Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Montréal-Trudeau Airport (YUL) to the Port of Montreal is by taking the 747 Airport Express Bus to Bonaventure Metro Station, then a short taxi or rideshare (Uber) to the specific cruise terminal. This balances cost and convenience. The total journey takes 35-45 minutes and costs approximately $11.75 - $20 CAD per person (Bus fare $11 + taxi $8-$15). For direct, door-to-door service, a taxi or pre-booked private transfer takes 20-30 minutes and costs a flat $40-50 CAD.
Option 1: By 747 Express Bus & Metro (The Budget-Friendly Choice)
The STM 747 Express Bus is the official, public transit link between YUL Airport and downtown Montreal. It's the most economical method, especially for solo travelers or couples with manageable luggage.
Why it's a great option: It operates 24/7, offers a dedicated luggage rack, and its fare includes unlimited transit access for the day. The main drawback is it doesn't go directly to the port; a final short taxi ride is needed.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Find the Bus: Exit the arrivals level. Follow signs for "Public Transit / 747 Express". Stops are located outside each section of the terminal.
- Purchase Fare: Buy a 1-day transit pass ($11 CAD) from the ATM-like machine at the bus stop (cards/coins). This pass is valid for 24 hours on all buses and metros. You can also use a pre-loaded OPUS card.
- Take the 747 Bus: Board the bus heading towards "Lionel-Groulx / Centre-Ville". The ride to the final downtown stop, Bonaventure Metro Station, takes about 25-40 minutes depending on traffic.
- Final Leg to Port: Disembark at Bonaventure. From here, the cruise terminals are a 5-10 minute drive. Hail a taxi from the rank, or book an Uber/Lyft. Cost: ~$8-$15 CAD.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Travel Time | 35 - 55 mins (Bus + Transfer + Taxi) |
| Total Cost Per Person | ~$11.75 - $20 CAD ($11 bus pass + taxi share) |
| Frequency | Every 15-20 mins (peak), 30+ mins (off-peak/night) |
| Best For | Budget travelers, solo travelers, those with light luggage, arriving during daytime. |
| Luggage | Dedicated racks, but space can fill up. Large suitcases are permitted. |
Option 2: By Taxi, Uber, or Lyft (The Door-to-Door Convenience)
For direct, hassle-free service to your exact cruise ship, taxis and rideshares are the most straightforward option. This is highly recommended for families, groups, or those with significant luggage.
Taxis (Flat Rate)
Official airport taxis operate on a fixed fare from YUL to the downtown area, which includes the Port of Montreal. As of 2024, the rate is $41.75 CAD (subject to change). Confirm the flat rate with the driver before departing. The ride takes 20-30 minutes without heavy traffic. Taxi stands are located outside the arrivals area.
Uber & Lyft (Variable Rate)
Rideshare services are readily available at YUL. Designated pickup zones are outside arrivals (follow signs). Pricing is dynamic:
- UberX / Standard Lyft: Typically $35 - $50 CAD.
- UberXL / Lyft XL (for larger groups): Can range from $55 - $80 CAD.
Pro Tip: Check both apps for the best price. Surge pricing can apply during peak airport arrival times or bad weather.
| Service | Avg. Cost | Travel Time | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Official Taxi | $41.75 (Flat) | 20-30 min | Fixed price, always available, no surge. | Slightly higher base cost than off-peak rideshare. |
| Uber/Lyft | $35 - $80 (Variable) | 20-30 min | Often cheaper off-peak, cashless, easy app tracking. | Surge pricing, requires smartphone/data. |
Option 3: By Private or Shared Shuttle Service
Shuttles offer a middle ground between public transit and private taxis. Important Note: Unlike some cruise ports, Montreal does not have generic "cruise line shuttle buses" from the airport. You must book a third-party service.
Private Transfers
Pre-book a private van or car for your party. Companies like AirportTransfer.com or Montreal Limousine offer this service.
- Cost: Ranges from $65 - $120+ CAD for a sedan/van, depending on vehicle size and company.
- Benefit: Driver meets you in arrivals with a sign, assists with luggage, and provides a guaranteed private ride.
Shared Ride Shuttles
Services like the "Airport Shuttle" (offered by some hotels) are less common for direct port transfers. You may need to book a shared van that makes multiple stops downtown, which may not be efficient for cruise passengers on a tight schedule.
Verdict: A private transfer is excellent for groups of 4+ or those seeking premium convenience. For individuals/couples, a taxi or rideshare is usually more straightforward and cost-effective.
Option 4: By Rental Car (Not Generally Recommended)
Renting a car for a one-way trip from YUL to the cruise port is impractical and expensive due to one-way drop fees and port area parking complexities.
- One-Way Fee: Dropping a car at a downtown location (not the port) incurs high fees ($50-$150+).
- Port Parking: The Port of Montreal offers long-term cruise parking, but it's designed for local drivers, not airport arrivals. The daily rate (~$20/day) adds up quickly.
- Traffic & Navigation: Adds unnecessary stress before a cruise.
Only consider this if: You are starting a land tour in Montreal after the cruise and need a car immediately upon disembarkation.
Ticket & Cost Comparison: YUL to Montreal Cruise Port
This table summarizes all options to help you decide at a glance.
| Transport Method | Approx. Cost (CAD) | Travel Time | Convenience / Effort | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 747 Bus + Taxi | $11.75 - $20 (per person) | 35 - 55 mins | Medium (2 steps, haul luggage) | Budget travelers, solo/duo, light packers |
| Taxi (Flat Rate) | $41.75 (for the car) | 20 - 30 mins | Very High (Door-to-door) | Families, groups of 3-4, those with lots of luggage |
| Uber / Lyft | $35 - $80 (for the car) | 20 - 30 mins | Very High (Door-to-door) | Tech-savvy travelers, smaller groups, off-peak arrivals |
| Private Transfer | $65 - $120+ (for the van) | 20 - 30 mins | Highest (Pre-booked, met service) | Large groups (5+), luxury seekers, special occasions |
| Rental Car | $75 - $200+ (rental + gas + parking) | 20+ mins + parking hassle | Low (Rental desk, navigation, parking) | Not recommended for cruise transfers |
Bottom Line: The 747 Bus + Taxi combo is the most economical. A Taxi or Uber is the best for overall value and convenience for most cruise passengers.
Traveler Experience & Essential Tips for Cruise Day
Beyond just getting there, hereâs how to ensure a smooth start to your cruise vacation.
Pre-Arrival & Luggage Tips
- Know Your Terminal: The Port of Montreal has two main berths: Alexandra Pier (Iberville Terminal) and King Edward Pier. Confirm your ship's location with your cruise line. Both are within a 5-minute drive of each other.
- Luggage Strategy: If taking the 747 bus, pack light or use wheeled suitcases you can manage on a bus and into a taxi. For large groups, the door-to-door cost of a taxi/van often outweighs the hassle of public transit with bags.
- Currency: Have some Canadian Dollars (CAD) for taxi flat rates or bus ticket machines. While cards are widely accepted, cash is king for small, quick transactions.
On Arrival & Check-in Process
- Customs & Immigration: If arriving on an international flight, budget extra time (45-90 mins) to clear customs at YUL before your ground transfer.
- Port Arrival: Taxis/Ubers will drop you right at your terminal entrance. Porters are usually available curbside to take your checked luggage. Have your cruise line luggage tags attached.
- Check-in Timing: Most cruise lines recommend arriving at the port within a specified window (e.g., 1-4 PM). Factor in your flight arrival, customs, and transfer time when booking flights.
Useful Apps & Links
- STM App: For real-time 747 bus schedules.
- Google Maps / Citymapper: Excellent for navigating Montreal's transit.
- Port of Montreal Access Map: Official map for drivers and passengers.
FAQs: Getting from Montreal Airport to the Cruise Port
Is there a direct shuttle bus from YUL Airport to the Cruise Port?
No. There is no direct, dedicated shuttle service from Montréal-Trudeau Airport (YUL) to the Port of Montreal cruise terminals operated by the port or cruise lines. You must use public transit (747 bus + taxi), a taxi/rideshare, or a pre-booked private transfer.
What is the cheapest way to get from YUL to the cruise port?
The absolute cheapest way is the 747 Express Bus combined with a short taxi or rideshare from downtown. The total cost can be as low as $11.75 CAD per person ($11 bus day pass + shared taxi). Using the bus alone won't get you all the way to the port gates.
How much is a taxi from Montreal airport to the cruise terminal?
The official fixed fare for a taxi from YUL to the downtown area (which includes the cruise port) is $41.75 CAD (price subject to change). This is for the entire vehicle, not per person. Always confirm the flat rate before starting your journey.
Can I use Uber or Lyft at YUL Airport?
Yes. Both Uber and Lyft operate legally at Montréal-Trudeau Airport. Designated pickup areas are located outside the arrivals level. Fares are variable and typically range from $35 to $80 CAD for a standard car to the port, depending on demand and vehicle type.
How long does the transfer take from the airport to the port?
- By Taxi/Uber/Private Transfer: 20 to 30 minutes in normal traffic.
- By 747 Bus + Transfer: 35 to 55 minutes total (including wait time, bus ride, and final taxi).
What if my flight arrives very late at night or early in the morning?
The 747 Bus runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, making it a reliable budget option at any hour. For safety and direct service at night, a taxi (flat rate available 24/7) or pre-booked private transfer is the most comfortable and secure choice.
Is the 747 Express Bus suitable for families with kids and lots of luggage?
It can be challenging. The bus has luggage racks, but space is limited and you'll need to manage all bags on/off the bus and into a final taxi. For families with more than one suitcase per person, the convenience and fixed cost of a taxi or larger UberXL/Lyft XL is usually worth the extra expense.
Can I use my contactless credit card on the 747 bus?
No. The ticket vending machines at the airport bus stops accept coins and credit/debit cards, but not tap-to-pay. You must purchase a paper ticket or day pass from the machine, or use a pre-loaded OPUS card. The bus driver does not sell fares or accept cash.