Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau
Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau
4
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Monday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Tuesday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Wednesday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Thursday
10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
About
Anchored in the Old Port of Montreal, Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau offers its passengers the healing benefits of a spa while being lulled by the natural movements of the St Lawrence River. With its enchanting ambiance, and Old Montreal as a magical backdrop, this mysterious and innovative floating spa offers all who come aboard privileged access to the river while enjoying the relaxing and energizing properties of the water circuit. Bota Bota consists of five decks which house the various spa installations: four saunas with incredible views onto the river and the Old Port, a eucalyptus steam bath, outdoor whirlpool baths, cold showers and baths, relaxation areas, a restaurant, terraces and a garden. Over and above its breathtaking Montreal location, this unique spa offers prolonged well-being through massage therapy, body treatments, facial treatments, manicures and pedicures. You can also delight your taste buds at the Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau restaurant, La Traversée.
Suggested duration
2-3 hours
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The area
Address
Neighborhood: Ville-Marie
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Restaurants
2,516 within 3 miles
Attractions
476 within 6 miles
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Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
923 reviews
Excellent
489
Very good
240
Average
90
Poor
54
Terrible
50
MarcioToronto
Toronto31 contributions
Sep 2022
The outside area/entrance is very pleasant, but the check-in is confusing at best and inefficient if you have more than one person on a reservation.
Fortunately, the front desk staff were extremely friendly and helpful, making what could have been a smooth entry an unpleasant experience, especially because there are no sandals to borrow or rent (sanitizing flip flops is very simple, by the way). If you want overpriced Havaianas knockoffs, they have them for sale.
The bathrobes and towels are handed to you when you check in (they could be better folded-sorry for my OCD) with a bracelet used as a locker key (positive point).
My local YMCA has better locker rooms. Bota bota's were treated as a second thought: they are small, you are always bumping into someone, there is no space to sit, there are dripping ceilings etc. I preferred not to shower there at the end.
The rest of the place is outstanding as well: attendants are very professional; tubs, saunas, and showers are well designed; clientele is civilized; gardens are pleasant; and the different relaxation areas are a guaranteed glorious nap after the treatments.
I did not use the restaurants.
At the end, back to the dungeon/locker room, they do not have a centrifuge to help dry the bathing suits... something that someone should have thought of when they decided to not give plastic bags in 2018.
Towels and robe returns are weird and inefficient as well.
It is a great experience if you are prepared correctly, as they don't say anything about you bringing your own sandals, limited space in the lockers, or how to deal with wet garments.
The concept is 10/10, the staff as well. The execution has space for improvement.
If you can't live without your phone, please don't go. This is a place for relaxation.
To the management: asking your staff to push a monster cart full of wet towels up a ramp not just disturbs the clients with all that noise by the silent areas but is an unpleasant way to treat your collaborators.
Fortunately, the front desk staff were extremely friendly and helpful, making what could have been a smooth entry an unpleasant experience, especially because there are no sandals to borrow or rent (sanitizing flip flops is very simple, by the way). If you want overpriced Havaianas knockoffs, they have them for sale.
The bathrobes and towels are handed to you when you check in (they could be better folded-sorry for my OCD) with a bracelet used as a locker key (positive point).
My local YMCA has better locker rooms. Bota bota's were treated as a second thought: they are small, you are always bumping into someone, there is no space to sit, there are dripping ceilings etc. I preferred not to shower there at the end.
The rest of the place is outstanding as well: attendants are very professional; tubs, saunas, and showers are well designed; clientele is civilized; gardens are pleasant; and the different relaxation areas are a guaranteed glorious nap after the treatments.
I did not use the restaurants.
At the end, back to the dungeon/locker room, they do not have a centrifuge to help dry the bathing suits... something that someone should have thought of when they decided to not give plastic bags in 2018.
Towels and robe returns are weird and inefficient as well.
It is a great experience if you are prepared correctly, as they don't say anything about you bringing your own sandals, limited space in the lockers, or how to deal with wet garments.
The concept is 10/10, the staff as well. The execution has space for improvement.
If you can't live without your phone, please don't go. This is a place for relaxation.
To the management: asking your staff to push a monster cart full of wet towels up a ramp not just disturbs the clients with all that noise by the silent areas but is an unpleasant way to treat your collaborators.
Written September 5, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Kris474
Toronto, Canada2 contributions
Nov 2020
One of a kind experience with excellent staff, from booking to the treatments everything is flawless. Although early morning could be very desirable the evening sets the perfect mood. The seductive city lights in the background is the perfect backdrop to a relaxing experience. Some of the top massage therapists work out of this spa and could be recommended to you by the staff on request! Once a month is a must.
Written November 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dear "Kris474",
Thank you very much for your kind words !
We're happy to read that you enjoy visiting Bota Bota, and look forward to your next visit !
Written December 1, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Justmyopinion
Toronto, Canada2,224 contributions
Feb 2020
I have my own review but I feel I need to respond to what I have read.
1) The check in is slow but they are also busy. Hint: good time to start the relaxing
process.
2) Changing rooms are small. Hint: You're not supposed to stay in there.
3) Phones: no phones for 2 reasons. You can't disturb the quiet areas and this place
is private. Absolutely no pictures. Not only do they tell you at the desk no phones it
says it in every locker. So DON'T bring in your phones.
4) We had excellent service in the restaurant.
This place has it all in this small looking area. I would love to go in the summer when it can expand to the patios too.
The water areas are great. You have many options for hot or cold.
2 saunas steam and dry.
Lots of chilling areas.
I had an excellent massage from Mallory. Extremely professional and great personality. Talked when I wanted to and was quiet when I was too relaxed to chat.
As good as any massage I have had even at the really expensive Spas.
We stayed approximately 4hrs and could have easily stayed longer.
Well worth it!!!!!!!
1) The check in is slow but they are also busy. Hint: good time to start the relaxing
process.
2) Changing rooms are small. Hint: You're not supposed to stay in there.
3) Phones: no phones for 2 reasons. You can't disturb the quiet areas and this place
is private. Absolutely no pictures. Not only do they tell you at the desk no phones it
says it in every locker. So DON'T bring in your phones.
4) We had excellent service in the restaurant.
This place has it all in this small looking area. I would love to go in the summer when it can expand to the patios too.
The water areas are great. You have many options for hot or cold.
2 saunas steam and dry.
Lots of chilling areas.
I had an excellent massage from Mallory. Extremely professional and great personality. Talked when I wanted to and was quiet when I was too relaxed to chat.
As good as any massage I have had even at the really expensive Spas.
We stayed approximately 4hrs and could have easily stayed longer.
Well worth it!!!!!!!
Written February 18, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Ryan A
2 contributions
Oct 2021 • Friends
Wow, where do I begin. My brother took me here a few days before my wedding to destress and yet I left feeling more stressed then before.
1) our check in took almost 30 minutes because they lost our reservations. My brother was charged for three massages but they never booked them. Instead of saying go relax we’ll find you, they had us wait there and didn’t check back at all until
They had the answer 30 mins later.
2) obviously they comped it which was nice and appreciated but since my brother is American, he gets charged for a return, so he essentially paid for something he never got.
3) the locker rooms left A LOT to be desired. For what we thought would be a nice relaxing spa, it was quite the opposite. More like a cheap gym locker room with no amenities other then soap and a hairdryer. Not even slippers, which are mandatory but not provided… needless to say I did not shower there at the end…
4) we decided to just go do the water circuit. Finding a chair was a challenge, especially with so much blocked because of workers, there was also no sunscreen, in a spa with pools… not even to buy!
5) we went on the boat to a hot tub where the sign said it would close at 3:20 for cleaning, just our luck, it was 3:10. Nonetheless, we get in, we’re talking quietly, a woman starts coming up to everyone saying something and they leave the pool. She says it to us but we couldn’t hear. We assume it’s letting us know the pool is closing soon for cleaning so we decide to stay everyone else gets out. 5 minutes later she comes out angrily and says that’s it, you’re done, get off the boat. Apparently she had asked us to be quiet the first time because it was a quiet zone and we misunderstood…. Not
Great customer service to kick us off, especially because the other guests didn’t care… they were talking as well and never looked at us even.
6) we could’ve gone to the louder pool but decided we had enough and left. We’re still waiting for my brothers card to be comped completely for this fail of a day…. So much for distressing before my big day…
1) our check in took almost 30 minutes because they lost our reservations. My brother was charged for three massages but they never booked them. Instead of saying go relax we’ll find you, they had us wait there and didn’t check back at all until
They had the answer 30 mins later.
2) obviously they comped it which was nice and appreciated but since my brother is American, he gets charged for a return, so he essentially paid for something he never got.
3) the locker rooms left A LOT to be desired. For what we thought would be a nice relaxing spa, it was quite the opposite. More like a cheap gym locker room with no amenities other then soap and a hairdryer. Not even slippers, which are mandatory but not provided… needless to say I did not shower there at the end…
4) we decided to just go do the water circuit. Finding a chair was a challenge, especially with so much blocked because of workers, there was also no sunscreen, in a spa with pools… not even to buy!
5) we went on the boat to a hot tub where the sign said it would close at 3:20 for cleaning, just our luck, it was 3:10. Nonetheless, we get in, we’re talking quietly, a woman starts coming up to everyone saying something and they leave the pool. She says it to us but we couldn’t hear. We assume it’s letting us know the pool is closing soon for cleaning so we decide to stay everyone else gets out. 5 minutes later she comes out angrily and says that’s it, you’re done, get off the boat. Apparently she had asked us to be quiet the first time because it was a quiet zone and we misunderstood…. Not
Great customer service to kick us off, especially because the other guests didn’t care… they were talking as well and never looked at us even.
6) we could’ve gone to the louder pool but decided we had enough and left. We’re still waiting for my brothers card to be comped completely for this fail of a day…. So much for distressing before my big day…
Written October 21, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dear "RyanA2270",
Thank you for sharing your experience with the TripAdvisor community.
I first want to apologize for the time it took before answering your review.
Could you please write me an email directly at natalie@botabota.ca so we can look into this?
Best regards,
Natalie É., Customer Experience Director
Written December 15, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
A F
1 contribution
Jan 2020 • Couples
I was treated like a criminal by an overzealous attendant who threatened to kick me out just because I used my phone. There’s a reading area where they provide old magazines for people to read. I was quietly relaxing in the area with other people perusing these old magazines. I felt like reading up-to-date material on my phone. I was harassed by one of the staff members telling me I had to put my phone away. I asked why and he said it was policy. I asked why that policy had been implemented since I wasn’t speaking over the phone, nor listening to music, taking photos or doing anything that would bother other guests. He was unable to give me an answer and so I refused to acquiesce to his request. He then proceeded to threaten me with expulsion. I’ve been coming to Bota Bota for years now. Needles to say, I will be skipping in my next trips to Montreal.
Written January 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dear "47andr_f",
The no-phone rule applies to all of our guests and is made very clear from the moment you enter Bota Bota's property. By signing the release form, upon check-in, our guests therefore accept our spa rules.
It would be impossible for our agents to know if one is using their phone to take pictures or not. That's why we ask all of our guests to leave their phones in their locker.
We are sorry to see you go as a client because you don't agree with our spa rule. If you would like to discuss this further, please don't hesitate to email me at natalie@botabota.ca
Written January 29, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Andy S
4 contributions
Dec 2022 • Couples
We had high expectations for this place, but it really fell flat and weird. First, check in is very clunky and feels like a cattle call. Once in, there are lots of signs saying it’s a silent experience. While we abided, with four of us, there was occasions where we needed to whisper that we were moving to the next space. That’s when a very creep guy just keep appearing and staring at us. He was an employee and would come outside at the hot tub and stare at our wives. When one of us finally whispered/asked the others if something was going on, he walked straight down and threatened to kick us out. It was a surreal experience as plenty of people were having whispering conversations at that moment. I think he was just fixated on us for some reason, and it ruined the whole experience. We told the front desk leaving, and they didn’t seem surprised. Also, with all the sauna and hot tubs, you would think water would be easy to come by. The one water fountain barely worked. Again, it was just a disappointing, uncomfortable experience.
Written December 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Liz C
Halifax, Canada11 contributions
Jul 2021 • Friends
Wow what a horrendous spa!!!!!!!!!! Our experience was AWFUL!!!! There were numerous groups talking in the no talking section. Our party was specifically singled out over and over again. Targeted. The pool was so over crowded and there was no concern for covid 19. The staff was disrespectful beyond belief. The security guard was so horrible …disrespected us and spoke to us like we were children. Save your money and go else where. Their staff was HORRIBLE specifically security.
Written July 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dear "989lizc",
Thank you for taking the time to write your review.
I am sorry to read that your stay at Bota Bota did not meet your expectations.
It is in fact requested from all of our guests that they remain silent in all the facilities located on the boat, while we allow conversations at a low voice in the Gardens section.
After reading your review, I inquired with my colleagues and the supervisor present that day advised me that it was asked of your group, on numerous occasions, that you would either respect the silence rule, or go in the Gardens, which you refused to do. They also said that you were very rude to them, and did not want to comply with our spa's policy.
Our staff works very hard, every day, at enforcing that rule and I am sorry if you did not agree with it.
If you would like to discuss this further, please don't hesitate to email me directly at natalie@botabota.ca.
Written July 27, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
dinalouis
Canada12 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
If you’re looking to disconnect for a day, this is the place to go. Starting with the water circuit to the hammock swings and ending the day with a relaxing massage. It was all just perfect and extremely refreshing. The staff was very professional. And I had a more than amazing experience with Disandre for a very first time massage.
Written February 5, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dear "dinalouis",
Thank you so much for taking the time to write your review!
We hope to welcome you aboard again in the near future!
Written February 14, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Casper V
Christina Lake, Canada233 contributions
Oct 2021 • Couples
This was by far the best ever spa experience I have had. From the stunning setting with glorious views on Old Montreal, to the clever layout and design, this was amazing. Staff and therapists were extremely friendly and pleasant. We had an unforgettable day. This will become an annual treat for me. Absolute must try if you are looking for a spa experience in Montreal.
Written October 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dear "casperv1970",
Thank you very much for taking the time to share your Bota Bota experience with the TripAdvisor community!
We are glad that you enjoyed your time at Bota Bota. We do indeed offer amazing views on Old Montreal, the beautiful St.Lawrence River and the old No.5 Silo.
We hope to welcome you again in the near future!
Written October 19, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Anna B
Westmount, Canada18 contributions
Dec 2021
The massage was very professional and I requested that she focus on my lower back and legs, due to tightness from running. She followed my directions and applied the right amount of pressure. Also the space is quite nice and the rooms are spacious, the bathroom is very clean and its a large modern space.The spa is gorgeous, but due to covid only personal massages were permitted.
Written January 10, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Dear Anna,
We are delighted to read that you enjoyed your massage at Bota Bota. We hope to welcome you again in the near future!
Written January 18, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Laia Lafuente
1 contribution
Hello, I wanted to know if kids of 14 years old can enter the spa?
Thank you
Melissa C
Winnipeg, Canada8 contributions
Guests must be at least 18 to enter the spa.
AshleyL7777
Halifax, Canada24 contributions
Hi - If we are just going for spa services (massage, facial, pedicure) are there any relaxing/lounge areas available? If one person's service starts before mine will I be able to hang out anywhere without paying for the water circuit?
JuliaSPhiladelphia
Philadelphia8 contributions
Yes absolutely there is a beautiful hot tub area with nice lounge chairs
Bessy H
Montreal, Canada1 contribution
Bonjour j'ai un certificat qui date de 2016. Je l'avais oublié dans mon tiroir est il utilisable?
Je crois que oui à moins qu il soit inscrit sur le certificat utiliser ds l année qui suit
Neuro_Nugget
San Antonio, TX
Hi there! I'm interesting in booking a Nautilus package for the end of August. Is it possible to book this treatment given that it's the high season? I understand that I wouldn't be able to book the discounted Mon-Thurs rate, but could I book the more expensive option and use it during the high season?
shariyfah N
11 contributions
So sorry I did not read your question, I don't check in very often.
TravelingSolo88
Vancouver, Canada143 contributions
I have a massage appointment in early March. Do I need to reserve for the water circuit or can I just show up/pay in advance of my session?
MasterGeorge
Montreal, Canada1,349 contributions
Well, you can show up and go no reservation needed, but this is a popular amenity I suggest you reserve in advance, you won't be disappointed. But if you want to go and see the place first that will be fine. Enjoy and relax.
TexasLuv2travl
San Antonio, TX111 contributions
My husband and I are visiting Montreal for 4 days at the end of August. We are interested in the Drift Package for 2. Here are my questions:
How far in advance do we need to reserve?
Are the prices listed in Canadian dollar?
If we book for Tuesday and it rains but Wednesday is sunny, can we change days if therapists are available?
Can we designate a male or female therapist?
Thank you.
Rita S
Beirut, Lebanon192 contributions
Hello, 3 days before are enough for reservations , if you go you cannot exchange the day !
Because anyways you pay once you are there and most of the ameneties and food before leaving not at the entrance , you wear a bracelet !
It is in Canadian dollar,
You can choose when available
Again really worth to try !
Enjoy it !
Stephanie O
Regina, Canada
Best time of day to experience / recommended? We are visiting over 4 days in Montreal, I understand it’s supposed to be a relaxing experience. For a first timer how long would you expect to spend in the facility? Will you be tired or energized after? we will be going out for lunches and dinners and enjoying our kid free trip so just looking to book for the best experience! Thanks!
Francine F
Montreal, Canada35 contributions
From my personal experience m, I’ve been really relaxed afterwards and a dinner and a stroll follow perfectly so I recommend an afternoon trip. I’ve stayed around 3-4 hours max. Hope this helps and you have a great trip!
ginarose35
Providence, RI8 contributions
I'm planning on visiting the spa with my boyfriend. He is 6'6". I understand that the changing rooms are charming but I just want to know if he will fit?
MasterGeorge
Montreal, Canada1,349 contributions
I think he will fit, but tell him to take take, you'll enjoy this experience.
Krystal
St. Albert, Canada1 contribution
I understand this is a health facility but my boyfriend and I are planning on visiting the spa and we're two of the not many smokers left out there so I wanted to ask are there any designated smoking areas on or off the boat? What do smokers do if they spend the day there?
Thank you,
Krystal
Natalie E
Montreal, Canada
Hello there !
I am sorry we did not respond earlier. On the spa premises, it's not possible to smoke. We ask our clients who wish to smoke to do so passed the front gate, a few meters away from the spa.
Is there a time limit? Do I have a certain window of time or can I start/finish my day as I wish?
Benjamin I
Boston, MA300 contributions
There is no time limit.
Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau (Montreal) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau
- Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau is open:
- Mon - Thu 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Fri - Sun 9:00 AM - 10:00 PM
- Hotels near Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau:
- (0.10 mi) Penthouse in Boutique Saint Francois Xavier-301
- (0.29 mi) Le Petit Hotel
- (0.30 mi) Epik Hotel Montreal
- (0.33 mi) Hotel Nelligan
- (0.23 mi) Uville Hotel Montreal
- Restaurants near Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau:
- (0.01 mi) La Traversee
- (0.17 mi) Jellyfish Crudo+Charbon
- (0.11 mi) Mary’s Popcorn
- (0.11 mi) Volcanic Organic
- (0.11 mi) Marche des Eclusiers