The Best Boat Rentals in Montreal

For simple cruising boats and bowriders, plan on about $100–$200 per hour. Mid-size pontoons, wake boats, and day cruisers commonly run $150–$300 per hour. Larger cabin cruisers and small yachts in the 35–55 foot range are typically $400–$600+ per hour, with luxury models higher on peak dates. Rates usually cover the vessel and standard safety gear; captained charters often include the captain’s fee, while fuel, taxes, and gratuity may be extra. Exact inclusions are listed on each Getmyboat booking page, and prices can rise for weekends, fireworks nights, and holiday periods.

You’ll find a range that fits most groups and budgets: bowriders and deck boats for quick cruises, pontoons for relaxed outings, wake boats for towing fun, and cabin cruisers or yachts for parties and celebrations. Sailboat charters are also available in the area when conditions allow, especially on nearby lakes connected to the St. Lawrence.

If you plan to operate the boat yourself, Canadian rules require proof of competency for motorized pleasure craft. Most renters show a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, but Transport Canada also recognizes a co-signed Rental Boat Safety Checklist for the rental period, and non‑residents may use equivalent proof from their home state or country. If you book a captained charter, no licence is needed because the captain operates the boat.

Common pickup points include the Port d’escale Marina in the Old Port (near Jacques-Cartier Pier and the Clock Tower), the Marina de Longueuil (Port de plaisance Réal‑Bouvier) across the river, and the Marina de Verdun along Boulevard LaSalle. On the island’s west end, some itineraries use the Sainte‑Anne‑de‑Bellevue canal and boardwalk area when cruising Lake Saint‑Louis and Lake of Two Mountains.

Classic sights include the Old Port skyline, the Clock Tower, Habitat 67, the Biosphere on Île Sainte‑Hélène, the Jacques Cartier Bridge, La Ronde, and Parc Jean‑Drapeau’s shores. Depending on your route and time, you may also pass freighters on the St. Lawrence, glide by Îles‑de‑Boucherville, or watch the summer fireworks reflect over the river.

Yes. Boats carry approved lifejackets for each person on board, with child sizes available; let your captain know your kids’ ages and approximate weights so they bring the right fit. Many operators ask that children wear their lifejackets whenever on deck, and they’ll give a short safety briefing before departure. Strollers and bulky car seats are best left ashore unless your captain confirms space.

Most charters are BYO for snacks, birthday cakes, and non‑alcoholic drinks, and many can arrange simple catering on request. As for alcohol, Quebec rules only allow open alcohol on boats that have permanent cooking, sleeping, and toilet facilities, and only when anchored, docked, or beached. Operators may have stricter policies, so confirm ahead of time; cans and closed containers pack best, and glass is often discouraged.

Pets are welcome on some boats with prior approval. Tell the owner your dog’s size and shedding level, expect a cleaning fee on certain vessels, and bring a leash, water bowl, and a towel. For everyone’s comfort, consider shorter cruises for first‑time boat dogs and avoid delicate upholstery areas unless invited.

Captains watch marine forecasts closely and will not operate in unsafe conditions such as high winds, thunderstorms, or poor visibility. If weather forces a cancellation, most listings offer a free reschedule or a refund according to the policy shown on your booking. Summer weather here can change quickly, so layering and light windbreakers are a good idea even on warm days.

For stress‑free events and sightseeing, a captained charter is the easiest option: you focus on hosting while your local skipper handles navigation, docking, and river currents. Experienced boaters who have proper proof of competency sometimes choose a self‑drive bowrider or pontoon for short outings, but first‑timers generally prefer captained trips, especially on busier weekends or fireworks nights.

The prime season runs roughly May through October, with the warmest, busiest months in July and August. Standout dates include Saint‑Jean‑Baptiste Day (June 24), Canada Day (July 1), the two‑week “construction holiday” in late July, and Labour Day in early September. The Canadian Grand Prix in mid‑June and the International des Feux Loto‑Québec fireworks (late June to late July) make weekend evenings especially popular. Weekdays and morning departures are calmer, usually easier to book, and often better‑priced. If you’re visiting from the U.S., Memorial Day, July 4th, and Labor Day weekends also see higher demand.

Absolutely. Montreal’s yachts and spacious pontoons are set up for celebrations, with sound systems, coolers, and flexible seating. For summer Saturdays, fireworks evenings, or Grand Prix week, aim to reserve 3–6 weeks ahead; for weekday cruises, a week or two often suffices. Share your headcount, preferred pickup area, food and drink plan, and any décor needs so your captain can suggest the best boat and timeline.