With urban Montreal as a backdrop, a chic and elegant decor, a refreshing musical band and an irreproachable service, the Bateau-Mouche sails their patrons into a gourmet cruise where creativity is the guest of honor. Discover menus created by the star chef, Louis-François Marcotte, in collaboration with Benoit Hogue from La Brigade Volante.
Reviews of Bateau-Mouche Souper Croisière describe a visually stunning, immersive dining cruise with heated domes, breathtaking views of the Old Port and Montreal by night, and a romantic or festive atmosphere that many consider memorable. Visitors frequently praise the concept, ambiance, and some dishes and drinks as excellent, and the service is often described as friendly and attentive when well executed. At the same time, opinions vary on execution, with several mentions of slow or disorganized service, long waits between courses, and meals arriving tepid or cold. Pricing is consistently noted as high, with some feeling portions do not match the cost, though others view the experience as worth it for the overall immersion and atmosphere. Logistics such as locating the venue, signage, and balancing heat and comfort inside the domes are noted, along with occasional heat or temperature issues. Many reviews highlight the setting for special occasions, romantic evenings, or group celebrations, and several say they would return for a future event or the summer version. Overall, the reviews present a mix of magic and frustration: a unique, splashy experience can be extraordinary, but consistency in service and meal timing can make or break the night.
The food was literally incredible. I would rate it 6 stars if I could. The service crew although very hospitable & friendly, was adapting to a new method of service & they were still perfecting their craft I think. Thank you to Marie-Pierre; our waitress who did a tremendous job with our order. Can't wait to come back in the summer when the'ship sets sail' for a romantic cruise around the Saint Laurent River!
I took the 60min cruise.
Overall, it was fine.
But nothing I wiuld go for again. Not as fancy & clean as it looks in the pictures.
Plus, there was not enough space to stand on the deck & enjoy the views.
Sep 2, 2025
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Bateau Mouche: an overpriced, cramped & hungry cruise
On Friday, August 29, 2025, I went to Bateau Mouche in Montreal to celebrate my girlfriend's birthday. We were joined by another couple &, honestly, we expected a memorable evening. What we got was a mix of frustration, involuntary laughter, & growing hunger.
❌ Cons
- Confusing location
For first-timers, finding the boat is a challenge. The signage in Montreal's Old Port is poor & not intuitive.
- Expensive & limited parking
We arrived early but still paid $35 for a spot that wasn't worth the price.
- Overpriced boarding ticket
We paid $290.90 just to board the boat - no food or drinks included. We wanted a window seat, but the price was even more outrageous for a difference of half a step between central & window tables.
- Rude check-in staff
The young man at reception was arrogant & impolite. Clearly not suited for customer service.
- Cramped seating
We're four adults averaging 1.80 m (about 5'11'), & the space between tables & chairs was uncomfortable.
- Slow service
The cruise lasted 3 hours, but we were only served after 2. The excuse: too many orders on the lower deck. Hire more cooks!
- Disappointing food
We paid $199.98 for two AAA filet mignon dishes. The portions were so small they looked like plate decorations: a handful of beef, sweet potato purée, beets, & baby cabbage (I think that's what it was).
We were so hungry & the portions so ridiculous that we all laughed. Ironically, it was the funniest moment of the night.
- Underwhelming mocktail
The Voile d'été tasted like sparkling water with a hint of flavor. Very little, though the taste was pleasant.
- Feeling ripped off
As a cook myself, I find it unacceptable to charge high prices for meals that don't satisfy. When I pay over $35 & get tiny, bland portions, I feel like suing.
- Forced tipping
I refused to leave a tip, & the waitress tried to justify it by blaming the kitchen. I disagree - service is a team effort, & the overall experience was poor.
✅ Pros
- Friendly captain
Despite our friends arriving late, the captain gave us an extra 10 minutes & was always smiling & welcoming.
- Excellent pina colada
One of the few pleasant surprises of the night. Well made & tasty.
- Kind waitress (despite the tip issue)
Although she tried to defend the tipping, she remained polite & friendly.
---
⭐ Final rating: ★☆☆☆☆ (1/5)
The night had its comic moments - especially when we laughed at the tiny portions served. But overall, it was a frustrating, overpriced, & uncomfortable experience. Next time I think about cruising, I might just stay on land. It feels safer… & tastier.
We come almost every year, but this was our first time doing the fireworks cruise-& it was absolutely fantastic! The whole evening was beautiful & so well organized. Alain, our waiter, was friendly, informative, & incredibly helpful throughout the night. From the stunning views to the great service, it was such a memorable experience. We enjoyed every moment & definitely recommend trying it at least once!
Nice experience & the food is good, but at $200 plus a person for the dinner cruise I didn't get the experience I was hoping for. Absolutely sweltering hot at the table with no AC on the boat, & a noisy atmosphere with everyone uncomfortable is not what I expect at that price. Could get an absolutely amazing experience at that fee.
We took the daytime 1hr cruise. They oversell the boat so there aren't enough seats if everyone shows up. The cabin was crowded, hot, & loud. I can't comment on the tour because it was impossible to hear the guide.
Jul 12, 2025
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We had the 60 min cruise. We were a group of 5 adults & 2 kids. The music background was too loud, & it felt like you are going clubbing. I don't need that type of music when going on a boat cruise, not sure why someone would want that.
Some of the facts that were given were how much it cost a long time ago to be built. I wish they spoke more about the history of the city instead of telling me how much the Jacques Cartier bridge or the Goliath at La Ronde cost...
So for the price of it, I think they can do a better job on the story of Montreal, or fun facts of the area where we are cruising by.
The seating is good, views are good. It felt like 39°C outside & we still enjoyed being on the outdoor part of the boat. A/C is in the indoor part of the boat.
The entire environment is so nice n clean, n people ont his cruise is extremely nice n friendly sky. Eric on this cruise is super nice n friendly, he is much more than service. You can actually call him a friend. Would definitely come here again.
Our experience on the Montreal Old Port bateau-mouche was fantastic, thanks in large part to our server Amine. Although we didn't enjoy one of the drinks we ordered, he promptly replaced it for us without any extra charge. His friendly & accommodating attitude made our afternoon wonderful. It's rare to find such exceptional service, & he truly made a difference. Highly recommend this cruise, especially with service like his!
Aug 17, 2024
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The overall dinner cruise experience was very enjoyable. We choose to be seated on the upper deck & dine on lighter tapas style dinners. An easy listening 3-piece jazz group performed during the cruise & the serving staff was very attentive. We arrived in the general area of the boat dock (Quai) 45 minutes early. We were glad we did as it took us a few minutes to locate the boarding ramp. We recommended Bateau-Mouche to local Montréal friends who will pass the idea to their future visitors.
the cruise I booked was fantastic! the guide was well-paced & friendly, & the boat was spacious, clean & comfortable. I would definitely recommend the experience, especially considering the accessible range of times & price points.
we took the 60 mn cruise with passport montreal. i would say its alright but i wont pay full price for that activity. a little boat ride with boring music nd some bimbo who act like they are in monaco for their social medias.... nd montreal is quite ugly this year.
