The Best Boat Rentals in Quebec

For most private charters around Quebec, Canada, expect small motorboats and pontoons to start around CA$120–CA$250 per hour, mid-size cruisers and sailboats with a captain to run roughly CA$250–CA$450 per hour, and larger yachts from about CA$400–CA$600+ per hour. Half-day outings commonly land between CA$500 and CA$1,200, while full-day trips range from about CA$1,000 to CA$2,000+. Public sightseeing cruises on the St. Lawrence typically cost around CA$50–CA$60 per adult. Safety gear is included, and many captained trips include the skipper and basic fuel for a standard route; taxes, gratuity, docking at special pickup points, premium fuel for longer routes, and cleaning fees may be extra. Pricing rises on peak weekends and during major summer events, so booking early helps lock in better rates.

You’ll find comfortable pontoons for relaxed cruising, sleek bowriders and runabouts for quick hops along the river, classic sailboats for scenic tacks, and cabin cruisers or yachts for celebrations and longer trips. RIBs and Zodiacs are also used locally for fast, stable sightseeing on the St. Lawrence. Choose based on your group size, desired speed, and whether you prefer an open-deck or enclosed cabin in case of wind or a passing shower.

Both options exist. Many trip planners choose a captained charter because the St. Lawrence around Quebec is tidal, with strong currents and commercial ship traffic. If you want to drive, Canadian law requires “proof of competency” to operate a motorized pleasure craft; most locals carry a Pleasure Craft Operator Card, and visitors can often complete a Rental Boat Safety Checklist provided by the owner for the duration of the hire. Individual owners may still require experience or limit routes for safety, so confirm requirements before you book.

The most common launch point is the Port of Québec Marina at Bassin Louise in the Old Port, steps from historic streets and easy parking. Many sightseeing cruises also board nearby at the Old Port’s Chouinard Pier. On warm days, departures may use docks at Baie de Beauport just east of downtown. Across the river, south-shore options include Parc Nautique Lévy and the Marina de la Chaudière in Lévis. Your exact meeting spot will be confirmed on your booking and typically appears in your pre-departure messages.

Classic highlights include sweeping views of the Château Frontenac and Old Quebec’s fortifications atop Cap Diamant, the dramatic span of the Quebec Bridge and the Pierre-Laporte Bridge, and the pastoral shores around Île d’Orléans. Many routes also cruise toward Montmorency Falls for photos, conditions permitting. Along the way, you’ll share the channel with oceangoing ships and ferries, which adds to the maritime feel of the city.

For motorized boats, Canada requires proof of competency. A Pleasure Craft Operator Card is the most common, but for short-term rentals many owners can issue a Transport Canada Rental Boat Safety Checklist after a safety briefing, which serves as temporary proof for that rental period. Bring government-issued ID, and be prepared to follow the owner’s rules on routes and weather limits. Captained trips don’t require any license from you.

Yes, families are welcome. Boats carry properly sized, Transport Canada–approved lifejackets or PFDs for every passenger, including infants and children. Most operators ask that kids wear them at all times on deck. Let your captain know your group’s ages and sizes in advance so they can have the right gear ready, and bring sun protection and layers—wind over the St. Lawrence can feel cooler than on shore.

On private charters, BYO snacks and drinks are usually fine, and some captains can arrange catering. Many boats prefer cans over glass. Public sightseeing cruises, however, often restrict outside food and alcohol and sell refreshments on board. Regardless of the trip type, the operator must remain sober—plan for a designated captain if you’re self-operating, and enjoy responsibly.

Pet policies vary by owner and boat. Some allow well-behaved dogs with prior approval, especially on open-deck pontoons, while others have no-pet rules to protect upholstery and safety gear. If approved, bring a leash, a towel or blanket to protect seating, water for your pup, and consider a canine lifejacket for comfort in choppy conditions.

Quebec’s boating season runs primarily May through October, with quick-changing conditions, tidal currents, and occasional fog or pop-up showers. Captains watch forecasts and tide tables closely and may alter routes or departure times for comfort and safety. On Getmyboat, weather and cancellations follow the owner’s stated policy; many will reschedule or offer a refund if conditions are unsafe, while light rain or safe winds often mean the trip proceeds. Review the cancellation terms on your listing and message your captain early if your plans shift.

Absolutely. Private boats are ideal for milestones—a 2–3 hour cruise covers the Old Port, bridges, and sunset views without overpacking your itinerary. Captains can suggest photo stops and music-friendly routes, and many allow simple decorations. For larger groups, consider a bigger cruiser or yacht, or split into multiple boats departing from the same marina. Popular celebration windows—weekend afternoons and golden hour—book first, so reserve early in summer.

Peak season is June through early September, with the warmest water and longest days. Canadian holiday weekends drive demand, especially the National Patriots’ Day long weekend in late May, Saint-Jean-Baptiste Day on June 24, Canada Day on July 1, and Labour Day in early September. In Quebec, the late-July “Construction Holiday” also spikes bookings. Early July’s Festival d’été de Québec brings big crowds, and late July to August fireworks nights are especially popular on the water. For calmer conditions and easier parking, choose weekdays or morning departures; sunsets are gorgeous but busier and can be breezier.

Yes—on select evenings from late July into August, many boaters watch the Grands Feux from the river between Old Quebec and Lévis. These nights are festive and busy, so plan to book well in advance, expect slower traffic near the viewing zone, and follow your captain’s instructions on spacing and no-wake speeds. Arriving early and staying a little after the finale helps avoid congestion, and a light jacket is smart for the cooler night air on the water.