Ottawa Boat Cruise - Rideau Canal Cruise
Overview
Available languages
1 hour 30 minutes
Mobile ticket
The most unique way to discover Ottawa is on board the world's-largest, certified, 100%-electric, passenger vessel. You will sail for 90 minutes on the iconic Rideau Canal and have a novel view of downtown Ottawa! The National Arts Centre, Lansdowne Park, Dow’s Lake, and many more scenic views await you! You will discover more with the live bilingual commentary and the free audio guide application. Come to 2 Rideau Street for your tickets, just across the street from Parliament Hill. The schedule is mid-May to mid-October, 6 departures per day, 7 days a week.
Additional Info
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Children must be accompanied by an adult
Please note- there is no rescheduling
What To Expect
Rideau Canal Cruises
The cruises will let you discover the wonderful Rideau Canal, from Dow's Lake to the Ottawa River. Be surprised by the richness and the historical landmarks that will be offered on the cruise! During your cruise you will discover the heritage of the city of Ottawa in a very different way! From the Chateau Laurier to Dow's Lake, you will have the chance to learn about thirty different sites that have marked the history of the city. In addition, several miscellaneous fun and often surprising facts will be presented! You will also have the chance to learn about the following historical sites: University of Ottawa campus, German Embassy, Armenian Embassy, Trans-Canada Highway, Pretoria Bridge, Canadian Museum of Nature, St. Patrick Statue, Canal Ritz, Lansdowne Park, TD Place Stadium, TD Place Arena, Bank Street Bridge, Dow’s Lake, Commissioners Park, Dominion Arboretum, and many more.
Canadian Museum Of Nature
See the sites of Canada's Capital city from it's unique canal including the Canadian Museum of Nature
Options
Rideau Canal Cruise
Taxes and fees are included
What‘s Included
All Fees and Taxes
Guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Cancellation Policy
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Reviews
1,163 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Must-see if you’re in Ottawa!
berendas2026,Jun 12, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an incredible time with Wendy at the river cruise. She was funny, charismatic and so informative. We learned a lot as tourists. The captain, Mo, made an appearance and stopped by to chat with the attendees. It was a really memorable experience overall. Thank you!
A Delightful Time
TINA N,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Easy to find the meeting place. The crew was charming, the narrator was very interesting. The day of our cruise was the Saturday of the Tulip Festival. So many people out, in the canalside parks. Fascinating how Colonel By went from envision to execution, and that the canal freezes solid for ice skating. Beautiful views of Ottawa.
Relaxing ride down the...
MichaelJ O,Jun 10, 2026
- Review from Viator
4.00Relaxing ride down the canal. The information was interesting but since the trip is out and back they only provided information for the first half.
Lovely way to experience...
Sharon D,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Lovely way to experience Ottawa from the water. Our guide Cam was super and his sidekick in the bar very amusing. An enjoyable and informative tour
Great experience, awesome tour guide
Hiywote E,Jun 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00I highly recommend this boat trip for anyone who's on a short trip to Ottawa. The tour guide Cam and the crew on board were all very helpful
Lovely way to see the...
Sharon D,Jun 7, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Lovely way to see the city and surrounds by water. Our guide Cam and Teo behind the bar were lively and friendly and made for a fabulous 90 mins. Thank you!
Rideau Canal cruise
Renata K,Jun 5, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00Great, easy ride. Beautiful scenery. The tour guides are very knowledgeable and the experience was thoroughly enjoyable.
Peace and smooth boating. Great escape to the Rideau canal. Informative and fun.
MarcR357,Jun 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Excellent tour and boat ride along the canal, Rideau. The trip was peaceful and very enjoyable. Nancy was an excellent hostess and guide she really was a highlight of the trip. We learned a lot about the canal history and saw many sights along the way. Even though there is not that much to see along the way she managed to keep our attention and brought everything to life! We loved the bilingual commentary and she was funny in both languages. I got to laugh twice at some of her jokes. Very friendly staff ! I would recommend if you want some peaceful time. It was worth it. There is a bar and a bathroom on board. They could have a nicer selection of wine, that would be my only recommendation. Jackson Triggs…. Really?!!
Cruising the Canal.
Susan R,Jun 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
4.00A hot day so the breeze was welcome. All the staff were friendly.Our guide (whose name I've now forgotten, sorry but it was her first trip) was very knowledgeable and pointed out lots of buildings and places of interest. When we turned round we were left to relax,chat or enjoy the music. The 2 young ladies were still available to answer any questions.Hot and cold drinks are available. A most enjoyable trip. Thank you.
Ottawa Boat Cruise
craigaX2017ZU,Jun 3, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Beautiful cruise. Excellent guide. Highly recommend
Related Experiences
Operated by Ottawa Boat Cruise Inc.