Relax and Unwind in the Heart of Montreal
It is no secret that we both love a good spa day. So, when we discovered Bota Bota – a floating spa on the Saint Lawrence River in the heart of Montreal – we were sold! Built on a renovated ferry, Bota Bota, which means “drop by drop” in Japanese, encapsulates all things water and takes the meaning of spa day to a whole new level.
Here is what we recommend to bring and what you can expect upon arrival:
What to Bring
- Swimsuit + plastic bag to put your wet swimsuit in
- Sandals to wear around the boat
- Change of clothes
- Toiletries
- Water bottle to keep in locker for after the experience. It is important to hydrate afterwards!
What to Expect
- Cell phones are not permitted in treatment and water circuit areas. We learned this the hard way after Rachel’s robe went missing while enjoying the sauna. After the debacle that ensued to find the guest who mistakenly took it, we ultimately returned our phones to our lockers. Don’t be us!
- Silence is required in all areas on the boat to maintain a tranquil environment. You are permitted to speak softly in the garden area.
- Arrive at least 30 minutes prior to the start of your treatment to give yourself plenty of time to check in, change and get settled.
The Experience
Upon arrival, we checked-in, signed a waiver and accessed our individual lockers. After changing into our plush robes, we completed a standard health form and were promptly whisked away to our respective couples massages.
We both opted for the 4-hour Drift Package which included a 60-minute massage, followed by a 3 hour water circuit. The water circuit involves alternating between hot and cold environments, followed by relaxation to deliver therapeutic benefits. Learn more about the principles of the water circuit here.
To say the massage was heavenly would be an understatement. It was SO GOOD. Post-treatment, the four of us regrouped and enjoyed complementary hot tea and spa water before beginning our water circuit.
Bota Bota has 4 decks, each offering of a variety of plunge pools, hot tubs, dry and wet saunas as well as lounging areas. We spent the next 3 hours exploring each level and taking it all in. There are also areas off the boat including a garden and pool, but we opted to stay on the boat.
Unwind
Upon conclusion of your treatment, you can enjoy the restaurant and its adjacent outdoor deck for as long as you wish. We concluded our experience with a glass of bubbly and some light appetizers at Restaurant La Traversee. Reservations are not required – nor is your wallet – since you can apply all charges to your account directly.
We spent our final moments at Bota Bota relaxing on the outdoor loungers, soaking in every last drop of the incredible experience.
If you find yourself in Montreal, we highly recommend spending an afternoon enjoying this unique oasis. Have you been to Bota Bota? We’d love to hear about your experience!
For more inspiration on things to do in Montreal, check out our 3 Day Montreal Itinerary.
