AURA experience at Notre-Dame Basilica and guided cruise
Description
With this combined ticket, valid for two of Montreal’s most emblematic attractions, you will enjoy a guided cruise of 1:30 on the St. Lawrence River, ideal for discovering the city from a unique angle, between heritage, urban landscapes and natural panoramas. You will then end your day with an unforgettable visual and musical immersion with the AURA experience, a captivating sound and light show presented inside Notre Dame Basilica. Tickets for AURA are undated and can be used at any time during the 2025 season, without prior reservation, subject to availability. We recommend that you consult the performance schedules before your visit.
Tour Options
Itinerary
During a cruise lasting 1h30, embark from the Old Port and enjoy a breathtaking view of the city center. Our professional guide will teach you more about the history of the city of Montreal, its key figures and its maritime heritage.
The AURA experience immerses you in a captivating visual and musical universe, projected onto one of the most sublime canvases imaginable: the neo-Gothic architecture of the Notre-Dame Basilica in Montreal.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Please present yourself 30 minutes before the departure in front of the Croisieres AML ticket office on the dock; to pick up your physical ticket (required for boarding).
- Cruises operate rain or shine unless weather conditions pose a safety risk to passengers
- For the cruise: The time slot you book is for the guided cruise. Live commentary is offered in English and French. Audio guides are available in: French, English, Italian, Spanish, German, Mandarin, Japanese and Korean
- Rating that the temperature on the water can get cooler than on land, recommended to dress accordingly
- Upon arrival at the Cruises AML Montreal ticket office, you'll be given a voucher for the AURA Experience
- AURA Experience tickets are valid throughout 2026, according to their timetable. No prior reservation is required for AURA.
- Keep in mind that the AURA Experience is not guided
- For personal expenses, only credit card payments are accepted on board (cash not available)
Reviews(50)
The Basilica itself is stunning, the history, architecture and what it represents are all unbelievable. The Aura experience was fantastic and a must do, whilst visiting the city… I would say it can be a little repetitive as realistically how many lights can you play, but that said is was magical and emotive… a must do (once).
Hello, thank you for your wonderful review. We’re delighted to hear that you enjoyed both the cruise and the AURA experience. It’s great to know that the history, architecture, and atmosphere of Notre-Dame Basilica left such a strong impression on you. We’re also pleased that you found the experience magical and memorable during your visit to Montréal. — the Croisières AML team ⚓
The was a wonderful experience. The use of color, light, and sound created a unique experience. I would absolutely go again.
Hi, thank you for taking the time to share your experience. Knowing you’d happily return means a lot to our team. We’d love to welcome you back onboard.
This is a truly amazing experience. The cathedral being the perfect backdrop for the light and sound show. Worth the money and time.
Hi, thank you so much for this lovely comment. Seeing the Basilica enhanced by light and sound, then enjoying time on the river, can be truly special, and we’re glad it resonated with you. Creating meaningful moments in unique settings is what drives our team. We’re happy the experience met your expectations and would love to welcome you back onboard.
Unbelievable I’ve done this twice this year so far. Went with my cousin came back with my life. It’s just an amazing show. In combo with the boat tour it’s a great afternoon.
Hello, Thank you for your wonderful feedback! We’re delighted to hear that both the cruise and the show made your visit so memorable. It’s fantastic that you could enjoy the combination of the relaxing boat tour and such an amazing performance for a full afternoon experience. We hope to welcome you back on board soon! – The Croisières AML Team
Definitely not worth the time or money for light show but worth the visit to the Basilica. At least the money is going to the restoration. The light show was underwhelming. Says the show lasts over an hour but that includes going 30 minutes early (when doors open) show started at 8:10 and was over in less than 20 minutes.
The cruise was nice, but the Aura show was fantastic, and very beautiful! You must see the Aura show!
Hello, Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re happy you enjoyed your cruise and that you were also impressed by the Aura show in Montréal. It’s such a spectacular production and a great way to round out a day of exploring the city. We’re glad both experiences made your visit memorable. We look forward to welcoming you on board again soon. - The Croisières AML Team
You get to wait outside in a long line and sit on a rock hard pew for 40 minutes before the 20 minute light show starts. You get little benefit of the churches magnificent organ. Frankly, I would rather be able to view the interior of the church without the light show.
Hello, We’re sorry to hear that the experience didn’t meet your expectations. The light show is designed to highlight the beauty and history of the church in a unique and immersive way, but we understand that some visitors may prefer a quieter visit to admire the architecture. Thank you for taking the time to share your impressions. - The Croisières AML Team
The cruise was also great, with nice surroundings and, for an extra fee, cocktails. The Aura only allows you to take photos before and after, but it really is awesome. I recommend it.
Hello, We’re delighted to hear you enjoyed the cruise and the beautiful setting! It’s great that you were able to enjoy cocktails on board, and we’re glad the Aura left a strong impression. Thank you for recommending the experience, and we hope to welcome you back on another cruise soon! - The Croisières AML Team
This is an excellent light & sound show in the magnificent Notre Dame Basilica, Montreal . It gets very crowded so start lining up an hour before the show as it is very hard to find seats together . The lighting was fabulous and the music that accompanied it excellent. You have to visit when in Montreal!
Hello, Thank you for sharing your experience! We’re thrilled you enjoyed the light and sound show at Notre-Dame Basilica, with its stunning visuals and music. It’s wonderful to hear you recommend it to others visiting Montreal. — The Croisières AML Team
The cruise was okay, the guide was great. However they don't tell you that the Aura show can be sold-out and your ticket is only good when they have room. The basilica sells their own tickets, so you may have to go the next day.
Hello, Thank you for your feedback. We’re glad you enjoyed the cruise and your guide. We’re sorry for the inconvenience with the Aura show, which is managed by the basilica and can sell out. We’ll work on making this clearer for future guests! Warm regards, The Croisières AML Team
