Reviews of Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau (Spa)
Entrée McGill et, Rue de la Commune O, Montréal, QC H2Y 2E2, Canada
Average Rating: 
DESCRIPTION
Here you have all the information of people like you who bought the products of Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau (Spa) in the area close to Dorval (Canada).
At the present the firm has a rating of 4.3 stars out of 5 and this score is based on 127 reviews.
As you can read, the average score it has is really good, and it is based on a very high number of feddbacks, so we can think that the assessment is very credible. If many people have bothered to rate when they are pleased, it works.
You know that we do not usually stop to put tatings when they are good and we usually do it only if we've had a problem or issue...
This Spa belongs to the category of Spa and health club.
Where is Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau?
REVIEWS OF Bota Bota, spa-sur-l'eau IN Dorval
Aicha Bouagila
Cute place but i find it’s overpriced… compared to other spa in mtl
Christian Lee
Went as part of an anniversary getaway to Montreal. Have been to other Nordic-style spas, and this experience was fantastic. Everything is well-run, and beautiful. Great variety of pool areas, and went to the bistro for a drink & cheese platter. Wonderful afternoon sunset in winter on the river overlooking downtown.
Stephanie Wong
Easily accessible by metro and it's both indoors and outdoors which is nice if the weather turns bad . Prices are good too and there are promotions for early birds as well. Very quiet (staff are there to maintain a certain level of silence), clean but there are a few bus since you are on the water but it's not really a big problem in my opinion
Matthew Sheldrake
I love this spa. The water circuit is what everyone needs at least once - I've been at least 5 times and if I lived in Montreal I would go weekly. My friend had a massage and she said it was amazing and well worth it. I will return for sure.
christina c
The massage was great. And the ambiance is amazing and beautiful. Good view of the old port.
Yasmina Novillas
I thought I was going to a spa not a library. They enforce silence almost everywhere which I didn’t know before we booked online. Then when we arrived they demanded our credit card again so they could put a $50 hold per person “in case we wanted to buy drinks”. If I want to buy drinks, I’ll pay for them, there’s no need for a hold. They advised the hold would be lifted upon checkout but when we checked out, the lady told us they rebalance the holds after their shift and it can then take 24 hours or more for the bank to release the funds back into our account. This should have been mentioned at check in or at least during the time of booking online. This practice, like the facilities, feel like something straight out of 2008. The locker room reminded me of a high school changeroom. Not impressed, especially for the price. To call this a luxury spa is a joke. Also no mention that you need to bring your own flip flops. There are no rentals and if you didn’t know to bring your own flip flops, you are expected to buy them for $25.
Stephanie Thi
Amazing experience. The atmosphere is very calm and relaxing. We went on one of the coldest days in January and it was very nice being outside in the water circuit. The spa packages are worth it and are cheaper than other high-end spas. If you have massage benefits, it makes them extremely affordable too. Great staff.
briana zentner
You have to be quiet like a mouse here. If you're with a group and wanna have fun and laugh while you use the circuit pools you cannot. They will harass you and keep coming at you to quiet down. I enjoyed my massage though.
Kate atita Burapasingh
Cancels my appointment 3 hours before booking time but I walk by and it is open
Trisha Ghosh
Professional, great service and truly relaxing experience. I had a relaxation massage, they followed all Covid-19 rules and regulations. Staff is friendly and professional. The only downside was the female washrooms/changing area, it needs better cleaning.
June P
Bota itself - the boat, the steam and the saunas are great. The location is spectacular, easily accessible and in the Old Port. Just make sure that you are clear in what you ask for in terms of a massage. The staff is good at listening to concerns and suggestions. Also, be wary of the restaurant - my experience there was dismissed - the plate I had was greasy bar food, and not spa-like at all. Update from original 1 star, given in response to one particular masseuse: Oct2021 Waiting for them to confirm on their offer for another Massage... Review July 2021 Massage pressure has nothing to do with strength. It was as if R. was proving he could apply a ton. I told him about the pain at least 5 times. I got a deep purple bruise on the inside of my wrist for about 3 days, and still have pain in that arm, and my neck. The 'Tasting Plate' which is a surprise 'Chef's choice' -as my server reminded me, - was pricey greasy pub food, fatty chicken, mayo, & fries, will never order again. Water Circuit was nice, as always with great views. There are signs for silence but they often get ignored. Thankfully cell phones are banned. The facilities are clean and adhere to covid rules. Will return for water circuit, but no massages or food.
Ruchama Bee
Nicest spa I have ever been to!!!! Totally recommend!
Brandon Vergara
It’s clean, massage was ok. It was very expensive which is why I give it a 3 star and not 4. Also, their “hot” sauna wasn’t really that hot I found in comparison to other ones I’ve been to. Only 2 showers in the mens room but I love the fact that they provide numbered bracelets even for going to the bistro.
Ahmet Kul
One of the best experiences in Montreal. I loved it! The service was super nice and the staff was friendly. Would definitely recommend it.
Véronique Pettitt
Very relaxing and I had a great massage.
Fritzie Kit Bellang
Relaxing spa at night with the city lights view ???? ????
Lydia Foley
Staff was alright - the desk staff are very welcoming and kind. The woman I had for a facial was not descriptive even though I asked to have everything explained to be on the registration form. My skin did not feel deep cleansed - none of the products felt effective. I had skin concerns that were not addressed. Almost no extractions were done, even though I had several that could have been removed. It was incredibly busy and I was not comfortable having to walk up stairs in a robe when the men's changing room is down below, right beside the women's change room. I would not reccomend this place for a facial. I would potentially go back to try out the pools, but unlikely due to the number of people inside.
Meaghan MacKenzie
A very unique experience. A must visit when you're in Montreal. Try the Polar Dip into the St Lawrence during the winter! Gorgeous views. You have to check it out, at least once!
Patricia Estephan
Best spa experience in the old port of Montreal!
Megan Lafrance
Went to this spa today with my fiance and we were very underwhelmed. We have been to similar spas in Ottawa that had much nicer, relaxing environments. The spa felt too crowded and we didn't exactly know where things were or what was even offered. The staff provided little direction. We got a couples massage, which was great, but left right after because we didn't see the point in staying. We honestly wish we could get our money back for the hour we spent doing the bath portion (you had no choice but to pay for three hours). Once again, very underwhelming. Would only recommend it for massages, not the full experience.
Tara Halupa
Had a fantastic massage, and enjoyed an afternoon in the sun at this unique day spay.
David Mintz
Terrific spa with great character. The pools saunas and tubs we amazing, worth the visit on its on. Good massage treatment, and very thorough. Restaurant had a nice charcuterie and selection of Quebec cheeses. Very chill vibes, quaint, chic and thoughtful.
Shirley Ta
Oh....so...relaxing! Great place to go with friends or even solo :)
Mike Mah
Very refreshing. Loved the hot and cold options. A bit like an assembly line with the number of people but it’s a big property.
Ioana Constantinescu
I have been a regular to this spa for more than 4 years now. It's sad to see how their prices go up and the quality deteriorates each time. While I do enjoy the new garden they have opened up, I was very disappointed with the experience on my last two trips. First, the wet sauna in the main complex has a problem with the pipe, which means that every 10min when there is new steam released, there is a maddening sound. When I signaled it to the staff, he looked at me very indifferent and said it's normal (no, it's not, and I have used your wet sauna before). Second, they used to have proper spa towels and bathrobes before. Now they are very thin and dingy, really not proper quality when you pay 150$ on a visit. Lastly, what appals me is that about two years ago, when I stayed in the cold tub for a bit too long, and passed out on the floor after, none of the staff helped me! None! Two clients and my friend helped me lie down and gave me water. The staff is more preoccupied telling people to keep it down rather than assisting a client out. All in all, this is a perfect place for people out of town that will visit the spa for a nice view of the city, but if you're from here, other spas deserve your money (see Scandinavian baths or Balnea Spa).
Ingrid Ergun
Such a nice experience. Everything is clean and well organised. You only have to bring your bathing suite and slippers. The bathrobe and towels are provided. A very nice welcome were everything gets explained. The view in the hottub is amazing, perfect spot to see the skyline of Montreal. Because of the limited guests allowed , you can visit all facilities at ease. Overall this one is top notch!
Pamela Mitton
What a great experience. I recommend it. For friends or couple. Also the restaurant in it had a nice menu and the service was A1. Beautiful Spa in the old port with an amazing view.
A Rob
Impeccable experience, amazing massage,looking forward to going to trey the water circuit. Incredible view on the river and old Montreal.
Ian Ruthven
Services delivered were good (massages) but service at the entrance is ridiculously too slow. Reception takes much too long to check in customers even in the Covid-19 era. This seems to be getting worse and worse. Attention to detail is not good. There was a lot of confusion and poor communication. Water circuits were less busy than usual but many of the services were shut, i.e steam baths were all closed. This was not mentioned when booking and no rebate was given on incomplete and an already very expensive experience. On top of this, my GF's shoes were stolen, and though I realize this isn't their fault, they were very nonchalant about it. I have been to this spa a lot in the past but I believe I will look elsewhere in future due to less than satisfactory experiences.
Alizée Lambert
Nice spa. The massage are a bit overrated but the SPA definitely worth the stop with its numerous sauna, steam rooms, cold bath and relaxing areas, topped with amazing views of Montreal.
monica provenza
Overall great spa with fantastic views. The changing rooms could be a bit more accommodating.
Paul Kozak
Great please. Very clean and well designed spaces. Excellent reviews definitely highly recommend going there at night time to see the skyline of Montreal. Will be going back there on my next visit. Don't forget your flip-flops :)
Kate Cameron
An amazing place to relax. The waters are amazing, with lots of different areas to choose from. I had a great facial and 90 minute massage during my visit and would recommend both!
Cristian Asenjo
Wonderful spa with an amazing setting in the water. The facilities are very well kept and quite spacious. We had a wonderful time relaxing for 3 hours, it wasn't too crowded when we arrived (around 1 pm). 4 stars because there weren't free amenities (like fruits and smoothies) compared to Scandinave Spa (which is very close by).
Anthony Lussier
A spa like any other, but the view and concept definitly makes it worth while! The only reason I've put 4 stars is that the silent zones are not properly monitored (or should I say the people walking around are not strict enough) for it to stay silent.
Scarlett Sahota
While Bota Bota was a fun experience, I don’t think it was worth the money. It’s very crowded and not nearly as clean as I’d like it to be. Plus by 11 AM the floors and stairs and very slippery with water and dangerous. Personally I wouldn’t do it again, but to each their own.
Mohammad Mahdian
Hands down the best spa I've been to. Great views of Montreal. Clean facilities. Also, the "quite zone" adds a lot to the ambiance.
Michiao Wu
1. Price: you are paying for the scenary. The whole boat/spa is divided under 4 stories + the annexe garden view. Bath robe and towel are provided. CIRCUIT D'EAU 65$ unlimited stay on non traffic time a 45$ for 3 hours stays. (After 6pm or before 10am on monday to thursday) 2. Service: Decent service with uniformed ton and care. 3. Atmosphere: dimmed lighting and consistent music Vs crowded young clinentele and non spacious locker room 4. What i didnt like: i feel dizzy walking up and down travelling to different spot. 5. What i did like: summer breeze at the deck. Web site well maintained and frequent updated.
Anne Le
I’ve been here about 4x with my friends or family and the spa experience for the water circuit is pretty good! I like that there are many levels and different hot tubs to experience. There are also many cold baths, saunas and steam rooms. The staff are friendly and let you know how to properly enjoy the water circuit to the fullest potential!
Karina
Favorite place in Montreal to relax. What's better than being in an outdoor hot tub on a boat when it's freezing out? The space is modern and we'll designed. Staff makes sure that visitors keep quiet so it's nice and relaxing.
Paxton W. Stewart
Wonderful spa, healthy food, and relaxing atmosphere ????????????????????????...Whenever in Montreal, you gotta hit this up!
Natalie Chickee
This place is Amazing! The view is spectacular the staff is friendly and cool. I loved my experience so much, I think I want to bring all my guests who come to visit to Bota Bota. They have out door Hot Tubs and really a really peaceful ambience and silence is enforced so it's a is really amazing meditation place. The boat doesn't move anymore so no worries about getting sea sick. The water circuit is great to my liking! I will come here to do just that or get an amazing massage from Renaud. I will have to go back this place is wonderful for healing, peacing out I felt so zen for the rest of the day after my experience, I do want to have more, locked in the old port the view is magnificent. I look forward to having more experiences here to going and I plan to introducing this place as a Montreal Gem to my friends and family when they come to visit.
Jema
First time going to Bota Bota and I would NOT recommend. Initially it took forever to get a hold of their staff on the phone to coordinate a group booking. After we booked we noticed they had also made mistakes with the reservation. Check-in process took about 30-40 minutes for our group. The reception staff had a standoffish attitude.. very different from the warm and welcoming experience I’ve had at other spas. Locker rooms need a refresh and are missing basic things other spas have. Our experience at the restaurant was odd. Staff complained about the disorganization and tension between the restaurant and the spa. Pros: the masseuse was good and very professional and the hydrotherapy experience was nice.
Jade Thibodeau
The spa offers a nice view on the old port. I found it too noisy, especially the relaxing room over the restaurant. I have not tried the restaurant as I purchased a 3h access and it's not enough time to benefit of relaxation and eat. A 4h block might be a better idea.
Jenna Kosnaskie
The perfect spot for relaxation in Montreal! Staff were very friendly and helpful. They provided all towels and bathrobes. It was very busy when we lined up to get in, but once you're in the spa area you hardly notice because it is very well laid out. There are multiple saunas, hot tubs, and relaxation areas making it easy to find a quiet spot. The spa is very unique. I highly recommend visiting!
Hunter Hames
So worth the price! When we arrived, we were concerned by how many people were in line but decided to do it anyways and I'm so happy we did. On a cold, snowy/rainy day in Montreal, this is the highlight! If any of the inside rooms or pools became full, we moved outside where there is tons of space and equally excellent amenities. I couldn't recommend this more for the price, quality, and service!
Lily Rose
Absolutely loved my first time at this spa! I love how it's both indoors and outdoors which helps makes it feel not super crammed. It's smaller than Nordik spa in Chelsea so you tend to run into the same people during your stay. It was a tad busy when I went but I still had an incredible experience...I'll definitely come back!
Nolwenn Delisle
Meh...not impressed by my manicure appointment. Went for a simple gel manicure ($51 total) and left pretty disappointed. The gel was on my cuticles, and started peeling the next morning in large flakes. It looked like I had done it myself; not bad, not great. Wouldn't go back for a manicure, especially when you can get a gel manicure that looks much better with better staying power for $25 bucks downtown/mile end at other places.
Lynnsey Chartrand
The pools are nice, but on both occasions I've been the massages were mediocre. Actually, that's being generous, the last massage was one of the worst I've ever had. I felt bad for the guy and gave him an okay review because I assumed he had just started - but they should really have higher standards. Also, when I arrived only ten minutes *early*, the receptionist proceeded to scold me and my partner, and then corrected us for standing in the wrong line up. We were essentially disciplined, rather than being pleasantly greeted for a relaxing morning at the spa. Overall, if Montrealers weren't so desperate for access to nice clean pools/water, I think this place wouldn't do nearly as well as it does. It's overrated.
yasaman ezazi
Very nice and well maintained place. The massages and water circuits here are fantastic. Great way to spoil yourself!
Nicholas Montford
Went here with my partner for the water circuit, the boat, decor and garden were beautiful! Wish the check in was quicker, there must be somthing that could quicken the process? The silence only areas were not silent, there were many couples and groups constantly talking which kind of made the experience less relaxing. There was a gentleman in the steam room flip flopping around breathing heavily and rubbing himself all over which made my partner get up and leave to go laugh because he couldn't hold it in, two others left the room to laugh as well. There was only one guy checking all of the hot tub's and saunas the entire time we were there and he never stopped to as people to be silent. The floors were wet and dirty so I would suggest bringing sandals. Over all it was a great experience just wish it was the complete package!
Mary Burke
A rejuvenating experience. When we first attempted to go we had to put our names on a waiting list because the spa had run out of lockers. Total bummer for being sent away, but the crowd control speaks to the set-up and relaxation of the spa. A few hours later we went back and enjoyed the water-circuit. The robes are comfy. The restaurant's service is a bit slow, but they comp your time so you don't "waste" spa-time. Showers are on premise so you can rinse off when done.
Bailey Kimball
This was the most wonderful spa experience ever! No phone added to the relaxation of this day. We got therapeutic massages, the water circuit, and champagne to end the day
Melissa Gomez
I had a lovely time at Bota Bota! I did the 3 hour water circuit at night. I appreciated the no phone rule and the quiet zones. Other guests were respectful. The pools were my favorite along with the swinging chairs. I would highly recommend for anyone visiting Montreal. I took off 1 star for the locker room. It could definitely use an upgrade (better hair dryers and offer additional towels). I didn’t like how you had to drop off your robe during check out. It would have been much easier to do it in the locker room.
Priyanka Sengupta
The hottest sauna, the steamiest steam room, and breathtaking pools right next to the water. They even have a restaurant with awesome seating and great drinks. Pretty affordable as well. The highlight was that we took a Yoga class with Paul (? I think that was his name). The guy was full of energy and did a circuit that was fun and challenging. Not boring at all and not over the top difficult. He even went over 15 minutes because we were late. And he asked our permission first! So awesome and accommodating. After the work out, we felt totally refreshed and ready for a dip in the hot/cold pools.
Stephanie Rizzuto
I went to this spa two weeks ago. The main pool was broken. The small "cold" pool was in fact normal pool temperature. The two hot tubs upstairs on the boat were not functional. Both not at all warm - again pool temperature. The cold outdoor pool on the boat was not working. Honestly, I feel that I overpaid in full amount for a service that wasn't even partially provided. I confronted the main desk and they said there was nothing they could do. If I knew prior to reserving that they had serious issues, I would of never went. I would of at least appreciated to be compensated in half for what i paid. Of course they refused to help me. I called back today and nothing seems to have been fixed. I would not recommend going to this spa.
Konrad Sobon
My first time at Bota Bota so i didn't know what to expect. First my robe got snatched in less than 10 min and along with it my glasses. Later someone took my flip flops. I guess if there was a sign on a door "no pants allowed" and i had left mine outside someone would have been perfectly comfortable wearing my pants, robe, flip flops and prescription glasses. I don't think i can complain about the sauna experience. It was great. I know that staff at bota bota cant exactly teach people how to behave themselves properly. I would just say that this idea of an open circuit in theory was great but it opened up a possibility of people just taking other people's belongings with impunity. Numbered coat hooks are not helping. It would have been nice if bota bota staff at least warned people about this going on at their facility or somehow managed to control it better ( cameras, tracking devices ). Overall it was a great sauna experience, even though i didnt like being robbed twice.
舞羅
Nice spa in the center of Montreal. Clean and convenient. Down side is the food was ordinary and expensive (entree size passed as a meal and more than 25$) Also, compared to other spa, you have to pay to get a new bathrobe when it's wet.
Morgan Crockett
Overall a relaxing experience. What they lack in amenities, they make up for in the views of the city/skyline. Staff is less helpful than they should be. The little extras just aren't there. It's also really weird that there aren't maps anywhere. We were told at the front desk to ask for a tour once we entered at a different desk. The people working at that desk said "just walk around". Usually, they should show you a map of the different saunas and baths. Some of the hot waters tubs are also not very hot especially in the garden area. I was shivering inside the water.
dayo akinpelumi
A wonderful spa experience… 2 things I loved about this place: 1. No phone allowed 2. No talking allowed Just take time to unplug from the fast life and reflect! I will recommend!!!
Abi St-M
Late review. I went in May 15th. It was an amazing experience. I want to start by saying that I’m grateful for their understanding (we were late because of a protest happening downtown ). My message therapist was Hector. One of the best massage I ever got. It was the first time someone used warm towels during the massage. I was worried because my partner had a female (I don’t remember her name) and he needs a lot of pressure during massages. She met his expectations. My partner also mentioned that she really help him relax. The water circuit was great as well especially because of the view. When we were there, people were talking. It didn’t bother us because were talking as well. Thank you Bota Bota !
Ashley Feller
Talk about relaxing! I got to see the most beautiful views of Montreal from a jacuzzi... could I ask for more?! Staff and experience was awesome! Highly recommend.
John Hickey
Decided to try this place the day after stumbling upon it exploring Old Montreal. The facilities we're beautiful and clean and the water circuits made my hangover just melt into the river. Drinks in the restaurant were delicious and the staff was very accommodating. Sitting in a glass room with a bunch of people in bath robes eating fancy charcuterie and drinking mojitos is really the only way I think I can love from this point forward.
Phaidra Duchastel-Vassaramva
Amazing experience! The staff is very friendly, the view is amazing, the amenities are up to my expectations and the massage exceeded my expectations! Definitely recommend to anyone who's looking for a calm getaway in the Old Port of Montreal
Patrick Charpentier
It used to be a good place to go. It has changes and lost its Charm. Avoid if you cannot handle patchouli smoke insence. When I checker out, they asked how was my experience ans I mentionned they very strong insence. They told me: well some employee are more intense about insense than some others. I point out those thing should not ne left to employee decision. Anyhow, I doubt I Will go back. I can live with ecaliptus smell but smoky incense... Really!?
Walter Florian Pierre
First experience in 2010 was easily a one star one. Gave Bota Bota another try 6 years later and it did change. Major renovations and expanded section. Staff is really nice and sweet. The experience is unique seeing the sun set behind the city skyscrapers in the hot tub is something. Went on a holiday and was a bit crowded, but not too much. Specially at night it gets less dense. Very convenient for romantic getaway.
Luna D. K.
One of the best part of my trip to Montreal! I was able to rest, recharge and travel again!Taking pictures is not allowed though ????
Stephanie Nicoll
Amazing atmosphere, where you are looking for a space or serene or somewhere to lounge with friends. There are some many distinct spaces that even when busy you don`t feel like you are on top of one another. The staff do a great job in keeping the place well maintained.
Masha S
Relaxing. Not too crowded and nice view of the city and river. Many cozy relaxation areas. Well equipped locker rooms and it's nice that they provide a bathrobe although if you're a small person it will be giant on you. I think they're all one size. Overall good experience
Olivier Hebert
Unique location on the waterfront in the Montreal old port. Small yet modern infrastructures.
Azi V.
Fab facilities on a boat docked in the old port (they're also adding a portion off the boat). Perfect for a nice day when you want to soak up the rays outside or a cold sunny days when you can stay warm inside but enjoy the view. Great massages, body scrubs, facials, etc. And if you get hungry, the café offers light meals catered by Auberge Saint-Gabriel (another great place to check-out).
Cooper Smith
The water circuit consists of a warm tub, a hot tub, 2 cold baths, 2 dry saunas, and a steam room, not to mention lounge chairs and hammocks. 3 hour time limit, or $10 extra for unlimited (worth it!)
Daniel Ustinov
Very clean and well maintained place. Amazing experience. Relax in the steam rooms, dry saunas, and hot pools before having a cold dip and lounging in the hanging mesh hammocks or vinyl covered beds. Some of the dry saunas have essential oil aromas, such as lavender and pine. If you like relaxing and treating yourself get the unlimited package because time just melts away here and 3 hours may not be enough. The massages here are fantastic. I had a Swedish massage and it was worth every dollar. The massage therapist was very skilled and attentive.
Robert Stylianoudakis
Beautiful scenery. Very clean. It was busy on a Saturday afternoon but I didn't feel crowded. The only thing I had to wait for were the showers in the locker room. There are only two.
CC DD
Very nice environment, gorgeous saunas, but suggest taking a special massage not just Therapeutic or Relaxation, they are pretty standard not worth 100$/hr. Dining room is beautiful but Salmon Tartare very, very boring and bland
Philip Tsekouras
Exceeded my expectations by a lot. Facility was clean and staff were welcoming and helpful in navigating the circuits. Actually feel very relaxed while typing this. Will be back!
Celine Ho
Nice spa to go with a group of friends! Can hang out in the pool section and chat. After doing the hot baths, the pool is the perfect temperature to just relax in. The chairs are very comfy as well. The sauna room temperatures vary, some are hotter than others.
Alexis
Amazing spa. The staff was very friendly and helpful. Very pleased with the experience.
Mr. B
If you go to Montreal????????, you've got to try Bota Bota. ????massages and treatments were both good????????no phones allowed.????????♂️???? restaurant on boat as well.???????????????? ????♂️♨️Steam room and saunas♨️were the best????. ❄️Cold baths were refreshing????
Lamar Timmins
I bought 2 Gift certificates for their indulgence package. Unless you are a regular, I really felt like we weren't that welcomed. Everything just felt rushed and robotic. To get us in and out and onto the next clients or "passangers". I do find it unusual that they keep your credit card info when everything was already paid for and you are not getting extras. Maybe it's just us, but for the price I wasn't expecting to sit in chocolate for 30 mins. The effects seem meak at best. We just felt uncomfortable with our interactions with the staff. We will stay home and put Nutella on ourselves next time.
Lauren Breton
Nice place to escape for a couple of hours! Sadly, the saunas and steam rooms are closed due to tightened covid restrictions but was still a relaxing experience. Everything is very clean and smells awesome! I will be back once the saunas/steam rooms are open once more
Alexa B
Very beautiful and relaxing spa! Loved my massage and he was super polite and did an amazing job. Although some of the other staff were rude, especially front desk and in the restaurant. Me and my friends felt like they were treating us as if we were stupid. If you don’t like your job, please don’t work -_- other than that, the facility is beautiful and has a unique location. No parking though.. your massage goes out the window trying to get back to your car!
Dannie Phan
Great spa on a boat. Great location for a day activity. Staffs were wonderful and food was great. Stayed for 8 hours, was able to have a restful nap. Spacious sauna rooms and pools. One light request is to have temperatures listed for the waters / pools. Overall, a great space for relaxation and to experience the thermal water spa cycle/circuit.
Paquita El Maestro
The service is excellent and the atmosphere is very relaxing. The view on the city is incredible. It is close from my workplace, thats very convenient. However, the water circuit is too small. Overall, the other services are pricey. My favorite sauna is the eucalyptus one.
Ali Km
Very disappointing! Got a call when we were right at the door to enter the facility that the appointment has to be cancelled due to massage therapist not being available!!!!! The interesting part is there is a penalty if clients cancel their appointment in last 24 hours BUT Bota Bota can simply call you and cancel your appointment that was made 3 weeks ago right at your appointment time WITHOUT any compensation. This is totally unacceptable and terrible customer satisfaction.
Connor Rooney
Lovely experience! We booked (about a month in advance) a couple's massage and a wine + cheese dish at the restaurant. We arrived very early, which gave us time to explore the water circuits. The circuits were quite relaxing and, although we cycled through them for around two hours, they didn't feel stale at the end. The wine + cheese plate was delicious, and prepared us for the massage, which was amazing! Overall, a great romantic experience. I would suggest dedicating plenty of time to exploring the spa's circuits and features (in other words, don't rush through them). Expect to be in the midst of other people - it's a popular place, but it doesn't take away from the experience. My only qualm is the basement locker rooms, which felt cramped and outdated.
Kate Hammer
Go early for the early bird pricing! Great views and relaxing vibes.
Ted Gendron
Beautiful spa. Not sure if the massages are worth it. But spending the evening in the pools, hot tubs, saunas, and steam rooms in such a gorgeous setting was well worth it. And the locker rooms could use some work
Persil de Neige
Lovely converted boat with hot and cold Nordic spa (multiple sauna, steam room, hot tub options), lots of relaxation areas, best massage menu in town. Great to relax in the restaurant in a robe and look at Old Montreal. Best spa in Montreal.
wynne p
Great location nice circuit. The staff hover around and tell you not to speak even though no one can hear you....I felt like everyone in the place had their turn to be scolded like a child. Changing room are way too small for any stress free experience. But worth it to see the city from the many vantage points to relax.
tai chang
This place is a must visit if you’re looking for a nice place to rejuvenate and do some relaxing. We did a 3-hour water circuit and it was wonderful! I am DEFINITELY going back. The views were stunning from this boat that was converted into a spa.
Billy William
Very unique setting and very well maintained. Missing a few things like food options if you're not lucky enough to get a seat at the restaurant and strangely missing conditioner in the men's showers. Changing rooms felt a bit like a regular gym rather than a luxury spa. Still a great experience and will return.
Douglas Scandrett
I’d avoid this place to be honest. It seems to be under construction so it’s not very peaceful. The facilities were also quite dirty. The staff are also incredibly rude. This spa is overhyped for the prices they charge - there are much better options in Montreal. On the plus side, the location is convenient if you’re visiting the city
Nicole Teixeira
Such a unique experience in Montreal, unlike anything we have seen in Toronto. We went at dusk, the staff is very helpful, however would have preferred a faster check in experience. Great views of the city and night sky. The garden area doesn't seem to follow the "zone of silence" as on the boat.
Naly Y.
Amazing spa on a boat right in the old port with great views of the city. Very accessible by public transit (10 min walk from Square-Victoria). There are a lot of different saunas, spas, cold baths and steam rooms which is great. The site is also divided into two sections: a silent section (on the boat) and a section where you can talk (the garden area). Both sections are great. Everything was pretty clean. However, my robe had stains (I’m guessing makeup) on it but I didn’t make a big deal out of it. Knocked one star off because some employees were rude (not all of them though) which didn’t make my experience 100% enjoyable. As a spa, I feel like the employees should be extra nice and caring as the clients are there to relax. Overall, my friends and I had a great experience.
Nguyen Do
Love the atmosphere. We came in winter and service is great. The view is awesome. Will comeback when in Montreal.
Keith Fennell
Love the different levels to this spa. Had a nice nap overlooking the water and Old Montreal.
Patricia Bradby
A lovely way to spend a few hours relaxing and taking in the views of Montreal. Went with friends on a rainy Thursday and had a lovely time. We wished someone would have better explained the "water circuit" to us when we checked in but we wandered around and enjoyed the various pools and saunas without knowledge of the order of things...and it was still a nice experience. I liked the variety of seating areas (especially the porthole seats on the 2nd floor). Please note: the hot tubs are all uncovered and outdoors, which proved interesting on a rainy day but still enjoyable. The aromatherapy in the steam rooms is quite heavy so it took a minute to adjust and definitely shortened the amount of time I would stay inside. I liked that some of the saunas had sand timers on the wall for you to monitor how long you'd been inside. The locker room left something to desire but it served it's purpose. Don't come ready to chat as most areas are no talking zones but this definitely enhances the spa experience.
Anthony Gualtieri
Accommodating staff that are professional and excellent at their craft. An exquisite floral aroma greets you before you even board the spa. I highly recommend either Emilie for a therapeutic massage.
Sherry Radburn-Ong
I come here once or twice a year from Toronto and it's my gold standard for great spa experience. The massage are good and creative. Masseuses combine Thai, deep tissue and Swedish techniques in the regular RMT massage. The restaurant is tasty. Service is fantastic. The English site tells you no sandals from outside. They mean no street sandals so do bring flipflops for walking around inside. There is a separate outdoor pool area and the flip flops are a good idea especially to get there because you have to walk across a metal bridge to get to it. I always go in the winter and it's so magical to sit outside in a hot pool on a cold snowy day.
Aimee Chea
I just did the water circuit at Bota Bota. It was great and very relaxing. The staff was very nice. I loved the views from the pools and the hammocks. It was a great experience. I do wish we could have gotten more towels though and be able to replace mid-way through as when you’re doing the water circuit multiple times, your towel gets really wet and I went in late October so it was a little bit chillier outside. Super minor though and possibly just a personal preference.
marjan ebadi
Had the worst experience ever! The staff clearly don't know the rules in place and professionalism. I was in the garden with a few friends and we were constantly being told that we aren't allowed to talk. But in the garden it is stated we can talk amongst each other. We also noticed that we were constantly being stalked by one of the employees named adrian. I do not reccomend anyone to ever go to this spa. It is a waste of money to go to a horrible spa where you have no privacy whatsoever. This place isn't 4 stars. If I could give 0 stars I would.
Hannah Atl
Book in advance! Very busy! This place is wonderful. The water circuit is a must. The baths, saunas, and steam rooms are so relaxing. My massage with Mallory was great. Of note you need to bring your own flip flops, I wasn’t aware of this and ended up buying $25 sandals.
Danielle Murray
I was so excited for this spa experience and was not impressed at all. The check in process took forever, they don’t have sandals for rent but you can buy a pair of flip flops for the low price of $25. The locker room was not clean, and there was a woman (?security) sitting near the door watching everyone which was kinda creepy. The pools were nice but the floors were dirty and slippery. My robe was taken after my first dip and I had to pay for a new one. My friend had a terrible experience while we were here. Not relaxing whatsoever. I won’t be back. Pay the extra $10 and go to scandinave down the road.
Doctor Gonzo
A little hard to come out of here feeling relaxed. I went on what im guessing was a busy day. They do not seem to enforce a silence rule which most others spas do, for obvious reasons. Another thing i have trouble wrapping my mind around, is that cell phones are allowed in the spa, or maybe it's just another rule that is not enforced. the top floor attracts selfie enthusiast in droves as they attempt to take a selfie with the montreal skyline. Again maybe because it was busy, but the floors and multiple staircases were very wet and slippery, making it difficult to navigate the spa. RESPONSE TO NATALIE @BOTABOTA Other SPA's i've visited do not have these volume issues; this was the first spa that i have ever been to where phones were commonplace. If you were to read the reviews on Spa's that actively maintain an environment conducive to relaxation, (no phones/silence), some folks seem to take an issue with the rules. Folks that follow and appreciate these simple guidelines to get the most out of their visit, leave the spa feeling relaxed and refreshed, which is, at the end of the day, is the experience BOTABOTA and other spa's are selling.
Sara Smile
Very nice experience! It was very relaxing . The only thing I’d comment on is that the staff keeps telling you to stop talking in the silence zones. I get that we shouldn’t talk but the water fall was making more noise than me, I was just whispering… Anyway, still a lovely experience.
Roman
Bota Bota is a must see and experience part of the old Montreal during any time of year. The "water circuit" is amazing and the view of the old port during sunset is amazing from the boat (from the outdoor hot tub). With two steam rooms and two saunas as well as multiple hot and cold baths you can't go wrong!
Bella H
I have visited many spas before but Bota Bota is far from being the best. First the staff is not welcoming, second i had a locker issue. The locker that they gave me did not lock properly, i had to go back upstairs to ask for another one which cause an inconvenience for someone who would want to go there to relax. Then I had to go back downstairs to move all my stuff to another locker. My boyfriend also had the same issue. He had to share his locker because he didnt want to be bothered. It is not an enjoyable place for relaxation, because you cant even talk and have a great time without constantly being followed and harassed by the staff. I felt like I was being babysat. I did not fully enjoy my time there. I visited during the winter, the hot jaccuzis outdoor are comfortable but they dont have that many options to choose from for your relaxation. What you see is what you get so dont expect much!
Damian Simon Peter
Great experience the massage was okay nothing extraordinary just okay. I'd you're driving to this place, Google Map might not be of much help as this place is on the water, in a custom made floating house. You might be able to find street …
Sally Johnson
Super great experience! There were a few minor broken things like the shower but overall VERY lovely to visit. The water circuit was so enjoyable, I will be back in the future!
Joshua Allen
This place is AWESOME! Great spa! Had just the most wonderful, relaxing, and romantic time with my boyfriend. Great pools, hot tubs, swings, steam rooms, and more. Just lovely! Highly recommend this place if you need a relaxing place to unwind!!!
Sta Kuzviwanza
Went here on a cold Saturday night and the heated outdoor pools were the best part. Would recommend for a relaxing evening out.
Ruth Ann Marco
I’ve been here many times. This spa is amazing! Its beautifully located. It’s clean. Service is excellent. Food is delicious. Best massages. It’s my go-to place when I need a little day getaway. I highly recommend this place.
Aamna Hussain
This was a nice spa we went to at the end of our trip. The massages were fantastic and the water circuit was relaxing and rejuvenating. I knocked off one star for the cramped change room. They were satisfactory but could be improved for a spa setting. I get it's on a boat and a possible reason the change room felt tight. Overall, a great experience.
caleb behn
Epic way to spend an afternoon in old Montréal. Note it is time limited (3 hours when I went) and usually quite busy. Not so busy that you can’t find space but don’t expect to be alone. Usual Nordic spa rules apply (minimal talking etc.). The most unique Nordic spa I have ever seen and well worth a visit.
Krissie Wells
I had a great experience just doing the water circuit for 3 hours. The reviewer who said below she wasn't told about the no phone policy -- there are signs (in English) EVERYWHERE about no phones-- even inside your locker! Ugh. An embarrassment to Americans..
Wassim Saleh
Within the big spas in greater montreal area, this the last one I will go again. After I heard about it a lot, I was expecting lot more what I found.I highly recommend Strom or Spa finlandais if you have transportation.
Befus
My girlfriend and I got the most wonderful massages and had a fun and romantic time, relaxing in the hot springs in the clear winter evening. Plus you get a great view of the River and of Habit 67
B Ross-Surerus
I wrote a much longer version of this review to the Spa themselves, but after not receiving a response, I feel that perhaps I should share an abridged version for future guests. Pros: -Lovely design of exterior, and interesting concept -Restaurant staff courteous and prompt, food was tasty -Massage was great for what I received, but it was not what I paid for (wanted deep tissue and spent half the time receiving reiki. Therapist was excellent and I just relaxed, but wouldn't pay that much again for a massage there) Cons: -Locker room straight out of a 1970s elementary school -filthy floors covered in hair. We were told not to wear our outdoor shoes so we didn't, but we were among the only ones, the stairs up into the main spa were horrible - the towel was thin and cheap and you only get one!?! -Silence is not enforced -Selfies are taken at will...I do not want to end up on some social media site in my bathing suit. -Locker room door opens directly into the private area and the mans locker room door is directly across so there is no real privacy as the door opens. I felt sorry for the ladies with lockers across from the doors. All in all, I think the only word I really need in the con section is dirty. Because it was.
Rebecca L. Holder
Visited from out of town last week and despite arriving the recommended half hour early, was still late for my scheduled massage, due to the line up to enter the site. Considering the price I was not happy about this. All this extra paper work should be done online to make the check in process more efficient and seamless. I brought this up twice to staff who just seemed to dismiss it hence why I am posting here. One woman at the check out suggested that I should have let them know when checking in. When I asked how I would do that when there was a line, she did not really have an answer. Needless to say for this and other reasons, I would not return.
Adrian G
Overall an average place, seen better for similar price. The pros: it is conveniently local in the old Montreal (hence downtown), all major SPA amenities are there, staff was courteous and friendly. The cons: Hard to find parking and the 25$ parking in the old port is still a good 10 min walk, staircases and men lockers are very tight on space, good luck walking from the boat to the Jardins pools in -15oC using the metal staircases, noisy: in one sauna you hear water gushing through the drainage pipes, don't trip on wobbly tiles near the outdoor pools.
Vanessa Wrzesien
The place was quite busy, and the quiet/no talking was not respected or enforced. Not worth the price.
Patricia Rotschild
Massage was ok, not great. Restaurant is ridiculously overpriced. "Beet salad" is literally 2 beets. On the good side the installation is breathtaking! Lots of great views of the old port, beautiful decor and layout. Everything was super clean.
Devin Johnstone
I love a good Scandinavian spa. This one is on a boat which is a cool twist. Also, pretty easy to reach by public transport. Service was good and it wasn't too crowded early on a Sunday.
Luz Alvarado
Love love love the location, service and decor! However not a fan of the strict silence policy.
Luz Alvarado
Love love love the location, service and decor! However not a fan of the strict silence policy.
Bruno Girard
What a wonderfull place!!! Like travelling, like magic!!
Mary Timmons
I love it here.
Chelsea Harland
Amazing spa experience and hands down one of the most unique. Reservations not taken for the basic pool expertise, so get there early. The check-in was fast and they were very thorough on explaining the process. Two of us purchased the three-hour experience (no massage services) and it was plenty, we left after two and a half hours.
Coy London
Where do I start??? The spa AMENITIES where nice. The massage was poor. I would not spend a cent on another massage unless it’s a different therapist and manager at the time of visit. You tell the therapist your problem areas, they engage in a routine massage, something totally opposite your problem areas. The manager Megan didn’t make it any better by stating she didn’t won’t the massage therapist to work for free, therefore I can only discount your package. ????huh?? Never will I share that with an unsatisfied customer. Smh The customer doesn’t want to hear how you would protect the therapist pockets after receiving poor service. Talk to the customer about the customer only. Apologize and do what is in your power to make it right with the consumer who’s patronizing your facility. Later do what you need to do to protect the employees pockets. The customer doesn’t need to know anything about that. Poor management skills, poor massage therapist(listening skills). Completely overrated when it comes to accommodating the customer and their concerns.
cecilia ali
Very enjoyable! So nice to look out over the water and at the skyline from the upper pools. Lots of indoor and outdoor options for meditation spaces. Several options for pools and saunas. Never felt too crowded. I get the comments about the confusing layout and sandy paths, but honestly it didn't really matter. There's a map by the stairs to find out where to go. The pools, saunas, and meditation rooms were clean. The changing rooms could use more frequent tidying but it was just sloppy not dirty. I bought my sandals there, they were pricey but were all brand name (havianas) and had a good selection. I wish there were more options for drinks, tea etc throughout the evening. The bar was closed so drinks were only available in the resto which closed at 8.
Lindsey Ross
This was an excellent way to spend an afternoon while visiting Montreal. Perks were... - The view of Old Montreal at night, looking back from the water - The silent rule so you weren't bothered by anyone - The price and value are par - Lots of areas to move about - The hammmmocks were great - Replacement robes if needed Downsides were.. - No sandals / flip flops provided - No obvious spot to grab a glass of wine - Showers werent the cleanest - The change room almost seemed "under construction".
Chandani Persaud
Where do I start?? My group and I were looking forward to a calm nice evening before our travel back home to NY. We initially planned on going to another spa, but was told the wait time is usually long, so we decided on Bota Bota. Upon arrival, the line was reasonably long as we did not have massages booked and were just doing the water circuit. After being checked in, I found that my locker was already occupied. I had to go upstairs and wait again for my key to be changed. Then the locker I was using was not closing properly, so I just ended up sharing with one of my friends. We had to squeeze all of our stuff in which was pretty annoying but it was better than going upstairs and waiting again. When we entered the spa, we went for the outdoor hot bath which was nice, however we noticed that a group of females seemed to have made a complaint about us to security. This made no sense as we were following all rules and were extremely quiet, after all we were there in hopes to feel relaxed as well. After this encounter, it seemed as though security was following us everywhere, even standing around as we were in the baskets relaxing. I am not sure but I have a strong feeling that the color of our skin had something to do with it, since everywhere we went clients who were white would leave. It became very uncomfortable and we could not all help but feel like were being racially profiled not only by the other clients but by the spa staff which had the security following us everywhere. The on top if it all, after coming back home we noticed that our card was charged an extra $50 dollars instead of the $100 plus tax as shown on the receipt. Long story short, it was not worth it and the amenities were not that great or diverse, we've been to better spas that actually appreciate our business and show us respect. Do not recommend.
Daniel Miranda
Amazing place to unwind and enjoy. Did the water circuit and had an amazing time.
SANTELI
Amazing experience forget about the negative reviews. Are people seriously complaining over bath robes LOL? The view and experience is worth every penny in my opinion. The restaurant was good, we were seated by the window with a view of the St lawrence River, sipping on a nice glass of wine. The Massage was one of the best I ever received, ask for a therapeutic massage you will feel relieved afterwards, Thank you Genene. Baths were great and saunas, there are 4 different levels and floors. The place is bigger than what it actually looks like in pictures! I believe the best time to book is around late lunch or right before supper time although that all depends on you of course. The view at night is one not to miss, seing the scenery and the city lights in the old port was a great experience, will go back in the future! Thank you guys @botabota
Ricardo Ugalde (Ricky)
The massage was outstanding ! Francis really made a great California massage. Service in general was good in general. Cold in some of the rooms unlike before they were always warm. Great relaxing day ????
Egor Gotovets
Great place to chill. In the center of the city Recommended to take your slipper with you. Btw - Though it is forbidden to use phones - many people do.
Kaitlynn Campbell
So blissful! Had a prenatal massage and it was wonderful. We also spent some time in the hot tub, it was clean and well maintained. They are serious when they say no talking... we got sssh-ed.
Michelle McNamara
Cool place, really relaxing. A bit overpriced and it's super lame that we couldn't take any pictures.
Joan C
Awesome experience overall. Great facility for Nordic Circuit. Loves the saunas, the steam rooms, relax rooms (especially the hammocks), and the hot pools. My only negative is that they do not supply you with slippers. If you don't have one and you want one (recommended), you'll pay $25. Considering the different areas (inside and outside), bathrooms, and other hygiene issues, I think they should be supplying them. REPLY: Actually with regards to the slippers...I frequent a spa in Toronto and they offer slippers which at the end of your stay, deposit it in a basket and it is washed for another use
Behmann Gustavsp
My family and I would easily call this place the highlight of our week in Montreal! We went twice we loved it so much! The staff, the amenities, the overall experience is a dream! My sis and I got massages and both said it was one of the best we’ve ever received (and I’ve had many of the best hotels globally). The food at the restaurant is also delicious so don’t leave Montreal without a visit here!
Laslo CESAR
Nice view, installation are good but very little diversity (water circuit is limited to hot bath, cold bath and rest)... There could be different hot bath (different temperatures, different water composition like in a cure... Number of chairs /bed for rest very limited, so choose your time carefully (avoid peaks)... Given the price point (high), these 2 things make this place average (compared to other high end spa in same pricing you find elsewhere)
Josh Savitz
Amazing spa with a variety of pools, saunas, steam rooms and massage and other services. Highly recommend this spot. There are great views of the city that one can enjoy from the hot tubs or saunas. I’ll come back here whenever I’m in Montreal.
Jose Velazquez
Absolutely amazing Spa. Went her mid-week, local friend invited and gifted me a 60 minute massage. For a Wednesday the spa looked quite busy, there was a short like to pay the initial admission and massage but once you are in it felt like an oasis. Lots of seating areas to relax, several saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs and two pools. One of them was heated the either was lukewarm. It was around 30-40 degrees Fahrenheit outside and snowing so I didn't get into that pool. The hot tub on the second level over looking the city was my absolute favorite, gorgeous view even on a cloudy snowy day. The massage was very good, I do not remember the lady's name but I would definitely recommend the therapeutic massage. I requested medium pressure during the massage and seemed just right although if you bruise or are sensitive a request light pressure. She said I would feel sore afterwards, it was definitely several hours later but once the soreness subsided I felt like a new person. I will definitely be visiting here every time I come to Montreal, I will be doing a spa day every time I travel somewhere new this has opened up a new world.
V Anastassiou
Has a variety of well-constructed sauna, steam room, and pool services, all with a good view of the river and city. You should bring your own water-appropriate footwear or be prepared to buy some. I am not giving a 5-star review because the famous silence policy was not enforced during my stay. Patrons were chatting in all of the open relaxation areas, and a staff member also decided to have a long cellphone conversation in one of the quiet areas. Once I readjusted my expectations, I had a better time, but I was still disappointed in that respect.
Monica K
My favourite part of Montreal by far. My recommendation is to come at around 10am to avoid the lines. I think I even got an early bird discount for going at this time. I went here with my boyfriend for his birthday back in November and to this day he still raves about it. It was fun exploring the spa where your goal is essentially looking for different ways to relax. The steam room was a great experience, and my own personal favourites were the saunas that had a view as well as the jacuzzis. I took the three hour package and it was enough for me to be honest.
Gary Hays
We had a great time with the water circuit and got excellent massages. The water circuit is a great experience and if you want to check out of reality for the afternoon or evening, a great way to do it. Relaxing here is easy and the views of the city are fairly nice also. The facility was clean and all of the staff were friendly and helpful. We didn't have time for the restaurant of the garden area, maybe next time.
Martine Corbasson Chalayer
Service is just not at the level of their pricing. We arrived 20 minutes before our massage but because of the very slow check-in process, we started our treatment 15 minutes late and received a 45 minutes massage instead of a 60 minutes one. Also, my insurance (Sunlife) did not accept to reimburse my treatment because the massage therapist did not update her credentials. I am still chasing Bota Bota to get this situation solved, nobody really cares.
Lyne Turcotte
It must be absolutely even more delightful in the summer as so many of the spas & pools are outdoors. Only downfall is the lack of parking. The facial I got was the best I ever had, would highly recommend!
Trisha Strickland
Amazing massage experience.
Denise Thomson
Bota Bota is a pretty awesome venue, but the ship itself is small which makes getting around a little tight. I really wish they offered silk robes. The terry cloth is so hot in the summertime. They also don't offer a selection of sizes for robes so mine barely covered me which was super uncomfortable. My massage was great and relaxing, but I was so hot and it took me a while to cool down. We didn't have time, but it seemed like the pool area would be great to hang out in.
Justine Soucy
This was my first time at an official spa. My mother had a deal and invited my sister and I. Upon checking in you get a bathrobe and a bracelet with a magnetic key for your locker. You are told to leave your phone inside your locker but everyone brings it with them anyway. I was really impressed with the facilities! The inside of the boat is very modern and chic. On the boat is where you have the massages, the steam rooms, and a couple of jacuzzi's. Outside you have the pools. It was a grey October morning when I went so it was relatively empty but we also didn't get the best views. I really loved their swing chairs, they were really relaxing. I just don't think I felt comfortable enough to take a nap. Also, when you're semi-wet it's hard to fall asleep. I think spas are a nice experience, but I prefer massages. The only things I had a problem with were: -floors were cold and wet often (I know it's a spa but I thought there were parts that could have been more dry considering it was chairs and sofas) -the bathrobe given is very thin so once you go in and out of pools and put it on and off, it gets wet very quickly and cold -most of the rooms outside were locked so we didn't have access to all the other seating areas. -No slippers are offered (and the passageway to get to the outside pool is painful!)
Denise Mast
Wow! My first time visiting Montreal and happened upon Bota Bota randomly. I got lucky and was able to schedule a manicure as a walk in. Wonderful experience and a week later and it still looks new. Also had lunch and a glass of Rose in the cafe. Can't say enough great things about the customer service!
MTB
Not worth the price, configuration is bad, paying process is slow and long, round bath on the roof too small no chairs outside at all, Bain vapeur on third floor is broken no one advised us when we bought our tickets . there a way better options outside Montreal definitely the first and last time here.
Tahnee Stoodley
Had an excellent time at the spa! A beautiful view of the city at night time from the old port. The only thing I would change is the 3 hour time limit, at least 4 hours would be more reasonable for the price. Keep in mind you on only receive one towel with your robe, so it might be worth bringing an extra one with you. Many different areas to explore, really enjoyed the garden area.
Just Sindy
We had a couples massage and a circuit package. The massage therapist was one of the best I've had in mtl and spas. The view from the spa is amazing!
Gwen Ch
Had a great spa experience at Bota Bota! Definitely one of my top places. Booked the Nautilis package, which included two massages, two glasses of wine, a cheese board, and also the the water circuits. We actually arrived much earlier than our scheduled massage, and was able to enjoy the water circuits before hand. Would definitely come back into was ever in the area!
N'tchidjè D.
Went with my wife for a couple Massage. It was amazing. That day my spouse was very stressed and they managed to relax her totally, very good sign. They know what they're doing. I like the concept of an old boat ⛵ converted into a Spa. It has some storyline to it. Almost a 5 star. The massage crew is 5/5 but the reception crew is 3/5 to that makes a 4. Reception was a tad snobby. Massage was lovely and skilled.
Mo Namazi
Good Spa with Rude Employees I visited Bota Bota for Valentine's Day with my wife. The spa services were satisfactory but when we came to use the circuit, I was appalled at the behaviour of the "bouncers". The spa has hired what can best be described as employees better served being bouncers at a nightclub than a spa. Everybody in the circuit pools were being very respectful, and although we could see people's mouths moving, no voices could be heard above the bubbles of the pool. Out walks "D" who begins to aggressively "shhhhh" and disturb everybody. He then begins arguing with guests and threatening to kick people out. When we told him he was being rude and "can't talk to guests" that way, he responded with "Yes I can! Shhhhh!". I have been to dozens of similar spas all over North America and Europe and I have never seen such horrible behavior. I understand that the circuit is a silent space, but when the only sound you hear are the waters and a big buffoon shushing, the guests are not the problem. This was my first and LAST time at this place. Two thumbs way down.
Paulo
Very good spa. Lost a star due to two reasons: 1. Locker rooms can be improved. Not enough showers for the number of guests. 2. The robes should have identifiers so that people keep track of their own. Massage was very good and experience is definitely relaxing. They sell bathing suits and slippers on-site.
Liu Dambolena
Best spa in town (from the ones I know). If you're not from Montreal and come for a visit, you should definitely check this place out. It's a boat anchored in the Old Port and offers a water circuit in several pools with different water temperatures spread in and out of the boat as well as a sauna and a steam bath. The views from the sauna and the restaurant and my favourites. The restaurant is really good, I've had small bites almost every time I'm there. Regarding treatments I've only had massages there and they've always been good. I suggest doing the water circuit first so that you are already relaxed when you go get your massage. This way the results are enhanced!!!
Natalia Geleta
I visited this place twice during my vacation in Montreal. Absolutely unique experience. Staff was very friendly and helpful. Cocktail and desert that I had in restaurant were really good. The only problem is that this SPA is somewhat overcrowded. They definitely need to extend their business.
Athina Fiskas
The good: Both sauna's are great, and have wonderful views. The larger jacuzzi was just the right temperature and the jets are in good working condition. At night time it lights up and looks very pretty. The steam bath is amazing, I can still smell it. They have awesome hammocks outside and inside! Bean bags are comfy too. The bad: I was kinda sad that they didn't explain why the smaller jacuzzi was off limits for the day. The larger one was getting a bit packed. Also, when I was in the middle of my massage, it sounded as if someone was running through the corridor. Another note is that the massage therapist had to leave the room to re-fill her oil bottle mid-massage. Lastly, nobody mentioned over the phone when I was booking that there would be a construction zone. If I had known this, I would of booked at a later date when everything was completed, and all facilities in working order.
Èle Thibault
I went with my mother on a rainy thanksgiving weekend, as I was told it's a crowded venue, we figured rain would mean less people. The boat treats you to a great view of the old port wich really is lovely in the fall! Overall we had a relaxed experience and we both found the concept quite entertaining, the staff was also friendly and professional. The only downside is the high cost but considering the spa's reputation, it's understandable.
Heather H.
Worst experience I've ever had at a spa or a water circuit. First, check in took forever, over 20 minutes. Sandals are mandatory and if you don't have them they cost $25 plus tax, even if you have a spa service booked they still won't provide footwear. The locker rooms were not clean. But by far, the WORST part was the absolute lack of security and lack of caring by the staff. On the third floor within about 10 minutes my sandals were stolen by another guest. I reported this to at least 3 different employees, not one of them did anything about this. I was left to walk the premises barefoot for my entire stay while staff members wore regular footwear and there was dirt everywhere. The floors and stairs were also extremely slippery and no one was cleaning anything in my 3.5 hour stay. Fair warning this place is not accessible whatsoever. I also paid for a Thai hot oil massage and had to repeatedly ask for more oil and it was luke warm. They also charge a pre authorization to your credit card so be aware. Maybe this review will cause someone from Bota Bota to respond and do something about my property being stolen at their facility.
Danny Dang
Who would have thought you could convert an old ferry into a spa experience? Bota Bota offers lots of variety of relaxation options from steam rooms, saunas to outdoor hot tubs and nap hammocks. It's a great place to unwind from a busy week or a good add-on to a visit to Montreal. I did the water circuit while the party I was with had treatments. There was lots of different areas (multiple floors and garden area) to move around to find your own quiet spot. I quite enjoyed the cold water baths after a sauna or hot tub. Don't miss the cold dunk into the river by the sauna near the restaurant. Take an Uber, as there is no parking on site. Get dropped off on the corner of McGill St & de la Commune St W. From there, walk toward the river and container box shops and follow the signs down to the boat.
Claire B'Ahnana
Good massage. Staff generally courteous. Got told very nicely to shut up when I wasn't actually talking but that was ok. At least they're trying to keep the silence. Place is a tiny bit grungy, robes, towels etc.
Chelsea Patterson
The urban spa is a unique and wonderful experience. I highly recommend it for a date, supper and baths or baths then fondue! Adorable :) The massages are nice but expensive. The baths are nice but it's only two type of saunas and baths. It's only 3 hrs some of the prices which is not enough time at all. If you are looking for quite escape this is not it. If you want romance this is it and hopefully your date will pay!
Shannon Duguid
Earlier in the week I had booked an appointment via the online booking system.I received a request via email to confirm this booking. The morning of my appointment, a customer service rep called to let me know my booking online had no massage therapist to cover the actual massage. This is a mistake and can happen, however the reason for my review was the way the rep treated me. They acted like it was my fault, saying, " I don't know how you managed to do this." They offered me an appointment late in the evening, and I said I would have to call back to let them know as I planned my day around the appointment. The person became annoyed and said, "well what do you want me to do?" I just asked for a full refund, and she said okay and closed the phone call with "sorry about this, bye." There was no concern about me as a customer, only annoyance that I had booked and caused them an inconvenience. Don't know if the place is even nice, have never stepped foot in the place, but will not be booking in future due to the rudeness of the agent.
Anna Mae Baksh
The best spa experience ever!! My masseuse Emile was the best massage I've ever had! The water circuit is super relaxing!
Nick Mazzilli
Loved going here! Massage was great and water circuits were nice. Didn’t eat or drink here but next time we’re here, we definitely will!
Alka Mohan
It's an amazing experience and a must do if visiting Montreal. Lots of different waters to experience. Have a massage, lunch and then explore.
Marek Hejduk
My first time in Montreal and the very first day the kids were handed off for a Auntie / niece and nephew day. My wife's plan a full day of relaxation and rest. The destination Bota Bota.
To be clear my French language skills are terrible my wife's are nonexistent.
We were greeted by the front desk staff, who spoke English for our benefit and confirmed our reservations. We were given a locker, slippers and robes. Usual fare for day spas. There ends the usual.
This old ferry is situated on the St.Lawrence in the old quarter in Montreal. Next to old grain elevators and shipping yards the facility is quiet enough you could hear a pin drop.
Top deck of the ferry had multiple hot pool and cold pool locations, in door saunas and amazing views. Second deck a great restaurant with nice wine selection and the rooms for the greatest invention in modern history;
Lila Azouz
Great spa and location! Highly recommend it! Was very relaxing and lots of great places to relax while enjoying a great view of the water and the old port.
Jake F-Y
Extremely relaxing water circuit and world class massage right next to Montreal downtown. Perfect if youre looking for something close.
HEALTH COACH
Marie-Céleste Package: Water circuit journey ★★★★★, 90-minute Swedish massage, and a 60-minute Queen of the sea facial Bota Bota is a rare and dramatic setting that showcases the best of French creativity, and the best view of Old Montréal, the harbour, manmade islands of EXPO 67: geodesic dome and Habitat 67; all lit up at night, from the upper deck hot pool. It was the opening night of Cirque de Soleil's Volta, with open air music and lights, magically filling the city. This was a smart de-stress beginning to the trip. Reservations were made easily, without complications, and the welcoming, efficient intake process was friendly and helpful. I loved the Nordic bath experience mixed with bracing, maritime air! Swedish massage with Nour ★★★★★ The treatment unfolded in complete silence, and time stood still. Nour's treatment was generous and skilled. My daughter and I shared the couples massage room, although for most of the treatment I did not know if she was in the room ... the black-painted metal skeleton of the boat formed a room of unique enchantments; combined with the North African music of our therapists - I felt alone; on the edge of an expansive universe. One entire wall was covered with port holes, creating a panoramic view of the harbour, and I felt that I could reach out and touch the waves crashing at my head. My daughter later told me that at one point in her treatment, her therapist massaged her foot and head, simultaneously!
manal B
Very beautiful spa, lovely staff ???? and very clean ????
Sergio Crespo
I love this spa location and concept wise and I have enjoyed it already several times. During my last visit, however, I was a quite disappointed: the spa area was noisy and more than spa I had feeling that it was a pool party, all in the area supposed to be silent. Despite it was not even packed, people were talking loud and I didn’t see any action taken from the staff.
Cong Ya!
the massage is 4.5 stars. But one star for the service.we book the 90mins for 8.30.and we told them it is our first time to come here.we spent almost 20mins to find the way to the shop.and we arrived tje shop at8.35.and we just did the massage for the 70mins. And the reception there is really not friendly to the English speaker.when we arrived there just asked us to finish the form with poker face.But some guys who speak French coming.The reception girl talked with them with smile.IS this kind of “language discrimination”？ Or next time.I Shouldn bring an apologize letter to here"sorry.i can not speak French"
Jonathan Fernandes
Not my favorite. The rest area is in the open space which is not really calm and quiet. Moreover ambiant temperature is a bit low. View is nice though. It's expensive for what it's worth. We had a problem reading our invoice. Called the customer support, left a message. Never called back. Update: I contacted Natalie. She promised me 2 coupons... never got them. I don't know what it's worth.
Honeylie Diva
Off-season it is a nice place to relax. During the summer the pool area can attract some *questionable* people / behavior. But the care services are always great and professional.
Clément Dieudonné
Great Place for an escape to release pressure and enjoy the hot water tubs
Hellan Said
Such an amazing experience. I had my massage with Nour Ahmed. He was very very professional and it was the first time I got enough pressure from a massage. I feel aligned and my shoulders and back are still tingling from it. After the massage we spent time in the water circuit which boasts stunning views unique to Montreal. I will always come back here for my massages.
Marybeth Pak
Friendly staff, great atmosphere, clean and the garden was beautiful! The restaurant was tasty and had a great open space with a wonderful view. My massage was great, my masseuse listened to my preferences and did a great job. My only complaint would be it’s too close to the city, I’d rather be close to nature but that’s my own preference and has nothing to do with the spa itself. Other than that, overall it was a nice experience.
지윤Maajidah
A bit pricy but overall beautiful staff was amazing extremely clean went for a spa treatment with my husband and was again amazing 100% would recommend
Nathalie Pedro
Used to like this place but service is decreasing, infrastructures are getting old and you can tell as prices still increase. The payment system is obsolete, the hosts are underpaid students. It looks like they trying to make money over the customers experience. I won't probably come back.
melanie taillon
Super overrated, pretty awful customer service. Received a gift certificate for baths and massages for two people. Several things ended up being very disappointing which is a shame because I really wanted to enjoy myself.. Over the phone when I had reserved, the receptionist told me that I had two women massage therapists, I said great and to keep it as is. However the front desk said that they had changed it for two men because I didn't specify to have it "locked".. So I asked why then did she tell me that I had two women without also mentioning that it was subject to change? .. no answer other than sorry. Great.. So my partner ended up changing the deep tissue for a swedish massage with a female therapist because there was not two female therapists available for deep tissues. Very disappointing because we are both athletes and really need deep tissues to help with specific issues. We were also not allowed to reschedule and come back when two women were available without being charged full price despite this being their error. The second issue was that my credit card was charged the FULL amount of everything despite giving them my gift certificate at the front desk, and mentioning that I had a gift certificate over the phone while reserving. Now I will have to call them and deal with all this today. This place is wildly unorganized and the front desk staff are very lacking. This entire experience gave me more stress than anything else, I would seriously recommend going to another spa.
Austin Fisher
We got the After 6 special on a Thursday evening, which contained the water circuit - a nice variety of hot tub, cold water, and other features sure to ease your senses. While I will say the services themselves proved to work very well in relaxing me, the people there kind of killed the vibe. There were just a lot of people all the time. They know what they're doing in terms of how hot and how cold to make things. If people aren't comfortable, they just don't understand how it works. I appreciated the soundtrack, very soft piano music (some if it was from Zelda, a nice surprise!). I just wish the staff were a little more strict on the concept of "silence" as this one group of women just wouldn't... be quiet. It's not a place to socialize, it's a place to relax, so make sure if you do go there, that's your intention. Overall though, great place!
Jasmin Chang
Update 2020. Since they renovate outside the SPA, it is now one of my favorites :) It is still too noisy inside of the SPA but outside is quite spacy and the staffs are very professional. ------------------------------------------------------------------- I visit many many spas and receiving massages. This one, i had expectation as it was looking cool. But I was VERY disappointed in the sense that: Can't relax, very so so facility in fact, narrow, service so so.. noisy. On top of everything, Massage is terrible. I hated to move from 3rd floor to basement each time. each saunas are small and noisy. Cold water is WAY TOO COLD so you can only dip your little fingers. Dry saunas are way too hot, you can't really relax.. What a sense for everything. To me, one time experiance is already too much on this spa. I am NOT going back. Good luck anyway :)
Stuart Hall
Bota Bota has gone downhill in the last few years. We went over the weekend and was surprised by the lack of service & quality. Firstly, when entering the changing rooms, the lockers smelled like strong body odor. I dismissed this as the person next to me was getting changed. However, after coming back after the session - it was the locker and my clothes smelled like someone else's body odor - not the best first/last impression. The robe provided felt like it has been used 10,000 times - the tie felt like a rope and was no longer plush/comfortable to wear. The food/wine service was slow - I had to get up to get a menu, order from the bar and top up my water since the server's paid little/no attention to us. The only reason this is not a 1 star is because the massage was amazing. After we finished the day, the front desk asked me how it was and I informed her it was not as good as before - hoping she would inquire why. Instead, it was a long pause and then she replied, "we have charged your credit card on file". Not the customer service i was hoping for after spending $500+... I informed her of the locker room smell and left. I hope the management takes this as construction feedback. We will not be returning until we're 100% confident this place has come back to it's former glory.
Smiae
Really enjoyed my visit. Go from the hot bath to the cold bath then to the hammock. Most relaxing feeling ever. The robes are too easy to mix up with someone else's when you hang yours up. They should have numbers to help identify them.
Andrew Lian
Excellent facility. I really enjoyed the urban/ nature contrast in the garden. Pretty epic to see the train pass by while relaxing in the hot tub. I was disappointed with the slow check in process. This bottleneck should be addressed with more staff. Also the sauna in the garden was barely warm.
Tracey Mendonca
Had a great time here. Definately one of the best spas I've been to.
Mina Trandafilovski
Probably one of the best spas I have ever been to. The concept of the floating boat is amazing. The views of Montreal are always gorgeous. The water circuits are amazing for your body and your face and you leave feeling relaxed. Even when it’s crowded, it’s calm and quiet. It’s best to come here during the week.
Asenath Nakayama
Incredibly kind and helpful staff with the most soothing massages. We did the Swedish couples room and it was so calming I fell asleep. Amazing spot. Must do in Montreal!
Adam Chano
Great service and experience!
Blaine Berry
Where do I start? This place is amazing from start to finish. I mean I words can’t describe how beautiful and peaceful this place was. Staff went above and beyond accommodation and made sure we had the best treatment. Everything here was amazing the pool, the hot tub, the massages are like you never had before, and the quietness. Words cannot describe how amazing this place was all while being accommodating and putting me as top priority. Highly recommended!!! I am traveling from Atlanta GA and I can’t wait to go back. Bota Bota is beautiful.
Loudnie C (Lou)
One of the outdoor whirlpools was filled with flies and other insect as if the filter didn’t work or something. Definitely didn’t enjoy that part of my “relaxing time”. Staff couldn’t speak English, I’m okay I’m bilingual but I was with a friend visiting from another province and she had a hard time communicating in English. I should have read the reviews first would have saved money and time.
Mag
Stunning, affordable spa and food in amazing. However, the service is quite average and the clientele is not very respectful of others. People talking out loud in the clearly quiet areas. Been there a few times and it did happen each time. But I guess that’s literally the price we’re paying...
Mariam Sambe
I used to like this place. But now I've come to realize that it's a total rip off. Don't get me wrong, the therapists and other staff are amazing, professional, courteous, and kind. It's the whole concept I have a problem with. They will ALWAYS end up charging you more by telling you that you 'stayed longer than expected' when they are the ones who kept you in by being late or asking you to fill out several forms. Adding to this, they have these great promotions (on paper), but once you go, they manage to make you pay a complete different price (obviously always higher). Absolute dishonesty.
Minh-Tam Tran
I first discovered this SPA two years ago while I was still spending most of my time in Montreal. It is very easy to get to by public transportation, walking distance from Square-Victoria Metro Station, and it is generally quiet during weekdays, Monday to Thursday. By the weekend, it gets noisier. The last time I visited Bota Bota, I was coming back from a work by plane and was scheduled to leave again in a few days. My only opening for the SPA was immediately after landing. As I attempted to book a massage, the receptionist was excellent at finding a spot for me since it was on a short notice. She then proceeded to explain cancellation penalties for last minute cancellations. She added before finishing up, "Because it is winter and it is possible that planes may be delayed, do let us know if it is the case and we won't penalize you." Wow! On arrival, they had a space to safely keep my big luggages since their lockers were much too small. The only downer was that it was Friday and there were some noisy people. The staff did tell them to quiet down a few times. Overall, I had a great experience from booking the massage until leaving the SPA.
Patrick J. Nolan
Clean inexpensive and very relaxing. It's a must do every trip to Montreal.
Yelena Yermilova
My husband and I loved this place. The only thing I wouldn't do again is a massage. It was Ok and I had better at Korean places. Everything else is Great! Romantic views and warm atmosphere!
Manav Chadha
We have amazing spas and hospitality in India and was not expecting anything more than just an experience of a unique spa at Bota Bota but this one really surprised me. Amazing massage though it was definitely less than 60 mins what they claimed but the water circuit and the ambience was brilliant. -20 degree Celsius weather with snow all around it's just the unbelievable.
Josée Beaudoin
Facilities are nice and clean. The restaurant is good, although slightly overpriced and the menu would need a little more variety. The big downfall of this spa is their processes. Huge lineups at checkins, even longer lineups at check out, total confusion at the massage desk where they asked us to fill the same long paperwork three times because they lost the documents... on top of that it took them 20 minutes to let us in (we were a group of a few people) because they could not figure out who got their massage at what time... Frankly this takes away from the experience and ruins the relaxation you try so hard to achieve. Other spas in the Old Port are better organized and staff is nicer too.
Etienne Champanhet
I’m not sure where all the 5 stars come from but it’s a huge scam. First off you are required to “check in” when you arrive, and you are required to check a box that reads “you agree to receive commercial communication” and you cannot bypass this or else you cannot check in. Second, upon arrival we realized there were over 100+ people at the facilities and all the spas and rooms were over capacity. There were 10 people in tubs that were meant for just 7 and staff doesn’t care. They over book way to many people even tho we booked weeks in advance.
Kevin wells
We did the calypso package for 2. The tasting plate was very nice and filling, and the glasses of wine, while small, were also a nice addition. The massages were great, just the right amount of pressure and they focused on some trouble spots we talked about beforehand. I never wanted it to end! There were a fair amount of people here using the water circuit, however it never really felt too crowded. I liked that the boat is a silent zone, which people really seemed to embrace. Also, 18+ means no kids and that's a good thing when you're trying to relax.
Paul Normand
Wonderful place to visit. Spent a few hours with my wife for our anniversary. Everything was clean and well maintained. Drinks and snacks available ($). Lots of room and seating. Great place to people watch.
Grace C
Easy booking process, smooth check-in. Clean hydrotherapy - sauna, steam, hot tub, cold plunge, relaxing hammocks, nice garden area with bigger pool. Café was pleasant, we enjoyed the charcuterie plate. Would highly recommend for a relaxing day by the waterfront!
Eric Jamieson
Pretty cool spa, arrived here just when the edibles kicked in and wished the entry was much quicker and simpler. The heads at the desk talk a lotta rules and things that are pretty obvious. It’s kinda difficult to keep track of your towel and robe throughout the day.
Courtney Wolfson
This is a lovely spa! Great location on the water, with several unique areas to go through the water circuit (Nordic baths style), multiple saunas, plunge pools, and lounges. Patio chairs indoors or pool side, hammocks, bean bags, whatever you prefer! Great service from the staff too. The only treatment I got was the express manicure which actually took longer than the 30 mins as advertised, and drying time on top of that, which was a little inconvenient for me because I had to be super careful while I rushed to pay and leave, but it wouldn't be an issue if you have time to chill a bit longer. They did a lovely job on my nails, and had a very relaxing morning, I'm impressed overall!
Marc A
I’ve visited numerous spas across the world in my travels but this place takes the prize for the biggest imposter in the luxury spa business. This spa is actually on a boat and adjacent annex with a water circuit of hot tubs, sauna, relaxation and massage room, steam bath and a little bistro. On paper, sounds absolutely wonderful. It’s not wonderful, it’s actually dreadful. Let’s start with the check in experience. It’s very slow, clunky and feels like you’re in 1990. You wait in line for 1 of 3 cashiers to take your information, type it into a computer (making typos along the way), making you sign a piece of release (where they names of all the previous guest for that day - talk about total lack of privacy). It’s 2020, you’d expect a spa charging what they do to have a more digital Chekin experience, like an app and self-serve kiosk where you do the whole “boarding”. Then, the changing rooms. A high school changing room would be considered luxurious next to Bota Bota’s facilities. It was gross, full of water on the floor and these disgusting, bacteria-infused little carpets. They have this electronic key for the lockers, a bunch of people were locked out, stopped working. So you need to go otuside back in the check in area with a bathrobe to find someone to help you as there are no attendants in the changing rooms. Then, there are 3 showers. That’s it, yet there were close to 40 people in the changing room at the same time and about 6 people ahead of me to take a shower (guy said he waited 20 minutes for a shower). That’s ridiculous, we decided to leave and take a shower home. Then the water circuit is fine, they do have a lot of baths and areas, the issue here is that some equipment is broken and inaccessible (i.e. steam bath outside wasn’t working) and it’s just way too crowded. There are supposedly quiet areas but everyone talks and it’s not enforced. It’s obvious they’re being greedy by trying to cram in as many people as possible. Then the staff isn’t that great. I had an issue with a French manager who thought he was in Paris and it was OK to tell a guest off. Their towels and bathrobes they rent are very OLD, I think they haven’t been replaced in years. The fabric is clearly very tired and they’ve lost any sense of luxury or comfort. They’ve also sown the pockets of the bathrobes because they don’t want cell phones in the bath areas, makes sense - but what about people who need to carry medical devices like an epipen or asthma pump? Besides being against the law, it just goes to show their complete lack of thinking about their guests. Frankly, there are way better luxury spas in Montreal with way nicer facilities and staff. The boat thing is cute, I get it - but the novelty lasts for about 2 minutes and once you enter this old junkyard, it’s not so cute anymore. So do yourself a favour by avoiding this place.
Gianluca Passarella
All was perfect.From the facilities,helpful and friendly staff,food really nice and wonderful massage.yes you do wait a bit at check in and check out but hey relax! the world is not perfect. being in the service industry if you are looking for 100% satisfaction at all times you will not go out much!just relax!
Mika Kumo
Bota Bota offers various scenic perspective of the Old Port of Montreal while relaxing and refueling. The staff is polite and helpful, the facilities clean and enjoyable in all seasons. Definitely a must on bucket list if you are looking for a memorable experience at a thermal spa in Montreal.
Darina Prokhorova
amazing place thay exceeds all expectations! 15 out of 10! definitely gonna return!
Amandarubylynn (amandarubylynn)
While travelling Quebec for our honeymoon we booked massages with hydrotherapy sessions and planned on ordering wine and food while there. I called to book as their online booking is very confusing. The agent on the phone advised which days and times were available and confirmed our request for a female masseuse would be accommodated. We cancelled our reservations at the Scandinavian Spa Mt. Tremblant as it was the same day Bota Bota was available and rearranged our trip. The day of our appointment it took 45 minutes for us to get checked in. The agent advised we did not request a female and were booked with men. I had to insist more than once and only once pushed the agent looked into our booking and confirmed we did request it but that the agent messed up and no females were available. We were told to talk to a supervisor who approached us after another 10-15 minutes of waiting. Her suggestion was to cancel our massages and just do the hydrotherapy. When I said that wasn’t a solution for us as the massage was the main reason for our booking. The hydrotherapy was extremely crowded that night and didn’t seem like it was going to be a relaxing experience. She asked if we were free on another day. This was our last night in Montreal. She went to talk to her manager to see what could be done. After another 10-15 minutes waiting they decided the best thing to do was to cancel our entire reservation. This was extremely embarrassing and stressful experienced as this was all done out in the front lobby in front of other guests and made to seem like we were the difficult ones. We left after being there for almost an hour and a half visibly upset. We had rearranged our entire trip itinerary and cancelled our original spa plans to come here. Cancelling our entire reservation after everything didn’t seem like a good solution. They blamed being short staffed and having new staff who aren’t trained properly for the reason we were put in this position. This isn’t something that should have been put on us. It seemed like it actually made things better for them to cancel our appointment entirely versus offering a different solution to at least attempt to make things better. In customer service if something goes wrong you try to “Make It Right”, they were unwilling and incapable of this. We weren’t asking for any handouts. We wanted the services we paid for and booked. We don’t understand why out of all the bookings that night we were chosen as the ones to not have the female masseuse instead of someone else who might have been comfortable with either. We felt that they didn’t not care or take responsibility for their mistake or that they put such a terrible experience on our honeymoon. We would like to think this didn’t happen because we are English speaking and from out of province, but maybe that did play a factor as to why we were targeted. If you’re understaffed, don’t use it as an excuse to offer terrible service and expect paying clients to be okay with it. Book less and accommodate what you can with a good experience based on your staffing. Don’t make people wait over a half hour after their scheduled booking just to be checked in. Had we ended up having our services that night we would have lost out on a considerable amount of time booked and paid for. I was encouraged to write this review by the supervisor that night as she did not seem to care that I was in tears after over an hour of waiting to be told my time was wasted and not respected. I don’t enjoy writing poor public reviews. Based on other people there at the same time and other reviews this isn’t a one off with this spa. Which is unfortunate as what I was able to see looks like it could have been a very nice relaxing visit like we booked and expected. I would suggest if you’re looking to book a spa don’t try this one for a long time and they can properly staff and train them. And don’t plan your trip around this visit. I am beside myself with the terrible service and experience we received.
Liz Taillie
My boyfriend and I were visiting Montreal for a week and loved the idea of a spa on a boat! Docked right in the port of old Montreal sits a modern spa. The locker rooms are clean and you are given a key bracelet to lock up belongings. You wear bathing suit and sandals and are given a plus robe and towel. Staff is polite and helpful. If you go at off times it is cheaper so check website. The only negatives were that a lot of the areas were closed, not sure why though, maybe because we went around 8pm or because it was raining, so maybe call first. Also hot tub could have been hotter. But great for a midweek relax and detox.
Constance Cerf
This was my second visit at the spa. We did the water circuit which was great however lots of maintenance was happening around us which did ruin the atmosphere at bit. Several people were lifting up tiles and measuring things around the pool, someone else was removing grit from the gutter, these activities were happening for the full duration of our circuit. I feel like this should be done outside of opening hours or that guests should be warned and given a discount/drinks voucher.
Bruno Izzi
Nice place, Nice view and nice staff ...but nothing special (spa)for the price they charge . They have a 3 hrs package for 55$ and I didn’t like it because your stressed about the time. The other spas I went for the same price it’s the whole day.
Guy Kreidy
Highly recommended. Staff very friendly and extremely helpful. Swedish massage: Ask for Renaud P. That guy is a pro. Will definitely come back next summer!
Santino Sevigny
Faaaantastic first massage experience. Neither myself nor my girlfriend were dissapointed. We went for the duo therapeutic massage session, and the massage therapists were very professional and got out kinks we didn't know we had.
Javier González Cruz
Nice chill place in the city. It's the perfect place to go and just relax, forget about the city and have a good time. I recomend the deep tissue massage, and after that, chilling by the pool makes the perfect day.
Aleksandra Lee
Amazing experience!! The space is beautiful, the staff were so courteous and professional, and it felt like a resort away from home. Highly recommend a visit next time you’re in MTL.
Mylene liwayan
Spent a total of 6 hours at my first visit for the flying cloud package. Was a bit uncertain about the water circuit but turns out I really enjoyed it. Bring a book if you have times in between treatments if you don't do the water circuit.
Jahangir Malik
Really great experience . Xavier was professional. Really recommend it
Karine
We always have a relaxing time at bota bota. The water circuits are great, outdoors and indoors. The reception staff is friendly. They give you a towel and a bathrobe to use during your visit. The vestiaires for women are equipped with showers, shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, hairdryer, makeup remover and flat iron. I’ve yet to try their restaurant. The best part of this place might just be the numerous types of relaxation areas! Definitely prefer going in the morning when there is less people :)
Sheryl Wade
Bota Bota is a beautiful spa. The staff demonstrates professionalism. The location is on a vast boat on the St. Lawrence river. An opportunity to recuperate. I hope to be back in the future. I highly recommend!
aud lauriers
Very cool experience and very relaxing although too many people and a little touristy
Leila Rafati
Such an incredible experience. Enjoy a day of relaxation.just the brunch is not that much good. But forget about it and enjoy the water circuits.
Heather Marshall
The baths were very nice before 11am and not too crowded. I really love the outdoor space and the different pools. My biggest issue is that if you go before 11am as many do, you are given a strict 3 hour time period (due to the discounted rate). They keep your credit card on file and will charge extra if you exceed the 3 hours which includes the time you need to change and get ready afterwards. I found it hard to relax as I was always conscious of the time as I did not want to spend almost double. If you get a massage the waters are additional and the 3 hour limit still applies for your water time unless you pay essentially regular price for the waters. I think the cost breakdown for guests receiving treatments is off putting and I actually cancelled my spa treatment due to this. I instead booked at the Scandinavian Spa who does not monitor your "water time" and includes sandals!
Steven Ball
Bota Bota is a breath of fresh air! A brilliant spa experience, right on the docks of old port. The staff are super friendly and will help with any needs or questions you might have. The facilities are numerous and varied, and the amount of relaxation areas and chill out places is very high (compared to some other spas that are lacking a nice quiet space). The restaurant is very minimal but contains some very tasty menu items and a few special drinks to help you unwind.The only downside to Bota Bota is maybe the price, it comes with a rather premium price tag, but that is to be expected for a spa on a boat.
Yasmina E. Jimenez
Had such a relaxing time on Wednesday at @botabotamtl A full day of pampering, bathing, basking in the sun, savouring meals and drinks as well as great company. Thanks BotaBota team, especially the chef @thomas_engasser #workhardplayhard #selfcare #botabota #oldportmtl
Yuxin Luo
SPA experience is great and unique, they have different pool and rooms all over the place so make sure you explore around before heading to the main pool. However, they randomly processed $50 dollar out of my account without giving me any notifications or receipt, so make sure to double check your bank statement afterwards. UPDATES: I appreciate the fast response, after calling the customer service, Botabota claimed it is a mischarge and did a refund.
Brent B
simply the best spa in Montreal I've been to la scandinave in blue mountain but Bota Bota has got em beat for sure although both are nice
Y K
This place was the worst, I would not recommend his place. We went as a group of 6 girls for a spa day, and they made a mistake and didn't have 1 of our reservations, even though I verified the day before. They also told it was a special for $85 per massage but then overcharged us. To make matters worse they told me they opened at 9:15am, which we were there for but it took them so long to get us in that each of us lost 15mins of our appointments. Then to top it off the services sucked. one friend complained of neck pain after her massage while the other didn't feel like she had a massage at all. And the girls who had scrubs felt it was both rushed and not worth it. Not to mention, one of the girls complained that one of the masseuse was creepy as hell. overall we were extremely unsatisfied.
DJ HONEYBUNN
It was so pretty there! VERY relaxing 10/10 experience. And I got a massage from Dominique he was really good, highly recommend him for therapeutic massage ????
Willow L
Good: nice spa sites. Not so good: no parking onsite or nearby. We wasted 30 mins just to find a spot. It takes way too long to check in and the registration staff can barely speak English. Maybe I’m just unlucky.
C Barbagallo
Properly reserved two 10 am massages for hubby and I. Showed up early, prepped and ready to relax.... Well hubby was off for his massage on time, so was everyone else... Left to an empty room, 15 past start time of the massage, no explanation from the staff. Relaxation was off my menu. Inexperienced staffer then made things worse, but all was settled by 10:30 with the supervisor. I tried to let go of the morning disaster, and went for a 10:30 with a different therapist. (As the first one didn't show up for her shift). I gave three stars cause all they are is in the business of Massages etc..., the therapist should have been available. Other than that I have been before, and because the supervisor smoothed things over, saved the day with a later massage (not too late) as I wanted to spend the day at the water circuit with hubby. They also compensated, monetarily with the cost of the water circuit for the day for both of us. It kinda made up for it, not quite, but kinda.
Winh's
Architecturally, one of the coolest spas I've ever been to. In the heart of the city, in the old port, you can chill, wind back and relax in a hot tub while checking out the scenery of the city. The spa is literally a boat, a little calm oasis in the middle of the city. Is it the best spa I've been to? No. But definitely the best one on the island for sure, for me personally. That being said, it does get crowded and having people coming in and out of your sauna session sucks and kinda breaks your vibe. Other than that, it's great!
Cecile Zongo
The staff is really nice; really professional. However, it is definitely over priced for the quality of the Spa. I would rather drive 2h and go to another place for the same price than coming back again. There is not much you can do there, it is disappointing. The locker room is small and looks old. Also, they charge $50 and it is not mentioned when you book online or by phone. They say it is just an authorization in case you buy things but when you give back your bracelet, they don't say anything and the $50 are actually still 'pending' on your bank account -> you should be more transparent about this.
Sammy Janny
The vibe is great. I've been there 4x
Akshya Boopalan
Very relaxing. Friendly and helpful staff. Highly recommend the after 6 pm water circuit to see the sunset on downtown Montreal
Sonia S
Beautiful spa place. Everything is a five star! The location, the atmosphere, the service and the message. Would love to visit again during day time. Make sure to make reservations online or through phone. It's quit easy. You can also grab a drink after the message or spa. Of course, a nice meal in one of the great restaurants around.
Sarah M
I came here for a massage on Easter weekend. The spa itself is nice, but the change area and washrooms are in desperate need of a renovation and clean up. They don’t offer slippers, so unless you bring your own. Lastly, the massage itself was just okay and the masseuse had bad breath (nothing personal here - but it’s good etiquette to take a mint when you’re in close encounter with someone for an hour).
Franco Valentino
Very unique setting. The multi-pools are great, with independent temperatures. A must go. Friendly staff.
kevin yee
Loved it! The after 6pm for 39$ /pp water therapy was amazing! Very friendly staff very stressed free environment
Louisa Bek
Not bad but I wish they informed us the Garden section was not a garden per say, had a larger pool and you could un-mute yourself. Wasted the majority of our time in a tiny and crowded jaccuzzi. A little too pricey compared to other famous spas
Julie Charbonnier
I just visited today and had overall a good experience in the pools. However, I highly advice to look up the prices for your visit carefully (they have different promotions, that depend on the season). We arrived at 5:30 and a promotion started at 6:00, but the staff did not let us know. When I found out while paying, the staff was rude saying "It is written everywhere". Just beware that it is only written on one sign, and that sign is not on the counter. At this point, the rudeness ruined my experience and I told them they could have been nicer about the misunderstanding. They informed me that customers try to take advantage of them frequently and say they didn't know about the promotion. For me this wasn't the case, no one told us about it and we missed the one sign. I wasn't even trying to get the 10 dollars back at that point- I was just confused about when the promotion started. My advice for this business would be to have a clear easel on the counter that states what the daily promotion is and have a protocol for their employees to follow (or a checklist) when handling customer complaints. Even if someone is trying to lie to get the promotional price, they should still be treated with common courtesy. This experience really tainted my visit. I think the staff needs some training- or honestly just get rid of the promotions if it's causing this many issues that your staff can't deal with. I looked online for an email address to contact the business about this- but unfortunately, they don't have one, so I am just writing to inform people to do your research about the promotions so that you pay the price that is best for you (and have the information you need to make your decision). The staff also generally ignores when people take pictures inside the pools- even though it says its against their policy- just be aware you end up in a bunch of people's pictures while in a bathing suit!
Rachel Meyer
Whether you want to unwind on your own or impress a date, this place is top notch! Not only are you treated to a variety of saunas and jacuzzis, some of them also offer mind-blowing views of the beautiful city of Montreal. My only quarrel with this place is the visitors who break the silence rule; it could be monitored and enforced better by the staff. I recommend coming in the summer when the garden section is completely open.
Geneviève Vachon
The worst thing about this spa, in my opinion is the time limit on the water circuit. It's almost stressful. Other than that, the location, amenities and staff are clean, modern and courteous but be prepared to pay higher than average rates being a tourist location.
Marzia Begum
This spa is only famous for its “boat” other than that everything is downhill. The receptionist was dismissive and rushing to check me in and speaking to me in French when I clearly answered in English. Then she points outside telling me to change there. No direction at all. The changing rooms felt like I was back in high school. Smells bad the showers aren’t cleaned and there are no stalls to change if you Don’t want to shower and there’s only two toilet stalls. It’s overcrowded and over expensive when going to your local public pool offers just about the same thing
Miss Kothy
Absolutely amazing, lovely staff and amazing scenery, so relaxing. Highly recommend.
aleksandra dukic
Place was good but the change room in the trailer is small and crowded. Did not enjoy that at all.
Heather R
The water circuit is so therapeutic both mentally and physically and we left feeling rested and rejuvenated! Definitely do the super cold pool and (stay in it for a few minutes) in the lower outside area for maximum healing. The restaurant could up their wine game a lot and add more flavor to the food, otherwise the space is top notch.
Johanne Jambon
The food was really not that good. So please plan ahead and sneak in some snacks. I didn’t even care about the price, everything was so bland and small, I’ve been to other spas around the province and usually I leave lunch happy. Having said that, Bota Bota is a really nice inner city spa and I will return. The outside section (le jardin) is really nice, especially in winter time when snowflakes fall and you’re sitting in a hot pool.
Chris Scade
I went to Montréal for boxing week and new years, I had to visit Bota Bota. I had a 90 minute massage and it was amazing, my therapist was amazing. My french is not that good, but the staff is bilingual, so communication is not problem at all. It is a very busy place, but the service is still great. I only had a massage while I was there, but I can highly recommend Bota Bota Spa weather you live in Montreal or just visiting. I will be back for sure. What I have found in Montreal, if you at least try to speak French, everyone seems a little friendlier, so knowing the basics helps a lot; this goes for all of Montréal. At the very least, I would recommend learning this: Je suis désolé, mon français est terrible. Parlez-vous anglais?
Lynn Chau
Gorgeous views and great service. Worth every penny. Do the water circuit here at any time of the year, alone or with friends. I'd do more than 3 hours here and just spend the day. You'll feel so relaxed after.
David Grandison Jr.
This was one of my favorite spas ever. It offers incredible views and the amenities are awesome. I used the outdoor pools in November with no real cold weather discomfort. I received one of the best Swedish couples massages (Calypso package) ever had and the tasting plate was pretty much a light meal for two.
Kevin Cheng
Multiple levels with many rooms to hide in. Was not very relaxing as there were soo many people in the spa at the same time. A bit strict about the no talking/cell phone policy. Beautiful view of the Old Port from the top floor.
Isaac Olson
I love this place. I find it to be a unique spa experience with hot, cold, steam and sauna options. The locker room is rather tight, but I'm okay with it because it's all built into a retired ferry boat. Great views of the city and I love that you can take a dip in the St. Lawrence river even in December! Really very nice. I guess, the only downside is not everybody is respectful and there are a lot of people to contend with when it gets busier. I recommend trying to go outside of peak hours to maximize your enjoyment. I wish I could afford to go regularly, but I'm okay with the price for what you get. A lower price might actually mean the place would be overcrowded.
Alasdair Stuart-Bell
Reasonably priced and great water circuit options!
Jonathan Ngo
Great experience. The water circuit is really relaxing even though we had to wear a mask while walking around. The dry sauna on the top floor is nice and spacious. It’s also near the cold bath (outdoors).
Caroline Tremblay
Had an amazing girl's spa party! Best place we've been so far in the area of Montreal in a group. Price is definitely worth for what you're getting! Overall great experience and will be back many more times!
John Jenkins GM
Was a decadent experience, wandering around all day between the saunas, pools, restaurants, etc. in a fluffy white robe. The massage was not bad, food was good. Some of the staff take themselves a bit too seriously; when people would speak, even quietly, they’d be shushed. Overall a fun time.
Ferdous Bhai
The perfect place to spend a relaxing afternoon in Montreal. What's unique about this spa is the underrated social aspect of it: the outdoor social pool area is a wonderful place to catch up with friends and make new friends!
Luis Jorge Medina Villegas
Lovely place to relax and enjoy an awesome view from Montreal, staff is nice and definetly you'll enjoy your visit here
Georgina Faddoul
The place was nice and the restaurant food was delicious. However, not recommended for large groups. The restaurant is not connected to the spa. They messed up the billing and charged a few people twice. Plus we had to guess who owed me what for the restaurant bill. The process was quite frustrating. It has been almost 2 weeks and we still haven't sorted everything. VERY frustrating.
Stephan Valentin
Amazing place in the center of the city. Peaceful and quiet spa. No cellphone allowed. Restaurant is also great.
Raneen Al Timimi
I love this place ! I tend to be a little picky with massages but Everytime I go there, I'm never disappointed! They really know what they're doing and I always feel amazing. I also recommend their water circuits - so relaxing after a massage. The scenery is also gorgeous if you go for sunset, it's so soothing. Highly recommend it
Layth
Masseuse didn’t even show up to work without any warning
Iradele Plante
Amazing product, not-so-amazing service. I went to Bota Bota with my partner and a few friends in town. We knew that we were going to be coming during a time that was busier (Sunday afternoon) but I did my due diligence by researching the website and calling ahead of time. After waiting in the heated tent (to be expected) before going in to balance capacity, we were surprised that we had to continue to wait inside for almost an hour just to check in/get all out things in order. This was clearly distressing for the front staff, but one of them took it upon themselves to rudely complain about other customers right in front of us while we were paying. During this time, my partner and friends considered leaving all together. Additionally, I had missed the note that sandals would not be provided, and were available to purchase for $25. In writing this review, I double checked the website to see if I had overlooked it in its advertisement, and found a note to bring your own sandals buried under 4-5 different pages. Again, considering you are walking up and down stairs, outside on cold concrete, sometimes on industrial metal gratings (surprise!), this was uncomfortable enough that I feel should have been made front and centre. It was also unclear from the website and the time I called that Bota Bota was expanding, and we were sequestered to a cramped change room outside. Again, I understand awkward tensions during an expansion process, but this is something that would have been helpful to know, especially for someone who did their due diligence to research about the spa. Once we were there and settled in, it was a very lovely and relaxing experience. The spa had amazing views, it wasn't too crowded, food and drink was divine. But for $70 base package, I don't believe it's worth the price when you factor these surprises, lack of professionalism displayed by the staff and transparency of the construction changes of Bota Bota. I left feeling refreshed, but I would opt for a different spa experience with more transparency on the realities of what a first timer is to expect.
Justin Harris
Better than I expected. Lots of hot tubs and cold pools. I had a really good and considerate massage therapist (Mallory). You're supposed to be quiet here and not use your phone especially to take pictures. Some people were whispering occasionally but some were talking loud, screaming, and dancing in pools. Some were taking pics of themselves and others.
Gil Klein
Well worth the money, we took the 3 hours slot in the afternoon. Its amazing! 4 floors of relaxation with different spa activities. We loved the outside gardens with the pools and the views from the terraces. There are also silent zones which are great for meditation. Notice that you cant bring your phones inside but a book would be very nice.
Lauren P
Really unique spa experience with saunas, pools, drinking areas, restaurant, etc.
William Ross
I went with a friend to get a facial back in December. Overall, not the best spa out there in my opinion. Be aware if you’re planning to go a Saturday, the water circuits are mandatory and it’s an extra fee. You can’t opt out which I dislike. My facial that I purchased was the Queen of the Sea, 95$. The grand total that I paid was around 167$. Looking back, I would spend that money in a luxurious spa.
Genevieve Labrosse
Awesome date! Sun tan, hot tub, cold tub, steam room, have a drink and spa for a few hours before you enjoy your night in Montréal!
Sarah Attar
Lovely spa, great massages and facials, the staff can sometimes be unfriendly and I really don't like the locker rooms at all but for the most part, the spa is really lovely, I go all the time now.
Catherine Wells
I bought a gift certificate for a friend a while ago and the whole experience was horrible. My friend couldn’t use her gift certificate to schedule her appointment online since their website doesn’t take gift certificate. She tried contacting them by phone several times but no one was picking up the line so she was unable to schedule her appointment for several months. I had to go there again physically to schedule my friends appointment. The people at the counter were not apologetic, they were actually pretty rude. I finally managed to schedule her manicure, pedicure and massage, after explaining the situation to several people. The day of the appointment my friend showed up to get her manicure/pedicure and she was told that the person didn’t show up at work so it was canceled. She got her massage on that day but her full spa day was ruined and she had to go back home early.
Jess Serr
Spa is very nice. Everyone was very helpful and welcoming. I loved the private massage I got as well. The only downside of this place is the food. Restaurant and servers were not at the same level as the spa unfortunately. Good thing there are food trucks outside the spa though! :)
Grant
A lovely place for a day of relaxation! I did a facial, massage, as well as the water circuit. Both of the professionals who did my service were fantastic, and it was such a relaxing environment on the boat. Also enjoyed lunch at the restaurant which had perfect snack-sized portions. Appreciated the no-phone policy that added to the relaxation :)
Uriel Pinsonneault
I absolutely love this place! The view, the installations, the boat, the staff, the atmosphere, everything! We're lucky to have such a nice spot to go to and relax, right next to the busy busy downtown. Have gone many times so far, went this week and will go again soon! Highly recommended.
Anton Khinchuk
An absolute must if you are looking for a great massage when in Montreal!
Myriam Bazar
Love the place, great for a relaxing time in the city. I put a 4 stars, because at certain hours it can be noisy and have a lot of people there.
Asrar Haq-Montford
The facilities were beautiful but I was unable to enjoy it fully due to several individuals speaking in the silence zones. No one came over to enforce the silence policy. It's a shame because I was really looking forward to this spa. Room for improvement in terms or cleanliness.
Steve Barker
Great spot, super relaxing, awesome views, and delicious food. Nice stop after a week in Montreal.
Mike Riess
The massages are good; that said the real highlight of Bota Bota is the amazing water circuit. Espace Nomad and Spa Scandinave would be my preference for massages if I"m not doing the water circuit as they are a bit more convenient to get in and out of; if you want a longer time at the spa with a water circuit or you just want to do the water circuit, Bota Bota can't be beat. The entrance is a bit of a walk from the street which is fine in the summer but a bit of a bummer in the winter, but not the end of the world. It can be a bit hard to find though if you haven't been before.
Michio Hirai
Went to Bota Bota on the Day of the New Year. There was so many people, it took 30 mins just to go in. Also, this is a place where talking is not allowed (except a few locations). The people there did not care to respect the rules and we hardly had any quiet time. Which is unfortunate, because my girlfriend goes there often and usually, it's quiet. Also, someone took my robe while I was outside. So I had to walk in the cold to get a new one. Thankfully, I did not leave anything in the pockets of the robe, and the bota bota staff was kind enough to give me a new one immediately. Overall, I might go again but NEVER on new year.
Mathilde Mbom
Very beautiful place, very organized. However, the no phone/electronic device policy is outdated and needs to be revised. I couldn't capture any good moment there because electronic cameras are forbidden. This is ridiculous. I might not go there again because of that. I do not recommend this place if you like using snapchat and IG.
Aimee McNamara
Bota Bota is a winter lifesaver. I like nothing more than spending the day in the water circuit when the outside temperatures dip below frigid. The saunas and water pools offer amazing views of Montreal and the river. The place is perfectly clean and staff are professional and helpful. If you need some serious relaxing time, book in an afternoon or evening with Bota Bota. I love that they are open till 10 pm - a perfect put me to sleep activity.
Freshta sh
I came to Montreal for a relaxation and spa weekend with my friends after a 6 hour drive we came to this specific spa, The worse service I have ever received, the front desk staff was so unfriendly and service throughout was horrible very rude as well as the robes they gave us was all ripped up and smelled bad it’s like they didn’t even wash it I got a really bad rash from using there robe, honestly $70 for just the water circuit area is a complete rip off, the water had so many dead insects it was so DISGUSTING!! if you’re a tourist and looking for a spa with your close ones I do not recommend this spa !!! And if you think the manager will understand your situation they won’t all they do is respond back to the google reviews and act like it’s the customers fault!!! Please don’t be fooled by there 4.3 ratings definitely nottttt!!!!!!
Robin Elizabeth
A lovely experience made a little less lovely by unclear signage (my friend and I kept getting lost). There were also several groupsof people using cell phones to take photos at the pools, despite the signs asking patrons not to and not many staff around monitoring for that. These things aside, a relaxing way to spend some time. Amazing steam room.
Hiba A
Affordable & clean, very relaxing water circuit. Despite being very busy during a snow storm on a Sunday, there are so many areas and amenities that we did not have to wait around to use any at all. The only thing is that I had no clue where the bathrooms were, especially on the 3rd floor.
Isabelle Gadbois
Beautiful and unique spa in the city. I have been there a few times and it's always interesting to be able to relax in the middle of the Old Port, and on water. The last additions of pools and relaxing areas were needed for more space, but at the same time there are more people... I love this spa, but I always find it too crowded and quite expensive. But still a place to try at least once.
R Farkas
It really doesn’t get any better than this. Incredible views of the city and port all from any of the rooftop hot tubs and saunas. The crew and therapists are top notch and the amenities are outstanding. Best Scandinavian spa I have ever been to. It is impossible for me to visit Montréal without visiting this spa.
Alexander Lafreniere
Friendly staff. Great Aperol and Campari cocktails. The cold baths are really cold and the saunas can get really hot if you put enough water on. Great experience, will visit again.
alex shark
I'm a spa manager from Toronto. This is hands down the best spa I've ever been to. The are so accommodating, very clean, people actually respect the quiet areas, the facilities are tip top. Everything was wonderful. Also it was raining all day and it wS still fabulous. Had lunch and a facial. Make one on lake ontario please!
Moe MTL
Great spa on the water with a cool atmosphere. Friendly staff and the place is clean. They got the more relaxing spots on the boat, and the party pool with a bar (limited drinks per person).
Kaelin Koufogiannakis
I visit this spa EVERY time I'm in Montreal. So worth it. Quiet, peaceful, and reviving with the Norwegian spa elements of wet and dry saunas, cold pools, and hot tubs. Love love love.
Tamara
The wait times for check in and check out are ridiculous. They kept the theme with their prices. Look at other spas if you’re only interested in the waters. Four stars since the masseuse was kind and professional :)
Marie Christyne
I have always enjoyed my experiences at Bota Bota. I enjoy the industrial sights of the Silo #5 in contrast with the contemporary style of the spa. I love watching the train pass by on the bridge near the pools. Massage therapists and personnel are always very professional and the place is sparkling clean. I love their silence policy; this is a very quiet place, generally.
Mar W
Loved the whole experience: beautiful place. The only con was the bartender: very harsh and unfriendly, does not match with a summer spa resort situation.
Rachel Biskupski
Love love love Bota Bota! I always come here when visiting Montreal.
Amy Nascou
This place offers many temperatures of swimming pools, multiple steam rooms, saunas and hot tubs as well as a ton of comfy places to sit. There is a silent section that is well separated from a social section and everything is super clean and well attended to. Its a super easy place to spend 3-5 hours.
Sean Glover
Unique spa since is on a boat. We were there 3 hours for a circuit and really enjoyed the outdoor Jacuzzis. I left super relaxed like I had a massage
David Johnson
Nice large space, the saunas and some hot tubs are normal size but there are many of them so it is possible to be alone. Only did the drop in for ~$45 for 2 hours. It was the right amount of time.
Joanna Sououb
Worst customer service I have ever experienced. If I could put zero stars I wouldn’t hesitate to do so. I had a reservation at 10 a.m. It was booked with the hotel. We waited for 2 hours only to tell us that they can’t let us in because they have reached maximum capacity. Even with a booking confirmation they wouldn’t let us in.
Yohanna Mikhail
Very calming experience. Masseuses were understanding of what me and my girlfriend had needed for our massages and the bath and saunas are an amazing addition to the massage. Definitely recommend getting a cheese and wine platter from the restaurant for an amazing waterside restaurant experience.
SJ Lee
Very pleasant atmosphere. It's fun to go from place to place (I think there is 2 or 3 outdoor hot tubs, 2 sauna, and 2 steam rooms). Plus plenty of "relax" areas. The only point is the changing/shower/locker areas at least for the woman side is small!????
Kayla B
Amazing experience! Very professional, friendly staff! The facility is very nice and clean, robes are very comfortable, the had incense in the changeroom which helped with the experience and help you relax a but more. Hector was amazing, thank you! Will definitely be coming back!
Michael Cecere
Even though social distancing rules are in place, we were still able to take advantage of every feature available the day of. An hour reflexology massage is highly recommended as I was extremely impressed with how the chronic pain in my legs, dissipated immediately.
Chloé E Otis
Changing facilities kinda dirty, I mean you're on a boat. Not enough showers. No flip flops or water or tea accessible for circuit. Not a place for relaxation, more for photos and a fun time with friends or romantic cliché date. To relax I would recommend spa Scandinavia. Still very good for 2 ppl 100$ :)
Diane-Edwige ATAYI
Great localisation and infrastructure. Just go alone though ... indeed, you are forbidden to even whisper lest you wish to get scolded by a patronising member of the staff .... I ve enjoyed a lot of spas over the years and the world and it s the first time i ve ever encountered this. The food was ok .... had the tataki but it was served so cold it felt like it either had been taken out of the fridge and left to reach outside temp or left alone on the counter for too long.
James Potts
This place is special. The massage (while only 60 mins) was great. From there me and my gf had lunch. The food was fresh and fragrant, portions were perfect, the service was professional and welcoming. The water circuit was probably my favorite memory from my long weekend trip to Montreal and I wouldn’t be surprised if I’m back in Montreal some time soon just to do that again. I can’t think of anything like it in the United States. It was such a special experience, going outside with temps below freezing and steam rising from the hot tubs, mixing in cold baths, resting in swings. Whoever had the vision for this place is a genius and they’ve done an amazing job staffing it with great people who bring it to life. We went on a Friday, so it wasn’t too crowded. Highly recommend for anyone visiting Montreal, unless you’re from Scandinavia, you probably won’t find anything like this wherever you call home!
Just Maryline
The services are great. Mani pedi and massage were amazing. Make sure you reserve a service on the weekend because sometimes there are no walk ins available. The only reason I’m not giving 5 ⭐️ is that the reception is a complete zoo and lacks organization which makes the first minutes of the experience a total nightmare. Hope they figure it out at some point.
Raphaelle Côté Leduc
I made a reservation online last Sunday on their website for this Saturday at 7:40PM. A preauthorization was taken on my credit card so I figured everything was confirmed. I showed up at my appointment but they weren’t able to find my reservation. The lady at front desk apologized and said that their online reservation system doesn’t work properly and tends to bug and told me we can reschedule. I obviously had driven and travelled to Bota-Bota and was expecting to receive a massage I had booked. I asked for some sort of compensation and the supervisor told me without even trying to find a solution. They’ve unfortunately lost a repeat client for not trying to find the best possible solution considering the circumstances.
Shirley Ta
Oh....so...relaxing! Great place to go with friends or even solo :)
Monique Matheus
I find unbelievable to pay $70 bucks for the water circuit and do not be able to take photos or even hold your phone while in the SPA Area. Honestly, if the cellphone is causing problems, those problems should be addressed individually not only with a stupid rule. Without talking about the limit of 2 drinks per person, how cheap the drinks are made with $1 bottle of cranberry juice and how expensive they are $12.
gloria lai
This is my first time here. Due to coivd, I find this place is little strict which is very good for some. No camera allowed so I could not take any photos. But this place is amazing. The decor and the experience. I really enjoyed my time here and will definitely come back for more. I got the package - water circuit, massage and lunch. I think it is a well spent 5 hours here!
CC LARA
Way too overcrowded on a Saturday night Lockers crowded Spa pedicure was ok but missed out on the view because it was all dark (better come in the morning) and you lose your minutes if you arrive late
Kiki Gonzaga
First time , extraordinary experiences, very clean , staff fantastic! I will come back, the view over Montreal is amazing
Skyler Shaw
Watching sunset over the city as snow rolled in was perfect. Loved the outdoor hot baths and the eucalyptus steam room the most!
Dwayne Thompson
This pace has become amazing with the new renovations. More space, more relaxation areas, and they play relaxing VG music if you pay attention; some Zelda and Final Fantasy caught my ear on my last visit
Bella Esme Valle Valle
Very professional, very friendly. One of the best spas I've been! Loved it!
Vladimir Todorov
Very nice SPA in the middle of the city with spectacular view to downtown. The staff is nice and very polite.
Alain Decker
It's a wonderful spa experience , great view over the city whilst you're in the hot tub or In The saunas on the boat, the relaxation room is very cozy, they also have pools in a garden for more space and it's also a nice enjoyable place. The restaurant has a nice selection and good service too. would recommend to go at a moment it's not too busy (it's also cheaper , look at their website )
Guillaume Plez
The concept is really nice. The facility is clean and well design, but it can be really noisy. It's a great location when you work in the area and you want to relax after a work day. The massages are really good !
Monica M
Wonderful experience for massage and water circuit. No camera were allowed on site. Sorry, no picture- but you can look up to their site. Just enjoy screen free distraction. First come, first serve for the water circuit. I recommend to try during summer/ autumn due to warmer weather. ( bar in garden circuit will be open) Quiet, relaxing and clean place. Friendly staff, excellence service. Promotion: you can find an e-gift certificate value of 50$ through Costco for only 39.99$ !
keisha richardson
It was a great experience! Definitely took the time to unwind. It is a very relaxing place and has a beautiful view. The ambiance was great and very peaceful with the choice of the "talking area" if needed. In the quiet area even a whisper is frowned upon, so be warned. My masseuse was very professional even when I thought he applied too much pressure on my shoulders he kindly accommodated my needs. Hot and cold baths were my favorite despite the distance between them ( I did wish it was placed in order so I wouldn't have to walk the distance in the cold after a warm bath). I also really enjoyed the variety of relaxing areas. The water circuit being outdoor made it more enjoyable and delightful even when it started raining on our heads it made it more suiting if that makes sense. I didn't like that I had to mention a few times for insurance receipt even after I had wrote it down on paper and verbally upon my first approach. I also find it kind of pricey but overall the spa is a very nice getaway from a everyday busy life and I would go again and recommend to others :)
Cedric S.
Absolute terrible massage from a supposed RMT. Complained and never heard from them. Terrible customer service in that regards.
Kelly Michopoulos
Amazing! Such a beautiful location with an even more beautiful view. We did the Calypso package for 2 - the tasting menu was delicious, the massages were great and we absolutely loved the water circuit! A must try!
D Joanez
First time here! Pros; Nice facility with multiple pools, with one hot pool overlooking old port. The pools outside of the boat are also very nice. Sauna's both wet and dry are also really great!!! Nice relaxing area's and staff is attentive and friendly. Leave feeling super refreshed! Tip; check out the OPUS card 15% discount for select times. Cons; the 3- Hour circuit time limit is a bit stingy in terms of $$ price to time ratio. Given other spa's don't have a time limit and given the vast array of pools and facilities, It ended up feeling "rushed" when i could of not felt rushed elsewhere. Even if a time limit is required, i felt at lest 4-5 hours is reasonable given the entrance fee.
Amanda Wilkins
Beautiful spa experience. I enjoyed the option of the talking and silent areas. Lots of pool options. Just don't forget your flip flops. Also we were in the floating change rooms and they are lacking. Not a lot of space or amenities. The electric lockers didn't work properly either which was unsettling. Cool experience overall.
Flora H.I
This place is victim of it's own success; endless lineups to get in, and once you get at the reception they force you to give a deposit on your credit card that takes forever to be refunded. The place was crowded and the floors were wet everywhere. The hot tubs are full of couples making out the restaurant's food is mediocre and overpriced. Will definitely not be returning.
Alexia-Jade D. Brunel
THE ABSOLUTE WORST EXPERIENCE. I called to book a massage and they charged my boy friend's credit card instead of mine. How? I have no idea, but this is clearly not a safe system and their staff is completely lost. I DO NOT recommend.
Renea Murray
This was a really great place. Food was out of this world and staff were very friendly. Very clean. Loved the bracelet "key card" for the lockers.
Elle W
Highly recommend. Concept is very interesting. Loved the different areas to explore and relax. Loved the quiet no talking areas, it made it better to relax. Massage was excellent. Great experience although some staff standoffish or make you feel rushed. Would also be good to include another cold dip pool.
Veronique Verreault
I've been a loyal customer since the opening of that spa. Definitely my favorite for its location and vibe. The new garden section adds some glamour to the spa. Loved the fact that cell phones are not tolerated at all anymore, since Instagram addicts were polluting the relaxing atmosphere!
Aryanne Ethier
I called and waited more then 40 minutes with no one even answering. I wanted to book one of their packages wich you cant do online. I wanted to bring my best friend as part of a gift but guess i will take my money elsewhere. Very unprofessionnal.
Sandra Vespa
A great water circuit! I haven’t had a massage here so I can’t comment on the services but the circuit and the relaxing rooms are awesome! The whole concept is beautiful with incredible views of Montreal from the top deck to the leisure pool. The spa is super clean and well planned. I will always come back here because the water stations of the circuit are perfectly tempered. Sometimes the cold showers at other Scandinavian spas are so cold that my muscles cramp instantly and I can’t enjoy the rest. Bota Bota really strikes the perfect balance throughout the circuit and I feel more rested and “well” when I leave than I do at other spas - which makes it a great value also! Service was fine. They observe a very strict silence policy throughout the spa, everywhere except for the “leisure pool”. You could be shushed by staff when you’re not actually speaking !! They’re just doing their job but I find it to be disruptive and non-sensical at times.
G W
I wanted to love this experience! But it fell short of my expectations. Firstly, I was there with a friend who was on crutches. With almost never ending staircases leading to the different areas, it was already going to be a challenge. This place is not designed for mobility, but that was our choice and we did know it going in. However, it's worth noting if someone in your party has any mobility issues. When we checked in, the girl at the desk noted the crutches. She said that she would assign us a slightly larger locker (most are half sized) and that she would walk us down to make sure they fit...if not she was going to leave them behind the desk for us. She both didn't escort us downstairs and she forgot to assign us a larger locker. We left the crutches lying above the lockers. :/. I should also note that the locker room is not spa-like in the least. Picture a public swimming pool locker room. Wet floors, hard lighting, no music. The pools are definitely the highlight. There are segregated areas that are strict "no talking" zones. Obviously we were respectful of that. The main pools allow for talking but security types are walking around quieting down any noise at all....even quiet chatting. It felt like we had to whisper at all times...ironically, those security guards don't stop people from taking endless photos. It's disconcerting to see someone snapping away while you're in a bathing suit in the pool. The massage I had was wonderful but I was never even offered a glass of water - let alone a cup of tea. Very dissimilar to other spa experiences I've had. After the massage ended, I expected that I would be allowed to spend a few minutes in the room relaxing before getting dressed. Nope. The next client was waiting on the room and my masseuse told me to get changed while he waited outside the door for me. My friend's massage was the real low point of our experience. Her robe was wet and the massage therapist asked if she could replace it. She did so and within minutes my friend told her that her gold necklace had been in the pocket. Rather than stop the massage, the therapist assured her that it would be found and continued on. When we asked about the robe again immediately after the massage we were told that there was a large quantity of robes and it would be hard to go through each one. Nobody seemed to be very concerned at all! Finally, after speaking to three other employees first who did nothing for us, I walked to the front desk and they took interest and called a manager. The manager had someone look through some robes, but said that really he expected it would turn up at the end of the night. He took our contact information to follow up. We've never heard back. Even if the necklace was not found it would have taken very little to follow up. Overall, the pools are amazing. But the experience on the whole was not. RESPONSE TO NATALIE - Reaching out with a description after the fact is pointless as your manager had a description of the item and my email contact. Obviously nothing was done with that information, it certainly doesn't seem like anyone kept my information or even thought to follow up at all. Why would it change now that I've posted a review?
Workforces
Nice place to go and very conveniently located. The price is fair and the baths are great. The only thing is indication to get to the spa from inside of the change room could have been more obvious.
Andrew Johnson
Couldn't be happier every time I go here. They don't fill it with too many people. Could be cleaner first thing in the morning though, but it's really relaxing. Great view.
Diana P
Check in is lengthly. You would think they might have iPads to help you get started while in line. The locker are roomy. Very clean. Not crowded inside when we went. Robes are numbered so it’s nice to keep track of yours.
Magan Alisha
Beautiful views of Montreal. Lovely, clean relaxing atmosphere. Remember your bathing suit and sandals for around the area during your experience. Showers have shampoo, conditioner and soap provided for after you're done your water circuit/massage.
Bohui Liu
I love this place. Went there three weeks ago. Nice spa nice sauna and nice massage! The view is great as well. The only thing that was a bit disappointing was the dining. Service was great, but the food could have been better.
Rockytoes
I guess the negative experiences are not just mine! I have to agree the some of the check-in staff are snooty and don't seem to care much when a long line forms in order to get in. Then, once you have checked in, you have to check in yet again at the mani-pedi-massage area. Why? And a health report before a manicure or pedicure? Just plain annoying and too much paperwork before and after treatments. The reason for the more negative review however is that they thin their nail polish and it seems to always end up with streaks, bubbles or a thick cake-like texture for having too many coats. When I mentioned this to the person applying it and asked if they thinned their polish with something to extend the life of a bottle, she said they did! WHAT? I expect this sort of thing for the $20 walk-in pedi, but not at this place. And, I don't like hearing that the product they use to thin their polish is an OK product. This place needs a higher quality polish or needs to stop being so cheap and open new bottles when the old ones run out. The "holier than thou" attitude by many of the employees or "managers" needs an adjustment, as does their in and out process. SORRY...NO EXCUSES OR EXPLANATIONS MAKE UP FOR TAKING THE CHEAP WAY OUT WITH REGARD TO NAIL POLISH THINNERS.
Robert Thomas
It's a great place to relax, and everyone was great at keeping the noise to a minimum. I've been to the blue lagoon in Iceland and the Hungarian bath houses, and I honestly believe Bota Bota is on the same level. If you're in Montreal for a trip, definitely check it out.
Boyce Collins
My GF and I hit up Bota Bota every time we visit Montreal and we love it, amazing location and views, well worth the money. If I could improve 2 things it would be: do not limit guests to 1 towel as it gets pretty stanky by the end of a visit and; enforce the quiet rules more. No one likes walking around in a damp towel listening to other people’s gossip when one is trying to chill the eff out.
Bamboo Hermann
I am a transgender woman and went to Bota Bota where i was subjected to a very unprofessional and unpleasant experience. I asked for using your the women’s changing room and I was told by the staff manager (after a few very uncomfortable seconds of visual “gender inspection”) “that i looked more like a man” to him... before finally being let into the women’s room by the female staff when i explained i would feel more comfortable there. Being invalidated in such a way in public was completely unnecessary and frankly unacceptable. I came for a relaxing time and ended up having to endure a rather humiliating experience.
Christopher Nabeta
I surprised my wife with a getaway to Old Montreal for our 5-year wedding anniversary. As part of the getaway was an afternoon at Bota Bota. It was not our first time utilizing the grounds, as we make a stop every time we visit from Toronto. This time I would like to take a moment to recognize the professionalism provided by Mallory, my massage therapist. She is knowledgeable and reads her patients' body language so accurately, I was pleasantly surprised. I would also like to recognize Sarah, who was working the bar by the lower outdoor pool, who was very amiable and relatable. We have never left a review but it is important to recognize that we keep returning to Bota Bota for the great experience and ambiance they have provided us over the years.
Artist
I just want to take my time to say a BIG thank you to Jessica, an employee who did my « Gommage » she was fantastic! All the employees are super lovely and friendly!! Very beautiful spa! It was my first time but will definitely repeat the experience with more friends this time. Although I had an awesome time by my own!! ❤️ Just want to add ***for vegetarians***like me!! Order the tofu salads it was delicious!! I ate it in 10mins ???????? and the strawberry red sparkling ✨ wine was succulent! ???? I wish you guys all the best!! And hopefully each client of yours receive the same treatment as I did! ❤️
Katie DeAngelis
Came early on a Sunday morning just for the water circuit. Super nice place with lots of baths and sauna/steam rooms and places to relax. Restaurant is pretty good too. Would definitely recommend. Go during off times!
Nalini DP
This spa is a great idea. It’s on a boat and is not overcrowded during weekdays. I get the Lomi Lomi massage and have never been disappointed. A great spot to relax, eat and loosen up the muscles.
Isabella Wölfl
Very great atmosphere, clean space, a lot of variety on what you can do at your stay also has a beautiful view. Great space to relax and to get a great massage. I enjoyed my stay and would recommend it for everyone to have their own experience.
Yanyao Li
Very good experience. Bring your slippers.
Michael H.
Would have paid to stay here all day if I could have. 3 hours seemed like plenty of time...until you got comfortable. Awesome experience. Very relaxing. Wouldve been complete with a massage but they were booked up. Next time.
Franzi S
Great place! During the week before 7pm is not very busy and that's nice. The view over Montréal awesome. You fall in love with this city again. Nice relaxing areas, saunas and tubs.
Phyllis CU
Contrary to what was said, three hours is a decent amount of time to do 3-4 cycles of hot, cold and rest. I haven't felt this good in a LONG time! Premium pricing because you're on a converted boat, with a complete spa, and it's Old Port Montreal, so don't expect basement bargain prices. Very romantic and bonding experience for couples. Still a great experience for single folks as well! Only downside - a tad bit crowded for my taste. But otherwise, can't wait to come back!
W Kennis
There were many areas where you could go to. I went there in June and it was lovely. There was not crowded so it was not that bad. Considering the price, it is a tourist trap after all, but as a tourist, I was delighted to try at least.
Manny Bhangu
Great place. Would go there again.
H. Alpha
Almost a 5-star experience! One star knocked down due to very poor customer service from the sign-up booth to the massage desk. For example we had to wait 10 min before signing up outside because the attendant was on a personal call and not letting anyone in (they also refused to end their call after another staff member asked them to). I hope management can address these issues and make guest feel welcomed to the spa. However, the facilities are exceptional and expansive. The spa offers an amazing view on the water and Old Montreal. It's also kept very clean. Beware of the extremely slippery floor on the decks with hot tub (I experienced a pretty severe fall but found the staff to not be very responsive to my accident and to the potential risk to others). The massage was excellent with an exceptional and very respectful therapist (Thank you Pascal!). Expectations and boundaries were discussed upfront and respected. Next time I return I will be sure to ask for the same person. I recommend arriving no later than 11 to enjoy a quieter experience. The water circuits get busy around noon (in summer) with more people at the pools or in the saunas. And don't forget to try the cocktail bar for a very refreshing experience!
Mickey Glass
First time going to a spa as a trans person and found the experience at Bota Bota to be surprisingly inclusive and the staff competent. When I asked if the name on my account needed to match my ID, they said no, then asked which locker room I preferred. As for the spa itself, the facilities are high end and clean and I felt safe with their covid precautions. The food and cocktails were amazing. And the prices for everything were very reasonable. Would definitely return on my next trip to Montreal.
Taylor Thompson
This place was amazing, everything you look for a in a spa. They truly cater to you making it the most relaxing day. I understand why they call it MTL best spa! One downfall was how many people there actually were in the spa at once. Highly recommend!!
Laurence Lebel
Wow, worst experience I have ever had! They are NOT CLEAN. I got an infection from their spa, which caused a very gross rash all over my body and now I have to use a prescribed ointment to get rid of it. When i called them to let them know their water was unclean. In a COVID world, it's shocking that a high end spa like this wouldn't take the proper sanitary measures.
Vyara Pencheva
My husband and I spent our anniversary day at this place,with booked massages for both. At welcoming we were told about the no photos & silence zone policy,etc. Place is clean,however, you need to watch your step everywhere as sliding hazards are around each corner. No such thing as "quiet relaxation" - all relax areas are sort of opened space,so you can hear people climbing stairs,opening doors,and walking around which ( I guess) is acceptable there?!? Even worse,if you ever think of using the outside relaxation areas,you are doomed of listening to people's loud private conversations as "discussions are allowed in the gardens" according to two! employees. Massages were great,except for my husband asked for a receipt,and they told him he would get it at check out as the massage therapist did not have his batch handy. Fair enough,right? We then headed to the bistro to grab some decent food BUT turns out the platters that are announced as "à partager" are actually so ridiculously miniature,as if we were in "Snow white and the 7 dwarfs" where Snow-white is clearly on a strict no food whatsoever diet. We both thought this was a joke,and asked the waitress if this really was "à partager" and she replied that it was actually "à déguster". Interesting! So "to share" actually means "to try". Menu says that charcuterie and cheese platters are "to share" when it is not even good for 1 person. Oh,well, lesson learned, we headed back to the water circuit. Hot,cold,skip the relaxation part, repeat. Till it's time to go,and at check out we asked for the massage receipt. Eh,bad idea - not only 4 hours after the massage it was NOT ready,but the employee gave us some attitude and said it wasn't her fault,she couldn't bother the therapist since he had another massage,so if we wanted we could get the receipt by e-mail. Oh wow, so professional! 24 hours later,and NO receipt received,I had to call them and ask for it AGAIN!! Turns out it is NOT even done yet!!!!At least the girl on the phone was extremely nice,and advised we should get it by tomorrow afternoon. Keeping fingers crossed!! To sum it up, this is what you get for spending over $400 at this location: 1. Massage quality: 5 stars ( really good) 2. Bistro/ Food: 0 stars ( eat before you go,or eat after you leave,but DO NOT spend your dollars there!) 3. Spa/water circuit area + relaxation : 0 for relax( too noisy) ,and 5 for the amenities, so 2.5 stars 4.Customer service :0 stars Total for BOTA BOTA : 2 stars I would not recommend it if you want to relax. However,if you want to boil in hot water while chatting to your friends AFTER lunch,or dinner anywhere but there,this is the place!
Michael Mollemans
Not relaxing at all. The sound of construction saws ringing all day. I do not recommend you go to Bota Bota if you want to relax. The screaming sound of saws are right next to the pool. I took pictures and made a video of it as proof. Unfortunately the file size is too large to attach here.
Mike Medeiros
So cool to be ar a Spa in the center of downtown !!
Chris Kneale
Bring some friends and join the cult! It's a very fun and unique time, bordering on the bizarre. Once you change into your swimsuit, you are given the Bota Bota standard hooded robe and encouraged to wander about the ship. There are several saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs, cold tubs, swinging chairs, and swimming pools to choose from. While not overcrowded, there is a certain humor to being surrounded by large amounts of silent robed people milling about an architecturally stunning old boat while soothing spa soundtracks play.
Abdul A
Super relaxing place, with a different ambiance than other spa's. Less focused around nature , but the old port gives it a nice rustic vybe. Went there in the middle of the week, there wasn't much people. Only one complaint, I was in a silent bath, but everybody around me were talking, so I indulged, and one angry customer complained because he was resting next to me(which was my bad), so the staff only warned me while everybody around kept talking casually... at least apply the rules equally or not at all. Had a great massage from Ophélie!
Amber Marple
I have visited spas all over the world and this still remains one of my favorites. The peaceful ambience, relaxing services, and impeccable service are what keep me coming back for more. I have recommended Bota Bota to many friends passing through Montreal and they all agree it’s a fabulous and worthwhile stop. Not to mention the view is superb!
Life of Ariya
Great environment, a bit crowded however so you need to wait your turn for the pools. And a possible recommendation :allow phones!! It's a great experience and it'll be nice to have memories to share
Taha Elies Ben Ataya
I had a really good time at Bota Bota It's a nice place to relax and it deserves 5 stars
Noemi Cid
Was very incredible! An awesome experience! Everything very clean, excellent service, the view is beautiful, if you want to have a relaxing time, you must to go this place! Is nice, is beautiful, is perfect! I loved it!!!!!
Jasmeen Boparai
I’ve been to Bota Bota twice for a massage now, and the two experiences were the opposite of each other (hence the 3 star rating). The first time I went was in June. I left my therapeutic massage feeling relaxed and completely satisfied with my service. My shoulder and chest muscles were no longer tight, and I felt that my RMT did an amazing job. I went back in September, but to a different massage therapist just to experience another technique. I was not satisfied with that massage at all. She didn’t really listen to what I wanted because I noticed she didn’t target an area in my lower back that I had specifically mentioned required extra attention. She also didn’t do a good job with loosening my shoulder muscles, and didn’t even touch the chest ones. For some reason, she also spent more time on the right shoulder than the left. On my post-massage questionnaire I felt like I had to tick off the “satisfied” box because the RMT spent 90 minutes with me and the reception people would see immediately what I had written. But I still left that day feeling unsatisfied and not relaxed. Fast forward a few weeks, I’ve developed stiff muscles in my left shoulder and neck area. I can’t help but associate that with my last massage because the massage therapist didn’t focus on the left shoulder much at all. I don’t think I’ll go back. That 90 minute massage cost $160, and it wasn’t that great. I don’t want to spend over $100 again in case I end up with a similar, unsatisfying experience.
Daniel C
Really phenomenal experience. I've been five times. Strong attention to detail and customer experience. Avoid peak hours and take a look at the discount times! Also I find the last two times I went that the maintenance is slipping a bit.
Karen Leigh
Massage was good but staff were inexperienced. I had a gift certificate and had to struggle to not pay 400$ bill which was actually only 100$ or so. When the guy figured it out - he said ‘sorry I’m new’. ! It really ruined the bit of relaxation I felt. There were long confusing lines at checkout too. definitely not a good system. . Confusion at receptions and when leaving. Place is nice but staff - aside from masseuse who was great - staff is too young and not very nice or knowledgeable. Takes away from the experience. I would not go back
Tammy S
Yes! The best spa experience I ever had. Great service. Good massages. Nice facilities. Mant hot tubs on a boat! Open in winter too!
Veronica Battura
Bota Bota never disappoints. Looking over Montreal, it's the perfect day spa right in the middle of the city. Every time I come here, I leave feeling so relaxed and refreshed.
Maï
Hello everyone working at Bota Bota, My husband & I would like to Thank you all for the fantastic service we recieved on our journey spent with you. It is also such a wonderfull idea to BANNED cell phones so we can relax quietly ! Thank you to make respect the SILENCE rule ! We saw and heard some young adults act like kids and you were so very patient...! We will comeback anytime, thank you so much ???? ❤️????????
Daniela Puzzo
Absolutely awful experience. It took an hour to check-in, clearly efficiency is not their strong suit, and that was just the start of how terrible the service was. I’ll highlight the worst parts in an effort to keep this review short and sweet. The bathrooms smell like a sewer system, they sew the pockets of your robe so you can’t carry personal belongings, and they don’t offer footwear. The staff are completely incompetent - something that was clearly passed down from the owner who decided it was appropriate to yell as us for speaking in the pool where noise was permitted!!!! I wanted so desperately to ask for a refund, but the thought of spending another minute in this facility wasn’t worth the effort. Don’t waste your money. Here is my response: I’m sick to my stomach and incredibly disappointed at the inaccuracies of your response. We were NEVER informed about your “no phone” policy at check-in (which was a disaster), when we were finally told that phones were not permitted we were on the third floor and your staff told us we could keep our phones with us as long as they were on silent. Please keep in mind we are 5 mothers with 13 children between us and leaving our phones in the locker was not something we were comfortable with - maybe you should tell customers about this before they book your service! Other clients were absolutely not complaining about us, in fact they were complaining about you! We spoke to two other groups who were mortified at your treatment. It was very evident that you were discriminating against English speaking patrons. The owner “stepped in” without even introducing himself as management - he’s an embarrassment to the elite spa Industry. The sad part Natalie is that you and your staff had an abundance of choices: A choice in how to value customers, a choice in how to ask customers to abide by your laundry list of rules, and a choice in this very response. My choice, however, is to spread the word and to tell everyone I possibly can, including the media, about your spa and how you treat customers.
Irvin R
I would give you 6 stars if I could because you deserve it! The Spa is incredible; 4 different floors of luxury. Amazing vibe and atmosphere. All the amenities one can possibly need! Thank you for the relaxation and the views! Till next time from NY!
T Ng
This spa is unique because it's on an old boat. The view of old port was nice with their water circuit. I would recommend they offer snacks/tea to their guest like other competitors and update the men's change room with amenities
Jany Villeneuve
The lockers are very cramped, though they are clean. They could do with using the space better or reducing their maximum capacity by a lot. The crew was nice and helpful. The massage room was not sound proof at all, I could hear things being wheeled around, loud footsteps and personnel talking. The woman who gave me a facial was very nice, but she was way too insistent when I told her that I had no plans on booking another appointment for a facial, saying over and over again how I should and how she has had great results with other clients. Also, as you enter, they make it very clear that they prone total silence while on board. They're great at saying it, but people speak loudly everywhere and the crew do not tell them off. This was a huge disappointment for me, as I really hate having people talk around me in a spa. I was looking forward to botabota because they were so adamant about the silence. They really let me down on that part. The vapor bath was cool. You could really benefit from going to another, less expansive place.
강수연
First impression I got to the place was nice and massage was good as well just until I tried to use the restaurant. This was the first visit and I chose to take just 1hr massage so I asked the receptionist if I could use the restaurant and she said 'of course'. After ordering beer and light snack, what I was told from the bartender was that I should bring money or credit card since I was wearing YELLOW BRACELET, and yellow meant I was not preauthorized to use other facility there. The receptionist said clearly yes and how could I have any idea to bring money to use the bar in the spa? They charged TIPS when I checked out and returned the YELLOW BRACELET. They had my credit card number when I made appointment so they could charge it anyway. Too bad I feel so terrible after spending good time taking nice massage.
Jim Morris
Fantastic spa in amazing location. Great value for money. Only wish heaters were on to keep robes warmer. .
Mic L
I like the massage, the locker room is not the cleanest to be honest. Pre-pandemic was usually very crowded.
Wendy Ding
My first outdoor-in-winter water circuit experience and the setting on the boat and city as backdrop was very unique. Each floor is nicely designed to help you unwind and relax. Several outdoor hot tubs, saunas, steam rooms and lounge areas made it fun to keep switching it up. They give you towels, locker but no flip flops (other than buying some in their shop for $25 - pass!) so I had to sprint bare feet on the freezing cold ground to the garden pools and rooms. That detracted from my experience but otherwise I loved it.
Mani Sidius
Perfect place to get relief, peace and relaxation. What you need before entering the Bota Bota is a swimming shorts and flipflops (you have the possibility to buy them directly there but it's quite expensive). I paid 70 dollars (tx included) for 3 hours which is enough time to enjoy all the facilities. They lend you a bathrobe, a towel and a magnetic key for the locker.
Jón Hallgrímsson
Excellent place to go to if looking for relaxation in beautiful settings. Everything looks clean and well maintained. The pools, saunas and steam rooms don't get any better than this. I will be coming again and again.
Dafne Juárez
The boat was great, the experience of the circuits were also great. Is a good place to spend snowy days without freezing. The price is a little bit over the top in my opinion and the front desk girls are not the kindest. But besides that it's an awesome experience.
Sonia Starinieri
Very clean and not too many people because of Covid. The gardens are beautiful as well as the views of the city, especially at night. Only thing is there was a lot of bugs in the jacuzzi on the upper deck only for some reason and didn't appreciate that no one was cleaning it during the 3 hours we were there.
Kate Ballard
Therapeutic Massage + water circuit package. The massage wasn't the best, I'm not sure if that's because of the style of the massage or the masseuse himself. Usually I get deep tissue but if I wanted the package the best I could do was therapeutic. Didn't feel like he got into my muscles. The water circuit was pretty nice though, the steam bath and suspended chairs were my favourite part.
Christina J
My partner and I recently celebrated a birthday here. Overall, we had a nice time but there were a few aspects that created a "just average" experience. 1. We celebrate nearly all our birthdays at various spas and usually find that they are great about wishing a happy birthday at the front desk, or preparing a small card and/or treat. We made Bota-Bota staff aware that we were celebrating and it was not once mentioned. Of course it is not mandatory for them to do so, just one of the things that tends to elevate an experience. I would not plan another special occasion here for that reason. 2. Prior to my massage, I requested a glass of water. We were told that because the restaurant was closed, I should go up the stairs to the 3rd floor to drink out of a water fountain (what??). This is the first time I have not been offered a beverage before or after a massage. Most spas will provide lemon/cucumber water, sometimes tea and small treats in the waiting area. The staff could have easily accessed a glass from the closed but accessible restaurant (the doors were open and there were many clean glasses in sight). I was also not offered water following my treatment, which seemed unusual. I understand reusable water bottles are encouraged while using the water circuit. But for customers paying extra for your massage services, at least offer them a glass of water. 3. The food served in the restaurant was average with a very limited menu. Our red wine was served so cold, condensation formed on the outside of the glass. The server we had was kind and attempted to bring another glass from a different cellar but the same occurred. I told her I would continue to drink this wine, and it was not removed from our bill. 4. The layout feels disorganized. Due to construction, the ladies change room is in a different out-building. The woman at the desk was kind in her explanation directing me and my partner in opposite directions to our respective change rooms but it was still confusing to understand. To create an elevated experience, I would suggest having extra staff guiding guests to change areas. The women's change area is very dingy and reminds me of a high school locker room, but hopefully the construction fixes this. Overall, I would recommend this place for a relaxing afternoon with friends, but not for any special occasion. The massages, pools and views were wonderful. Bota Bota has great potential, but there does seem to be some minor hospitality/management issues that could be addressed.
Anthony Guarino
Amazing experience here at Bota Bota. Stopped by here Saturday morning while visiting Montreal. Very relaxing atmosphere. The massage was great as were the pools. I would 100% come back next time I am in Montreal
Desiree
The perfect way to treat yourself, an amazing scandinavian spa experience on a beautiful ferry. The water circuit is so relaxing, and they have many different types of baths and pools, including a waterfall, and a huge hot tub that overlooks the Old Port. Their relaxation areas are fantastic. Massage therapists are so wonderful, some of the best I have ever had! This is the perfect place for a date, you can also book a massage room for two. During certain mornings and evenings the prices are lower so be sure to check that! The first time I visited I was too afraid to do the cold baths but the second time I gave them a try and it really enhanced the experience. Follow their directions for the water circuit and you will be sure to leave feeling relaxed and rejuvenated.
Stephanie White
I had such a relaxing experience doing Bota Bota's water circuit for the afternoon with friends where I was able to enjoy the saunas and hot tub. Located right in Old Port in Montreal on the water the spa offers wonderful views of downtown Montreal that adds to the charm of the place.
Diana
It was beautiful! The first thing I was amazed with was the young man at the reception (Étienne) who was so understanding regarding us arriving late. It was completely my fault and he still managed to rebook us in order for us to get more time for the water circuit. That was such a kind gesture, thank you! The facilities were clean, and we enjoyed the beautiful view of the city. We really enjoyed our time at the Bota Bota Spa, thank you!
Ravina s
This was the most HORRIBLE spa experience I’ve ever had!!! This was suppose to be a relaxing evening with my family, but it ended up being one of the worst experience of my life. The moment we walked in I feel like we were being profiled because of the color of our skin, the clients were looking at us speaking French and laughing at us while we were on line, the staff wasn’t friendly at all. After receiving our locker keys, the lockers were occupied and didn’t work so we had to waste another 30 mins waiting for them to fix the issue. As we walked around the spa the staff and security followed us around which was extreamly uncomfortable and disrespectful. The other guests would leave whenever we would enter a different section of the spa( which I understand the spa has no control over), however within a few moments security would end up where we were and stay there the entire time and make us feel very uncomfortable like we did not belong. In the end I understand we may look different from everyone else that was there, but we were very respectful and courteous during our entire visit. I feel the staff should be re-trained on how to interact with all type of ethnicities, backgrounds, and cultures before profiling us to be something they believe isn’t welcomed.I hope this review does not fall on deaf ears and the actions of such staff will be addressed. The date and time of our stay was Sunday January 20th 2019 between 7pm and 930pm. I hope management and ownership will take the time to review cameras or staff logs and course correct these behaviors so future guests don’t have experience this type of behavior that dates back to the 19th century. Definitely NOT recommended!
Breanna C
Disappointing to find out that if you want to eat at the restaurant it counts as part of your 3 hours of water circuit. Seeing as it is two different services with their own costs, I would assume that lets say having a 1hour lunch would not be calculated into the 3 hours of water circuit. (In the end its taking money out of your own pockets, people will do their 3 hours of water circuit and eat elsewhere.)
M Maboudi
The service that you receive is nice. However, you should be very careful in some parts of this SPA. I had a very bad accident there and I hurt badly my neck and back as a result of my fall in the stairs, they were not properly cleaned nad we're slippery, which leads to the cage of St-Laurent river. This cage was supposed to be a kind of attraction not a trap for people to hurt themselves.
Sandra Di Marco
Excellent massage EVERY time I went. Beautiful layout of saunas and pools. Benefitting of the baths alone a bit pricey, but definitely a great place to share with family and friends or alone!!
Matilda DeMeye
Nice concept and great location on the water in the old town. That said the $75 fee for max 3 hours soaking is way overpriced in my opinion. Also there are few lounge chairs available to rest indoors in cold months. Overall it was not as relaxing as I would have liked.
Kenneth So
OK but can be better experience. Made a reservation for the massage. Water Circuit is mandatory. I injured my right elbow in the top sauna room because that guy who swept the floor didn't do it right. It was very slippery. This happened at around 6pm to 6:30pm Dec 30th 2017. I slipped and fell and my elbow was there to support my body so it's sprained now. My suggestion is they have to keep up with the sweeping and make sure it's done right. One of the staff member also slipped but he didn't fall. Also, locker time or shower time is part of the 3 hour layover, but hard to keep track of time once you are in the water circuit. It's good experience and price is OK but they can do better.
Johanna Skitt
Massage was wonderful, staff was AWFUL - super rude and dismissive, the opposite of helpful. The experience felt like a transaction, not a trip to the spa. Visited on Feb 10th at 7:45pm.
Sukh Jawanda
Worst service I have received from a business, especially one that appears to be so "highly rated". My wife and I were visiting from Vancouver and booked a couples massage and a hot-cold circuit for one of our evenings. Tue reservation was confirmed and the payment was taken off our credit card. When we arrived, the male at the front desk stated that only one single massage had been booked. He stated that it was their website was glitchy and their staff member thought it was only a single massage and two hot-cold circuits - not sure which couple would book that. When asked to reschedule to the next day they had nothing available and the following day we were flying back. Absolutely terrible service - maybe that staff member should have called to confirm that it was a couples massage before she cancelled it without any notice. Complete waste of time. We have been to many high-end spa's in BC (Scandinavian in Whistler, Sparkling Hills in Vernon, Trump, Victoria etc.) but have never received such poor service. He simply refunded us our money and told us to be one our way like it was a grocery store. Totally ruined our evening. Will NEVER be back!
Parul Chawla
I would say this place is good for a one time visit or if you enjoy spas, then once a year. It gets boring pretty fast. Plus you have to be quiet the whole time. The non-quiet section with the pool is freezing in the winter. Food is wayyyy over priced. Really a joke given the quantity of food. Facials are not worth it. Massages can be hit or miss. Definitely recommend getting a 90 minute massage as the 60 mins is pointless.
ken liao
Very nice place without any particular issues but kinda over price.
Linda Peters
Great atmosphere, staff very helpful, many things provided...( Robe, towels, hair dryer, curling iron, makeup remover, shampoo, conditioner, soap....) the only thing they did not provide, was a plastic bag to put my wet bathing suit...good thing I thought of it, but my friend did not. Restaurant, well organized, but expensive..
Samantha Ingunza
I received a facial and 3 hour water circuit at bota bota and it was fantastic. Diana did my facial and she was absolutely wonderful. It was truly an incredible and relaxing experience. Of course, everyone likes to take photos of the scenic and unique location, however, it is a real one of a kind experience when you are disconnected for a few hours. They have wonderful lounge areas with hammocks, bean bags, and sun loungers. My only complaint is that they should be trying to keep the floors dried inside with people going in & out of the pools to get their towels/shoes the tile floors get rather slippery.
Suzanne lajambe
Although the experience was great it appears they don't have legitimate massage therapists. I requested a receipt for my insurance and was advised they'd mail it to me. After two weeks I emailed asking for it again and was told it takes longer than that too process? It's now been two months! No receipt. I'm out over $100. Bad business!
Marilou
I left the premises more stressed out than upon entering. I used to love this place but your clients are the most disrespectful I've ever met at a spa. I could not find a single spot where I could relax in silence, everyone was talking loudly and obnoxiously everywhere. Every once in a while a crew member would come around and tell people to be quiet but the second they left people started talking even louder. Oh and that's not it... Everyone's eyes are riveted to their cellphones. No, really. While walking around, I saw more people on instagram than people actually trying to relax and disconnect. And of course, people are taking an awful lot of pictures of themselves and their friends carelessly around others. Which means my face and barely covered body were also in these pictures. Seriously, what fresh hell is this?
Kay
It is one of the most profoundly unique kind of spa. Who would think of a boat for a relaxing environment. This place has the tranquility to rekindle with my inner core. Staff was very kind and welcoming. Environment was very clean. Though I went on a statutory holiday and the venue was packed, management was on top of things. The restaurant had some nice meal too. We had the Bain et Bouffe package which included a 3 service menu. I didn't get a 5 star rating as I feel there is an opportunity to enforce silence.....which is paramount for relaxation. There was lack of enforcement where people in groups ( it's normal) tends to get loud. Who wouldn't if the joke is to die for? That is what good company is. It is challenge. I am sure a solution will be found. To pen off, metaphorically speaking, I will say it was worth it. Amazing, Awesome, A plus. AAA! Service. I didn't want to take pictures of the spa and water circuit as I respect privacy of the guests. You should too. Only food :)
Dani GdP
Great experience to be on a boat which serves as a spa! It’s a bit small during winter (sections are closed off) but still has everything you need to relax. The restaurant is insanely good and their cocktails are one of the best I have had (martinis and old fashion). It’s easily accessible within walking distance of boutique hotels and more.
Dennise C
Visiting from NJ, Amazing spa ! My boyfriend bought me a facial here for my birthday as well as the circuits for 3 hours. The facial was great! Had my face feeling smooth and clean. The technician was very kind and told me what she was doing step by step. As far as the circuits, it was very relaxing. There are several steam rooms, saunas, pools, and ice baths. I also recommend spending some time on the swings. My boyfriend and I fell asleep it was so great. All of it was very enjoyable and a cool experience. One annoying thing is that you can’t use your phone. I understand they are trying to make it as relaxing as possible but it would help them with marketing if they allowed pictures or moderate phone usage. You kind of feel like you’re back in grade school having the employees come up to you telling you to put your phone away. Also, definitely eat before you go. The restaurant is pricy as anything and the food was not great at all and small portions. We also weren’t too fond about the fact that you have to put money on your bracelet to pay at the restaurant or tip. I take it that they don’t want you to have to carry your card but they should simply sync your card to the bracelet instead of putting a certain amount then refunding it at the end of your visit if you did not use it all.
Diana Vm
Our experience here was such a huge inconvenience for us coming from western Canada to enjoy our 5 year anniversary. The staff are rude. Bad attitude. They pack that boat to its max - extremely busy with people just using their swimming pools. If you want a nice relaxing and exclusive spa do not come here. This is a dungy location. With limited Showers/ Bathrooms which half are broken. Don't let the pictures fool you!
David Brosbell
What an experience. First class with a twist of uniqueness. Odd compliment but fabulous logo.
michael rabiner
Went here with a group of friends during New Years when it was 5 below zero. It's right on the St. Lawrence seaway, in the heart of old Montreal. The spa is great, with both indoor and outdoor spaces to soak in, have a drink and relax. They are fairly strict on the quiet policy while at the spa. They get crowded so my downgrading from 5 stars to 4 stars is that they allowed our wives in first and we weren't allowed in for another 45 minutes. Still I would go back.
Cesar Felix
They currently charge you for whole day water circuit but you can only use it for 3 hours. Steam room is closed. I understand that they might have taken a hit during covid, but promotions attract more customers than over-priced services
Julie M
Initial experience at reception could have gone a lot more smoothly. Long wait to check in and very disorganized system. However my friend and I loved the boat and the thermal baths. Very relaxing and awesome view of Montreal. Slept like a baby that night! ????
Kaveh Matinkhoo
I'm not sure if it was because it was extremely busy the night I went or not, but I felt as relaxed here as I feel relaxed in a community swimming pool. The locker room was very small, crowded, old and with very few amenities, not even enough showers. There are many many stairs to go between different areas, and I don't find this particularly "relaxing". Some English signs would also not hurt, since a lot of tourists visit this place. Some customers in the supposedly quiet zones were extremely loud, talking and laughing as if they were at a pool party. Also, no one was respecting the COVID-related capacities that were posted next to various rooms/pools. I felt extremely anxious the whole time I was there, to the extent that I was more *un*relaxed after going to this spa. To be fair, the staff were very helpful and friendly, which was the only positive from my visit.
sschmitz416
So disappointing. I have been wanting to visit for a while and tried to call to schedule appointment but was on hold for over an hour and eventually I gave up. I was able to schedule online but upon arrival was told they did not have the reservation which I paid for. I was able to visit the pools but was underwhelmed. The locker room is circa 1980s and has zero amenities minus a few hair dryers. Don’t expect to find a bag to put your wet swimsuit in, tissues, or even tampons. If you ask about sunscreen you will be laughed at. I would not call this a spa given the lack of amenities and service. I will not be back.
Merissa Lombardo
Very unique experience onboard Bota Bota. I did the water circuit and the relaxing foot treatment. Service was amazing and I left very relaxed. I also appreciate how staff do enforce the quite zones since on a number of occasions people were having loud conversations. However, I can't give 5 stars because the change rooms left something to be desired in comparison to the rest of the beautiful boat - small and cramped with toilet paper and hand towel not replenished in the washrooms.
sfilleti
I would just like to premise this by saying that I've been to many spas, and although the facilities are nice, this is unfortunately by far the worst experience I've ever had. I visited the spa on Thursday the 15th, right after work, and reserved the 5:40 timeslot with a friend of mine who lives in the area. After checking in and receiving our robes, I noticed that the pockets are sewn shut. Thinking it was a defect, I kindly asked the reception for another robe and they advised me that they're all like that since "too many people have been forgetting objects in them". I understand that they would like to discourage people from using their phones but clients need a place to put their masks, glasses & water bottles etc. . I was offered the opportunity to purchase a dustbag to carry my things (I could have also put my phone in that so it defeats the sewn pocket reasoning) but did not want to lug it around. In my opinion, it should be mentioned on their website (wich is horrible to book & navigate) to bring along a small bag to carry your belongings. But the main reason that I am leaving this review is because THEY GAVE SOMEONE ELSE THE SAME ACTIVATED WRISTBAND AS MYSELF SO I CAUGHT SOMEONE GETTING INTO MY LOCKER. Midway through my stay, I went down to the changing rooms to check my phone & caught someone taking my things out of my locker, I confronted her and she had the same wristband as I did & it was activated ! Was she about to steal all my things, who knows. IT WAS A VERY SCARY OCCURANCE SINCE I HAD CONFIDENTIAL WORK DOCS,JEWELRY,MY PHONE, WALLET ETC.THIS IS UNACCEPTABLE IN A LUXURY ESTABLISHMENT.I went straight to the reception with the girl & explained the situation (she even admitted to the receptionist that it was activated). I WAS STILL IN MY THREE HOUR TIMESLOT AND ALL . I was told by the manager that we would deal with the situation when I checked out. I COULDNT ENJOY THE REST OF MY STAY SINCE I WAS SO FREAKED OUT ABOUT WHAT HAPPENED. When I checked out, I asked for the manager & since I was there to catch the girl (& my things were not stolen) he brushed off the whole situation & offered my friend & I A 15$ GIFTCARD.WHAT A JOKE.WHAT IF MY THINGS WOULD HAVE BEEN STOLEN.HE ADDMITTED THAT HE WAS THE ONE WHO GAVE THE ACTIVATED BRACELET. It isn't about the money but more about the principle. At the time I didn't want to cause a scene but the more I think about it, having previously worked in customer service, this is UNACCEPTABLE. I spoke to many others about my experience & they have told me that they also have gotten less than great service at this establishment.IT DOES NOT MAKE SENSE THAT I HAD TO LEAVE MORE STRESSED THAN WHEN I ARRIVED . So please everyone be careful (as I am guessing they do not have a proper bracelet system) & bring a small bag to lug around your mask and belongings ! Regards, Samantha
Julia Wieckowicz
Surreal truly luxurious experience for an affordable price. The staff were super nice. The food in the restaurant was also great, and we got an amazing couples massage.
Rachel Zuroff
Excellent water circuit experience; terrible massage. The sauna and steam rooms were great. I really liked all the cozy spaces and views of the water. The pools were also really fun. But my massage was terrible. I asked for strong pressure, but it was too much and hurt me. When I asked him to decrease the pressure, he said sorry but continued on as before. He was also really rough and jerky while massaging which I didn't like at all. Basically I really was stressed out and uncomfortable throughout the whole massage. I liked the water baths, but I'll be going elsewhere for massages.
Sylvie Bismuth
There is nothing extraordinary here except that this spa is on a ship. The actual services are sub-par and overpriced compared to industry averages. Massages were mediocre and even the manicure and pedicure services were not up to snuff. My friend had shellac on and when we tried to inform them they ended up modifying our reservations so that she did not get full service. They're explanation was that it was a busy day and shellac added too much time to the overall process. She ended up waiting for the rest of us for 45 minutes once her basic mani pedi were done. Not worth the money!!!
Jordan Nestmann
The spa was amazing, but when i double checked whoever would massage me would be agressive enough i was told all there massage theripists are great, but even when i tols the lady doing the massage during it she could be harder she still was just touchibg my body and when it got close to enjoyable she would move on to another part of the body, i get massages often and what important to me is havibg my indivudual needs address. Spa 5 stars massage 2 stars.
K Thomas
My daughter, a college student with little extra spending money, received a gift card to Bota Bota from her employer. She called in December to inquire what services she could redeem using the card and was told she could select anything they offered within the value of the $75 card. She selected a pedicure, gave them the gift card code per their request, and booked her appointment. When she arrived for the appointment she was told she could not use the gift card toward the pedicure, she could only use it toward their baths. What is more, she would be required to pay for the pedicure in full and they could not cancel the appointment. They had her debit card on file when she booked the appointment by phone and they would charge her regardless of whether she stayed for the appointment or walked out. I am extremely upset that: 1. They misrepresented the conditions of their gift card at the time of the booking; 2. They did not acknowledge their mistake or make an effort to fix their error by AT LEAST allowing her to rebook a new appointment under the gift card guidelines. My daughter stated her case to several people at Bota Bota; one finally admitted that the situation was unusual, that the person who booked the appointment may have been confused and that the gift card, while valid, looked unlike others she had seen before. Still, they did nothing to resolve the problem. A reputable business would have eaten the cost of a single pedicure to make things right with a new customer.
Maria Amperiadou
Every time we go to Bota Bota is a great experience. The location and the view is amazing, the installations clean and well kept and the staff discrete and polite. The spa is spacious and inviting. I LoVE this place
A E
I came to this awful spa this past weekend with a few of my close friends for a Bachelorette. I immediately felt negative energy in this spa the second we stepped foot. To begin, they gave us all torn up, rough, bad quality robes. Then, the staff would NOT leave us alone, we felt as if we were being stalked by the staff to put our phones away and stop talking even while we were in the garden area where speaking was allowed. We put our phones away after we were told to however we were constantly noticing that the staff was watching us and it made us feel super uncomfortable. The staff was very unprofessional. I needed to use my phone for an emergency and one of the staff members immediately sprinted to me telling me to put it away in the rudest most unprofessional manner. He then told me if I did not put it away he would confiscate it as if he has the right to my property. I understand the rule that no phones are permitted however, there is a limit to how you should go about reinforcing it, it’s very uncomfortable and unprofessional to have to stalk guests and hunt them down to tell them to get off of their phones some people might have serious emergencies in which they need to use their phone. I agree with all the negative reviews this spa is very racist and unfriendly to tourists, they did not bother the locals when they would be on their phones or speaking or being inappropriate in the pool but I have a feeling it was the colour of our skin and the fact that we were not french speaking that we received this poor, inexcusable treatment. I would not recommend this spa to anyone it was the worst experience of my life and a very unprofessional place. Avoid this spa at all costs. oh and one of their workers Adrian was the most annoying person I encountered during this experience, he was acting as though he was some kind of police officer, as though his job of stalking people was really that important.
Shaliney Chelliah
Me and my friend had locker issues. My friends locker already had someone’s else belongings and my locker didn’t close. We got charged more instead of less than 3 hours and they also double charged my credit card. The spa was great but the customer service was horrible. Overall, very disappointing. Will not go again.
Marc Brunet
Great experience once in the spa but too much waiting at reception during check in and check out. I do not think the staff is comfortable with their computer software. I had to pay my tip cash versus credit because the receptionist had issues with her computer
021Belanger
Amazing deep tissue massage by sebastian. Very relaxing place. Loved it and will for sure be back.
Jason Hendrik
very nice... wish I could live there.
Jessica Foote
Love this spa.great maseus every time I go. The outside pool is a little less silent so suitable to go with a friend or two. Also beautiful relaxation areas on boat in full silence.
elena grin
I really like the combination of relaxation and the views of the busy Old Montreal and downtown, especially if going on a week day :))). The concept is fantastic and the atmosphere is great and relaxing as it's supposed to be. I really like the two separate zones: on the boat and on the land. There is the issue with the parking: there's none on the premises; it is unlikely the place on the street will be close and you have to remember to feed the meter. To us though it is a minor inconvenience, as the experience at Bota Bota is wonderful.
Rich Bard
Great place, very relaxing awesome set up. Hots tubs everywhere. Bring your flip flops they do not supply them and trust me you will need them walking outside in the cold.
Matthias Mollemans
The manager lady was very rude and aggressive. I had to check my email once and then she followed me around the rest of the day making sure I didn’t look at my emails. Her constant glares caused me a lot of stress. Felt like the Montreal police. Since I couldn’t relax at all because of this aggressive woman I asked for my money back but they wouldn’t give it to me. NEVER GOING TO BOTA AGAIN !!!
yohan McCarthy
Best Spa I've ever been to. They forgot no detail. I went with my girlfriend and we both loved it. We got an excellent massage. Ate at the restaurant that was very reasonably priced and good. Did the wonderful water circuit. The staff was young energetic and professional. The view from the boat is great. Really a 5 star experience. It's worth the money.
Monica Watson
I was at Bota Bota yesterday. My disappointment was felt the moment I stepped in. It has the feel of entering a take out place. You have to line up so you can confirm you arrived , at this point they already have your credit card information as they take it when appointments are made, however they are quick to ask to imprint your card to authorize a $50 for lunch if you decide to have it. No charge is put through until you do but it seemed to me you were pushed into it and committed to the charge . After I declined I was giving a robe and towel that certainly could have given to me at the YMCA. Also a key for my locker , was told told to go downstairs to the left. As I entered again surprised at the non spa atmosphere, totally felt like the lockers at a pool. Few ladies were there and more came in and all had no idea where to go, where anything was or how to find the door to pools or spa. I frequently have spa treatments in my neighbourhood and as soon as I step in its an automatic feel of tranquility. There it was more of chaos . I had a massage and the gal was lovely and the massage was nice. It cost $115 witch is probably the correct rate for a SPA , i was also told if I wanted to use the pools that would be an extra charge . That totally through me off. Understandable there should be a charge if you are not already paying full price for a treatment , but if you are it does not make sense . Recently I was at the Ritz in Toronto and my friend and I were encouraged to stay and enjoy the lounge and hot tub and so forth after or before treatments at no extra charge . When my massage was over and after I changed , there was no place to put the towel, robe and lock key. I had to carry upstairs, line up and then ask what to do with it. I was told to just throw it down a shoot-near by! No signs as what to do with them in locker area . After she told me what to do then she quickly told me she was ready for my credit card so I could leave my tip! Cool idea to do it on a boat but stick to the pools, its not a spa by any means . Classic tourist trap , and because It was a short notice trip , i felt into it. Scandinavian place across the street would had certainly been a better choice
Vanessa Nosotti
Don’t understand how so many people love this place. The views are amazing but the facilities don’t compare to Balnea. The food I had was terrible, the menu is unappealing and the waiter never even asked how my meal was. Luckily some of the staff were pretty nice. I don’t think I’d ever pay to go back and I definitely will never eat there again.
Erica Lam
We really enjoyed getting massages and using the water circuit at Bota Bota. We were visiting Montreal and surprised that we were able to get an appointment the week of (you also get a discount on the water circuit with a massage). The team is also all registered massage therapists too. The massage was amazing, and it's lovely to get up from your massage and see the water from the room. There was a nice variety of saunas, steam rooms, hot tubs and rest areas. My only recommendation, would be more accessible water stations, and maybe some tea around the rest areas.
Emily Miranda
The place is beautiful and relaxing for sure but the food ranged from mediocre to terrible. The Cornish hen did not have a spec of seasoning (the waiter said it was because it was baked! Lmao like you can't season baked food???) And the skin was soft, not crispy at all. The sauce for the hen was terrible. The polenta was too strong and yet it would have been perfect if the hen had some flavor to balance it out. The consistency of the mascarpone was much more liquidity than it should have been. The trout tartar was good, and so was the chardonnay wine.
Sarah Samuels
I give the water circuit experience four stars. I give the massage therapy four stars. I give the restaurant ZERO STARS. I got food poisoning from the salmon tartare they served. I had one bite that tasted "fishy", but I let it slide because I figured that at Bota Bota, a (presumably) high-end spa, the food would be safe. I was wrong. The next 48 hours were absolutely awful. I still enjoyed my experience; however, in the future, I will avoid the restaurant and if I have no choice, I will certainly not order anything raw or undercooked. And another thing: as for the locker room- REALLY?!!! For that price it shouldn't look like a public pool locker room with only four showers and half-lockers. I can't even imagine what it must be like during peak times.
Jj J
Beautiful spa. I was only able to spend time on the hot and cold pools and the hammock area which is next to it. All of that was great. My experience was so relaxing and awesome. I wish I explored more and stayed longer. I will definitely come again with my bf.
Jake Weil
I was sitting by the outside pool of Bota Bota finishing my first mojito when my friend looked at me and said "this place is a floating garden of Eden." He was right. There are no words to describe how magnifique this place is. Friendly staff, clean, relaxing, and everything you are looking for in a spa. If you have a day or even a few hours to treat yourself, throw all worries out the window and relax away...
nocap
parking not included, you better walk to get there from place d’arme metro. it’s about 15 mins walk. unless, you’re willing to pay the parking lot (about 20$ a day.) although most of them are residential vignettes.. my experience with my love one at bota bota was great. the prices for the water area were $60 (before taxes) for unlimited time and $50 for 3 hours. we were honestly satisfied with 3 hours of relaxation. *you do not need a reservation for water circuit! also, they require your credit card information. i don’t quite remember why but it’s written on a plate in front of the cashier* the robe was.. ok. cheap material. so the changing room was odd, small and creepy. i didn’t feel welcomed but i loved the makeup area. bota bota also provide hair drier, hair straightener, hair curler , q-tips, makeup remover and makeup wipes. once you hop in the shower they also have shampoo, conditioner and body wash. they also offer books!!!! a library inside the spa !!!! overall the experience was great. -1 star just because they asked for the credit card information..
J Mo
It's a beautiful spa but it's a bit small and beware if you want to use a gift card they will only tell you at the end that you still need to pay and that they will refund you in 2 weeks.
R Kaur
My husband and I came here for the first time and we were amazed by the exceptional experience. I got the 60-minute prenatal massage and it was so comfortable and relaxing. I noticed some customers were there for a few hours to experience multiple services so I hope to do the same next time.
Annette Shader
A friend and I booked massages and the water circuit on a snowy day in December. Before our massage we enjoyed a cocktail in the restaurant, which was lovely. My massage was the best I ever had! We enjoyed the water circuit and relaxation areas afterward. What a fun and unique experience and we did feel truly pampered! It is crowded but it never felt overly so. If you find yourself with some extra time in Montreal, do not miss Bota Bota!
Alysha Dawn
So relaxing and beautiful. However, wasn’t happy that my husbands pedicure was cut 20 minutes short. I asked the desk at checkout if men get a reduced rate since it is significantly shorter and I just got a “no,” and then she started listing off my bill. A terrible end to a great overall experience.
Dolly Morin
This place could actually be nice, if they weren't burning INCENSE STICKS everywhere, even in CLOSED AREAS, even in the bathroom which is as big as my bathroom at home. They have them everywhere in the relaxing areas on the boat. We went there once for my friend's birthday, and when we went back down to take our showers there were 5 sticks burning at the same time. 5 sticks!! One of my friends extinguished them but the smell was still so strong, that my friend whose birthday it was couldn't breathe anymore (she's asthmatic) so we had to leave in a rush... and a woman (working there, i assumed) came right away to light them, looking pretty angry. I couldn't believe it!! The 5 of us ended up leaving in a rush without showering even though we were going out to a rather chic bar after to celebrate... and when we complained at the front desk the girl there didn't even seem to care and told us they use it to "freshen" the air. Are you kidding me?? It makes no sense to me that they're POISONING CUSTOMERS WITH THIS TOXIC CRAP in a place which is supposed to be healthy. Worst experience ever, never going back there again. The people there don't care about your health, they care about your money.
Jamie Moghadam
Don’t leave Montreal without trying this! I recommend getting a massage and doing the water circuit. We did it in the blistering cold and it was by far one of the coolest experiences of my life. So relaxing!!
Montreal Explora
WHATEVER FLOATS YOUR BOAT !! - I was invited by a friend. - reception did not find our reservation and made us feel like WE were confused when THEY were. - check in took forever and didn't like the vibe. - unlike other renounded spas, this place exceeds the amount of guests versus the space and baths available. - overcrowded with people taking pics and selfies. - asked for a new and dry towel and was told they had none ?! - bathrooms and locker room needs to be upgraded. - overpriced for the quality and service. Like I said, whatever floats your boat lol. I rather pay more and get treated like a valuable customer from begining to the end rather then just another person in their establishment ...
Helene Laplante
So disappointing as I have been coming here since the opening! I took my son there for his birthday, for a massage and bath experiences plus a nibble and drink, an approx. $400 afternoon... I had parked in a "meter" parking space and since we are not allowed phones on the premises, I took my apple watch, and I stupidly tied it to the loop of the bathrobe, so as not to forget the meter, 2 hours later! Well as you can all guess, I forgot the watch. The minute I got home I called the spa and after being on hold for 30 minutes was answered by someone who is not on the premises, she said she would call them and do her best then call me back...well she didn't call back and she did NOTHING. I drove there the following morning at opening time and spoke to a "manager", he said he would get in touch with the cleaners and get back to me...he did NOTHING AND NEVER CALLED ME BACK. Listen I get it, it was 100% my fault, but where is their customer service, nobody knew about it I called the cleaner myself and they said that no one from the Spa had called inquiring about my watch. Customer service is the most important of services, always!!! Totally and utterly disappointed! It would have been cheaper to pay for a parking ticket...
Adeel Hussain
Very nice, friendly, courteous staff, calming environment, great atmosphere, and amazing view.
TJ
Place has gone down hill since I visited before, price has increased and number of activities has decreased. There equipment is falling apart, I smashed my head while laying down on a chair because a screw popped out. Have the saunas don’t have water readily available so you have to constantly request them to fill it up. Some staff are rude and some are nice. It was very unpleasant and stressful experience to say the least.
CMB
Just go here! You wont regret it.
JF Roy
I have a membership there since almost a year and a half. After the first 6 months, I was going to change of spa because there was so much people always on their phones, not really relaxing to be around cellphones trying to meditate and relax. I was so glad to know they've banned cellphones and because of that I have chosen to extend my membership twice. It's not perfect ( no spa is will ever be perfect ), but since I have been here this company does look to always improve their service and I really appreciate it.
Stephane Madi
Service is poor. Staff not so friendly.. Booked massage and was told booking hadn’t been properly done and so they can’t serve us. We had to complain and stand our ground , eventually were given a written and signed promise for 90 minute massage at the cost of 60 minutes. Some months later , we book massages at bota bota and bring this signed promise of compensation with us. We wait 30 minutes in line before someone talks to us.. we eventually check in, spend the day there , and upon checkout are told that the discount cant be honored because we booked a 60 minute massage and not a 90 minute massage... not a valid excuse in my opinion. They could have easily looked over that detail or worked something out.. it’s not like we were asking for something that isn’t owed to us... keep in mind that we were also forced to use the baths .. few other items... total bill 480$ , with bad service , not honoring compensation. We are honestly disappointed .. place looks great , but we started and ended our time there with stress... too bad for a Montreal iconic location to not be humble with its clientele. Seems a lot of people feel the same on google, hope they change. We still have the signed offer, but frankly doubt ill ever use it. Much prefer supporting and rewarding businesses that earn loyalty.
Shelley Kerman
Would go every day if I could. What an oasis.
Anitha R
Spa on the water, such a relaxing experience. The water circuit is amazing, cant wait to come back. Great place to wind down and they offer all types of massage. Book few weeks ahead for massage though, as they were fully booked when I tried. Will definitely add on my next visit. If you're looking for some rest, relaxation and self care, this is It.
T. H.
Very beautiful place. Its obviously smaller than other known outdoor places (ie Strom, Finlandais etcm) but considering it's in old port, its relatively spacious. There were enough variety and it wasn't too crowded (we stayed til 545pm). The massotherpist Mathieu did a great job! My favorite was the bergamot sauna! I deducted 1 stat because the service was extremely slow. They were nice though.There were 3 receptionists and I was the only one waiting in line. Had to wait 15 mins. My boyfriend waited ~30 mins as he arrived later when my massage was done. Other than that, I would definitely recommend this place. Great place for my boyfriend and I to spend some relaxing time together.
emily
Lovely! Was gifted a massage and it was somehow both perfectly decadent and straightforward (in a good way). They made everything as simple and easy as possible for someone who had never had a massage before. The folks at the front counter were all very kind and helpful and eager to offer you water, tea, etc. I did especially like that they double check with you on wanting to shower after. I’m not keen on public showers and, while I’m sure they’re wonderful and clean, I was grateful to have the option of opting out. The masseuse carefully reads the form they give you to fill out and the woman who took care of me made sure to pay extra attention to a problem area I had noted. Cannot speak for the water activities, showers, and food/drink but everyone there seemed to be thoroughly enjoying themselves. Very enjoyable and relaxing experience!
Quakabee
Didnt know what to expect. Reviews were good and bad. We 6 girls had a blast! It was a nice place in the old port. Loved the outdoor venue on the boat and the garden venue for the more louder groups such as us. We were told to be quiet many times on the boat, that didnt work so we moved to the garden which was perfect! Lots of space. Its a very busy spot so be prepared to tackle the crowd. The massage we had was very good. The restaurant is lovely to sit and dine in. The relaxing chairs are also soo nice. One of the best day spa's I've been to. Amazing experience everyone going to Montreal should do. They open very late. You need a min of 6 hours. I didnt believe when they told me, but yes you can spend the entire day in there! Will be back when Im in town.
MrChocheech
One of the best spa's in Canada but they increased the cold tub temperatures to be too high for benefits during my last visit.
Jess K
I read comments first before going and I knew I would go with the express check_out. I do not regret and I recommend everyone to do the same. Our experience was an amazing one and the view, exceptional. It was our first time and all three of us want to go back for sure. For reference we went there end of January 2018 and it was just a nice and "warm" winter day.
Alim M
Love this place! The facilities were calm, cool, and peaceful..not to mention clean :) the staff are extremely friendly and were always providing amazing customer service with a smile. Would gladly come back and recommend to all. 5/5
Michelle Zhang
The idea is super genius, for people who want to relax but dont want go too far away from the city. Super friendly staff, great atmosphere, clean and the garden was beautiful! The restaurant was tasty compare to what we have outside, its not pricey at all, and had a great open space with a wonderful view of the river. Of course the massage is great. The staff are super professional. the manicure and pedicure room has a great view as well. Highly recommended
Sean Cairney
Tonight I was booked for a facial treatment and decided to do the water circuit after that. The facial treatment was quite relaxing. The girl asked me questions about my skin care routine and what I was looking to get out of the treatment — she was professional and I appreciated it. The only thing I was disappointed with was that I don’t think she knew much English, and though I do speak French it’s by no means perfect, and communication was a little tough. As for the water circuit, I really wouldn’t go back for it and certainly wouldn’t recommend it to anyone. There are plenty of baths, and wet/dry saunas around, which is good. The major problem for me was the fellow clientele and the staff members — the silence policy is not respected and is not enforced. It really takes away from the relaxing experience when clientele are treating the spa like a giant hot tub party, talking/laughing loudly, and taking pictures and selfies. I’ve been to other spas where that behaviour is handled properly and quickly by staff and I was expecting much better. Not to mention the fact that in some of the “salle détentes” and massage rooms you can hear all the noise from the kitchen. Lastly, the men’s locker room was kinda gross. Dirty cotton swabs and tissues were on the floor and on the sink counter. Not good. I don’t know if this review would prompt them to make any positive changes. They have a cool concept and it looks beautiful, but clientele shouldn’t have to leave just as stressed as when they arrived — defeats the purpose of calling themselves a spa.
Mojdeh Tireh Dast
I was there today just for the massage. I wasn't happy at all. The locker area as others said is very small. You have to put your jacket on the rack outside of your locker and your boots under the bench. Over the phone they told me the appointment was at 10:30 and I needed to be there at least 20 mins before. I got there around 10:10. Check-in was fast as it was rainy and not too many people. When I got to the reception desk for the massage they told me my appointment was at 10:45. I was sitting there for 30 mins and it was past 10:45 but no news from my therapist. When I finally got up and asked how long it was going to take, They told me my therapist was there. I asked my therapist to focus on my neck and shoulder and that I didn't mind about my legs and he didn't have to work on them if he didn't have enough time. Still he didn't spent enough time on my neck and shoulder. There is a difference between someone who finds the tense spots and works on them and the one just gives random rubs. I had asked for a therapeutic massage but it was just a relaxing massage. My massage lady charges half of this price and does a way better job. His breath was on my face when he was massaging my neck which was gross. At the check-out, I mentioned that even my confirmation email was at 10:30 not 10:45 and they applied 25% discount which was nice.
Jasjeet Mavi
Best way to detox and relax your mind & body after a wild night out in Montreal. I visit this place everytime I visit the city and it has yet to disappoint me.
B
When it's -30, you can hang in the hot pools while the snow falls in the frozen river. Easy access to cocktails & food. We got massages and body scrubs, no idea what facials or nail sessions are like. Fun for couples and groups, cool vibe.
Maddy Galts
Pretty spa, but we left feeling so-so about the experience. The locker rooms are not well maintained at all. There was garbage on the ground, used towels all over the place, and the toilet was completely out of toilet paper. They also only give you one towel for your whole time there, which you have to carry around with you. This means, you don't have a clean, dry towel to shower with at the end. For what we paid, I would expect to have a better experience in the locker room than I do at a community rec centre. The restaurant was nice and we enjoyed a snack after our experience, however we would appreciate more vegan options.
Kristian Ward
Amazing- I loved it here. One thing I would say though is it felt like it did get a little crowded and not enough wait staff. But other the. That I had a wonderful relaxing day by the pool
Sabine Haddad
Love this place! You definitely feel like you're elsewhere, on vacation when you're onboard. There's a pool area where you can hang out, have a drink and talk. The restaurant's terrace has an amazing vue and the food is decent. Most of their massage therapists are great! The price is a little on the higher side but definitely worth the try..carefully, you might get hooked!
AD K (Sonic Moose)
Top notch spa, I would highly recommend! Fantastic facilities with a very tranquil ambiance. I would recommend splashing out on any one of their massages, you won't regret it. The therapists are highly skilled, extremely professional and always make you feel as relaxed and comfortable as possible. The rest of the staff are great too, always very friendly and welcoming. The restaurant is perfect for a bite to eat. The food is great quality and nice and light, you don't want anything too heavy to eat while at a spa. They also do a fantastic Pimm's cocktail! I'm British, so I know a good Pimm's when I taste it! Lol. Overall, it's amazing. A little expensive, but well worth it. I'll most definitely be going back.
Isabelle Giguere
The spa facilities are amazing! Beautiful views on the city and old port area while enjoying the baths and sauna. The pictures on the website make the spa seem small, but there are several pools, saunas, steam rooms and different sitting areas inside and outside. A nice +, there are 2 areas (boat and garden) and you are allowed to talk softly in the garden area which is great if you are with someone or complete silence on the boat for ultimate relaxation.
Veronika Ismailova
Has it's cons and pros. Some of their employees get too friendly with female clients instead of serving you fresh towels.
Janet Graham
The massage was excellent. Truly an oasis in the Old Port of Montréal. Expensive though be careful of the very small portions at the restaurant. A glass wine was $12.00 for under 2 ounces l felt riped off.
Johana Celis
I loved this place! Staff was so friendly and welcoming. The water circuit is amazing and complete, I had enough during the 3h to discover all the saunas, pools and baths. I'd definitely come back but I'll do it next time with my couple.
Elsa Capuano
Very relaxing experience. Wonderful staff, super friendly.
Gillian Milner
Amazing experience! My boyfriend and I went for the Water Circuit and we both loved it. Staff was so friendly and welcoming, even provided us with fresh towels whenever needed. We paid for the 3 hour experience and it was more than enough time to try out the baths, saunas, and steam room multiple times. The view was beautiful, especially from the outdoor jacuzzis. A nice, warm, relaxing getaway from the cold winter weather. We will definitely be returning!
Annie B
Excellent spa. Experience a little colored by covid restraints (mask on, no cucumber water haha). But great service and wonderful masseuse.
Mary Acosta
Nice spa with the typical stuff! Jacuzzi, hot pool, rest rooms, etc! Nothing out of this world. Which is fine. What really bother me is their phones policy. I don’t know if this is recent because it was my first time going there but their explanation for not allowing people to bring their bring in the boat is that “when talking pictures people take pictures of other people” if someone doesn’t want to be in someone else’s picture then don’t leave your house because people take pictures everywhere these days! I don’t get the drama! Plus you’re not allow to talk while you’re there but whisper! Then create some “talk rooms” where people can go and talk! I went with my friend for her bd and we couldn’t talk the whole time! It’s too intense. I went to relax and left even more stress with all the rules !!! It was very disappointing and I wouldn’t go back !
J WF
Other than the view in the lounge this spa reinforce the memory of communal bath and youth hostel. It is not for those who want a level of lux exposure. Crowded and locker area is a zoo, rusted. No slippers or washing gel or shampoo, all byo style. Of course it is in the low price. I would stick to hotel spa or the nicer one on de la commune called scandinacave. It is a different level of experience Thumbs down even for the massage itself. Factory processing experience.
Stephanie M
Unfortunately due to covid the water circuit isn't available but I still had a fantastic massage with Jessica! Left feeling refreshed and relaxed
MT
Very nice and enjoyable experience! I just wish that there wasn’t a time limit because it feels very stressful and not long enough.
GGCC78
If you like quiet and being alone maybe it would be great. There's a kid that works there that will follow you at the pool if you go with friends only to shush you repeatedly. I was told at the front desk that you're allowed to talk quietly and we did but apparently you have to put tape over your mouth to satisfy him. Power trip. Never again. Nice location though.
Dush Patel
Amazing experience there as always. The Saunas are very hot - exactly like I like them. On a cold winters day the cold circuits consisted of just walking back inside! Recent improvements have been that they've sewn the pockets shut on the bathrobes so people can't bring in phones. I also appreciate the silence - they're actually enforcing the no talk policy. Check in is slow - the attendant has to read out a mandatory statement to enforce the no talk/phone policy. I was frustrated at that - but reading the reviews on Google I get now why they do that. Check in was very busy so we were initially put off - but there's plenty of room in the outside section so the rooms on the boat aren't too busy. Only improvement I'd say is that have some sort of "frequent customer" program where you can get an express check in. The changing rooms are small - but it is a boat and it's downtown. The much bigger Spas I've been to in other places have the space to expand.
Lynda Weathers
Unique setting in the Old Port of Montreal, we walked from St Paul hotel. My husband and I had lovely massages and then did the water circuits. We went first thing in the morning and were glad we did- it got VERY busy after 11am. Personally I did not find the pools clean enough to be fully relaxed- more attention to cleaning the floors and skimming the surface needed. Nice to experience once but I do not think we will be returning- you receive much more for the same cost at Le Nordik.
Anna T
Went for the water circuits with a group of girls and had a wonderful time! We spent most of our time in the garden area so we could chat and have some drinks and didn't end up seeing all of the different areas they have to offer. The garden gives a unique view of the city and we had a blast just being in the pools out there.
Lhthejp
AWESOME!!! Spent the day here on Thanksgiving. Did the Nautilus package which included the water circuit, a couples massage, 2 wines and a Charcuterie board. If you do not speak french you may have trouble reading directions on the water circuit. Its a quite zone no talking. So make sure you get thorough directions before you go into that area. Bring you bathing suit, flip flops(they don't supply). You will get a bathrobe and a wrist-let that opens up a locker to put your stuff in.
Carine
If you’re looking for a place to relax, this is not it. I’ve been to many spas around Montreal including Strom and Balena - far better if you don’t mind leaving the island - and this one, I was very disappointed. People were talking so loud, some even yelling, making it impossible to relax. Water was everywhere making it so slippery to walk, especially while going up and down the stairs. It was also so crowded. Not only is it a pandemic but since the baths and saunas were always over the recommended capacity, it was hard to find a place to sit. The locker rooms need a major renovation. Limited amenities and the lockers are tiny. I felt like I was in an old basement especially the showers where if you look up, you see all the pipes and peeling paint... Also, please make the check-in process more efficient and seamless! We had to wait over 30 minutes to finally get in the spa. The only positive is the location which is in a boat along the waters of the old port. Beautiful view and we got to enjoy a nice pink sunset.
Gab Cat
Not a good experience. The person who did my massage did not respect my requests and touched me in a place that made me very uncomfortable even though I had written down (on the form) and verbally told him not to touch me there. I tried to cover myself during the massage but the blanket fell off afterwards and he was not bothered to cover me again after I had just pushed his hand away and said I wanted to be covered. Extremely unpleasant experience. I wrote all that down on the review form they gave me. Then, the spa had the audacity to call regarding the tip for the other masseuse that was present in the room (this was a duo massage). Also would like to add that the staff in general was pretty rude. When I called to book the appointment the lady on the phone was great. However, once there, the person at the reception was rude, the same can be said about the person handing out the forms before your massage. Not a welcoming ambience, everyone was cold. It was my 3rd time over there and definitely my last.
Paul Mcnish
perfect place to relax and unwind
Joe Cruise
Nice spa with several hot pools, saunas and steam rooms. Staff friendly and check in was quick. Doesn't have its own parking. Once you park on the street, depending where you parked, it's can be a bit of a walk to get there. Not really a disabled friendly facility. Locker area a bit cramped with small lockers.
Daphné Evrard
Great experience and I highly recommend the body exfoliating + wrap + facial. Fantastic
Geoff Kiddell
This spa has my favourite water circuit I’ve ever done in Canada. We went at night and had a relaxing time just moving between all the different amenities. Make sure to bring flip flops!
Caesar TC
it was a great experience for me and my girls during a girls trip. we loved it. great pricing and very secluded. we had the best time there and would definitely recommend. they have a strict no phone policy as well so watch out for that. otherwise, very rewarding.
Aakash Chudasama
Was surprised on my anniversary to go on this trip and overall it was a pleasant experience. The water circuit was great, very relaxing, and enjoyable. The facilities were clean and the staff was courteous and polite. I would return if I was back in Montreal. What we didn't like was that there was no availability for massage. We asked if we could book the spa package and they said there were no availability. We then asked if we could book the package, and take the next massage massage availability (even if it was the next day). We were told that everything has to be the same day. It seemed strange that we were trying to give them money and being penalized for their lack of availability. The most frustrating thing was (unlike many other spas) that they do not offer any temporary/disposable slippers or sandals, yet they are required to use the pool and gardens. They offer rubber sandals absurdly overpriced at $25 which leaves a bad taste in your mouth. This is the first spa I have been that does not offer these, even hotels give cotton slippers with robes that you're free to take with you. At the very least, they should let you know when checking in that this is required. Can't fault the staff for these problems as they are just following management orders. Overall, this place is unique and does many things well. I hope they can make this a better experience so I can recommend to my friends. EDIT- In response to management, I understand the need to be environmentally friendly. But why sell rubber flip flops for over $20? Why not offer paper flip fops and allow them to be recycled? Why not include rubber flip flops in the price and give a discount if you bring your own?
Chantal Demers
Last night, my daughters took me to BotaBota for a spa evening as a birthday gift. The three girls did the water circuit while I had a 90 minute massage. My therapist was Etienne. This was, by far one of the BEST massage I've ever had in my life ! If I was rating only the massage, the rating would be a 5++ stars ! So, the plan was that after my massage , I would go join my daughters while they were in the baths but I would only sit on a chair. I cannot go in baths as I am severely allergic to the chemicals they usually put in spa baths. We just wanted to relax and spend 10-15 mins outside together before we leave . Well.... no can do ! My 155$ + tip massage did not allow me to sit on any chair where my girls were. I was only allowed a chair on the other side of the boat. Why you may ask ? I was told it was policy ! That's it. No other explanation. They might as well have said to me '' I'm sorry madame, we don't use common sense or judgment here , we just follow policy and by the way, happy birthday with your girls '' Oh , they did tell me with eyes rolling that I could go say hello to them for 2 mins but I could not stay. They also reluctantly offered me the option to PAY a reduced rate of 20$ ( instead of 45$) to go sit on a chair next to them for 15 mins !! Trying to remain polite , I told them I would think about it and would come tell them if I went to the 20$ chair after my massage, so they can charge me. In the end, after my massage, my daughters came to join me on my side of the boat (because policy says that they were allowed on my side) and we simply decided to leave. The best was that on our way out after paying over 300$ of massage and water circuits for 90 minutes, I realized that they had actually charged me the famous 20$ to go sit on a chair where I had not sat ! The girl at the cash challenged me but she did agree to remove the charge in the end. The only reason I'm rating this spa a 2 star is because of the incredible massage ! BotaBota, You definitely have a long way to go before you qualify as a real SPA. Having being in spas all over the planet, to me BotaBota is only an attraction who employs good massage therapists. SO , BE CAREFUL ABOUT GOING TO THIS ATTRACTION. THERE ARE MANY OTHER REAL SPAS IN THE AREA WTH GREAT MASSAGE THERAPISTS, THAT WELCOME THEIR CLIENTS WITH NO HASSLES AND DON'T CHARGE TO SIT IN THEIR CHAIRS
Chinitaleona Xox
I always come here for a massage but I won’t be back. The staff kept bothering me cause I was on my phone (mind you I wasn’t taking pictures or playing music, just texting and minding my business). They told me to put my phone in my locker even tho I wasn’t disturbing anybody (3x lol) Super annoyed cause I paid to relax but ended up leaving earlier than expected because they were on my a** the whole time. Won’t be back but thanks for the great massage today Andrée! She’s amazing and she’s the only reason this place deserves 2 stars.
Jack Smith
Amazing day spa - the pool was refreshing and they used aromatic essential oils in the sauna and steam room. Plenty of places to lounge and hang out. My only comment is that in summer there was not enough cold water plunge baths and there was a line but this shouldn’t be a problem in winter or cooler days when the ambient pool temp is cold.
Lambda Chansong
A superb place to relax and recharge your batteries. It is a wonderful place to pamper yourself with eucalyptus saunas, Hot tubs, swinging chairs, and a classy and delightful restaurant. Definitely a memorable experience! Highly recommended.
Stephanie Vu
Really great place too relax. Facility is really clean. I went on a Friday afternoon & there was maybe a little bit too much people which doesn't bother much except in the woman changing room where there was not much space to move around.
Victoria Yeboah-Kodie
I went for Valentine's in the winter and it was the best experience everrr! So relaxing I can't wait to go back!!!
Jose Marcano
Bota bota has been the best spa I have visit in a long long time. Since the entrance you feel you know you are going to have an amazing time. The place does not allow the use of phone what I find amazing because you can reconnect with yourself and enjoy each moment you are there. Spa, steam room, quite area, bar etc are one of many plus that you can enjoy in Bota Bota. My Fionce and I have this as our location number one for each time we come back to Montreal .
Berlile Sadoo
Love this place. Was visiting from Toronto and seriously thinking of coming back to Montreal just for this. Be prepared though bring your flip flops and water bottle, hefty prices to buy them there.
Zachary Chasin
Loved this place. My wife is still talking about her thai massage and its been 5 years.
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