There aren’t many inexpensive family activities these days so when I heard about a boat trip that only cost a couple of loonies, I was all in. If you’re looking for a way to pass a few hours, a trip aboard the Lachine Batobus and a visit to the Lachine Canal and its waterfront parks is a fun way to spend an afternoon.
At $2 per person, and FREE for kids 5 and under, the boat ride is an inexpensive sightseeing tour that travels to three different pick-up/drop-off points. You can access the boat at:
- Parc Saint-Louis across from the Dairy Queen at the base of 32nd Avenue (where it departs on the hour, every hour (noon, 1 p.m., 2 p.m., etc.)
- Parc René-Lévesque.
- and the new riverfront park at 1800, ch. des Iroquois.
We hopped on at Parc Saint-Louis because it is easy to find street parking. Make sure to bring exact change and pay as you get on. The open-air boat is quite small and can accommodate 11 people, and holds life jackets for adults and children. Bike racks are available and you can also board with strollers and wheelchairs. Leashed dogs are also welcome.
While the actual boat ride is only about 15-20 minutes, there is plenty to see in the area to prolong your outing. Plan a walk and picnic in Parc René-Lévesque, check out the canal locks, rent a kayak at the new park, grab an ice cream and look at the herons, stroll along the paths, tour history at the Musée de Lachine (open until Sept. 12), or chill out in the air-conditioned Fur Trade at Lachine National Historic Site (open until Sept. 6).
The Lachine Batobus runs until September 26, 2021.
August 5-29, Thursday – Sunday, noon – 7 p.m.
September 4-26, Saturday & Sunday, noon – 5 p.m.
The Batobus may be cancelled without notice due to poor weather conditions. At the time of publication, face coverings must be worn at all times while on board.
Related Read: Summer Fun on the Lachine Canal
