I've never actually been to a real spa before (I've had facials and massages but never a full like... spa experience) and so I figured while on my very snowy December trip to Montreal now was the time. The fact that this spa is on a boat and half of it was outdoors was the appeal! So we booked just the water circuit (no extras, just saunas, steam rooms and hot tubs) to see if this was even something we'd like. Turns out the December visit was the way to go! It wasn't packed at all, and turns out that sitting in a hot tub while the snow falls on your face is actually a top ten life experience. It was cold as heck out, mind you, but somehow you never feel chilly when you're going in and out of saunas and hot tubs. I did wish some of the relaxation rooms were a bit warmer, or there was an ability to swap out a soaking towel at some point, but I was never uncomfortable. Everything was clean and people around us were respectful. I loved the no phone policy and definitely chilled out to staring into this strangely brutalist bay. David Lynch relaxation vibes. The best was the floor where you could sit in a porthole window -- only wish we had discovered it earlier! I would totally come back here and check out some of their other offerings. Dunno, might even aim for a winter trip again because it was just that nice! read more

Bota Bota - The boat exterior - Day Spas Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

Listen...I can admit it...I fell for their amazing online marketing. Once I booked my trip to Montreal, I would get ads, reels and TikToks on this place ALL the time. Finally I gave in and booked a day there for 3 of us on a Saturday afternoon. A spa experience on a boat on the water -- sounds amazing! I should have noticed on their website that they offer all sorts of discounts, etc to NOT go on the weekends. Why? Because it gets PACKED. Seriously packed. You feel more like cattle than a person enjoying rest and relaxation. Plus, I remember seeing they had a quiet section, but when I booked through the phone, their associate told me not to worry there is only a small portion that is a quiet section and then they have an outdoor section where guests can talk freely. Terrific because I knew we gals wanted to chat throughout the day. Well, we checked in and headed down to their locker room, which felt like a combo of a high school locker room in a basement, and we had to duck around the other guests and try to quickly change and head back up. We decided to go to the jacuzzi outside and even though it was raining, a jacuzzi looked like it would be heavenly. We got in and even though it was full in there, we started commenting on how nice it is. Some of the women already in there started fidgeting and then the next thing we knew the staff was coming over to us and reprimanding us for talking. We had no idea we had somehow wandered into the quiet zone but we quickly left and headed to the talking permitted section. That area felt like a Las Vegas day pool area -- lots of people everywhere. Every chair, lounge area, etc taken. We didn't stay too long there either. Then it was time for the massage. I had a therapeutic massage with tiger balm and it was probably one of the best massages I've ever had. That is truly the only redeeming part of the experience. On the one hand, I'm glad we went so we could have our own firsthand experience there, but also on the other, we still wound up getting massages in our own hotel two days later because we really wanted to have a relaxing experience while on vacation. Lesson learned! read more

Great first experience with my fiance. Probably the best day spa we have been to. Felt more like an experience than a spa. Highly recommend!

Bota Bota is a must-do while in Montreal. This epic, unique spa is on a large boat where decks hold hot tubs, saunas, lounge rooms, and cold plunge pools. Inner cabins have turned into massage rooms and below deck you find the changing areas. Friendly service. Appreciated the complimentary use of robes and towels. Felt a little stingy that complimentary sandals were not provided (if you don't bring your own, you can go barefoot- very cold metal floors- or buy some for $30+). Massage was one of the best I've had- Dawn was amazing! read more

The highlight of our trip to Montreal! This spa is on a boat and offers beautiful views of the city. It's extremely clean and we had such a relaxing day. Upon checking in, you're given a robe, towel, and wrist band which is also your locker key. No phones are permitted in the spa areas. I saw some reviews criticize this, but it was nice to unplug! I enjoyed the steam room and sauna, but we spent most of our day relaxing by the pool. It's a lovely outdoor space (and there's a bar right next to the pool). I had a refreshing mocktail that tasted similar to a Moscow mule. Only thing that was a bummer is that you can't enjoy your drinks in the pool. I'd absolutely come back if I found myself in Montreal again. Massages and facial treatments have to be booked in advance, so I'd love to do that next time! read more

Bota Bota - The spa - Day Spas Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

First off... this is expensive. On top of the sticker price, there are fees that they add on (like 15% more). This is however an amazing experience. This is essentially a multi-level choose your own adventure of water based experiences between hot and cold. Nothing was ever too crowded, and everyone was super well behaved. There are so many relaxing spaces to lie down and grab tea and melt away - pretty much perfect. The only minor complaint is that the layout was a bit confusing, but you can figure it out pretty quickly. True hidden gem in Montreal! read more

We had a great time We won a 2 person date with drinks Facials and massages and it was awesome The hang out pool was a bit of a meat market and young ppl just hanging off each other but you're only young once so enjoy it but I could see how middle aged women would not enjoy it lol read more

Went on a Thursday night when talking and pictures were permitted. Next time I will Pick a silent night lol. The boat and view was beautiful. Many different stations & circuits for relaxing but couldn't with so many couples making out and talking. Went there with my daughter for a girls night. The restaurant is beautiful but the waitresses looked stressed out and were banging the dishes loudly when tables were cleaned. The shower area at the bottom deck a bit tight. Next time I will try their massage and facial treatments. read more

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What spells zen better than a Nordic spa, except you're not in a Nordic country paying an arm and a leg for a spa and instead getting the same experience in midwinter Montreal. My friend and I took advantage of one of the pricing packages and saved $20 collectively on our visit by coming in on Friday after 5pm. We came in for our three hour time slot for the water circuit and were quickly checked in. Both of us received a bathrobe, towel, and locker key. The water circuit consists of multiple hot tubs, cold baths, a sauna, and a vapor room. There's also a few quiet areas with hammocks and seating areas. My favorite hot tub was the silent hot tub on the roof of the building. Not only do you get to relax those muscles, but you also enjoy a great view of the city. The hammocks were also a plus to lay in in-between baths. The bathrooms were well stocked with makeup remover, blowdryers, shower amenities, etc. but the shampoo and conditioner didn't do much for my hair. I had to go back to my hotel and take another shower. Outside of the bad shampoo and conditioner, the water circuit experience at Bota Bota was pretty relaxing especially in the middle of winter. Definitely worth a try if you haven't tried a spa experience. read more

The absolute best spa I have been to. Bota Bota is the most relaxing experience and they have a variety of treatments to add to your spa experience. Specifically, they have body scrubs, body massages, facials, and scalp massages. When you enter the spa, you are warmly greeted by the front desk and given a breakdown of how each floor/area works. You have the option to add dinner as well, which comes with a main dish and glass of wine. My husband and I thoroughly indulged the hot tubs, steam rooms, cold plunge, and meditation room. It made for such a delightfully relaxing day. We each got a massage, which was amazing. The food at the restaurant is super good too. I cannot wait to go back to Montreal to spend the day at Bota Bota again. **Tips** 1. Bring your own sandals and swimwear. 2. Bring a reusable water bottle- trust me, you'll need it. While they do have water refilling stations, they don't have glasses to walk around with. There is only a small paper cone at the entrance of the spa. 3. Make sure you find good parking for all day and give yourself plenty of time to get to the spa before your appointment. read more

The worst experience I've ever had at a spa. The place was soooo crowded. Line ups for every circuit. We couldn't even turn around without bumping into someone. We didn't stay, just got our money back, which they were reluctant to do. Had to go meditate to calm down from the stressful experience at this spa. All thumbs down!! read more

Great place to relax and get a good massage and facial, which is what my daughter and I did! She's been living in Montreal with her husband for over six years and we decided to do a goodbye tour of Montreal before she left this month. This place has a nice sanctuary, one in which there is no talking aloud and they do enforce that, which is actually quite nice to be able to relax without someone talking in the background! The only drawback is they kind of hurry you around they say after the massage and facial that you can take your time, but they really do come back within the next three or four minutes and see if you're ready to leave; but other than that, it is a relaxing experience! The other disappointment is that their bathrooms are kind of lacking as far as needing updating , the floors were not as clean as I would've liked, lockers were old and rusty, showers were not as clean as they could be. There are no towels in the bathroom area. No bathroom attendance like in other spas that I've been at. You have to go two flights to the upstairs to get another towel for showers, etc., they give you one when you come in but if you need anything for your hair or extra towels because yours has dropped, you have to go all the way upstairs to the reception area/public area to get another towel. It is kind of pricey, but one of those celebration type of indulgences! We also ate there in which the food was excellent! Would return again next time I'm in Montreal read more

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I went for a Thai massage. The massage was great. The restaurant was good, and service there was good. I had a lovely salad with fennel, and a mocktail, and enjoyed the view. The rest of the experience was weird. They don't give you slippers. The robes barely close in front, and they make you wait in a mixed gender area. They don't let you come in to wait if you get there early, and the front desk people were kind of rude about that. There was a huge bachelorette party that came in around the same time, and they were doing the water circuit, so I thankfully didn't have to deal with how loud they were for too long. I might go back if I'm in town, since it was nice to get a really good massage. But I've been to other spas where I felt the overall experience was more relaxing, that's for sure. read more

Bota Bota offers a truly unique spa experience--floating on a boat in the heart of Montreal's Old Port. The thermal circuit is relaxing, the views and the atmosphere is peaceful (especially during off-peak hours). I visited on a Thursday afternoon. The space is clean and beautifully designed, and the massage I had was excellent. The most relaxing face massage! I wasn't sure how's I feel about the 'no phone' policy. But I didn't miss my phone for the 4 hours that I was there. Definitely worth a visit if you're looking for a special kind of relaxation. read more

This spot is the BEST!!! Seriously one of the best spa days I've ever had. My friend and I went in February when it was like 14 degrees out and it was incredible to be in the hot thermal pools with the gorgeous view of the city. We had a time that transitioned to sunset, too, which was absolutely beautiful. We didn't get any massages or services, just did the water circuit which is super worth it. There's hot and cold pools, and also pools where you can talk and where you can be silent. There's saunas and steam rooms and relaxing indoor spaces to read as well. There's also a little restaurant. Try to book in advance - we booked in person the day before and it was the last spot available. This was on a random weekend in February so I can't imagine how busy it is in the summer. The only bummer is that you're not allowed to take photos. Everyone sneaks them anyway, so it's kind of annoying dodging people saying no when everyone is doing it anyway. read more

If you're claustrophobic just go straight to the rooftop and skip treatments inside the barge because you're literally in the belly of a ship and it's...confined. But if you brave it, then ask for the Sports/"athlete" massage. It's amazing. The water Circuit and saunas are nice and open/airy. You get a great breeze off the water and views are cute. I highly recommend this place. read more

Came here because of a tip from a friend. This place is fantastic and reasonably priced considering the experience - one downside is there is no parking (mysterious lot near it but not for guests). I love that it's quiet on the actual boat (if you wanna chat you can go to the garden section) and that there is no photography (so no dumb influencer photo shoots or ig/tik tok thots). I came alone and on a week day later in the day so it wasn't crowded and was really able to relax and enjoy myself. Would definitely come back again and would like to try the food next times read more

Bota Bota - Day Spas Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

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One of the most relaxing places I visited during my trip to Montreal - the perfect spot to recharge before another long flight.

Bota Bota was one of the coolest and most unique spa experiences I've ever had! I would come back here in a heartbeat. My husband and I splurged on the Calypso package. We both signed up for a 60 minute massage (and were upgraded to 90 minutes for no extra charge!) and received a chef's tasting lunch. After lunch, we enjoyed the water circuit and soaked up every second. Although there were quite a few people there, it never felt chaotic. We really enjoyed bouncing from the sauna to the pool. Would 10000% recommend this spa to anyone visiting Montreal! read more

Bota Bota - Day Spas Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

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10/10 experience. Make sure to spend the 3 hours relaxing! Most of the indoor spaces are quiet and silence (and they mean it!) but there are plenty of places to enjoy company and relax whether you're solo or with a group. Would go back. read more

Bota Bota - Day Spas Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

I don't regularly go to Spas, but decided to go here as part of a bachelor party, and because it is such a unique Spa. I started off by getting a California massage. Overall I enjoyed it, but the masseuse DEFINITELY could have used more pressure. Definitely a relaxing experience though. After my massage, I spent some time in the pools and sauna, and exploring around the boat. The pools were ok, but I would probably pass on this part if I went again. I definitely preferred just finding places to relax around the boat, and enjoying the calming ambiance. I'm not sure I'd go here again, it was definitely a bit pricey for what it is, but I did have a good time! read more

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Probably the highlight of our Montréal trip. Nice way to spend part of a day. Only downside is that the changing areas were a bit cramped and worn down. Lots of options on the water circuit. Go early in the day for a more private experience. read more

Greta spa. Friendly staff. Very clean and never felt crowded. Came here during the week and did the circuit and massage. Professional staff.

Spa... on a boat? I would've given Bota Bota five stars if it wasn't so crowded! Overall, it was a wonderful experience. There are two parts to check-in (first off-site a few steps away from the actual spa, then staff makes you wait a few minutes, then you're escorted to the front desk where you receive your keys, robe, towels, and instructions on spa use). There are multiple levels consisting of quiet rooms, steam sauna, cold plunge pools, outdoor hot tubs, spa services, etc. I would have to say my favorite part was the outdoor hot tub and it happened to snow while we were in the hot tub. Imagine overlooking city views while you're in the hot tub and it's snowing. The only weird part is, you're sharing the hot tub with 10+ other people. People were mostly respectful of the no-talking areas and strict no cell phone policies. We didn't dine there, but there's a restaurant on the first floor. Since we were there on a Sunday, it was over-crowded. Actually, over-crowded is an understatement, it was super packed! We really wanted to stay for more than the 3 hours they allowed, ended up rushing af in the end and running to the exit to drop off our wristbands and towels. Unsure if people actually follow that policy without getting charged for extending their stays, but staff didn't seem to check. read more

Very relaxing. Great packages. Plenty of space to feel like it's secluded. They will add $50 Canadian per person at checkin so you may tip. If you do not use it then it will go back on your credit card. My massage by Francois was amazing. The food at the restaurant was lovely. They have. Ragged cocktails, beer, wine. read more

If you are a snob about your spas, just go to the St. James. But if like me, that sounds endlessly boring, bring your best friend or two to Bota Bota and make a day or half day of it. From the circuit of dry and wet saunas and cold plunges and hot tubs overlooking the river, to the bridge to the larger hot pool area, to the dining deck, you can very easily lose track of time here. And what i love more than anything, a strict no cell phones policy (that includes tablets for reading, so be a patron of a local bookshop and grab a quick read before you hop over, or dust off that old MP3 or iPod and listen to some songs you thought were cool in college). Some tips: I bring my own slippers/flip flops, i bring a little toiletry bag that hangs on a hook easily, and I bring a tiny container with a a few bucks for tips for the staff. Oh and take a taxi/uber/bicycle. Parking is a challenge. read more

I can't believe I've never reviewed this spa, it's in my top 3 in the world and the first thing this SoCal girl books when I'm visiting Montréal (which is as often as I can!). The location is not to be believed, it's on a boat on the St Lawrence River. The views are spectacular, the treatments are first class and affordable, and the water circuit is absolutely stellar. I've been dozens of times, and I'll be coming dozens more. It's my happy place, absolute heaven! Don't miss the chills plunge into the river, it wasn't open today malheureusement :(, à la prochaine. My favorite treatments are Lomi Lomi with Nour and Thai massage with Ivette. Merci beaucoup à bientôt! read more

Bota Bota - Entrance - Day Spas Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

Loved it. Went with somebody who was really emotional and the workers picked up on it right away came over to us like angels in the water fall pool and offered assistance. read more

World class spa in Old Port Montreal. Get ready to be blown away by scenic views of City and harbour from you floor to ceiling sauna windows and outdoor pools. Relax and recharge in tranquil Meditation rooms. Very romantic and inspiring and can be a reason to visit Montreal. You will find quality physical and massage therapists and estheticians and a variety of services offered at Bota Bota, even a "gua cha" facial. I recommend Gabriel - top notch therapist. read more

I had the best massage at the spa from Emilie, who is a miracle worker and I left her feeling both relaxed and renewed! Absolutely get a massage from Emilie! The spa is one of the best I have visited. The water circuit is genius at getting you ready for ultimate relaxation. The restaurant was so-so and although the selections on the cheese plate were outstanding, the charcuterie was sliced too thick and as a result the platter was greasy and heavy, not at all in the spirit of a light spa meal. The mushroom dish was odd and confusing due to the overly smoky broth that did not gel well with the hummus and made me wish they either gave me mushrooms with broth OR mushrooms with hummus. read more

Overrated and overpriced. $90 (CAD) for the "water circuit" which is basically just access to the amenities of the place gets you in the sauna and the cold plunge tubs. I got there when they opened (9am). They encourage people to be quiet but there is a lot of chattering going on in the spaces. People even bring their kids! What 8 year old wants to sit quietly in a spa? I'm a big spa guy but you really have to try hard to find this place relaxing. The locker rooms were cramped, basically no privacy to do your business - the bathroom stalls are like a public restroom. Really janky. They seem to be expanding and the outside is like a construction zone. There were maintenance guys walking around the whole time fixing leaks or something. Why can't they do this after hours? Their marketing is great - really sell the place on the imagery. I did feel refreshed after a few rounds of the sauna/cold plunge/sun tanning (yes I got lucky it was a beautiful sunny day in April). Honestly I won't be back and I would only recommend it if it's sunny and you go for the opening hours - it was already lined up out the door when I left at 11am. Disappointing experience, really wanted to enjoy it because it's been on my list for a while. read more

This place is such a gem I almost don't want to give it away. Imagine a place where you can spa on 3 quiet floors in the Scandinavian circuit. Incredible views, clean space, excellent restaurant and bar and there are ample hang spots outside when you have a group you want to hang with. I'm coming back next time i'm in town. Just be sure to bring your sandals otherwise you gotta buy some at the front desk at a premium. read more

Maybe because I was in good company but I REALLY enjoyed my experience here! Like at most spas, you're not supposed to be snapping pics so I left my phone in my locker. The last time I'd been here was shortly after it opened. I went for a massage and the experience was average... Which is probably why it took a promo offer to bring me in for another try but this time, I had gotten the water circuit. Turns out that coming here on a cool summer day is like the best thing ever! Tip 1: if you forget your sandals, they do have some available but it'll cost you a foot at $30/pair LOL and I can't believe I was wincing when I had to buy a pair at another spa at $10! Tip 2: I brought a sun hat which worked out great cause this place is pretty open so there's not much shade anywhere. Having a pair of shades are also great. Tip #3: you'll want to arrive at least 20 min early because there are lines to get in, especially if the weather is beautiful. Either that or arrive late so you don't have to wait, however, that will eat into your spa time and 3 hours is not enough at the this place! Anywho, back to the spa. I actually appreciate the COVID measures because otherwise this place would be intolerably crowded. It was still busy on a beautiful sunny Sunday afternoon but our group of four still had enough space for our bubble. They also went by bubble count instead of head count which IMO makes a lot of sense. The locker room shows signs of aging as the lockers don't look as pristine as they used to but they have digital locks and the key is a bracelet band with a chip in it. What love is that there are multiple cold water pools within a 15-30 second walk from the saunas, steam baths, hot baths! There's nothing worse than having to trek over to the cold water pool and lose all the residual heat by the time you get there. So 5/5 for pool placement! The garden level feels like a mini paradise. Two large warm and hot (has waterfall) baths with a small cold bath beside. Then there's a medium steam room, sauna, drinking fountains, bathrooms and rest areas all in one location. The layout is well thought out! On the boat itself, you need to go to the top floor for the baths and steam room but they're all close enough together. From the side of the boat facing the Old Port, there's a hot bath from where you can feast your eyes on the amazing view of the historic center. The staff were friendly and helpful. It's also super easy to get your wet towels changed for dry ones... Just head to the counter in the boat's 4th floor. The view was great, the staff were courteous and accommodating, the layout is enjoyable, probably the only negatives are that there's no parking and the locker rooms are average. read more

Better than expected. Super clean, great service. Lovely place for a mother/daughter day. We enjoyed every minute of it read more

I freaking love this place, we would go back. It was clean, relaxing and totally worth the trip from Vermont! We took an Uber to the place from our hotel, im not sure where the parking was. But if you're staying in Old Montreal it is totally walkable. We also ate there and I would def recommend the charcuterie board. Listen, if you are not sure about a spa try this one. read more

Too crowded for my tastes. This place is more of a "scene" than an actual spa. How are you supposed to relax when everyone is scoping each other out? While the whole floating spa on a former tugboat idea is cool and indeed the transformation is beautiful along with location, I just don't find the experience here that wonderful. I like my spas less crowded and less meet-market like read more

I had a very relaxing experience during the 3 hour circuit. The fixed boat setting is very unique. There are a variety of saunas, steam rooms, pools, hot tubs, cold plunges and lounge areas to choose from. All areas were very clean and the upper decks offered a great view of the city. The staff were friendly and attentive. read more

This is an excellent hydro therapy site, saunas and cold dunk tubs, with massage and other body treatments available on site. I enjoyed their nice restaurant (gourmet style celeriac and leek soup. WOW!) and espresso bar and the end of a 5-hour stint on my first visit here. I'd love to return! read more

Bota Bota - Entrance and exterior - Day Spas Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

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Beautiful spa with a wonderful view of old Montreal, what can be more serene! For Mother's Day, my mom and I went to Bota Bota, and we used the water circuit for few hours. The service is excellent, since it was our first time, the staff actually took us around to shows us the place and offered her recommendations what do to in order for each water circuit. The saunas (steam and dry) were beautiful and super clean. The hot baths were relaxing (top two) on the boat were mesmerizing because we are between the sky and water with old Montreal floating around you. The garden bath is more playful, since we are allowed to talk. My favorite spot was the relaxing area on the hammocks with slow swing... what a wonderful feeling. In the end, happy and relaxed... we came out of there. read more

Bota Bota - Day Spas Near Me - Montreal, Quebec

Wow, what a spa! A multi-story spa that is partially on a boat doesn't make sense as a concept but the execution is great. Several saunas, steam rooms, jacuzzis, cold bathes and even the option to climb a ladder into the freezing cold river. Very soothing experience, clean, pleasant. I loved it. read more