Bota Bota Spa – Relaxation in the Old Montreal

Jun Sun 2020

16:26 updated on Jan Tue 2025 14:45

For over 10 years, the Bota Bota spa has graced the Old Port of Montréal with its soothing presence, doing us all a world of good, even before we enter. Come with us as we explore this serene sanctuary, nestled in the hustle and bustle of Montréal’s downtown and the majestic St. Lawrence River.

Welcome to the marine world of Bota Bota Spa

Above all, you must remember that when you board this marine universe, it is a matter of enjoying a moment of relaxation and tranquility aboard the boat and the gardens. Soft-spoken conversations are welcome in the gardens, while complete silence is expected on board the vessel. The Spa Experience agents ensure the tranquility of the premises and are available to accommodate you on your journey; do not hesitate to call upon their expertise.

A massage area, baths and everything are there to change your mood. Without forgetting the treatments: whether it be the face, body or hands and feet, the professionals of the team at this spa, anchored in the Old Port of Montréal, will give you back a great look and you will be ready to restore land on dry land.

But what is the water circuit, according to the Bota Bota site: “To enjoy the full benefits of thermal therapy, it is very important to follow the circuit’s clearly defined steps. Start on the Promenade Deck or the Sunshine Deck for a 10-to-15-minute session in the dry sauna or steam bath. This will raise your body temperature, dilate pores and flush out toxins. Next, take a courageous dip (head included!) into one of the cold baths or under the cold shower to get your heart pumping and close your pores. The final step in the Nordic bath circuit involves stretching out in one of our many relaxation areas. You can also enjoy the stunning views from one of the whirlpools or curl up in a chair on the Middle Deck for 20 minutes, as your heart rate returns to normal. This is your time to close your eyes, relax, and let yourself be swept away!”

The Gardens, the big plus of this marine spa

In 2015, Bota Bota set foot on the ground by setting up the Bota Bota Spa Gardens, a four-season urban oasis, a first in downtown Montréal. Every year since its opening, Bota Bota has added new facilities and has pushed back its limits when building these large gardens; gardens that honour the relaxed luxury of its urban oasis and its philosophy of respect for the environment.

The Bota Bota Spa Gardens are exquisitely designed and impressively arranged on the main decks of the boat. They offer a top-notch indoor and outdoor thermal experience in the stunning setting of the St. Lawrence River and the Old Port. With the addition of containers, we note the theme of the water is still present here. The gardens include a steam bath, a hot tub, a cold pool, a fireplace, relaxation areas, a space devoted to yoga and, and, at the centre, a 60-by-100-foot pool, probably the only public outdoor pool in Old Montréal. The highlights are the different views, whether on Old Montréal or on the Silo No. 5, it is magical!

Geneviève Émond, captain of this eclectic spa, explains that the Outdoor Garden not only expands the existing water circuit, but also adds a much-welcomed green space. “Bota Bota is committed to offering a unique outdoor spa experience in the heart of downtown Montréal throughout the year, even in the heart of winter. Located as we are on the water, we can provide that craved sunshine during the dark winter months or that fresh breeze when the hot city air becomes unbearable. Coming here in the summer is like going on a seaside vacation. There’s always a delightfully fresh breeze to cool the sweltering city dwellers. ”