During a visit to Canada’s dynamic national capital city of Ottawa, escape the bustling streets to sightsee from the deck of a luxurious yacht while enjoying a glass of wine under the summer sun’s warm rays. Spend an evening out on the water watching as Ottawa’s historic Parliament Buildings are vibrantly illuminated for the Northern Lights Show spectacular. Feel as if you’re in Amsterdam as you take a canal cruise down the Rideau Canal. While cruising down this UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal, experience Ottawa’s famous landmarks set against the backdrop of its scenic beauty. Please check out the following list of the top boat tours in Ottawa, Canada to experience the capital city’s breathtaking natural scenery and landmarks from the perspective of a sightseeing boat adventure.
1. Join an exciting duck boat adventure (from USD 33.4)
Grab the guys to hop aboard Ottawa’s unique amphibious duck boat which allows tourists the ability to travel on land and along the water. Cruise along the Ottawa River to admire famous landmarks including Ottawa’s impressive Parliament Buildings, Rideau Falls, Ottawa’s riverfront embassies, and more. After travelling along Ottawa’s beautiful waterfront for 20 minutes, return to land to traverse Ottawa’s busy streets. During the exciting 40-minute land voyage, explore emerald Landsdowne Park and charming Byward Market.
Ottawa: Bilingual Guided City Tour by Amphibious Bus
Duration: 1.0 hour
2. Cruise down the gorgeous Rideau Canal (from USD 36.0)
Have your own Amsterdam-inspired canal cruise experience by booking a boat tour to float down the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal. Listen to the friendly crew’s fact-filled narration on Ottawa’s history and how each attraction helped in the formation of present-day Ottawa. While sailing from tranquil Dow’s Lake to the Ottawa River, leisurely cruise by the historic Chateau Laurier, Pretoria Bridge, Canal Ritz, and much more. Learn about the German and Armenian Embassies, the construction of the Trans-Canada Highway, and Dominion Arboretum during your peaceful canal cruise.
1.5-Hour Rideau Canal Cruise with Live Commentary in Ottawa
Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes
3. Tour around Ottawa and admire its stunning architecture (from USD 129.24)
Join your besties for a VIP tour admiring the stunning architecture of Ottawa’s Parliament Buildings while visiting historic Parliament Hill. Be transported to the Royal Canadian Mint where you will get an up-close and personal look at the money-making facilities. Bask in the sunshine during a scenic river cruise along the Ottawa River wherein you will get to view over 55 different landmarks. Cruise past cascading Rideau Falls en route to the Supreme Court of Canada and the Prime Minister’s Residence at 24 Sussex Drive.
Ottawa: Best of Ottawa Small Group Tour with River Cruise
Duration: 4.0 hour
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4. Book a boat cruise to view Ottawa's famous attractions (from USD 20.0)
Experience a fun-filled day spent with family by hopping aboard the Empress of Ottawa to traverse the city’s winding waterways while admiring its stunning natural beauty. Wander along the deck to the front of the boat with your camera, ready to capture breathtakingly beautiful Rideau Falls. Soak up the sun while sailing past the historic Royal Canadian Mint and Ottawa’s Embassies lining the Ottawa riverfront. Listen to the captain recount Ottawa and Gatineau’s history while cruising by the historic Parliament Buildings and the Prime Minister’s Residence.
Ottawa River: Historic Sightseeing Cruise
Duration: 75 minute
5. Experience an epic Ottawa night tour (from USD 118.09)
Get the party started by sailing across the dazzling Ottawa waterfront during a captivating sunset cruise past Ottawa’s famous landmarks. Grab your camera to capture precious moments of Ottawa’s most sought-after attractions illuminated against the dark evening sky. After completing the thrilling cruise portion, listen attentively to interesting historical accounts while being transported through Ottawa’s most exciting neighbourhoods. Tourists will be given the opportunity to depart the shuttle for brief photo ops of Ottawa’s sights while driving through important districts. Stop at Byward Market to sample delicious snacks before finishing your tour at Ottawa’s famous Parliament Buildings to enjoy the not-to-be-missed Northern Lights extravaganza.
Ottawa: Small Group Night Tour w/River Cruise & Light Show
Duration: 3.5 hour
6. Enjoy a luxurious private yacht excursion (from USD 89.0)
Book a tour to enjoy the chance to sail down the naturally beautiful Ottawa waterfront by means of a luxurious private yacht. While sitting on the bow of the yacht, sip on a glass of white wine as you cruise past Ottawa’s and Gatineau’s picturesque scenery. Bask in the warm rays of the summer sun while floating past Ottawa’s famous attractions including the Parliament Buildings, stunning Rideau Falls, and much more. Grab your camera or electronic device to capture precious memories of Ottawa’s amazing waterfront while chilling out on the back of the boat.
Ottawa Small-Group Yacht Tour
Duration: 0
7. Set sail on a sunset river cruise (from USD 94.0)
Sign up early to avoid missing out on the opportunity to enjoy part of the weekend sailing down the Ottawa River during a scenic sunset cruise. Enjoy a spectacular sunset while experiencing a mesmerizing, private live music performance as you sip on a glass of sparkling wine. Chill out while enjoying a private yacht excursion spent sailing past Ottawa and Gatineau’s incredible waterfront attractions. Get your camera ready to snap photos of a breathtaking sunset as it envelopes Ontario and Quebec’s skies with vibrant roses, tangerines, and lavenders.
Ottawa River Sunset Tour on a Private Yacht
Duration: 0
8. Picnic at Upper Duck Island's sandbar (from USD 110.0)
Make certain to book this unique excursion to sail on a private yacht during the summer months to experience a unique natural phenomenon. It is truly amazing to walk on a section of sand while being completely surrounded by water. Stick your toes in the powdery sand as the waves splash effortlessly by while you gaze past the neverending expanse of rippling waters. Feel as if you are dropping off the edge of the world as you leave the safety of the sandbar to swim in Upper Duck Island’s pristine waters. Indulge in a glass of wine alongside the sumptuous deli lunch while experiencing Ottawa’s stunning natural scenery coupled with its famous landmarks.
Ottawa River Catered Lunch Tour (@11AM), Private Yacht
Duration: 0
Experience Ottawa's sights by boat
Spend your adventure exploring Canada’s capital of Ottawa by leaving the land behind in favour of a boat tour down the Ottawa River or the Rideau Canal’s intertwining network of waterways. Experience Ottawa’s glittering landmarks during an evening boat cruise, or a spectacular sundown while enjoying dinner on a relaxing sunset cruise. Return from your rejuvenating vacation in Ottawa with memories of exploring the city’s amazing sights and its natural beauty from the land and water.
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