Montreal: Port of Montreal Tower Entry & Cruise Combo

Explore Montreal from the Water and Heights in This Combo Tour

The Montreal: Port of Montreal Tower Entry & Cruise Combo offers a fantastic way to see the city from two unique perspectives. For around 2 hours, you’ll enjoy a guided cruise along the St. Lawrence River, taking in iconic sights like the Old Port, Biosphere, Olympic Stadium, and Jacques Cartier Bridge. After the cruise, you’ll ascend the Port of Montreal Tower, a 65-metre-high glass structure that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the city and river. This combo is ideal for visitors seeking a blend of scenic water views and exhilarating heights, with the option to step into the glass cage for a truly memorable experience.

While the tour lasts approximately 2 hours, it combines informative commentary from bilingual guides with spectacular vistas. The package offers good value, especially for those interested in both a relaxing cruise and a striking city lookout. Keep in mind that the tower visit is unguided, and the cruise and tower can be booked separately, but together they deliver a comprehensive Montreal experience. Accessibility is limited for wheelchair users, and pets, food, and drinks are not permitted onboard.

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Key Points

• Scenic 2-hour combo experience featuring a river cruise and tower visit in Montreal
• Guided cruise offers live commentary in English and French, with an audioguide in eight languages
• Cruise departs from Grand Quay pier in Old Montreal, lasting about 1.5 hours
• See Old Port, Biosphere, Olympic Stadium, Jacques Cartier Bridge, and more on the river
• Port of Montreal Tower rises 65 metres high, with a glass observation deck and multimedia exhibits
• Thrill-seekers can try the glass cage for 360-degree views

Starting Point at the Grand Quay Pier in Old Montreal

The tour begins at the Grand Quay pier, situated in the historic Old Montreal district, a lively area with charming streets and scenic views. Here, visitors must pick up a physical ticket from the Croisières AML booth before boarding the boat. Parking options include a paid lot capable of accommodating 250 vehicles, along with bicycle parking and electric vehicle charging stations. Other paid lots are nearby, making the location accessible for those arriving by car, though the area can be busy during peak times.

The pier’s coordinates are 45.502758, -73.549232, and public transport or early arrival are recommended since parking can be limited and traffic may be heavy during busy periods.

Scenic Cruise Along the St. Lawrence River

The core of this experience is a 1.5-hour cruise along the scenic St. Lawrence River. Starting from Old Montreal, the boat glides eastward, passing landmarks such as Île Sainte-Hélène, the Biosphere, and La Ronde amusement park. The vessel then cruises by the Olympic Stadium and Îles de Boucherville before turning back.

This cruise provides unparalleled outdoor views from the boat’s decks, with aerial perspectives of Montreal’s monuments. The commentary enhances the experience, offering insights into Montreal’s history, architecture, and culture. The bistro onboard offers a variety of beverages, including non-alcoholic options, and light snacks or full meals prepared by an executive chef, making it a relaxed way to enjoy the scenery.

The Guide’s Insightful Commentary

Throughout the cruise, an expert bilingual guide shares fascinating stories and facts about Montreal’s history and landmarks. The guide is praised for being knowledgeable and engaging, making the commentary a highlight for many. The audioguide is available in eight languages, ensuring accessibility for international visitors.

The outdoor decks allow for excellent photo opportunities, especially as the boat passes illuminated city sights during the return journey. This combination of scenic views and informative narration creates an engaging experience suitable for all ages.

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The Panorama from the Port of Montreal Tower

Following the cruise, visitors ascend the Port of Montreal Tower, a 65-metre-high glass structure that offers stunning 360-degree views of Montreal and the St. Lawrence River. The tower features an interactive multimedia exhibition that presents Montreal from a fresh perspective.

The visit to the tower takes about an hour and does not include a guided tour; instead, visitors explore at their own pace. For the adventurous, a highlight is stepping into the glass cage, which provides a thrilling panoramic experience. The tower’s observation deck is perfect for taking photos of the city skyline, especially on clear days when the views are truly expansive.

Practical Details for Visiting the Tower

Visitors should arrive at the Grand Quay Pier for the tower visit, which is not included in the cruise ticket and can be booked separately. The exhibition and viewing platform are accessible to most visitors, but wheelchair access is not available for the tower. Allow about an hour for this part of the experience, making it easy to combine with the cruise for a full half-day outing.

The tower’s location offers spectacular views especially of Montreal’s skyline, the river, and surrounding islands. It is an ideal spot for photo enthusiasts or anyone eager to see the city from above.

Meeting Logistics and Accessibility

For the cruise, tickets are available at the Croisières AML ticket booth at the pier. Parking is available at the Grand Quay lot, with bicycle and electric vehicle options. Visitors are advised to arrive early due to possible parking limitations and traffic congestion during peak months.

The tour operates rain or shine, unless weather conditions endanger safety. No pets, food, or drinks are allowed onboard, and cash is not accepted; only credit cards are permitted. The tour is wheelchair accessible, but tower visits are not suitable for wheelchair users.

The Experience for Different Types of Travelers

This tour suits families, couples, and groups interested in a relaxing yet engaging way to see Montreal. The combo provides a mix of scenic water views and city vistas from above, appealing to those who enjoy outdoor activities and panoramic photography.

While some reviews note that the tower’s views may be less compelling than those from a giant Ferris wheel, the glass cage offers a unique interactive thrill. The guided commentary on the cruise is particularly praised, making the journey both informative and leisurely.

Final Thoughts on the Montreal Combo Experience

The Montreal: Port of Montreal Tower Entry & Cruise Combo delivers a well-rounded experience with scenic river cruising and breathtaking tower views. It offers good value for a two-hour adventure that combines relaxation, education, and excitement. The guided cruise provides insightful commentary, while the tower gives you a spectacular vantage point to appreciate Montreal’s skyline.

While the tower visit is unguided and not suitable for wheelchair users, the overall experience is accessible, enjoyable, and memorable for most visitors. It’s especially recommended for those seeking a comprehensive snapshot of Montreal from water and sky in a short time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the cruise is family-friendly, with outdoor decks and scenic views appealing to all ages. However, the tower visit may not be accessible for wheelchair users and may be less engaging for very young children.

Can I visit the tower and cruise on different days?
Yes, the cruise and tower visit are separate bookings and do not need to be on the same day, allowing flexibility in planning your Montreal exploration.

Is there any food or drink available during the cruise?
Yes, onboard the cruise, you can purchase beverages and light snacks or meals from the bistro, crafted by an expert chef. Outside food and drinks are not permitted.

What is the best time of day for this tour?
The tour operates rain or shine, and daylight hours are ideal for maximizing views and photos. Many find late morning or early afternoon optimal for clear skies and vibrant cityscapes.

Are there any age restrictions or physical requirements?
The tour is wheelchair accessible, but tower visits are not. No specific age restrictions are mentioned, making it suitable for most visitors with mobility considerations.

How long does the entire experience last?
The entire combo takes about 2 hours, with approximately 1.5 hours for the cruise and another hour for the tower visit, depending on individual pacing.

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