Bota Bota, spa-sur-l’eau, Montreal’s iconic floating spa, marked its 15th anniversary with a major announcement: a second boat will join the beloved spa in Winter 2026, ushering in a new era of elevated urban wellness on the St. Lawrence River.
First opened in 2010, Bota Bota quickly became a staple of Montreal’s Old Port, known for its tranquil ambiance, panoramic city views, and signature water circuit that blends heat, cold, and relaxation. Now, the spa is expanding its horizons through a collaboration with Sid Lee Architecture. Its new vessel will be located perpendicular to the original, increasing guest capacity while introducing an array of enhanced experiences.
The expansion includes a spectacular large-scale sauna designed for immersive Aufguss ceremonies, an expanded water circuit with new cold baths, an outdoor hot tub, and an indoor whirlpool featuring sound, light, and botanical elements. Visitors can also expect modern, inclusive changing areas, including a gender-neutral locker room.
Anniversary-Celebrating Spa Expansions
Bota Bota, Spa-Sur-L’eau Will Open a Second Boat in 2026
Trend Themes
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Floating Wellness Retreats — Floating wellness retreats like Bota Bota are creating novel experiences by combining traditional spa elements with innovative water-based architecture.
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Multi-sensory Spa Experiences — Enhanced spa services incorporating sound, light, and botanical elements are redefining user engagement and creating unique immersive environments.
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Inclusive Spa Design — Designing gender-neutral and inclusive spaces in wellness centers is setting new standards for accessibility and user comfort.
Industry Implications
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Urban Wellness Tourism — The expansion of urban wellness centers along waterfronts taps into the growing market for city-based relaxation and rejuvenation.
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Eco-friendly Architecture — Collaborations with architecture firms are opening up pathways for sustainable design in floating structures and urban developments.
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Experiential Leisure Services — The leisure industry is evolving with concepts that emphasize experiences beyond traditional services, such as immersive Aufguss ceremonies and enhanced bath circuits.