In the height of July, Montrealers know that the summer can become a little unbearable. Hot, humid, and sweaty perfectly describes our city. When you’re facing weather like this, all you want to do is cool off in some refreshing body of water. Luckily, if you’re looking to spend your summer amongst the fish, Montreal offers a wide array of fun water activities for you to take advantage of!
Check out 8 water sports you can enjoy in Montreal!
Flyboard
Taking water sports up a notch, Montreal offers its very own flyboard. The flyboard is like a jet pack in the water, shooting you up in the air and then plunging you back down towards the water. If you’re looking for an extreme, adrenaline-inducing activity, this will get you buzzing!
Where: Parc Jean-Drapeau
Jet Skiing
Enjoy your favourite summer activity right here on the Saint Lawrence River! Jet skiing is a great time for all, whether you’re racing against your friends or getting out on the water in doubles. Lonely Planet even offers guided jet-ski tours leaving from Old Port if you want to feel like a tourist for the day.
Where: Saint Lawrence River, meeting point is at Jacques-Cartier Pier
Aquazilla
Yes, Montreal really does have a water obstacle course. Aquazilla is here to make all of your childhood dreams come true. Running, climbing, jumping, splashing, slipping, and sliding are just a few ways to describe what goes on at Aquazilla. You might think it’s only fit for kids, but we assure you that it might just be the most fun you’ll have in Montreal this summer.
Where: Jean-Dore Beach, Parc Jean-Drapeau
Kayaking
There’s no finer way to spend a Saturday morning in Montreal than kayaking on the Lachine Canal. The Lachine Canal Nautical Centre is open all summer and is just steps from Atwater Market. Kayaks are available for rent, and H2O also offers introductory courses. If kayaks are too much, you can also rent paddle boats.
Where: Lachine Canal, 2727 Rue Saint Patrick
Rafting
The Lachine Rapids are a paradise for white water rafting and kayaking. Rafting trips are exhilarating, so long as you’re prepared to get wet! Most tour companies offer two packages: an adventure rafting tour and a family rafting tour that is a little more tame.
Where: Lachine Rapids, meeting point is 8912 Boulevard LaSalle
Stand-Up Paddle Boarding
Enjoy a laid-back weekend stand-up paddle boarding at Parc Jean-Drapeau. With the calm waters of the river and the sun on your face, you’ll be instantly relaxed enjoying a leisurely paddle on the water.
Where: Parc Jean-Drapeau
Jet Boating
A photo posted by Saute-Moutons Jet Boating (@sautemoutons) on
Get a little adventurous with Montreal’s jet boating tours on the Lachine Rapids. If white water rafting isn’t your jam, then a jet boat is the perfect alternative. Fantastic for families, school trips, or even wedding parties, jet boating on the Lachine Rapids is an activity not to be missed this summer. You can find more info here.
Where: Lachine Rapids, meeting point is at Clock Tower Pier in Old Port
Canoeing
Montreal is crawling with canoe clubs. If you’re looking to enjoy a wholesome Canadian afternoon with family and friends, renting a canoe is a fun and relaxing option. An inexpensive way to enjoy Montreal’s surrounding river, canoes are available for rent at Parc Jean-Drapeau, on the bank of the Lachine Rapids, and at the Pointe Claire Canoe Club.
Where: Various locations