If you haven’t been to Bota Bota, the spa-on-the-water in the Old Port, then you are really missing out on a unique experience. This large boat with four floors of spa space is an excellent place to unwind while enjoying the surrounding views of Old Montreal, the Saint-Lawrence River and the Habitat 67 buildings. Alternating between hot and cold tubs on each end of the boat, two separate saunas, one Turkish bath and endless rest areas both indoors and out – you’ll feel like you’ve just gone on a very relaxing voyage. As on any trip, you’re sure to build up an appetite and fortunately the on-board bistro now offers an enticing, gourmet and healthy menu created by one of Montreal’s favourite chefs, Eric Gonzalez from l’Auberge Saint-Gabriel.
I went to the launch of the new menu and simultaneously, the inauguration of the new deck on the east side of the boat where you can lounge in the sun directly on the Saint-Lawrence River. The food was light and flavourful – perfect for health-conscious spa-goers. My favourite dish was the Albacore tuna salad, presented as a nod to a niçoise salad (shown in the photo above). The seared tuna was still raw in the centre and went deliciously well with the accompanying crisp veggies, small blue potatoes and slice of egg. Pair that with a glass of crisp white wine, and I was completely zen!
Now that fine bistro food is on-board Bota Bota, guests may never want to leave the boat!
Bota Bota
358, rue de la Commune
Quais du Vieux-Port de Montréal
514-284-0333
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