Do we need a visa or the 144 hr free exemption

We will be flying out of Montreal (YUL) Canada direct flight to Shanghai with Air Canada.To then board a cruise ship the same day. I have inquired with the Chinese embassy regarding the 144 hr exemption and they are not aware of this option, called Air Canada and was told that they cannot help us because of the number of customers is too onerous but did give us a link to their site (which I had already done), and not helpful. Therefore I am no further advanced in my quest for an answer. Do I need one or not ?????
Thank you ......