If you’re from Quebec City, you probably feel like the AML Louis-Jolliet has always been part of the landscape. When you look out at the river between Quebec and Lévis, you almost instinctively expect to see its silhouette gliding across the water, heading toward Île d’Orléans or the bridges, carrying thousands of passengers to memorable excursions, dinners, and evenings.
But before becoming the iconic name of St. Lawrence River cruises, the AML Louis-Jolliet lived many different lives.
Join us for a journey through the history of this beloved local vessel.
A 100% Local Ship
The Louis-Jolliet is a true regional pride. It was built in 1938 at the Davie Shipbuilding yard in Lauzon. That means this iconic boat has been navigating the St. Lawrence River for 88 years.
Immediately after its construction in 1938, it was launched as a ferry between Quebec and Lévis. Able to carry 50 vehicles and up to 500 passengers, it was a remarkable achievement for its time. It joined the rest of the fleet, including the Colbert, Bienville, Cité de Lévis, Cité de Québec, and Radisson, to ensure an essential connection between the two shores. The Louis-Jolliet fulfilled this role for more than 30 years, becoming part of everyday life for thousands of locals.
A Brief Appearance in Hollywood History
Movie lovers may be surprised to learn that the Louis-Jolliet once appeared in an Alfred Hitchcock film.
The vessel can be seen in I Confess, a feature film shot largely in Quebec City in 1952. In one scene, Montgomery Clift and Anne Baxter stand on the ferry’s deck with the city in the background. It was a genuine moment of cinematic glory for a local ship.
The Ferry Corporation Steps In
In 1971, the Quebec government created the Société des traversiers Québec-Lévis. At that time, the Louis-Jolliet was withdrawn from service and replaced, like other ferries of the era, by the Lomer Gouin and the Alphonse Desjardins. These newer vessels offered greater capacity, with space for 55 vehicles and 700 passengers.
They also had a major advantage for that period: year-round operation, something the older ferries could not provide.
Although the Louis-Jolliet left ferry service, retirement was far from its future.
The Hamel Family to the Rescue
Five years later, in 1976, the Hamel family, owners of the Compagnie d’Excursions Maritimes de Québec, purchased the former ferry. At the time, the company operated only one vessel, the Duc d’Orléans. The Louis-Jolliet became their second ship.
Significant work was required to transform the ferry into a true cruise vessel. After a year and a half of major renovations, the Louis-Jolliet was completely reborn and converted into a sightseeing boat designed to offer cruises on the St. Lawrence River.
Returned to service in 1977, it began carrying locals and visitors between Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré and the bridges, offering a unique perspective on Quebec City and its riverfront heritage.
Major Renovations for Québec 84
In 1984, Quebec City celebrated the 450th anniversary of Jacques Cartier’s arrival in Canada. Known as Québec 84, the event lasted nearly two months and became one of the first major international gatherings hosted by the capital. It marked a turning point in the city’s event history and in showcasing the river and the Old Port.
For the occasion, the city underwent a transformation, and the AML Louis-Jolliet did as well. Extensive renovations modernized the vessel, including the addition of a covered deck and several interior upgrades.
Following this work, the AML Louis-Jolliet became the largest sightseeing vessel in Canada, with a capacity of up to 1,000 passengers.
Ongoing Modernization for a Top-Quality Experience
Over the decades, further upgrades were carried out to ensure a first-class experience on board. In 2011, more than $3 million was invested to refurbish all three decks. The AML Louis-Jolliet was also equipped with a new, more powerful and environmentally friendly engine, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
A Quebec Icon That Still Shines on the River
After nearly a century navigating the river, the AML Louis-Jolliet remains one of Quebec’s most iconic vessels. Versatile and welcoming, it can host up to 1,000 passengers and offers meals prepared entirely on board. With glass-enclosed dining rooms, outdoor terraces, and sweeping views of the St. Lawrence River, the experience is remarkable from one deck to the next.
Even today, the ship holds a special place in Quebec City’s maritime landscape. Whether it’s a family celebration, a romantic evening, an outing with friends, or a group event, it continues to fulfill its mission: creating unforgettable moments on the river, year after year.
Want to experience it for yourself? Explore our Quebec City cruises, including our dinner cruises and evening cruises, and discover the St. Lawrence from a whole new perspective.
