
The tour starts with an evening Ottawa canal cruise to see the local landmarks all beautifully lit up. There isn’t a dinner cruise Ottawa option, but snacks are available for purchase onboard.
You’ll also explore the bustling ByWard Market to taste the best local foods. End the night with the impressive “Northern Lights” Sound and Light Show projected on the Parliament Buildings’ exterior.
“I had the BEST tour of Ottawa with my guide, Andrew. He shared lots of history and funny stories. The river cruise was lovely, offering a different perspective of the city. I would highly recommend this evening tour.” – Patti (Read more reviews)
The tour includes complimentary hotel pick up and drop off in Downtown Ottawa, luxury transportation in an air-conditioned van, and all attraction admission fees with skip-the-line entry.
Language(s): English
Tour Size: 6 persons
Starting Point: Complimentary Downtown Ottawa hotel pick-up
5. Paul’s Boat Line Ottawa River Cruise
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
If you want a boat cruise in Ottawa without the full-blown tour, go for Paul’s Boat Line Ottawa River Cruise.
You can look forward to sipping something refreshing on the boat’s upper deck while watching the gorgeous Ottawa skyline from the water.
You’ll pass by Canada’s administrative district on this Parliament boat tour along with other favorite sights like the National Gallery of Canada and the Canadian Museum of History.
“The views were fantastic. The fact that they provide time for photos was also a plus. It was great for the whole family. Great Canadian history here in Ottawa.” – Jennifer (Read more reviews)
This boat cruise of Ottawa includes bilingual commentaries, cruise fare, and taxes.
Language(s): English and French
Tour Size: 80 persons
Starting Point: The Ottawa Dock, Ottawa / The Hull Marina, Gatineau
6. Rideau Canal Cruise
⭐️ RATING: 4/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
Keen on just cruising Rideau Canal? Book this informative Rideau Canal Cruise.
This UNESCO World Heritage Site links Ottawa to Lake Ontario. Originally built for military purposes, it’s the only 19th-century canal operational today. You’ll learn all about Canada’s history on this cruise.
Spot Ottawa’s architectural wonders on the cruise, from the regal Fairmont Château Laurier Hotel to the imaginative Canadian Museum of Nature.
“Our tour guide Brendan was fantastic. Great stories and information about the canal. Would recommend this experience.” – Elizabeth (Read more reviews)
This Ottawa Canal cruise includes bilingual commentaries and cruise fare. Taxes are also included.
Language(s): Audio guide available in Chinese (simplified), English, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Russian, and Spanish
Tour Size: 30 persons
Starting Point: 2 Rideau St, Ottawa
7. Floating Tiki Bar Boat Tour on Ottawa River
⭐️ RATING: /5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1.5 hours | ✅ Book it!
Check out this unique Tiki Bar Ottawa Boat Tour for an Ottawa sunset cruise with a twist!
Perfect for parties, you can bring your own food and drinks to enjoy aboard this Hawaiian-style floating bar. You can connect to the Bluetooth speakers and cruise to your favorite tunes!
Spot interesting sights like the Royal Canadian Mint and the Prime Minister’s Residence along the way.
I love this Hawaiian style Tiki hut. It’s the best way to enjoy Ottawa in the summer months.
You learn a ton without it feeling dry or boring. This is the one I did with my friends most recently.
“A stunning sunset, great drinks, and a ton of fun! The owners were our hosts and they are absolutely wonderful! We were in from out of town and looking for something different and fun to do. Such a cool experience.” – Meg (Read more reviews)
The tour includes cruise fare. Food and drinks are not provided, so remember to bring your own!
8. Ottawa City Tour On Amphibious Bus
⭐️ RATING: 4.4/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 1 hour | ✅ Book it!
This Ottawa City Tour on Amphibious Bus may sound kooky, but it’s actually pretty cool!
You’ll spend 40 minutes on land, passing by popular landmarks like ByWard Market and Rideau Hall. Continue with a leisurely 20-minute cruise to spot Ottawa’s best sights and the city of Gatineau across the water.
“We live here in Ottawa and a bus that goes in the water sounded like fun. It was so educational. It’s a great tour for tourists and people who live here with an hour to spare. You won’t regret it.” – GetYourGuide traveler (Read more reviews)
The tour includes a bilingual guide and transportation in an amphibious vehicle.
Language(s): English and French
Tour Size: 48 persons
Starting Point: Red kiosk at the junction of Sparks Street and Elgin Street
🤩 Check Prices and Availability!
Adventurous Ottawa Boat Tours
9. Full-Day Adventure Rafting on the Ottawa River
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ✅ Book it!
If adventures in nature are your thing, check out this highly-rated Ottawa River Adventure Rafting Tour.
Enjoy the rush of rafting through the white waters of Ottawa while traveling the same historic route of voyageurs from centuries ago. Refuel after your wild ride with a complimentary freshly-cooked barbecue lunch.
This tour is suitable for novice and beginner rafters, but participants must meet the 41kg (90 lb) minimum weight requirement.
“Guide was excellent. The scenery was outstanding. The number of high-adrenaline waves and rapids was perfect. It could not have been a better experience!” – TripAdvisor reviewer (Read more reviews)
The tour includes a barbecue lunch, a lifejacket, a helmet, and a paddle. Wetsuits and footwear are not included.
10. Full-Day Soft Adventure Rafting on the Ottawa River (Kid-Friendly)
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ✅ Book it!
This Ottawa River Soft Rafting Tour is the perfect pick for families.
Your guide will provide an in-depth briefing for the group before your 5-hour Ottawa River white water rafting session. There’s the added unique experience of traveling along the same trading route used by voyageurs hundreds of years ago.
“This trip was a PERFECT introduction for my 10-year-old daughter. Our raft guide Maddie was spectacular. My daughter gained so much confidence and she can’t wait to hit the big water next year!” – TripAdvisor reviewer (Read more reviews)
Kids that meet the 23kg (50 lb) minimum weight requirement are welcome to join this beginner-friendly adventure.
The tour includes snacks, a barbecue dinner, a lifejacket, and a helmet. Wetsuits and footwear are not included.
Language(s): English, French, German
Tour Size: 8 persons
Starting Point: OWL Rafting, Foresters Falls, Ontario
11. Full-Day Kayak & Summit Ottawa Day Trip
⭐️ RATING: /5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 8 hours | ✅ Book it!
This Kayak & Summit Ottawa Day Trip offers the ultimate family fun with a day of kayaking, sightseeing, and chocolate tasting!
Start with a calming 5km (3.1 miles) paddle through the beautiful Picanoc River, one of Quebec’s best rivers, for a complete river descent.
Then, head up to the Parc Regional du Mont Morissette for a breathtaking 360-degree view of the surrounding areas. Continue to La Confiserie Wakefield to sample artisanal chocolate and fudge.
“The entire trip was wonderful but the kayaking was everyone’s favorite part. Tandem kayaks were provided as we had our kids with us. With swimming stops along the way, it was a perfect outing. The rest of the day held great views and delicious food.” – OttawaGreen (Read more reviews)
The tour includes pick-up and drop-off from Ottawa and Gatineau, lunch, snacks, all equipment to complete river descent, and an air-conditioned vehicle
Language(s): English and French
Tour Size: 10 persons
Starting Point: Complimentary pick-up from Ottawa and Gatineau
Multi-Day Ottawa Boat Tours
12. Boat Tour From New York (Niagara Falls, Toronto, Ottawa, Montréal & Quebec City)
⭐️ RATING: 5/5 Stars | ⏳ TOUR LENGTH: 5 days | ✅ Book it!
Go for the ultimate Ottawa cruise with this Niagara Falls-Toronto-Ottawa-Montréal-Quebec City Boat Tour!
The tour starts with a night tour and a day tour of Niagara Falls before heading to Toronto’s CN Tower observation deck for a sweeping view of the city.
The tour continues to Canada’s capital city, Ottawa, and “Little Paris of North America,” Montréal, to take in the cities’ best sights. You’ll then treat yourself to fine French cuisine in Quebec City.
The tour includes transportation by a 7-seater minivan or a motorcoach (depending on the number of guests), a professional driver and guide, hotel accommodation for four nights with breakfast, and admission to Skylon Tower.
“This tour is an excellent way of seeing a lot in a short time without compromising on comfort. Our tour guide Bowen is professional, friendly, and helpful. Would recommend it!” – Lu (Read more reviews)
This tour does not include air tickets, ferry, and shuttle transfers at the attractions/national parks. Food and drinks are at the participant’s expense.
Language(s): English
Tour Size: 55 persons
Starting Point: Complimentary pick-up from New York
Ottawa Boat Tour Tips
Seasonal Availability
Cruise season in Ottawa is between May and October. It’s an especially popular summer activity!
For off-season bookings, the cruise part of the tour will usually be replaced with another attraction like the Canadian War Museum.
Accessibility
Many boat cruises in Ottawa are wheelchair-friendly. These tours offer wheelchair accessibility:
- Half-Day Private Ottawa Tour With Rideau Canal Cruise
- Half-Day Night Tour With Ottawa Sunset Cruise
- 90-Minute Paul’s Boat Line Ottawa River Cruise
- 90-Minute Rideau Canal Cruise
Ottawa River cruises and Rideau Canal cruises are suitable for children with accompanying parents. For adventurous boat rides in Ottawa, these are the kid-friendly tours to go for:
These tours welcome service animals:
- Half-Day Private Ottawa Tour With Rideau Canal Cruise
- 90-Minute Paul’s Boat Line Ottawa River Cruise
- Floating Tiki Bar Boat Tour on Ottawa River
- Full-Day Soft Adventure Rafting on the Ottawa River
What To Bring
Here are some useful things to have with you on an Ottawa boat Tour:
What To Wear
Stay comfortable with light and breathable clothing for a day of cruising in the city.
If you’re going on a kayaking tour, remember to wear your wetsuits and closed-toed shoes.
FAQs
How Much Is An Ottawa Cruise For One Day?
An Ottawa Cruise for one day may range from $57-$575, depending on what you’re looking for. Opt for a cruise and city tour to get the full Ottawa experience. If you need something more budget-friendly, you can choose to do just the cruise in Ottawa.
Are Ottawa Boat Tours Wheelchair-Friendly?
Yes, there are wheelchair-friendly Ottawa boat tours available. The Ottawa River Queen Boat Cruise and the Rideau Canal Cruise are some wheelchair-accessible cruises you can consider.
Are Ottawa Boat Tours Suitable For Children?
Yes, most Ottawa boat tours are suitable for children. If you’re planning to go for a kayak ride in the Ottawa River, be sure to check the minimum weight requirement.
This Ottawa River Soft Rafting Tour is popular with families.
Can My Service Dog Come With Me On An Ottawa Boat Tour?
Yes, some Ottawa boat tours allow service dogs. This Private Ottawa Tour with Rideau Canal Cruise welcomes service animals. Try this Floating Tiki Bar Ottawa Cruise for something more offbeat.
Where Do I Park To Go On An Ottawa Boat Tour?
You can park at the following locations to go on an Ottawa boat tour:
For Rideau Canal Cruise, park at the National Arts Centre paid parking.
For Ottawa River Cruise, the Hull Marina departure point has paid parking available. At the Ottawa Dock, the nearest parking is at Rideau Centre, and there is no parking available at the Ottawa Locks.
Can I Go On An Ottawa Boat Cruise In Winter?
Ottawa boat cruises are not available in winter. Cruise season in Ottawa is between May to October. If you’re making an off-season booking for a city tour that includes a cruise, a different attraction will replace the cruise portion of the tour.
Wrap Up
If you’re looking for the best Ottawa boat tours, you have plenty of top-rated options at your fingertips!
Can’t decide which one to go for? I recommend the Private Ottawa Tour With Rideau Canal Cruise. You can travel at your own pace, enjoy skip-the-line access, and get the incredible chance to see the iconic Rideau Canal.
Need a local’s take on hotel recommendations? Find out the best places to stay in Ottawa!
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- Ottawa Zipline Experience: Why You Need to Zipline Between Provinces!
- 6 Best Ottawa Wine Tours & Tastings
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- A Local’s Guide To Pink Lake in Gatineau Park
- Complete Guide to Parc Omega Wildlife Park from Ottawa
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Ottawa Travel Planning Guide
🚑 Should I buy Ottawa travel insurance?
100% YES! — There’s a misconception that Canada has “free healthcare” for everyone. Nope! Only Canadians. So you’ll need to get travel insurance to visit Ottawa. I recommend this one.
💧Can you drink the tap water in Ottawa?
Yes – ish — While you can technically drink the tap water in Ottawa, as a local I don’t recommend it. Old hotels especially can have some nasty things in their pipes. Instead, get a filtered water bottle. (Read more)
🚙💨 Do I need to rent a car in Ottawa?
Yes — Renting a car in Ottawa is one of the best ways to get around! You’ll be able to see more of the city and beyond, like the epic hiking trails. I recommend Discover Cars for the cheapest rates possible.
📲 Do I need to know French in Ottawa?
Nope! — The primary language of Ottawa is English. While French is also spoken and on some signs, you can easily get by without knowing any French. (Read more)
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Ottawa accommodations?
For Ottawa hotels, Booking is the best site. If you’re considering an Ottawa Airbnb, don’t forget to also check VRBO, which is often cheaper than Airbnb. My #1 hotel recommendation in Ottawa is the Fairmont Chateau Laurier.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy Ottawa flights?
For finding cheap Ottawa flights, I recommend Skyscanner. You can even set a price alert to find out when flights are on sale.
🎫 Do I need a Visa for Ottawa?
Likely Not — U.S. and most European Passport holders don’t need a Visa to visit Canada.
📍 Where is Ottawa? And what’s nearby?
Ottawa is the capital city of Canada, located in Ontario. It’s right on the border of Quebec. It’s about 2 hours from Mont Tremblant, 3 hours from Montreal, or 5 hours from Toronto. You can take a road trip to get to other places or fly.
