Ottawa Rideau Canal Boat Cruise in Ottawa Ontario
Boat Tours / by bkearns / 4 views / New
Ottawa Rideau Canal Boat Cruise in Ottawa Ontario
Take the Top Rated Ottawa Rideau Canal Boat Cruise in Ottawa Ontario. Ever wondered what it feels like to glide through Canada’s capital city on a historic waterway? I took an Ottawa boat cruise on the Rideau Canal last weekend, and let me tell you – it’s nothing like those touristy river tours you’ve suffered through before.
I’ve lived in Ottawa for years but seeing the city from the canal gave me a completely new perspective. The UNESCO World Heritage Site status isn’t just for show – these locks have been operational since 1832!
My biggest regret? Not doing this sooner. The perfect mix of relaxation and history as you drift past landmarks, under stone bridges, with Parliament Hill looming majestically in the background.
But here’s what nobody tells you about these canal cruises until you’re actually on board…
Timings and Prices
From 12h
I’ve taken this Ottawa boat cruise along the Rideau Canal multiple times, and I can tell you it’s absolutely worth planning your day around. The cruises depart daily starting at 12 noon, which I find perfect for a midday adventure. What I love about this timing is that the sunlight hits the canal just right, making those Instagram shots pop with the Parliament Buildings in the background.
When I brought my parents last summer, we arrived about 30 minutes early to grab the best seats (trust me, the port side gives you the best views). The cruise runs for approximately 1.5 hours, which I think is the sweet spot – enough time to see everything without getting restless.
$47.99
I’ll be honest – when I first saw the price tag of $47.99 per adult, I wondered if it would be worth it. After experiencing it, I can confidently say it absolutely is. This isn’t just any boat ride – it’s a comprehensive tour of Ottawa’s waterways with commentary that’s actually interesting.
What makes the price reasonable for me is everything that’s included. You’re getting knowledgeable guides, comfortable seating, and unobstructed views of landmarks you simply can’t see from land. I’ve paid more for less memorable experiences in other cities.
If you’re watching your budget like I am, look for the family packages – they saved me about $20 when I took my niece and nephew. Oh, and book online! I scored a 10% early bird discount that way.
Location
The Heart of Canada’s Capital
I’ve cruised many waterways in my travels, but nothing quite compares to the Rideau Canal in Ottawa. This UNESCO World Heritage Site cuts right through the heart of Canada’s capital, offering a unique vantage point you simply can’t get on foot.
When I board a boat cruise here, I’m treated to views of Parliament Hill, historic locks, and stunning architecture that tells the story of this nation. The canal connects downtown Ottawa to Dows Lake, creating an 8-kilometer urban waterway that’s both scenic and historically significant.
Access Points
I find it super convenient that most boat tours depart from docks near the Ottawa Locks, just steps away from major attractions like the Byward Market and the Chateau Laurier hotel. Some tours also offer pickup points at Dows Lake Pavilion on the southern section of the canal.
What I love about these locations is how accessible they are – whether I’m staying downtown or coming in for the day, I can easily hop on public transit to reach any departure point. Most docks have nearby parking too, though I usually recommend public transportation during summer months when Ottawa gets busy with tourists.
The central location means I can easily combine my boat cruise with visits to other Ottawa highlights, making it a perfect centerpiece for a day of exploration in Canada’s capital.
Ticket Kiosk
Getting Your Tickets
I’ve found that the ticket kiosk for the Ottawa boat cruise along the Rideau Canal is super convenient and well-organized. Located right at the dock’s entrance, you can’t miss it – it’s the cute blue booth with the boat logo on top.
What I love about their setup is how streamlined the process is. No need to pre-book in most cases (though during peak summer weekends, I definitely recommend it). I just walk up, tell them which cruise I want, and pay on the spot. They accept all major credit cards, cash, and even mobile payments.
The staff at the kiosk are incredibly helpful too. Last summer when I couldn’t decide between the historical tour and the sunset cruise, the attendant gave me a detailed breakdown of both experiences, complete with her personal recommendations.
Ticket Options
My go-to choice is usually the 90-minute full canal tour, but they offer various options depending on what you’re in the mood for. There are shorter 45-minute tours if you’re pressed for time, and special themed cruises that run on weekends.
I’ve noticed they offer nice discounts for seniors, students, and children. And if you’re bringing the whole family, definitely ask about their family package – saved me about $25 last time!
One pro tip: arrive about 20 minutes before your desired departure time. The kiosk can get busy, especially on gorgeous sunny days when everyone in Ottawa seems to have the same idea about cruising the canal.
Tour Duration
Half-Day Cruises
I’ve tried both the shorter and longer cruise options on the Rideau Canal, and I can tell you that timing matters! The half-day cruises typically last about 1.5 to 2 hours, which I find perfect for first-timers. These tours give me enough time to see the main attractions along the canal without feeling rushed or bored.
What I love most about these shorter cruises is that they fit easily into a busy Ottawa itinerary. I can hop on a morning cruise around 10 AM and still have the afternoon free to explore other parts of the city.
Full-Day Adventures
When I have more time to spare, I absolutely recommend the full-day cruises. These usually run between 4 and 6 hours and include a stop for lunch at a waterside restaurant. The longer duration means I get to travel further along the canal, seeing parts that many tourists miss.
These extended tours often include passage through some of the historic locks, which for me is the highlight of any Rideau Canal cruise. Watching the boats rise and fall as they navigate through these 19th-century engineering marvels is something I never tire of seeing.
Seasonal Special Tours
During summer evenings, I sometimes treat myself to the sunset cruises. These last about 2-3 hours and offer a completely different perspective of Ottawa as the city lights begin to twinkle against the darkening sky. In fall, the foliage tours run slightly longer (about 3 hours) to maximize viewing time of the spectacular autumn colors along the canal banks.
Conclusion
Taking a boat cruise along the Rideau Canal in Ottawa has been one of my most memorable experiences in Canada’s capital. From the convenient timings and reasonable prices to the easily accessible location and straightforward ticket purchase process, everything about this experience is designed for visitor convenience. The tour duration strikes the perfect balance—long enough to see the highlights without consuming your entire day, especially if you arrive about 15 minutes before departure as I recommend.
I was particularly impressed with the onboard facilities that made our journey comfortable and enjoyable. Whether you’re visiting Ottawa for the first time or are a local looking for a new perspective on the city, I can’t recommend this boat cruise highly enough. It’s a relaxing way to learn about Ottawa’s history while taking in stunning views from the water. Don’t forget your camera—the photo opportunities along the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal are simply unforgettable!
Location: Ottawa Fun Things To Do
Category: Boat Tours
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