The Best Boat Rentals in Gatineau

Most standard motorboats and pontoons in the Ottawa–Gatineau area run about CA$100 to CA$150 per hour, with half-day outings commonly totaling CA$500 to CA$800. Private captained cruises for sightseeing or celebrations are typically around CA$200 to CA$300 per hour, while larger party-style boats with more space and amenities can be CA$300 to CA$500 per hour. Rates usually include the boat, required safety gear, and either a captain’s time (for crewed trips) or a safety briefing for self-drive rentals; fuel, cleaning, or gratuity may be extra and taxes are added at checkout. Prices rise on peak weekends and event nights, so book early for the best selection.

You’ll find comfortable pontoons for relaxed cruising, sporty bowriders and wake boats for small groups, compact cruisers and “party” pontoons for celebrations, and sightseeing boats for slow scenic runs on the Ottawa River. Most charters focus on calm, social cruising with shaded seating, Bluetooth speakers, and easy boarding from downtown docks or marinas.

Both options are available. If you want a stress-free day, a captained charter handles navigation, docking, and safety while you focus on your group. Confident boaters can choose self-operated rentals when offered; you’ll need proof of competency to operate a motorized pleasure craft in Canada, or you can complete a Transport Canada rental boat safety checklist that serves as temporary proof for the rental period. Owners may set additional age or experience requirements.

Common pickup points include the Hull Marina (Port de plaisance Jacques-Cartier) on Rue Laurier beside Jacques-Cartier Park in downtown Gatineau and the Marina d’Aylmer at Parc des Cèdres in the Aylmer sector. Many sightseeing trips also arrange convenient pickups along the riverfront near the Canadian Museum of History and the Jacques-Cartier Park public dock—great central spots with parking and transit nearby. Confirm exact meeting details with your captain after booking.

The Ottawa River delivers postcard views of Parliament Hill, the Canadian Museum of History, and the graceful Alexandra Bridge, plus natural highlights like the Chaudière Falls and the twin cascades of Rideau Falls where the Rideau River meets the Ottawa. You’ll also cruise past riverfront parks such as Jacques-Cartier Park and LeBreton Flats, with frequent sightings of herons, ospreys, and shoreline wildlife, especially on quieter morning departures.

To operate a motorized pleasure craft in Canada you must carry proof of competency. The most common is the Pleasure Craft Operator Card (PCOC), but renters without a PCOC can complete a Transport Canada Rental Boat Safety Checklist with the owner, which serves as proof for the duration of the rental. Visitors may use an equivalent operator card from their home state or country. Captained trips do not require you to hold any license.

Yes—family outings are popular on the Ottawa River. Every vessel must carry a properly sized lifejacket or PFD for each passenger, including infants and children, and captains will brief your group on safety before departure. Many owners can provide child-size PFDs; let them know your kids’ approximate weights when you book. For the smoothest ride and easier naps, choose calm morning slots.

Most captains welcome snacks, picnic-style meals, and non-glass beverages; larger boats often have coolers or small galleys. Policies on alcohol vary by boat and by provincial rules. In general, the operator must remain sober, and open alcohol is only permitted on certain boats with permanent facilities when they’re anchored, moored, or docked. Check your listing’s “What’s allowed” section and ask your captain for simple do’s and don’ts before you shop.

Many owners allow friendly, well-behaved dogs by advance request, especially on open-deck pontoons. Expect basic rules like leashes while boarding, bringing a towel or pet mat to protect seating, and avoiding sharp claws on upholstery. If someone in your group has allergies or concerns, mention it in your booking notes so the captain can prepare seating or cleaning accordingly.

Summer weather can change quickly with pop-up showers or wind. If conditions are unsafe, most captains will reschedule or offer a refund according to their stated policy. Each Getmyboat listing sets its own cancellation terms (flexible, moderate, or strict), and weather calls are ultimately the captain’s to ensure safety. The easiest approach is to book a primary date plus a backup time window if your schedule allows.

Absolutely. Pontoons and small cruisers are ideal for 6 to 12 guests and often include shaded seating, a Bluetooth sound system, and cooler space. When you send your inquiry, share your headcount, preferred music vibe, and any special touches (decor, cake, non-alcoholic toast) so your captain can recommend the right boat and pickup point. Evening golden-hour cruises are especially popular for photos with Parliament in the background.

Boating season here runs roughly from mid‑May to mid‑October, with peak weather in July and August. Big dates that book up fast include the Victoria Day long weekend in late May, Canada Day on July 1, and Labour Day in early September; U.S. Memorial Day and July 4th weekends can also increase demand from visitors. For smoother water, easier parking, and better prices, choose weekday outings or morning departures. If you’re chasing warm sunsets and city lights, summer evenings on the Ottawa River are hard to beat.

Yes—select captains offer evening cruises for major nights. On Canada Day (July 1), you can position for skyline views of the official fireworks, and in early to mid‑August, Les Grands Feux du Casino Lac‑Leamy launches pyromusical shows from the river beside the Canadian Museum of History—spectacular from the water. Late August also brings the Gatineau Hot Air Balloon Festival at Parc de la Baie; while balloons depend on wind, it’s a festive time on the riverfront. These dates sell out well in advance, so reserve early and follow your captain’s timing and pickup instructions.