Montreal: Jet Boat Lachine Rapids Ride & City Landmarks

Summary

Montreal’s wild river ride city views laughter and soaked shoes

You’ll race past Montreal’s famous landmarks on a jet boat before plunging into the wild Lachine Rapids with your local guide steering (and joking) all the way. Expect laughter, river spray in your face, safe lockers for your stuff, and heated changing rooms when you’re done. It’s messy fun — but that’s kind of the point.

What’s the experience like?

“Don’t worry, you’ll dry off eventually — or just embrace it!” That’s what our captain yelled over the engine as we pulled away from the dock, which made everyone laugh (and maybe a little nervous). Montreal looked different from the water — all those city landmarks like the Clock Tower and Habitat 67 slid by in flashes of color and concrete. There was this mix of sunscreen, river spray, and something like popcorn from somewhere upstream. The guide, Marie, pointed out Victoria Bridge with this pride only locals have — she said her grandfather helped paint it once, which I didn’t expect to hear on a jet boat.

The real heart-thumper is when you hit the Lachine Rapids. It’s loud — not just the engine but the slap of water against metal and everyone yelling (half joy, half surprise). I sat up front for “the full experience,” which basically means I got drenched first. The water is cold even in July; it hits your face sharp as mint gum. There’s a moment where you can’t see anything but spray and then suddenly you’re through, grinning at strangers who are now your wet companions. My sandal nearly floated away at one point — they give you spares but next time I’d bring my own.

I liked that nobody pretended to stay dry or cool; we all looked ridiculous by the end, wringing out shirts in the changing rooms (which are actually heated — bless them). Marie told us no other commercial boats go into these rapids, which somehow made it feel like we’d snuck into a part of Montreal most people don’t get to see. There was a kid behind me who kept counting bridges out loud — lost track after Champlain Bridge because he was laughing too hard.

Afterward, walking back toward Old Port with hair still dripping and shoes squelching, I kept thinking about how alive everything felt on that stretch of river. I still think about that cold splash under bright sun — not sure if it woke me up or just shook loose something good.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Jet boating on St. Lawrence River

• Arrive 45 minutes before departure
• Wear bathing suit and safety gear
• Board jet boat for 1-hour trip
• View Montreal landmarks from boat
• Spend 30 minutes in Lachine Rapids
• Enjoy thrilling ride and water splashes

Top questions

How long does the Montreal jet boat ride last?

The jet boat ride lasts one hour total, with about 30 minutes spent in the Lachine Rapids.

What should I wear for jet boating on the St. Lawrence River?

Wear a bathing suit or clothes you don’t mind getting wet; sandals are provided but you can bring your own for comfort.

Is there somewhere safe to store my belongings?

Yes, secure lockers are included so you can safely store your things during the trip.

Are life jackets provided for the Lachine Rapids jet boat tour?

Yes, life jackets are provided for all participants as part of your booking.

Is this Montreal jet boating trip suitable for kids?

The trip is suitable for children aged 6 years old and up.

Can I join if I use a wheelchair?

The activity is wheelchair accessible including transportation options and facilities.

Which Montreal landmarks will I see during this tour?

You’ll see sights like the Clock Tower, Biosphere, Habitat 67, Victoria Bridge, Champlain Bridge, and Montreal Casino from the river.

How early should I arrive before departure?

You must arrive 45 minutes prior to departure time for orientation and preparation.

What’s included

Your day includes a one-hour guided jet boat ride on Montreal’s St. Lawrence River with life jackets provided for safety, plus ponchos to help with splashes (though honestly you’ll still get soaked), secure lockers for your belongings, heated changing rooms after your ride, and sandals if needed—just bring yourself and maybe an extra shirt for later.