Boat cruises and rides with kids: 7 ideas in Quebec
Seeing the city or nature from the water is an outing kids remember. Here are seven ways to get on board in Quebec, from the budget-friendly ferry crossing to a whale-watching cruise.
In short: the cheapest is the Quebec-Lévis ferry, running year-round; with young kids, the one-hour Bateau-Mouche in Montreal; for thrills, Saute-Moutons from age 6; for an unforgettable memory, the whales of Tadoussac.
In Montreal
1. Le Bateau-Mouche
60- or 90-minute cruises on the St. Lawrence aboard a panoramic boat with a deck. The one-hour cruise suits young kids well.
- Jacques-Cartier Pier (Old Port), Montreal
- Late spring to fall
- See the listing
2. AML Cruises
Guided day or evening cruises from the Grand Quay. The guided day cruise is the most practical with kids.
- 200 Rue de la Commune West, Montreal
- See the listing
3. Saute-Moutons
A jet boat ride to the Lachine Rapids, over splashing waves. Minimum age: 6. Bring a change of clothes.
- 1 Rue Quai de l'Horloge (Old Port), Montreal
- Mid-May to early October
- See the listing
Elsewhere in Quebec
4. Quebec-Lévis Ferry
The cheapest way to take a mini-cruise on the river, year-round, with a superb view of Château Frontenac. In winter, you cross among the ice floes.
- Lévis ferry terminal, 6001 Rue Laurier, Lévis
- Departures every 20 to 30 minutes during the day
- See the listing
5. AML whale-watching cruises in Tadoussac
A whale-watching cruise in the Saguenay–St. Lawrence Marine Park with naturalist guides. You can see up to 13 species, including belugas.
- 101 Rue du Bord-de-l'Eau, Tadoussac
- May to late October
- See the listing
6. Rivière-des-Mille-Îles Park
On top of boat rentals, the park offers guided cruises through its "bayou" of islands and marshes.
- 345 Sainte-Rose Boulevard, Laval
- See the listing
7. Boréalis
In summer, the museum offers an audio-guided cruise telling Trois-Rivières' story from the water.
- 200 Avenue des Draveurs, Trois-Rivières
- See the listing
Our tips
- Even in midsummer, it's cooler on the water: bring a jacket for everyone.
- For whale-watching cruises, warm clothes, a hat and mittens are not overkill.
- Book weekend cruises online, especially in July and August.
Frequently asked questions
Which cruise should we take in Montreal with kids?
The one-hour Bateau-Mouche or AML's guided day cruise, at the Old Port.
What is the minimum age for Saute-Moutons?
Six years old.
Does the Quebec-Lévis ferry run in winter?
Yes, year-round, crossing among the ice floes.
Information checked on October 13, 2026. Prices, hours and seasons may change: confirm with each place before you go.
