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Paris River Cruise Guide – What is the Best Seine River Cruise in Paris?

Glide by the famous sights of paris on a river seine cruise.

The Seine River (La Seine in French) winds its way through the heart of Paris, bisecting the city from east to west. The Seine River is the origin of Paris , and its development is uniquely tied to the River.

If you visit Paris for the first time , book a Seine River cruise to experience the city from a different perspective and spot some of the most famous landmarks in Paris along the waterway. This is especially beautiful on a Seine River night cruise when the historical monuments are lit up: the Eiffel Tower , the Musée d’Orsay , the Conciergerie ,  Notre Dame , and more.

There are many Seine River cruises in Paris. Some of these Paris river cruises are only for sightseeing, while others come with dinner and music for an all-included magical experience. You can even craft your own River Seine cruise by chartering a boat for you and your crew! Go on reading for the best Seine River cruises Paris offers, with my best tips to help you decide.

Best Seine River Cruises Overview

Day river seine cruises, private seine river tours, seine river dinner cruises, seine sunset cruises, seine river cruises for families.

Table of Contents:

Paris River Cruise – How it Works

Seine river cruises in paris – itinerary & map.

• Best Seine River Cruise Paris (Sightseeing Only)

Best Private Seine River Cruise

Best seine river dinner cruise (and what to expect).

• Best Seine Sunset Cruise ( Seine River Night Cruise Without Dinner)

Best Seine River Cruise for Families

Seine boat tours – best tips.

A Seine River cruise is one of the top attractions in Paris. I recommend taking a Paris River cruise in the following Paris itineraries:

• 1 day in Paris itinerary
• 2 days in Paris itinerary
• 3 days in Paris itinerary
• 4 days in Paris itinerary
• 5 days in Paris itinerary
• 6 days in Paris itinerary
• 7 days in Paris itinerary

Many boat companies operate on the River Seine, and they all follow the same itinerary, more or less. The difference between them remains in the starting point, the options, and, of course, the experience onboard.

Seine River cruise times are roughly the same for all companies: 10 a.m. to 10.30 p.m.

All the boats are adapted to disabled visitors (wheelchair accessible).

A Paris Seine River cruise (only sightseeing) usually lasts 60 minutes to 90 minutes and is available every day of the week. Some cruises offer a glass of champagne, other drinks, and snacks as an option.

A Seine night cruise can be with or without dinner. A Seine River dinner cruise usually lasts 1hr 15 min to 3 hours, and it comes with or without live music. Most of these River Seine cruises with dinner offer different menus with vegetarian and vegan dishes, and this is something that you need to specify during the booking process.

With few exceptions, the itinerary is very similar to all the Seine River cruises in Paris. It covers the part of the Seine River that goes through the central Arrondissements of Paris , from the Eiffel Tower in Paris 7 to the Ile de Saint Louis in Paris 4.

Boats follow the Seine’s Left Bank downstream and turn after Ile de Saint Louis to follow the Seine’s Right Bank upstream.

Along the way, visitors can admire the following top sights: the Eiffel Tower, Assemblée Nationale, Musée d’Orsay, Institut de France, Cité de la Mode, Hôtel de Ville, Notre Dame Cathedral, Conciergerie, Concorde, Grand Palais, and Palais Chaillot.

Usually, the Seine River dinner cruises sail further to the Statue of Liberty on the Ile-aux-Cygnes .

The map below shows the point of departure of the best Seine cruises in Paris.

Click here to view this Seine River Cruises Map on Google

• Yellow: Bateaux Mouches
• Red: Bateaux Parisiens
• Green: Vedettes de Paris
• Purple: Batobus Paris
• Black: Paris en Scène
• Blue: Paris Canal (Seine River + Canal Saint-Martin)
• Brown: Trattoria On Seine (Italian meal + panoramic rooftop)

Best Seine River Cruise Paris ( Sightseeing Only)

Best combo tickets with a paris seine cruise (sightseeing only).

Save money with a Paris combo ticket! Combo tickets usually include 2 or 3 top attractions in Paris at a discounted price (usually 10-15% off).

Most popular combo tickets:

• Arc de Triomphe + Seine River Tour
• Hop-On – Hop-Off Bus + Paris River Cruise
• Seine Cruise Paris + Eiffel Tower
• Paris Seine Cruise + Louvre Museum
• Seine Boat Tour + Disneyland Paris

1. Bâteaux Mouches

The company Bateaux Mouches has been operating on the Seine River since 1949! The iconic Bâteau Mouche is today the fourth most visited paid attraction in Paris, only after the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Centre Georges Pompidou.

The Bâteaux Mouches can transport up to 600 passengers. They are the big double-decker boats with orange seats sailing on the River.

With this Seine River cruise, Paris’ top landmarks won’t have more secrets for you as the cruise is complemented by a pre-recorded narration in multiple languages. You can also book a glass of champagne.

• Duration:  1 hour 10 minutes
• Departure /arrival point: Pont de l’Alma Rive Droite – Port de la Conférence, Paris 8 Right Bank
• Adapted toilets on the pier, a removable ramp for access from the pier to the boat, and no steps on board. No adapted toilets on board.

Click here to Book this Seine River Cruise

2. Bâteaux Parisiens

The Bateaux Parisiens offer similar boat tours to the Bâteaux Mouches. The fleet consists of fully glazed boats that offer an amazing panoramic view, and they can transport up to 250 passengers. Visitors can also stay outdoors on the deck, but space is limited.

Starting from the Eiffel Tower, this Paris Seine River cruise comes with an individual audio guide that is available in 13 languages. The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour, and there’s the option to book it with a glass of champagne.

• Duration: 1 hour
• Departure /arrival point: Port de la Conférence, Paris 7 Left Bank
• Adapted toilets on the pier. Some boats have wheelchair access on the main deck and inside, while others can be accessed through a temporary wheelchair ramp. For adapted toilets also onboard, ask for “Juliette Greco” or “Brigitte Bardot” boats.

TIP: This Seine cruise is included in the Paris City Card . If you are considering buying this fantastic card, this is an extra reason to get it now!

3. Vedettes de Paris

The Vedettes de Paris are elegant, smaller boats that transport fewer people. During the 1-hour Seine River tour, you will learn about the history of Paris and the sights along the River with audio commentary.

This is the best Seine River cruise Paris has to offer to avoid crowds. The onboard bar offers interesting French-inspired apéritifs and snacks. If you know you will be tempted to try some, I recommend booking them online with your ticket: they are usually more expensive if paid onboard.

TIP: This Seine boat tour is included in the Paris Seine Pass . If you are considering buying this fantastic card, this is an extra reason to get it now!

• Departure /arrival point: Port de Suffren, Paris 7 Left Bank (see our Google map)
• Options: sightseeing cruise, sightseeing cruise + glass of champagne, sightseeing cruise + drink and /or snack
• Passengers with wheelchairs can be accommodated with the help of a staff member if passengers are able to climb the 3 steps. There are adapted toilets at the embarkation point and on the boats Paris Etoile, Paris Iéna, and Paris Trocadéro

4. Batobus Paris (Seine River Cruise Hop-On Hop-Off)

This  Seine River cruise hop-on, hop-off is the less touristy option available on the Seine River, and it is without audio commentary. It is a great alternative to the classic Paris hop-on hop-off bus because it avoids the traffic jams on the streets of Paris.

This is the best Paris River cruise for a more local experience. It is possible to get on the Batobus Paris as often as you want over a specified period of time without buying new tickets.

Batobus is the Seine River tour that I know best because years ago, it was included in the monthly Navigo Pass Metro pass. It was fun to sail the River Seine from time to time!

• Duration: 1 day or 2 days, with unlimited trips
• Departure /arrival point: passengers can hop on and off the boat at any of its nine stops: Eiffel Tower, Invalides/Pont Alexandre III, Musée d’Orsay, St Germain des Prés, Notre-Dame, Jardin des Plantes /Cité de la Mode, Hôtel de Ville, Louvre, Champs-Elysées.
• Only the stops at the Eiffel Tower and Louvre are accessible to wheelchair users. The other stops have too many steps.

6. River Cruise Paris with Champagne Tastings (Maxim’s + Ô Château)

This 1.5-hour Cruise with Champagne Tastings with a Professional Sommelier is the perfect combo for a unique afternoon in Paris. Board Maxim’s Bâteau Ivre , decorated in the Art Nouveau style, and enjoy the tastings of three champagnes carefully selected by the chef sommelier of Ô Château .

This is a more intimate and fun Paris Seine cruise, set in a Belle Epoque atmosphere. Your sommelier will also share stories about the monuments you see along the cruise while you enjoy the breathtaking view of Paris from the water’s edge.

• Duration: 1 hr 30 min
• Departure /arrival point: Le Bon Port, at the foot of Notre Dame, in Paris 4 (see our Google Map)

Click here to Book this Seine River Cruise with Champagne Tastings

7. Canal Saint-Martin + Seine Cruise

This Paris River cruise navigates the waters of the Seine River and Canal Saint-Martin. Admire Paris classics, like the Orsay Museum, the Louvre, and Notre Dame, before heading to the tunnels and locks of Paris’ most picturesque Canal.

This is a one-way cruise that starts at the Orsay Museum (Paris 7) and ends at Parc de la Villette in Paris 19. Then, you can explore this less-touristy district of Paris, with interesting sights like the Parc de la Villette, Parc Buttes-Chaumont, and the banks of the Bassin de la Villette. If you prefer, you can sail from La Villette to the Orsay Museum in central Paris by booking this tour .

• Duration: 2 hrs 30 min
• Departure /arrival point: Port de Solferino, in Paris 7 Left Bank /La Villette or vice-versa (see our Google map)
• Options: sightseeing cruise only

Click here to book this Seine River + Canal Saint-Martin Cruise

Craft your own experience and book a private cruise on the Seine River. Admire Paris’ most beautiful avenue while sipping a glass of wine or enjoying a picnic onboard.

There’s no best private Seine River cruise; it depends on what you are looking for! You can book this private Seine boat tour which follows a similar itinerary to the other Seine boat tours, or choose another boat more adapted for you and your group ( the map on this page shows where the boats are moored).

Most of the boats for rent in Paris come with a skipper, so let him do the hard work while you sit back, relax, and have fun with your partner, family, or group.

With this kind of river cruise, Paris will delight you. You can bring your own food and wine for a picnic or a French apéritif . Sometimes, you can purchase them as an add-on during the booking process.

Click here to book a Private Seine Boat Tour

A Paris night cruise with dinner is one of the best things to do in Paris at night . Enjoy the views and some of the famous foods in Paris while sailing through the city’s most beautiful avenue.

Some boat companies offer two Seine River dinner cruises a day, the first starting around 6 p.m. and the second starting at 8:30 p.m. or later.

The first Seine River dinner cruise is usually less expensive. This is because the menu options are more limited, and the cruise is shorter. The second dinner cruise is fancier and usually features live music.

For some people, 70 minutes is long enough to have their meal while enjoying some of Paris’s most beautiful sights. Others will find that it is a bit rushed.

Another important thing to consider is the time of the cruise, especially during the summer . If you want to do this Seine cruise at night, check out the Paris sunset times and plan your Seine night cruise accordingly:

• The 6 p.m. Seine River night cruise finishes around 7:10 p.m. This means that during the summer, you will be sailing in daylight.
• With the 8 p.m. Seine night cruise, you can be sure to enjoy the Paris illuminations during the tour, at least for the last part of the cruise.

The dress code for a dinner cruise in Paris is usually smart casual (check what to wear in Paris here ), but nobody will complain if you wear your best dress or suit! Find the best dinner cruise in Paris for you from the options below.

1. Bateaux Parisiens Dinner Cruise

Bateaux Parisiens offers a Seine River dinner cruise starting at 8:30 p.m.

In general, this Seine River dinner cruise gets good reviews for its food, drinks, and kind staff. The 3-course meal comes with different starters, main dishes, and dessert options, and all the proposals include a glass of champagne. There is also a vegetarian option available.

This Seine River dinner cruise features live music and lasts 2 hours and 30 minutes. The price varies depending on the menu and the placement of your table.

MAKE IT SPECIAL: I suggest paying a little extra to be seated along the windows (Service Privilege) or at the bows of the boat (Service Premier). It is well worth it! 

Click here to Book this Seine River Dinner Cruise

2. Paris en Scène Dinner Cruise

Paris en Scène is perhaps the lesser-known boat company offering Seine River dinner cruises in Paris. However, its proposal is very attractive and flexible, and it is definitely one of the best Paris River cruises with dinner.

First of all, the boats are imagined like a theatre where the Seine River is the main stage. All the seats are arranged in front of the windows to admire the Seine River and all the monuments illuminated along the way. The passengers are comfortably seated in large club chairs and they dine side by side on tables specially designed to enjoy both the view and the meal ( click here to see the pictures ). Boats also have a bar and a huge open sky terrace, so visitors can get the most out of the Seine River during the cruise.

With prices starting at 59€, this is definitely the least expensive dinner cruise in Paris. The meals are Parisian bistro-style, all cooked on-site, and with fresh and seasonal produce. Enjoy a 2-course menu starter, main, and dessert at your window-facing table, and upgrade it with wine or champagne.

3. Bateaux Mouches Dinner Cruise

Bateaux Mouches offers a River Seine cruise with dinner starting at 8:30 p.m. In general, this river cruise gets good reviews for food, wine, and entertainment.

The all-inclusive menu offers 3-5 different options (depending on the chosen menu) of starter, main dish, and cheese or dessert, and there’s always at least one vegetarian option for each course. Beverages and coffee or tea are included.

Bâteaux Mouches offers a romantic dinner cruise lulled by the sound of the piano and violin. Enjoy a three-course menu designed to bring you the best of French cuisine and good live music with your best company in the City of Light.

Best Seine Sunset Cruise (Seine River Night Cruise Without Dinner)

For those who wish to cruise along the Seine River at sunset – at night, admiring Paris illuminated, without having dinner –, there are a few options competing for the best Seine River night cruise without dinner.

An important thing to consider for a Paris night cruise is the sunset time, as the sunset in Paris in summer is quite late. If you want to take a Seine sunset cruise – night cruise, check out the Paris sunset times and book accordingly.

Both the Happy Hour Evening Cruise on the Seine and the Apéritif Cruise on the Seine are mid-size boats that come with music and a bar onboard. The difference between these two Seine cruises is the duration of the cruise, with a longer itinerary for the Happy Hour Evening Cruise. This Happy Hour Evening Cruise also offers the option to buy some food.

TIP: Save money with the Paris Seine Pass , a combo ticket that includes the Apéritif Cruise on the Seine mentioned above, access to the Sainte-Chapelle and the Orsay Museum , and a 10% discount on other Paris attractions.

What is the best Seine River cruise in Paris for families? There are a couple of Paris River cruises especially designed for families with children. They both last 1 hour, and the commentary is more adapted for the little ones.

The Paris Cruise for Kids (with Quiz) comes with a booklet – a Paris quiz for children, but it is in French.

In my opinion, the best Seine River cruise for families is this Family Cruise on the Seine . This Seine River tour comes with a funny live guide (English and French) specialized in capturing the imagination of the little ones. There is also an audio guide in other languages.

»  While you can buy tickets for most of the sightseeing cruises the same day at the dock, you may be able to save money by purchasing it online in advance. Be sure to print the confirmation email out and take it with you to claim your ticket at the dock.

»  First arrived, first served! Tickets for sightseeing cruises do not have a seat assigned, so try to arrive well in advance to find a good seat to admire the Seine River.

»  On a Seine night cruise with dinner, it is worth paying a little extra to be seated by the window and enjoy a better view.

» The Paris City Card tourist card includes a Seine River cruise. If you are considering buying this fantastic card, this is an extra reason to get it now! Find all the Paris City Card benefits here .

» Seine cruises might be canceled if the water level is too high or too low to operate. In this case, you will be given a couple of options, including a full refund.

So there you have it, a selection of the best Seine River cruises in Paris, so you can find the best River Seine cruise for you and your crew. Which Paris Seine cruise would you like to take right now?

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Quirky parisian explorer with a preference for lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about me ., i am elisa, the travel blogger behind world in paris. quirky explorer with a preference for the local side of my city and its lesser-known sights, i am continuously looking for new ideas to enjoy the best of paris & around . do you want to go beyond the louvre museum or the eiffel tower keep clicking for first-hand information & my best tips learn more.

Savvy Travel Advice

Seine River Cruises in Paris: How to Choose the Best Seine Cruise Boat Tour

Last updated: February 17, 2024 - Written by Jessica Norah 103 Comments

A Seine river cruise is a very popular way to see Paris, and one we always recommend to visitors to the city. These short river cruises allow you to take in many of the highlights of the city—the Louvre, the Eiffel Tower, the Musée d’Orsay, Notre Dame Cathedral, etc.—as you float along the Seine River.

Many of Paris’s most famous and important buildings, bridges, and attractions can be seen from the river. The river viewpoint also allows you to gain some good insight into the city’s history, evolution, and architecture. In fact, the banks of the Seine in Paris were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1991.

We have taken many Seine river cruises over the years on multiple visits to Paris with a lot of different companies, and we always recommend one to friends and family when visiting Paris.

However, deciding on the right cruise may be difficult as there are several companies that provide similar tours along the Seine River.

In this article, we’ll give you the details on the most popular sightseeing boat tours in the City of Light and help you decide which one might be best for you. We’ll also provide you with a list of Seine dinner cruises and companies offering private Seine river cruises for those looking for a special evening out. We’ll also let you know which ones we chose and why for our own Seine river cruise experiences.

Table of Contents:

Seine River Cruises: Main Paris Sightseeing Boat Companies

There are a lot of similarities in many of the Seine river boat cruises that offer larger scale cruises along the Seine.

First, most Seine cruises last about an hour in duration and stop and end at the same point unless otherwise noted. They also all complete approximately the same circuit although you can check for the exact map for each by going to the companies’ websites. Most companies operate sightseeing river cruises in Paris year-round.

In addition to regular sightseeing cruises, the majority of these companies also operate dinner cruises on the Seine (as well as other meals and special event cruises) if you are looking for a meal on board.

While you can buy tickets for most cruises the same day in-person near the dock, you may be able to save money by purchasing in advance. Often tickets are valid for 3 months to 1 year following purchase allowing you to choose the time and date of your Seine cruise. If you purchase a ticket or voucher online, be sure to print it out and take it with you to claim your ticket at the dock.

Some of the companies offer cruises seasonally whereas others operate year-round. Those that operate year-round often offer less frequent cruises in the low season. High season is generally from April to September and low season is from October to March.

Below we summarize the departure points, type of commentary or narration provided, cost of tickets, how to buy the tickets, and other points of interest about each company that offers Seine cruises. This list is in alphabetical order: 

1. Bateaux Mouches Seine Cruise

This is the oldest company operating cruise boats on the Seine River, starting service after World War II, and these boats have become somewhat of a symbol of Paris. Bateaux Mouches has some of the biggest boats which are easy to spot because they are big, double-decker open-top boats with orange seats.

The sightseeing cruises last approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.

Departure Points(s)

Leaves from Pont de l’Alma (right bank) in the 8th arrondissement.

Pre-recorded narration is provided in several languages, including English, over the boat speaker system. They also provide printed handouts in 22 languages.

Pricing & Tickets

Current prices (as of June 2023): adults are 15 euros, children age 4 to 12 are 6 euros, and children under age 4 are free.

You can buy tickets online (use our link for a small discount) , by phone, or at the dock. If you purchase your ticket online, you can collect your ticket before boarding at the Pont de l’Alma at the Compagnie des Bateaux-Mouches kiosk. You will just need to present your transaction number and proof of booking.

Accessibility

Step-free access is available and the bottom floor of the boats is wheelchair accessible. The boat configurations vary, but there are approximately 10 stairs to access the second floor and it is not accessible to wheelchairs.

Access to toilets on board the boats requires navigating stairs, but there are wheelchair-accessible toilets available near the docking area. Priority access for disabled guests is available.

Other Points

• Website: https://www.bateaux-mouches.fr
• Also provide lunch, dinner, and special events cruises.

These boats are probably the most popular on the Seine as they are the biggest and you don’t usually need a reservation to get on them. However, this makes them very popular with tourist groups so be prepared to share the boat with hundreds of other visitors.

The open-top is great in good weather and provides unobstructed better views than some of the other boats operated by other companies without the extra deck. However, in bad weather you’ll be forced into the glassed-in bottom half of the boat.

Narration is provided but it can be difficult to hear if the boat is busy or the weather is bad. 

2. Bateaux Parisiens Seine Cruise

Bateaux Parisiens have a large fleet of medium-sized boats. Most of the boats they use for sightseeing cruises have lower enclosed decks and an upper uncovered deck. This is probably the second most popular company on the Seine.

The sightseeing cruises last approximately 1 hour.

Leaves from the Port de la Bourdonnais (near the Eiffel Tower, on the left bank) in the 7th arrondissement -OR- from Quai de Montebello (near the Notre Dame) in the 5th arrondissement.

If you depart from near the Eiffel Tower , narration is provided through individual audio devices available in 14 languages on the lower part of the boat. A live guide is also available for questions.

If you sit on the upper part of the boat, the boat has recently started asking customers to download a free audioguide app on their smartphones rather than giving out individual audio devices. The app commentary is available in multiple languages, but you will need a smartphone and set of headphones or earbuds to listen.

If you depart from near Notre Dame then there is live commentary provided by a live guide in 3 languages (including French and English).

Current prices (as of June 2023) are 18 euros for adults, 9 euros for children age 4-13, and children under age 4 are free. 

Tickets can be purchased online , by phone, or at the ticket offices near the boats.

** DISCOUNT : If you plan to depart from the Eiffel Tower, you can save an extra 2 euros off your ticket price for any trips departing from the Eiffel Tower by booking your ticket online here .**

Note for PARIS PASS holders: Currently, a free Bateaux Parisiens Seine river cruise is included as part of the Paris Pass . Check the website or guidebook for most up-to-date info but Paris Pass holders can currently collect their free ticket by presenting their Paris Pass at the ticket window at Pier 3 at the Eiffel Tower departure port.

Read our review of the Paris Pass for more information, and take a look at our suggested 3 day Paris itinerary that includes this ride.

Step-free access via a ramp is available at the Eiffel Tower stop, and the bottom floor of the boats is wheelchair accessible. Access to toilets on board the boats requires going up and down stairs, but there are wheelchair-accessible toilets available at Le Bistro Parisien, the company’s restaurant near their Eiffel Tower dock.

• Website: https://www.bateauxparisiens.com/
• They offer lunch, dinner, and special events cruises. They also offer a special family-oriented cruise (offered in French only) that includes music and children’s activities.

If you choose Bateaux Parisiens and don’t have a strong preference regarding boarding location, I would choose the Eiffel Tower departure point as you’ll save with our discount , making this what we think are some of the best value Seine River cruises available.

If you plan to sit on top, be sure to download the cruise app onto your smartphone and bring your headphones or earbuds if you want to listen to the commentary.

3. Batobus Seine Cruise (well, sort of…)

These are hop-on/hop-off boats that make a circuit with 9 separate stops, all near major tourist destinations (e.g., Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower, Louvre). The Batobus is not really intended for a sightseeing cruise but can still be a good economical choice if you also want to use the Batobus for transportation.

If you use the boat to do a sightseeing tour, the full circuit takes about 2 hours. It stops about every 15 minutes.

Departure Point(s)

Boats leave from 9 different stops near the following sites: St-Germain-des-Prés, Notre Dame, Jardin des Plantes, Hôtel de Ville, Louvre, Champs-Elysées, Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, and Beaugrenelle.

The boats stop at each stop every 20 to 25 minutes depending on the season.

There is no narration during these boat tours as they are designed as a boat taxi service rather than an actual cruise. Staff members are on board, however, and can answer questions in both English and French.

For a 1-day pass current prices (as of November 2022) for adult passes (age 16+) are 20 euros and child (age 3 to 15) passes are 10 euros. Children under age 3 ride for free. For a 2-day pass, adult passes are 22 euros and child passes are 11 euros.

Tickets can be purchased online , at any of the 9 Batobus stops, tourist information offices, or at the Paris L’Open Tour Boutique (3 rue Auber, 75009 Paris).

Step-free access via a ramp is available only at the Eiffel Tower stop, and the bottom floor of the boats is wheelchair accessible. However, many of the other stops require steps or have cobbled walkways. There are no toilets on board these boats. Wheelchair accessible toilets are available near their Eiffel Tower dock.

I would not recommend Batobus for those in a wheelchair unless you plan to stay on the boat for a round trip ride as only the Eiffel Tower stop is easy to access for wheelchair users. Since there is no guided commentary on board, you are probably better off choosing another boat company.

Other Notes

• Website: https://www.batobus.com/
• There are no toilets on board these boats.

While these boats are meant to function as water buses they can still be a good choice for some views of Paris from the river. For some people who don’t want to use the bus system or metro, these can be an especially great and economical option.

For instance, a 1 day pass allows for unlimited transportation for an entire day and you can use the Batobus as a bus during the day and then sit back and enjoy the full circuit at night. Just note that if crowded these boats can get quite hot in the summer heat, but can be nice and warm on cool days as they are heated.

Please note that depending on where you want to go, there may be some walking involved to get there from the port stop. For instance, the stop closest to the Eiffel Tower requires a 15-minute walk to get to the monument from the boat stop.

4. Canauxrama Seine Cruise 

Canauxrama is one of the top companies for providing canal tours around Paris , but they also provide scenic tours along the Seine River as well as a combined canal and river cruise. The Canuaxrama boats vary a bit but all have a closed bottom deck and an open-top deck.

The main Seine River sightseeing cruises are 2 hours long and combine a canal cruise with a Seine River cruise.

There are a number of departure points depending on which cruise you take, so it is important to check which is right for the cruise you choose.

Some cruises, specifically the combined Seine River and Canal St. Martin cruises for example, departs from the intersection of Rue Jean Poulmarch and Quai de Valmy.

Specific Seine River cruises leave from Ile de la Cité near 19 Quai de l’horloge in the 1st arrondissement.

Canal cruises leave from the intersection of Rue Jean Poulmarch and Quai de Valmy .

Live narration on board by guide in French and English.

The 2 hour combined Seine River and Canal St. Martin cruise tickets are currently (as of June 2023) 22 euros for adults, 10 euros for children age 4-12, and free for children under 4. 

It is recommended that reservations should be made in advance for all cruises.

Tickets can be purchased online in advance , or at one of their two ticket offices at the Marina Arsenal or Bassin de la Villette.

Access to the Canauxarama boat boarding points require going up or down several steps and sometimes cobbled walkways. There are also steps (up to 6 steps) on some of the boats that passengers would need to be able to climb.

There are no ramps for wheelchair accessibility. However, some people with greater mobility who are in manual wheelchairs and have a person accompanying them to help them navigate the stairs and walkways, may be able to do these cruises. Mobility scooters are usually too heavy to be moved onto the boats.

There are no wheelchair-accessible toilets on board or near where the boats are docked.

• Website: https://www.canauxrama.com/en/
• The cruise described is generally only offered in the evening.
• Snacks and drinks (including alcohol) are available for purchase at the onboard bar.
• The company offers a wide variety of different types of cruises that include the Seine as well as a number of other waterways (mainly canals) in or near Paris, however, some of these cruises are not available year round.
• If you are interested in learning more about taking a Paris canal tour, check out our experience taking a Canauxrama cruise on the Canal Saint-Martin .

Canauxrama is better known for its canal cruises than Seine cruises; however, the company was purchased by Vedettes du Pont Neuf in 2007 which operates Seine cruise boats. If you are looking for a longer cruise (1.5 hours and longer) that does not include dinner, this is a good price.

The cruises that combine the Seine River and Canal St. Martin includes the unique experience of learning a bit about locks as the boat passes through a lock as transitions between the canal and the Seine River. Many people also appreciate the option to purchase snacks or drinks during the cruise. 

However, if you are looking for just a 1-hour, less expensive tour of the Seine, try another company. The longer cruises may be too long for younger children.

Also be sure to note the departure points and arrival points for the cruises as some leave from central Paris near the Notre-Dame Cathedral whereas others leave from the 12th arrondissement. Some cruises also do not have the same start and finish points. The Port de Paris-Arsenal is a bit further from the center of Paris than most of the other companies, but this may end up being great for those staying closer to the 12th arrondissement.

Another option if you are interested in combining a Seine River cruise and Canal Saint-Martin cruise is this 2.5 hour cruise with Paris Canal that includes a 1-hour Seine River cruise and then 1.5 hour canal ride. It departs from near the Musée d’Orsay (ends at Parc de la Villette).

5. Vedettes de Paris Seine Cruise

Vedettes de Paris operates smaller sized boats along the Seine River. The boat configurations differ a bit but each holds approximately 250 people for the regular Seine cruises.

The regular sightseeing cruises are 1 hour in length. They also offer short 30 minute stopover cruises that go between the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral, as well as longer round-trip cruises that last approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes.

The company also offers a special family-friendly cruise that is geared specifically to children and families.

Boats for the 1 hour cruise leave from Port de Suffren (near Eiffel Tower) in the 7th arrondissement.

Most boats now include an audio guide that will play in several languages including Dutch, English, French, German, Italian, and Spanish. But some boats still have live narration on-board by guides in French and English on some cruises.

The 1-hour non-stop Discovery sightseeing cruise is currently (as of June 2023) 20 euros for adults, 9 euros for children age 4-11, and free for children under 4. 

There is also an evening aperitif cruise , including a choice of a glass of wine (€24.5) or glass of champagne (€29). It’s also available without a drink for €20.

There is also a 1-hour family cruise offered that is geared to children and families, with a live guide in both French and English.

Tickets can be booked in advance online here , or purchased at the Port de Suffren port office.

Access to the Vedettes de Paris boats are now wheelchair accessible since they got a new pontoon platform in 2020. Those in wheelchairs can now embark and disembark with step-free access. On board, passengers can sit in a regular seat or move around the boat in their own wheelchair.

Wheelchair-accessible toilets are available on board the boat and in the boarding area. There is a dedicated disabled parking space.

• Website: https://www.vedettesdeparis.fr/
• Paris de Vedettes offers dinner and themed cruise options with snacks. They also offer a special children’s cruise.
• Snacks and drinks (including alcohol) are available for purchase onboard. You can also eat at the affiliated seasonal restaurant near the boat dock called Le Cafe des Vedettes. Sometimes there is a special deal if you combine a menu and a sightseeing cruise.
• The boat configurations differs depending on the boat, but all appear to have some indoor and outdoor seating. You can see some photos of each boat on the website.

Paris de Vedettes offers pretty much the same standard 1-hour cruise of the Seine as most of the other companies; however their boats are smaller than many of the other companies.

Boats with top decks allow for better viewing and pictures, but during cold weather everyone will be forced into the covered spaces. Live narration can be difficult to hear, especially near the engine and on top deck if crowded.

6. Vedettes du Pont Neuf Seine Cruise

Les Vedettes du Pont Neuf operates a small fleet of small and medium sized boats and have been operating tourist cruises since the 1960’s. The company offers some of the least expensive Seine River cruises. 

The basic sightseeing cruises are 1 hour in length.

Boats leave from the Square du Vert Galant near the Pont Neuf on the tip of the Île de la Cité (within walking distance of Notre Dame)

Narration is provided by live guides who give commentary in both French and English. You can also download the company’s free app that provides commentary in French, English, Spanish, Italian, German and Portuguese.

The website says the tickets (as of June 2023) are regularly 15 euros for adults and 9 euros for children 4-12. However, they often have a discount if you purchase the tickets online from their website . 

Tickets can be purchased online or at the port in person before the cruise.

The Vedettes du Pont Neuf boats have a ramp for access and can accommodate step-free access and passengers with wheelchairs and mobility scooters. The access ramp is located a little further beyond the stairs and staff can help assist in finding the best place to board and exit.

However, it is advised that you call in advance before booking if you need the ramp to ensure access on your planned date of travel.

There are no wheelchair accessible toilets on board or near where the boats are docked.

• Website: http://www.vedettesdupontneuf.com/
• Two of the boats currently have two decks with an open upper deck, but all boats allow for open-air and inside covered seating.
• Vedettes du Pont Neuf bought Canauxrama in 2007, so you may see boats with signage from both companies.
• The company now offers lunch and dinner cruises as well

If you are looking for the cheapest Seine River tickets, Vedettes du Pont Neuf is probably the best choice if you take advantage of their online deals. They also offer a great central location if you are going to be near Notre Dame.

If you choose this company, take some time to explore the Square du Vert Galant before or after your cruise as it can be a peaceful little green patch on the tip of the island.

Live narration is provided by real guides; however, both sound quality and guide quality can vary. You also have the option to download the commentary in advance and listen to it during your trip with your own smartphone and headphones.

7. Bateaux de Paris Seine Cruise

Bateaux de Paris is the newest company to offer regular Seine River cruises. Although the company primarily does private events, one of its smaller boats is used for seasonal tourist sightseeing cruises. The boat is one of the smallest boats offering regular cruises and easy to spot with its bright orange color.

The company only operates cruises between April and September and does not offer them daily.

The sightseeing cruises are 1 hour and 15 minutes long. They also offer shorter one-way cruises and cruises that include stopovers at the Eiffel Tower.

Leaves from near the Pont Saint-Michel (12 Quai des Orfèvres) in the 1st arrondissement in Paris.

No narration or commentary is offered on the basic cruise. However, you can add a handheld audioguide with commentary for 3 euros.

Current prices (as of June 2023): adults are 15 euros, children age 4 to 12 are 7 euros, and children under age 4 are free.

Tickets are also available for half cruises and cruises that do stopovers at the Eiffel Tower.

You can buy tickets online . Be sure to bring your booking confirmation to the cruise departure point.

Boat access requires being able to climb up and down a set of stairs so you need to be at least somewhat mobile to do the ride. There are approximately 30 steps from the dock to the boat. For those who can handle the steps, wheelchairs and walkers can be accommodated on the boat and there is a wheelchair-accessible toilet aboard the boat.

• Website: https://www.bateauxdeparis.net/
• Snacks and drinks are available for purchase on board the boat
• Sightseeing cruises only operate between April and September

Bateaux de Paris is the newest company to begin operating regular sightseeing tourist cruises on the Seine. It currently has only one boat that offers these cruises and it only operates seasonally.

The boat is one of the smaller boats on the Seine and also one of the least known, so it can be a good one if you are looking for a cruise with fewer people. The prices, if you don’t want the optional commentary, are some of the lowest.

The boat is covered on top but open on the sides to allow for good viewing. Because the chairs are set up facing one direction, we’d definitely recommend taking the full cruise so you get a chance to fully see both sides of the river bank. You can also walk along the deck.

If you want commentary during the cruise, you can hire the optional audioguide. We recommend bringing along your own headphones or earphones so you can better listen to the commentary.

Seine River Dinner Cruises in Paris

If you are looking for a special way to experience Paris, you may want to consider a Seine River dinner cruise. Many visitors want to see Paris at night from the river while having dinner on a cruise.

These cruises typically take place on boats that have a special glass enclosed restaurant area, so you can watch the scenery but are protected from the wind and rain. Some of the cruises are only for those dining onboard and some also carry regular sightseeing guests as well.

In addition to dinner cruises, some cruise companies offer brunch, lunch, and special themed cruises that also serve food. During holidays (e.g., Christmas, New Year’s, Valentine’s Day, Bastille Day), you’ll find a number of special cruises and menus being offered. The cost of a meal cruise generally ranges from about 50 € to 200 € per person. Lunch and brunch cruises are usually less expensive than dinner cruises and specialty themed cruises.

Some Seine River cruises packages are sold that include a Seine River cruise plus other attractions such as a visit to the Eiffel Tower , a private car tour, or the Moulin Rouge . These can be group experiences or, more commonly, private experiences. For example this evening tour (choice of dinner at Eiffel Tower or on the cruise) includes a Seine dinner cruise, Eiffel Tower visit, and Moulin Rouge show.

Note that almost all the cruises can accommodate vegetarians. But if you have a more specialized dietary preferences or allergies (e.g., gluten-free, vegan, etc.), you will want to check in advance to make sure it can be accommodated.

There are over a dozen companies offering Seine River cruises with dinner, but we’ll provide a list of some of the best-rated ones to help you narrow down your search. Be sure to read recent customer reviews to find the one that is the best cruise for you. We also have a complete guide to our favourite Seine River dinner cruises to help you choose one.

Seine River Lunch Cruises

If you’d rather have a meal in the daytime (better for sightseeing), there are several Seine lunch cruises to choose from, here are the ones we’d recommend checking out:

• This 2 hour lunch cruise by Bateaux Parisiens offers 3-course à-la-carte meal (choice of dishes), live music, wine and coffee, and choice to upgrade food and drink options. Vegetarian option available. Cruise departs from Port de la Bourdonnais (near Eiffel Tower).
• This 2 hour lunch cruise aboard La Marina de Paris offers a 3-course à-la-carte lunch  and coffee aboard boats with large panoramic windows for great views. Wine package (“drinks package) can be added for extra 10 euros per person. Vegetarian options available. Departs from Port Solferino (near the Musée d’Orsay).
• This 1.5 hour Sunday champagne brunch cruise is provided on Captaine Fracasse which is a company that specializes in meal cruises on the Seine. Brunch includes a mix of sweet (e.g., croissant, pain au chocolat , apple turnover, crepes, fruit) and savory items (e.g., eggs Benedict) that are freshly made on board to eat while enjoying the scenery . A 1/2 bottle of Champagne plus fruit juice and hot drinks (coffee, tea, hot chocolate) are also included. Only available on Sundays. Departs from Ile aux Cygnes, just off Bir-Hakeim bridge (near Eiffel Tower).

Seine River Dinner Cruises

Dinner is the most popular time to eat on a Seine River cruise and there are a lot of options out there. Here are the ones we’d recommend checking out:

• This dinner cruise by Bateaux Mouches is approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes long and provides a 4-course meal and live music. Two menu choices offered with 1 glass of champagne and 1/2 bottle of wine per person. Vegetarian option available. Smart dress code enforced. Wheelchair accessible. Tours depart from Port de la Conférence (5 minute walk from Pont de l’Alma).
• The well-rated dinner cruises by Bateaux Parisiens offer different cruise lengths, seating options, and menus (choice of dishes) across different price points. There is an early evening cruise that is 1 hour and 15 minutes (least expensive option) and a longer evening cruise that is 2.5 hours long that includes live music. Vegetarian option available. Smart casual dress code. Cruise departs from Port de la Bourdonnais (near Eiffel Tower).
• This 2 hour dinner cruise aboard La Marina de Paris offers a 3-course à-la-carte dinner with option to add a glass of champagne and 1/2 bottle of wine per person. Vegetarian options available. Departs from Port de Solferino, 1 rue de la Légion d’Honneur 75007 (near the Musée d’Orsay). We have done this dinner cruise and enjoyed it.
• This 2 hour dinner cruise by Captaine Fricasse offers a 3-course meal that is freshly cooked onboard the boat. Plant based menu available on request. Upgrades are available to add Champagne and drinks to the reservation or can order from the beverage menu. Tours depart from Île aux Cygnes, middle of the Bir-Hakeim bridge in the 15th arrondissement. We really enjoyed this dinner cruise when we did it.
• This 1 hour 45 minute dinner cruise by Paris en Scène serves a 3 course dinner (choice of main) in a casual bistro-like setting with all dinner chairs facing windows for a good view. Meals are freshly prepared on board. Champagne and wine options available. Vegetarian option available. Cruises  depart from Île aux Cygnes, middle of the Bir-Hakeim bridge in the 15th arrondissement.

Seine River Cruises: Private Boat Cruises

Most visitors to Paris want to join one of the regularly scheduled group Seine river boat cruises from one of the companies above. However, if you are looking for a special private or semi-private Seine cruise, this can also be arranged.

Most of the previously mentioned companies offer either a semi-private cruise option (e.g., a private area, restaurant, room, or terrace of a boat) or a fully private cruise option (an entire boat just for the exclusive use or you and your group).

Private Seine river cruises are great options for special celebrations, weddings, marriage proposals, large families, holiday parties, tour groups, or corporate travel events. Meals, drinks, and entertainment can also be arranged on most semi-private and private Seine cruises.

Costs for a fully private cruise generally start at about 200 € for an hour for 2 persons or a family and can go well above 2,000 € depending on the duration and type of cruise experience you want.

Here is a list of companies that offer semi-private or private boat tours along the Seine. First, here are those companies which specialize in private Seine cruises which are probably the best fit for those looking for a private experience as a couple, family, or small group.

• Lakana Paris Cruise – This company offers a 2.5 hour private boat cruise on the Seine for up to 4 guests. It is small company run by Gaël and Raphaël. This is the private cruise company Laurence and I have personally used and can recommend. Note that the cruise departs from outside central Paris (easily accessible from central Paris by bus and metro).
• Green River Cruises – This company offers boats that can accommodate 1 to 11 persons, and have set prices for cruises from 1 hour to 3 hours in duration. This is perfect for couples, families, and small groups. 
• River Limousine – This company offers private boat rides in a custom-designed Venetian boat for small groups of 1 to 6 persons. Perfect for couples and families. 

The rest of the cruise companies (most of which also offer regular sightseeing cruises) specialize in renting for private hires for larger groups, weddings, and corporate events.

• Bateaux Mouches – This famous Seine river boat company offers a variety of private hire options for up to 350 guests for personal or corporate events.
• Bateaux de Paris – This company currently has 3 boats and rents 2 out for exclusive use and can accommodate up to 250 people.
• Bateaux Parisiens   – Bateaux Parisiens offers semi-private experiences to smaller groups (2 to 50) as well as entire private boat hires for larger groups that can accommodate over 100 people.
• Batobus – A Batobus boat can be hired for private use and can seat up to 180 persons. These hires are geared towards shorter corporate hires.
• Canauxarama – This company offers boats for private use along both the Seine River as well as the Canal St Martin. Boats can accommodate between 50 to 200 guests.  
• Vedettes de Paris – This company offers boats that can accommodate 30 to 250 persons for events, cocktail hours, and sit-down meals and can do a variety of semi-private (part of a boat or lounge) to private options. 
• Vedettes du Pont Neuf – This company offers various options and can accommodate 30 to 200 people depending on the boat and type of event.
• Yachts de Paris   – This company operates a fleet of yachts and barges for private use in Paris which range from small to large boats, which can arrange sailings for groups from 2 to 800 people!

How to Choose Your Seine Cruise

So there you have it, the details of seven different companies that operate Seine river cruises in Paris, plus a list of companies that offer dinner cruises and private Seine River cruises!

Summary of Seine River Cruise Factors to Consider 

So how can you use all the above information to decide which Seine cruise might be the best for you? This is a matter of deciding on what is most important to you regarding the cruise. Main factors you probably want to consider:

• Location of port departure
• Price of tickets
• Narration type and languages
• Accessibility (for those with physical mobility limitations)
• Length of trip
• Size of boat
• Do you want to pay extra for a meal, themed cruise, or private cruise?
• Do you plan to purchase a pass, such as the Paris Pass , that includes a Seine cruise?

If you are short on time in Paris and interested in seeing a lot of highlights in one day (and do a Seine River cruise), we recommend this full day walking tour . It includes a Louvre tour, visit to Eiffel Tower, Seine River cruise, view of Notre Dame, and visit to Montmartre.

Best Time of Year to Take a Seine River Cruise in Paris

Most companies operate Seine River cruises year round. The high season for the companies is generally April to September with these being the most popular times to take a river cruise in Paris. Most companies have more frequent departures and more boats operating during the summer months.

Obviously the cruises are more pleasant, especially if you want to sit or stand outside, during the warmer months. It can be too cold or windy to sit outside during the winter months. If you have a flexible schedule, I’d try to go on a day without rain forecast.

The boats can become crowded, especially in the summer months and around school holidays. The first and last cruises of the day are often less crowded. If you are in Paris during a busy time of year, we recommend making sure you go to the port well in advance of your desired cruise departure to get your ticket and be among the first in line to get aboard.

Note that the cruises cannot operate in severe weather so during storms they are often canceled. They also cannot operate if the river levels get too high or low. Between November to April in particular, the water levels can often get too high making it difficult or impossible for them to go under some of the bridges, causing cruises to either stop operating or modify their sailings.

Seine River Cruise Tips

Once you know the cruise you want to take and have booked your tickets, here are some things to remember:

• We recommend booking your ticket in advance for any of the Seine cruises as the prices online may be discounted. However, for most of the general sightseeing cruises you can normally buy same day tickets in person at the dock. But for the meal cruises and any special event cruises, it is generally necessary to book in advance and have a reservation.
• Many of the Seine River cruise companies have very similar names. Be sure you know the exact name of the company you book your ticket with so you don’t get confused when trying to find the departure point. Even if you book the ticket through a third-party seller like Viator, you’ll want to know the boat company’s name.
• Make sure you know the location of the departure point and leave some time to find it. Many people have difficulty finding the cruise departure points since they are often not at an exact address. Most of the ticket kiosks are located along the riverside quays so you will need to be looking right along the river. You will often need to walk down a set of stairs to reach the riverside quays and find the boat docking location.
• Most boat companies ask that you be at dock and get your ticket at least 30 minutes before your departure. But this varies by company and the type of cruise.
• Many of the boat companies offer smartphone applications that you can download with the cruise commentary in various languages. If you wish to do this, be sure you bring your fully-charged smartphone and have headphones with you . You can download the app before your cruise or once you are there. In some cases, this is now the only option on some cruises for commentary.

Our Seine River Cruise Experiences in Paris

For my first Seine River boat tour in 2012 with then partner Ethan, we prioritized location, followed by price, and then narration. After researching the options ourselves, we personally chose Vedettes du Pont Neuf for an evening cruise along the Seine for a few reasons.

First, it was within a 5-minute walking distance of where we were staying in Paris. Second, it provided the best prices and we booked tickets in advance online for only 16 euros total for the two of us. These tickets also gave us a lot of flexibility regarding when we used them as they were good for one year following purchase.

Third, the live narration was preferred by us over pre-recorded narration although honestly it rained (unfortunately!) and it was difficult to hear the guide during parts of our cruise because of the rain. Finally, we were not interested in any sort of meal or specialty cruise and the no-frills cruises provided by this company was a good fit for us.

Overall, we were very satisfied with our choice as the only major problem was that it started to rain during our cruise. I would definitely recommend trying to do the cruise when you have good weather if you can.

Then in 2017 I decided to do another Seine river cruise with Laurence as he had never done one before. This time we chose the Bateaux Parisiens. Our decision was made simple on this visit as we were traveling with the Paris Pass and we were able to get free tickets with our pass for this cruise.

The main departure point for this cruise is next to the Eiffel Tower which is convenient if you are planning to do a cruise before or after a visit there. See our Eiffel Tower tips for making the most of your visit to the Tour Eiffel!

This time the weather cooperated and we were able to sit outside and enjoy the views. Towards the end we also moved inside and listed to the commentary. The Bateaux Parisiens boats are larger than those by the Vedettes du Pont Neuf and it was more crowded than my first experience but there was plenty of space to sit and move around. 

Hope this guide was useful in helping you select the Seine cruise that was the best fit for you during your trip to Paris. Essentially no matter which Seine cruise you choose, you are going to see the same scenery!

If you are planning to travel to Paris in the future, you might want to save this article by pinning it to Pinterest to read again later:

Have you taken a Seine cruise during a trip to Paris? Let us know what company you chose and let us know your feedback and tips for other readers trying to decide on a boat tour.

Have a question about taking a Seine River cruise or another question about traveling in Paris? As always, all questions and comments are welcome.

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BabaWaga Post author

May 19, 2023 at 5:26 am

Hi Jessica and Laurence, just wanted to send a little message of thanks: randomly found your blog post whilst researching Seine cruises for an approaching visit to Paris and can honestly say I didn’t need to go any further, your wonderfully informative article covered it all. Thank you so much! We have opted for the Vedettes de Paris sightseeing tour with our children as nice & close to the Eiffel tour where we are booked in to visit later that same day (I ordered the onboard champagne as a surprise for my hubs!)

As we will have a bit of time between disembarking and the Eiffel visit we’re looking for somewhere to stop by for lunch? Is there anywhere you would recommend nearby – cafe’s, restaurants all considered. Many thanks and warmest regards.

Jessica & Laurence Norah Post author

May 21, 2023 at 9:46 am

Hi BabaWaga,

So happy to hear that our Seine River cruise post was helpful in choosing a cruise company and booking a cruise. I am sure you will have a good time.

Yes, the locations near the Eiffel Tower make it really convenient to visit the tower afterwards. The Champagne I am sure will be a nice surprise. On tip is that I would recommend being early to make sure you locate the correct boarding spot (a few cruise companies board near there so it can be a bit confusing) and to be near the front of the line for your booked or preferred cruise time so you have more choice of seating.

So to be honest, there is not a lot of places I would really recommend there. But one nice (and inexpensive & kid-friendly) experience if the weather is nice is to get sandwiches or buy ingredients for a picnic (or buy them before your cruise) and have a picnic lunch on the Champs de Mars with a grand view of the Eiffel Tower. There are some benches there as well as areas of the grass that you are allowed to sit on (parts were closed when we were last there a couple of weeks ago but there was still plenty of space open). Just be sure to bring something to sit on and something to pack away your rubbish until you find a bin. I did this with my own family a couple of weeks ago and it was really nice.

Hope that helps and wishing you and your family a lovely trip to Paris!

Best, Jessica

Okon Post author

November 9, 2022 at 7:06 am

Great information at one spot! My spouse and I are planning a first-time Paris tour in the Spring, 2023, the tour that will include a dinner cruise on the Seine. Some of the luxury tour boats we see in pictures look like cattle boats. We’d like a boat which is less cram and with a seat/table choice. What interests us most in your presentation is the mention that Bateaux Parisiens Dinner Cruise has seat/table choice options. I wonder if there are other companies with that offer. Any more information in this regard will be highly appreciated.

November 10, 2022 at 10:23 am

So glad that you and your spouse are vising Paris for the first time in the Spring. Such a wonderful city 😉

So yes, the Bateaux Parisiens dinner cruises on the Seine do offer you a seating/table choice. But so do most of the other dinner cruises. I would recommend trying to get a table for 2 persons only with a window view. Some boats only have window views, but many have a middle row of tables as well.

Captaine Fracasse is another company that focuses only on lunch and dinner cruises and is often rated as having some of the the best food on the Seine.

But if you are really wanting a true luxury cruise and want a more private experience, you’ll probably want to book a private cruise if you have that kind of budget. In all the cruises they do try to pack in tables to get in the most guests for the given floor space.

As all the main companies are serving 50-100 guests a 3-course meal in a 1.5 to 2.5 hour period on a boat. The food and service was good in our experience and we enjoyed the dinner cruises we’ve taken, but it is not necessarily a luxury experience. All the dinner cruises are fairly similar. So you’ll want to go in with realistic expectations I think to enjoy the cruise as you are paying for being able to enjoy dinner while floating on the Seine.

Hope that helps, and just let us know if you have any further questions as you plan your trip to Paris.

jeff cabine Post author

April 6, 2022 at 4:37 am

I found it interesting when you said the boat layouts vary, but there are around 10 stairs to the second story, which is not wheelchair accessible. I used to think differently and now it makes more sense my disabled friend should love this trip to have fun. What you said about seine tours was really interesting to me.

April 6, 2022 at 7:19 am

Yes, I think you are referring specifically to the Bateaux Mouches boats as their boats are wheelchair accessible to get onto and the ground floors are accessible. But as you note, many of their boat have a second story which requires going up a set of stairs so are not accessible for those in wheelchairs or mobility scooters.

There are a few different Seine River cruises that are wheelchair accessible which is great. It is always a good idea to double check with any of the boat companies in advance of your visit as sometimes construction, docking, etc. issues can temporarily impact accessibility even if the boat itself is accessible.

Wishing you and your friends a great trip to Paris, Jessica

Jenn Post author

February 16, 2022 at 6:59 am

I just wanted to say thank you for including detailed accessibility information on your blog post. It is so helpful to me and almost no one includes actionable accessibility information. Thank you so much!!

February 16, 2022 at 7:05 am

You are very welcome, and I hope the information is helpful in choosing a Seine boat cruise company in Paris. The information was accurate pre-COVID so you may want to double check before booking with any company if the info is not noted when booking as I know some companies are running fewer boats now and have had to make some changes. But I think most of the information should still be valid.

Wishing you a great trip to Paris and just let us know if you have any questions!

SA NY Post author

November 11, 2021 at 12:22 am

Awesome info! Thanks for sharing this information on Paris cruises with us.

November 11, 2021 at 4:07 am

You’re welcome SA, and just let us know if you have any questions about choosing or booking a Seine cruise in Paris!

Jessica Post author

October 25, 2021 at 7:06 pm

Thank you for your helpful guidance! We will be in Paris for Bastille Day on July 14, 2022. Any suggestions for a Seine river boat cruise where we can watch the fireworks?

October 26, 2021 at 6:37 am

Hi Jessica,

Yes, Bastille Day is a great time to be in Paris if you enjoy celebrations and festivities. A couple of the cruise companies usually offer Bastille Day cruises in the evening, such as this particular dinner cruise which includes a special 6-course dinner with wine and Champagne.

I haven’t seen an announcement about the specific plans for Bastille Day in 2022, but the river is typically an excellent place from which to watch the illuminations and fireworks in central Paris. Normally the main fireworks are shot off from the Eiffel Tower and you get a wonderful view of the Eiffel Tower from the river. There will be both tourist cruises out as well as lots of small private boats to watch the fireworks.

Just note that for a holiday like this prices are going to be higher both for Seine cruises but also for dinner around that time period because of the holiday as many restaurants will be serving special menus. But it is a great time to be there. Just be sure to book well in advance for any cruises, activities, or dinners!

Mel Danbrook Post author

August 31, 2021 at 10:42 pm

Hello! We will be arriving in Paris on September 18/21. (arriving around 12:30pm) We only have that afternoon and evening to try and see a few sights (taking the train the following morning to Switzerland). Seeing the Eiffel Tower is on our list – the idea of a short Seine River cruise to try and see a little more of the city is intriguing! What would be a good river cruise option that leaves/returns close to the Eiffel Tower – probably one with a meal option as we would be looking to have dinner somewhere anyway. Any suggestions on options that will allow us to see a little more of the city in a short time frame would be wonderful! Cheers

September 1, 2021 at 11:56 am

Yes, it would be pretty easy to combine a visit to the Eiffel Tower and a Seine River cruise into one afternoon/evening. A few of the cruises leave near the Eiffel Tower. So one good option is the Bateaux Parisiens (listed above) which leaves from the Port de la Bourdonnais (a 5 minute walk or less from the Eiffel Tower). There is a discounted ticket for that one available here .

Another option might be take the Batobus hop-on hop-off boat cruise as that will allow you to get on and off the cruise as you wish. The Eiffel Tower is one of its stops. You can see more about it here .

But there are a few options. Most of the normal sightseeing cruises lasts about 1 hour. There are also dinner cruise options available as well which will be longer and in the evening. But since you are wanting to see the city, I’d probably recommend taking a sightseeing one in the daytime so you can more clearly see the landmarks along the river.

Hope that helps! Jessica

Tavish Post author

July 17, 2021 at 9:06 pm

Could you suggest the best option for a longer night time dinner cruise. My daughter just graduated and has never been to Europe, I had hoped to do this on our first evening, but the cost for a nice meal and a window seat seems to be in the 500$ range, and the reviews of the meals are awful, they say there is no customer service, and that many times the boats did not leave the dock without being offered a refund either. Time is not an issue, budget is, but mostly I want to start off her adventure with a really positive experience. The alternative idea was to try to get an earlier dinner at a really good restaurant (I dont know where), and then a nighttime cruise to see the lights and sites. I worry dinner would be too slow, and we would be pressured to get to the boat on time and it would ruin the meal. I would appreciate any guidance/suggestions. Thanks so much.

July 18, 2021 at 4:20 am

For the dinner cruises, you do need to get to the boat on time. You actually need to get there a bit early to make sure you have time to check-in and board. If you miss the boat, you simply miss it. Many people who leave poor reviews had trouble finding the boat, so I’d leave plenty of time for this as if you are not used to looking for addresses along the river, it can take awhile to find the correct spot.

Almost all the dinner cruises last about 2 hours and this was more than enough time for us to enjoy 3 courses. So I don’t think you’d feel rushed in terms of eating. But you do of course do some of the sightseeing while seated and eating your meal.

I am not sure how many people you are booking for but you should be able to easily find an option for $100 per person or less. You do have to pay more for extras like a guaranteed window spot, flowers, Champagne, etc. But for 2 persons on the cruise we did , seem to be currently ranging from $150 to $250 for 2 persons, depending on the extras.

Some of the dinner cruises and regular Seine river cruises are currently not running due to the pandemic so that is something to keep in mind as well as there are fewer choices at the moment than 2 years ago.

Captaine Fracasse is probably the cruise best known for having better food. But I would recommend not booking for the meal itself but for the overall experience, we had good food on our cruises but it was not amazing. Most of their evening cruises are 2-hour dinner cruises.

But if you are looking for the option to order what you want à la carte and the level of service that you can get at a nice restaurant on land, you may be better suited to do the dinner at a restaurant and then get a regular evening cruise to see the sights at night. If you go that route, I’d consider what cruises can work and then find a restaurant within walking distance, a short metro, or taxi ride away from the departure point. If doing a regular sightseeing cruise, your ticket is usually good all day so you have the flexibility of when you get to the boat, you just need to get there well before their final departure time.

Sarah Post author

November 26, 2020 at 5:29 am

Oh, you know, once l used the service of Bateaux Mouches Seine Cruise. Water and everything that connected to it is my passion, even in Amsterdam l was sailing on a boat 3 times during 1 week of stay. Enjoyable. Thank you, guys, for this article!

November 26, 2020 at 6:35 am

Glad you enjoyed your Bateaux Mouches cruise on the Seine while you were visiting Paris — sounds like you really enjoy river cruises!

Nancy Post author

February 15, 2020 at 2:53 pm

We will be in Paris June 8, 2020. We are coming in for the afternoon from Charles De Gaulle Airport. We would like to take the evening cruise at 21:00. Since we aren’t staying in Paris and need to get back to the airport after the cruise, what cruise line and departure point would you recommend? We would also like to sit on the top deck outside. Thank you so much for any information you can give us!

February 16, 2020 at 3:24 am

I think the best cruise probably depends on what else you plan to do in Paris and how you plan to return to the airport. So for instance if you plan to visit the Eiffel Tower (or something nearby), you could do that, and then walk from the tower to a boat departure point. Two of the main places where the Seine River cruises leave (and return) are near the Eiffel Tower and near Notre-Dame.

Most of the cruise companies will have a 21:00 (9:00pm) departure time in June as that is a very popular time of year for the cruises. Many of the cruise companies depart every 30 minutes. Most cruises are 1 hour in duration. You have many choices for cruises.

I would suggest maybe checking out Vedettes de Paris or Bateaux Parisiens as they both leave from near the Eiffel Tower and I think most (if not all) of their boats have top decks with outdoor seating. They normally have departures every 30 minutes in the summer. If you buy a voucher online, it is good for the full day and then you can exchange it at the company ticket booth for when you want to take the cruise.

Note that all of the boat companies have multiple boats and the boats can have different deck and seating configurations so you can’t guarantee a particular boat. It also might not be possible (or desirable) to sit outside if the weather is bad. If there is a type of seat you want, I’d get into line early to be among the first to board for your departure.

If you are planning to go directly to CDG airport after the cruise, you could then walk to the metro station, take Line 6 to RER B. RER B will take you directly to the airport. Or, of course, you could catch a taxi to the airport.

February 16, 2020 at 12:11 pm

Thank you so much! We will take your advise. You have a lot of good information on your web site! Nancy

Davina Cipriano Post author

January 3, 2020 at 5:47 pm

My daughter and I will be coming to Paris in March. When we purchase the ticket do we have to purchase for the exact date we plan on using it? We are going to be in Paris for a little over a week. Or do can we purchase the ticket and use it on the day that works best for us? I notice online it make you pick a day but then says its good for like 6 months.

January 3, 2020 at 6:57 pm

Hi Davina, Sounds like a great trip. For the Seine river cruises, it depends on the cruise company and which cruise you want to take. But yes some of the companies that have the regular daily sightseeing cruises allow you to buy a ticket and then use it for any date and time for a certain period of time (6 months, 1 year). So I am not sure which company you are referring to specifically, but if the ticket says it is valid for 6 months, then I am sure it is valid. Feel free to follow-up with the cruise company and I’m happy to double-check for you. Best, Jessica

Lauren Levy Post author

December 14, 2019 at 5:51 pm

HI! We’ll be in Paris in December and want to take a river cruise with teenagers. Thinking we’ll do an evening cruise sans the food. But we want to take a boat out and around the sister of the US Statue of Liberty. What cruise do you suggest? Is it pretty to see this at night or should we regroup and do this during the day instead? Thank you!!

December 15, 2019 at 10:33 am

Yes, unfortunately, many of the boats do turn around near the Pont d’Iéna after passing the Eiffel Tower, which is just before they get to the Liberty of Statue replica statue. For instance, the Bateaux Parisiens course map shows that its longer lunch, dinner, and festive cruises go past it but not the regular 1 hour sightseeing cruises.

The 1.5 hour Canauxarama sightseeing cruise does go there, probably because it is a bit longer, so that might be the best cruise for you if you don’t want a meal.

From the boat, you can see if just after you go under the bridge Pont de Grenelle, it is located just at the tip of the Île aux Cygnes (Island of the Swans). The statue is probably easiest to see and photograph during the day, but they do light it up at night so you can see it at night as well. When you view the front of it from the boat, you can also see the Eiffel Tower in the background.

You can also walk over by bridge to the Île aux Cygnes as well if you find yourself in that area and want to see the statue up close.

Celeste Post author

December 8, 2019 at 3:35 pm

My daughter and I will be in Paris in late December. Given that it will be cold and possibly rainy, do you have a recommendation? We simply want to see the sites (no meal necessary). Also, are the river cruises impacted by the current strikes? Thank you!

December 9, 2019 at 6:56 am

Hi Celeste,

Yes, I think all the regular Seine cruise boats have ample enclosed/covered as well as open-air space, so any of them should be OK in case of rain/cold. But definitely dress warmly as the air moving through the boats will make them feel a bit colder. We’ve personally used Bateaux Parisiens and Les Vedettes du Pont Neuf and I’ve sat inside on both (once during rain).

I’d recommend going during the day as it will be warmer and you can see more – at night you can see the lights and the Eiffel Tower lit up, but you can’t see the rest of the sites very well.

I don’t believe the Seine River cruises are being affected by the current strikes in Paris, but the strikes are having a huge impact on the metro, suburban trains, and traffic. Hopefully they will end before your trip, but if not, you’ll need to allow more time to get around.

Hope that helps, and just let me know if you have further questions.

Cindy Post author

October 16, 2019 at 3:06 pm

I’m so confused. 2 of us will be travelling to Paris in May 2020, which Seine River cruise would you recommend for us and which canal cruise would you recommend? Is a canal cruise worth doing? Thank you

October 17, 2019 at 10:47 am

It really depends on the type of cruise you are looking for and I review all the major companies that offer Seine cruises above. Do any sound better to you than the others?

If you are just wanting a sightseeing cruise (no meal) and don’t have a particular price point or concern for where it departs, I would say Bateaux Parisiens is a good one to consider. We’ve done it and it is a standard and popular sightseeing cruise that offers daytime and evening cruises. Cruises last about 1 hour. It has both covered and open seating and you can listen to narration on your phone (pre download app to phone) or in the bottom part of boat using wired in wands. You can read more and book ahead here .

If you are interested in also doing a canal cruise. I would consider combining a Seine River cruise and Canal Saint-Martin cruise, you might consider t his 2.5 hour cruise with Paris Canal that includes a 1 hour Seine River cruise and then 1.5 canal ride. It departs from near the Musée d’Orsay and ends at Parc de la Villette (it is NOT a round-trip cruise).

If you have limited time in Paris and are not overly interested in the canal, then I’d say to just do the Seine River cruise. I’ve done the canal cruise and enjoyed it but the canal section is much slower as it has to slowly go through each lock and there are no major attractions to see unlike the Seine River portion which goes past places like Notre Dame, Musee d’Orsay, and the Eiffel Tower.

BTW, if you plan to purchase the Paris Pass , then a Seine River cruise is included so don’t book separate tickets.

Hope that helps, Jessica

October 17, 2019 at 5:10 pm

Thank you for the great advice.

Cassim Degani Post author

May 25, 2019 at 8:23 am

Will like to take the Siene cruise on the historical boat on June 5th during midday

May 25, 2019 at 8:29 am

Hi Cassim, Which cruise company do you plan to take? You can book your ticket online in advance or just show up a little early and buy it at the dock. You can often save a few euros by booking in advance, depending on the cruise company, so that is generally what we recommend. Also in summer, although boats have large capacity they can sometimes book out in advance. Enjoy your Seine cruise. Best, Jessica

Patty Post author

May 10, 2019 at 1:10 pm

Thank you for this review. We will be in Paris in two weeks and wanted to take an anniversary dinner cruise. This will help me out a lot to make a final decision.

May 12, 2019 at 11:58 am

Hi Patty, Glad you found our article helpful, and I’d read over the reviews for the dinner cruises and pick one that sounds like a good fit. Wishing you a wonderful anniversary in Paris 😉 Best, Jessica

Bob Post author

February 25, 2019 at 7:24 pm

Excellent info, thank you so much for sharing a great article. We are in Paris for a week (first time, probably only time) and we having a hard time deciding between day and night. Do you think it would be worth it to take a day and evening Seine cruise? Thanks for any input.

February 26, 2019 at 6:49 am

Hi Bob, Yes, I think that if you want to see the views from the river both during the day and night, then taking two cruises may be a good choice for you since you have a full week in Paris. I would not recommend this if you had only a few days. You might consider doing one of the cruises as a meal cruise (lunch or dinner) and then one just as a sightseeing cruise to change it up a bit. Enjoy your time in Paris. Jessica

Peter Post author

February 20, 2019 at 6:52 am

Great advice. I’ve had the pleasure of staying at a hotel near this river where I could jog from Notre Dame to the Eifel Tower. It was a wonderful trip.

February 20, 2019 at 7:23 am

Hi Peter, Yes the area along the Seine River in central Paris is great and you are able to see a lot of the most notable attractions from a Seine River cruise which is nice! Best, Jessica

jdawg Post author

January 29, 2019 at 11:51 am

Thanks you for the comprehensive article.

Trying to narrow down and decide which to take. My wife and I will be traveling with out 7 & 9 year old kids.

Would you recommend an evening / nighttime cruise or daytime?

Also thinking that the 2 hour tour might be too long for the kids?

Thanks again!!

January 29, 2019 at 12:31 pm

Hi there, Yes, I agree that I would choose one of the 1 hour cruises as 2 hours may be too long for the kids (and perhaps some adults).

If looking for a cruise (not a hop on hop off) I’d skip Batobus. If cost is a factor Vedettes du Pont Neuf usually offers the lowest priced online tickets. But I’d also let location guide you if none stand out to you and a few of the companies leave from the Eiffel Tower and a couple from Notre Dame so that might help narrow down which might fit better into your itinerary.

Day or night is hard and we’ve done both. Both are enjoyable in different ways. The highlight of the evening cruises for most is seeing the illuminated monuments, particularly the Eiffel Tower sparkling but you can see a bit more in the day time. If traveling in winter, I’d definitely make sure you have a boat with indoor seating. I’d maybe ask your kids opinions and let them choose between night and day 😉

Enjoy your Seine cruise and time in Paris! Jessica

Marlene Post author

December 15, 2018 at 11:45 pm

I just wanted to let you know simply how much I appreciated the time you took to write this useful post on Paris cruises. It is so complete and helpful, and as my father travels with either a cane or wheelchair, the accessibility information was essential and something we did not find elsewhere. Thanks so much for your excellent travel blog!

December 16, 2018 at 5:23 am

Hi Marlene, Thanks so much for taking the time to leave a comment and we are so happy to hear that you found our information helpful. We hope that it has helped you decide which Seine river boat cruise is best for you. Yes, it can be difficult to find a river cruise that is accessible but there are a few boat companies that make this possible for those using canes or wheelchairs. Wishing you a wonderful trip to Paris! Best, Jessica

Sharon Post author

October 22, 2018 at 11:05 pm

This article was very helpful! It really narrowed down the options. Thank you!

October 22, 2018 at 11:07 pm

Hi Sharon, Thanks so much for taking the time to comment, and we love to hear our post was helpful. Just let us know if you have any questions about Seine cruises in Paris! Best, Jessica

Ro Post author

October 21, 2018 at 3:30 am

Any offer vegan food on the dinner cruises?

October 21, 2018 at 8:34 am

Hi Ro, Most offer meat options as mains, but most also offer a vegetarian option. A few can do vegan options by request. I know Paris en Scene offers the option for a vegan menu on their Seine dinner cruises, but you need to make the request to the company after you make a dinner cruise reservation. Here is an example of one of their dinner cruises. Best, Jessica

Bill Post author

August 6, 2018 at 1:35 pm

Can you provide any information on wheelchair accessibility? There is a lot of very general information available on the cruise websites but very little specifics. My wife travels in a wheelchair buy is able to manage a few steps. Are there steps to board the boat? (and how many?) Is there a lift to the top deck? Are toilets available and are there steps involved? Thank you for any information you can provide.

August 6, 2018 at 2:13 pm

Yes, the cruise boat operators unfortunately do not share much info on accessibility (France is notoriously bad about this). I don’t know a lot about the accessibility of the boats but many do have stairs and I doubt any of them have lifts. The other issue is that most companies have several boats, and not all are of the same design.

I actually researched this a bit for another reader who emailed last week which Seine cruises were wheelchair accessible. It seems like the best chance is going to be from one of the cruises that leave from near the Eiffel Tower as these are the most popular and appear to have the most services and there is at least once access ramp here.

I would recommend calling the company you are most interested in to check specifically about accessibility and the specific needs you may have, but here is the info I found on the main Paris Seine River cruise company websites:

-Here is what the Bateaux Parisiens website says: “Bateaux Parisiens welcomes people with reduced mobility. For safety reasons, the number of seats may be limited depending on the configuration of the boat. Access to toilets on our boats is only by stairs. PMR toilets are available at Bistro Parisien, our restaurant dock, pontoon n ° 2.”

-Here is what Batobus website says: “Can disabled people in wheelchairs board the Batobus? Because of the many steps leading to the quays and/or the boats, only the Eiffel Tower stop has wheelchair access. NOTE: access to this stop is via a ramp that is also used by vehicles.”

-Here is what Canauxrama says: “The access to the boats is problematic for people with wheelchairs, especially at the Marina Arsenal since it is entirely paved. Plus there are stairs on some of our boats. Only the persons with manual wheelchairs can do the cruise on the Saint-Martin Canal if they are accompanied with people who can help them. It is the same problem for the cruise on the Marne River, because there are stairs at the landing stage in Joinville le Pont.”

-I could not find NO accessibility information on the Vedettes de Paris , Bateaux Mouches , or Vedettes du Pont Neuf websites.

I would love to know what you find out if you contact the companies about this and I would love to hear about your experiences to update this article and better help future readers. I will note that the other reader I was talking to said that the company he contacted did not respond to his email, so calling is probably the best way to get an answer from some of them.

Hope this helps! Jessica

Regina Post author

June 21, 2018 at 8:25 am

What is the temperature month of October ? What would be a nice romantic dinner an Eiffel dinner or Seinne river cruise ?

June 25, 2018 at 1:19 am

In October the weather in Paris is often cool but not cold, although it can be warm. Rain is definitely a possibility. I’d check the forecast closer to the time. I’d just check the forecast that morning and dress appropriately. You’ll be covered and warm at a Eiffel Tower restaurant or a Seine River dinner cruise (just make sure it offers indoor or covered dining area) so the weather should not matter too much. I think both would be nice. I have eaten in the Eiffel Tower and most tables have a nice view over the city (I’d request one when you make your booking). But on the boat you are on the water with the ever-changing scenery of Paris and you have the Eiffel Tower as a beautiful backdrops.

There are a few restaurants on the Eiffel Tower (e.g., 58 Tour Eiffel and Le Jules Verne) and the most well known is probably Le Jules Verne which offers fine dining. Note that the prices here are high as you are paying more for the location and view than the food here. It is a nice experience but expensive.

The Seine River dinner cruises are likely going to be less expensive than a dinner at the Eiffel Tower but may not offer as many options or be as nice as a restaurant. You can check out compare some of the dinner cruise options here .

If budget is a factor, I’d consider visiting the Eiffel Tower first and then doing a dinner boat cruise in Paris. Many of the cruises leave near the Eiffel Tower. That sounds like a very nice romantic evening that combines both the Tower and the cruise 😉 But either way, I am sure you’ll have a wonderful evening, just be sure to book in advance.

Hope this helps, and wishing you a romantic trip to Paris! Jessica

Mae Post author

June 5, 2018 at 9:29 am

Hello there. I’m so thankful I found your blog. This is very helpful. It’s my first time visiting Paris this July. I was wondering if you think it will be a good decision to do the cruise in the evening. I have a Paris Pass, btw. Will the ticket for the cruise that’s included in the Paris Pass allow me to do the Seine cruise in the evening? How long does the cruise take?

June 6, 2018 at 3:28 pm

Glad you found our articles helpful in planning your Paris trip 😉 A night cruise can be nice, we particularly like getting on the boat just before sunset. But we’ve also done them during the day and at night to see the lights – any time is nice really as long as the weather is good 😉

Currently, Paris Pass holders can claim a free ticket for a Seine River cruise with Bateaux Parisiens. The cruises take approximately 1 hour. The current schedule shows that these tours depart every 30 minutes between April-September from 10:00 to 22:30. So yes you can definitely do a night cruise if you wish.

But you can consult the Bateaux Parisiens website or this page for the Paris Pass information on the cruise for more details and the latest updates before your trip.

Hope this helps and wishing you a wonderful trip to Paris!

Laura Post author

April 15, 2018 at 6:36 pm

Very helpful article! Thank you! I think I would looking at Vedettes du Pont Neuf due to location. I leave in may, can’t wait!

April 17, 2018 at 10:49 pm

Hello Laura, Thanks so much for taking the time to comment and enjoy your trip to Paris and your Seine river cruise!! Best, Jessica

Michael Barnes Post author

April 15, 2018 at 12:09 pm

Hi – great blog, so thanks for the time you’ve taken to share what you’ve learned. Question, though – in this page about the river cruises, you mention that the Paris Museum Pass included a particular sightseeing boat tour, but your page about the Museum Pass says that no boat tours are included. Looking at the Museum Pass’ own website, it looks like there is no longer a boat tour included. Is that now correct?

April 15, 2018 at 12:12 pm

I think I just answered my own question – here you’re referring to the Paris Pass, not the Paris Museum Pass. Thanks.

April 17, 2018 at 10:47 pm

Hi Michael, Yes, the Paris Pass and Paris Museum pass are separate passes although the Paris Pass includes the Paris Museum Pass as well as several other attractions, including the Seine cruise. Best, Jessica

April 17, 2018 at 10:46 pm

Hi Michael, Glad you found the post helpful. Yes it is the Paris Pass (not the Paris Museum Pass) which includes a Seine River cruise and the information is still correct as of today. Enjoy your time in Paris! Best, Jessica

Norma Post author

March 23, 2018 at 5:54 am

Amazing post here, Thank you so much for taking the time to write about and compare all the Paris river trips. I think I am going to do a dinner cruise on the Seine!

March 23, 2018 at 7:00 am

Hi Norma, Great, glad you found it helpful and wishing you a lovely dinner river cruise in Paris 😉 Best, Jessica

Philippe Post author

March 7, 2018 at 2:53 am

Your article was very helpful! Thank you so much! 🙂

March 7, 2018 at 7:45 am

Hi Philippe, You’re very welcome 😉 Enjoy your trip to Paris. Best, Jessica

hind idris Post author

March 4, 2018 at 1:24 am

thank you for the kind info on seine river boats really thank u

March 4, 2018 at 6:03 am

Hi Hind, You are very welcome 😉 Hope you have a fantastic time in Paris. Best, Jessica

Chartres Post author

January 17, 2018 at 11:29 pm

Thanks for this amazing blog about boat cruises in Paris. Very helpful!

January 18, 2018 at 6:31 am

Glad you found it helpful, wishing you a wonderful trip to Paris!

Andrew Drogby Post author

December 1, 2017 at 4:55 am

Hi thanks for this article about the river cruises in Paris . I tried Bateaux Parisiens after reading your article. My experience was great. And I wanted to share it with you… If you go in Paris in winter especially I advise you the illumination cruise. It s cold during the winter but you will be able to feel all the romanticism of Paris city. After 5 pm the darkness come over the city and the buildings around the Seine river are illuminated. This emphasizes the character of the city . Be sure to bundle up otherwise you will be a Mr Freeze!

December 2, 2017 at 12:37 pm

Hi Andrew, Glad that this article helped you choose a Seine river cruise, and glad you had a great time with Bateaux Parisiens. Yes, warm layers are definitely a must on river cruises, especially in the winter, when it can get pretty cold outside in Paris!! Stay warm and enjoy the rest of your winter trip to Paris! Best, Jessica

Sacha Post author

June 22, 2017 at 1:25 am

Good & helpful information on Seine river boats!!!

June 22, 2017 at 10:19 am

Hi Sacha, Glad you found our Paris article on Seine river cruises helpful, and thanks so much for taking the time to leave us a comment 😉

John Post author

June 14, 2017 at 8:38 am

I have a few safety tips for the Seine river boat cruises. Watch out for your stuff at all times. Check whether all your bags are present throughout the entire trip. Be extra vigilant when changing locations and boats to avoid loss or theft. While these tips are important, there’s nothing like experience to help ensure a safe voyage.

June 15, 2017 at 10:19 am

Hi John, Thanks so much for sharing these safety tips for the Seine Cruise boat tours in Paris! Best, Jessica

Nicolleen Post author

May 5, 2017 at 6:40 am

I really thank you for your amazing write- up. It really did helped in making my mind up with regards to the Seine river boat company that I needed, You should write more since you are doing such an impressive job!!! Thank you once again

May 5, 2017 at 12:55 pm

Hi Nicolleen, Thanks for taking the time to comment and glad that our article helped you choose the Seine cruise tour that was a best suited for you! Enjoy your trip to Paris. Best, Jessica

alicia Post author

May 2, 2017 at 8:32 pm

FYI all the children’s cruises are in French

May 4, 2017 at 1:50 pm

Hi Alicia, Thanks for this information!

Note: She is referring to the fact that Vedettes de Paris have recently introduced special children’s boat cruises on the Seine for children (mostly for school groups, reservation required) and they are currently only available in French as of May 2017.

sai kapoor Post author

February 1, 2017 at 8:21 am

We are planning for a short trip to paris, your article was very helpful in planning our trip. Thank you

February 2, 2017 at 4:25 am

Hi Sai, Glad to hear this and thanks for taking the time to comment. I hope you found the perfect Seine Cruise boat for you and that you have a lovely trip to Paris! Best, Jessica

Mohammed Post author

July 19, 2016 at 8:51 pm

I really thank you for your amazing write- up. It really did helped in making my mind up with regards to the Seine river boat company that ! needed, You should write more since you are doing such an impressive job!!! Thank you once again

travelcats Post author

July 21, 2016 at 4:49 am

Hi Mohammed, glad the post was useful to you and thanks for taking the time to leave us a comment. Enjoy your trip to Paris! ~ Jessica

Gulzar Post author

June 25, 2016 at 5:49 am

Thank you for the write up. This really made it easier choosing the Seine cruise for my upcoming trip to Paris.

June 25, 2016 at 8:02 am

Hi Gulzar, Great, glad this was information was helpful in helping your choose the best Seine river cruise for you. Have a great trip to Paris! ~ Jessica

Shannon Post author

May 27, 2016 at 3:58 pm

Wow, I am planning our 21 day European vacation and know that I want to do a cruise on the Siene River. I have been overwhelmed at the choices and trying to figure out which company to go with. Thanks for writing this article! It includes all of the major companies that have come up during my research. Since we are staying near the Eiffel Tower, I will take location into consideration, however I do like the idea of a live guide.

May 27, 2016 at 6:43 pm

Hi Shannon, Thanks for taking the time to write a comment, we greatly appreciate it and it makes our day to know we are providing useful and helpful travel info! I hope you have a great European vacation and best of luck on choosing a Seine river cruise; I am sure you’ll enjoy any cruise on the Seine. Paris is a wonderful city! Happy travels, Jessica

Ginn Post author

January 21, 2016 at 5:26 am

Very good info, im glad that i found your blogpost here. I was trying to google which boat offer an open deck

January 21, 2016 at 6:13 am

Hi Ginn, Glad you found the post on Seine river cruises helpful. As you can probably see by looking at the photos, almost all of the boats have some open deck seating. I would just avoid the Batobus as it is not very open and is not really designed for sightseeing (it is a hop-on/hop-off boat). I think you should be fine with any of the other companies, and just try to get in line early to make sure you get the type of seat on the boat you want. Enjoy your time in Paris! ~ Jessica

Devon Post author

November 7, 2015 at 10:55 am

This is a great post. I’ve been writing similar one during my trip around the world and I’m happy to use yours. I’ll be on the Seine tomorrow!

November 8, 2015 at 3:35 am

Hi Devon, glad you liked the post and hope it helped you choose a Seine cruise in Paris that is right for you. You are happy to link to our post in your own post about the Seine. Enjoy Paris, I look forward to visiting again next month! ~ Jessica

Mike Post author

October 15, 2015 at 7:03 am

Hey, yes cruising in the Seine river certainly one of the best thing to do in Paris. I have tested many of them. I think the best one certianly the cruise between Normandy and Paris. (the impressionist road by the river). I also like dinner cruises in Paris, it’s a good way the visit the French capital. We I have some visit (familly or friends) I generally book a simple cruise with bateau. For originality ,you can also try the canauxama in the Canal St Martin.

October 24, 2015 at 7:08 am

Hi Mike, yes, I also really enjoyed the cruise on the Canal Saint Martin which is a nice thing to do if you have already done a Seine river cruise in Paris. You can read about our experience on the canal cruise here:

https://independenttravelcats.com/2014/02/16/canal-cruises-paris-boat-ride-canal-saint-martin/

Meghan Post author

October 16, 2013 at 12:10 pm

I wish I could remember with which company I went on a boat cruise when I was in Paris. But I do remember it was a great way to rest our feet after tromping around the city and up the Eiffel Tower!

October 16, 2013 at 4:55 pm

Yes, it is definitely great to get an hour or two off your feet after a lot of walking!

MOl S Post author

October 16, 2013 at 4:28 am

Excellent! I’ll definitely take a cruise on the Seine the next time I’m in Paris

October 16, 2013 at 5:19 pm

Yes, hope you enjoy it!

Missy Homemaker Post author

October 12, 2013 at 9:44 am

I am just loving reading about your travels! I’ve nominated you for a Sunshine Award. You can read about it on my post today 🙂

Vanessa Morgan Post author

October 7, 2013 at 3:45 am

Beautiful photos of Paris and great information.

October 7, 2013 at 8:44 am

Thanks Vanessa!

Kate Post author

October 6, 2013 at 11:59 pm

I never took advantage of a boat tour on the Seine because I used to walk past it so frequently and saw a lot of parts of it in my time living in Paris. I had some friends that did and said they enjoyed it. But I think it’s different when you are just visiting I guess, less time to see things.

October 7, 2013 at 8:43 am

Yes, what I think is interesting about the cruises is they give you a different perspective of the buildings and scenery from the water than from the banks.

Miwa Post author

October 6, 2013 at 4:00 pm

New follower! Your blog is amazing! Such great photos and detailed info. I will definitely keep this post bookmarked for the next time I’m in Paris. (Not sure when that’ll be but hopefully soon!)

October 6, 2013 at 4:09 pm

Thanks for stopping by, glad you enjoyed the post. Paris is a special place for us as it was my first international trip when I was 16 and about 10 years later the first place Ethan and I visited together as a couple. Look forward to checking out your blog as well.

Suzanne Lucas Post author

October 5, 2013 at 8:02 am

Although I’m sure the rain wasn’t the greatest for your cruise, I must say the picture of the Eiffel tower through the rainy window is stunning. Paris is definitely on my must-see list. Thanks for the insight.

Stopping in from the Happy Kids Blog Hop.

October 6, 2013 at 12:06 pm

Yes, between the rain and having to keep the windows closed during about half the cruise, it did put a bit of a damper on the cruise but we came prepared with a travel blanket, jackets, and rain ponchos and made the best of the trip. We’d love to do it again with the rain!

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5 Best Seine River Cruise in Paris: Your Ultimate Guide

Searching for the perfect Seine River Cruise in Paris, but overwhelmed by the choices? You’re not alone. Paris offers a smorgasbord of cruising experiences, from quick one-hour sightseeing jaunts to luxurious evening sails complete with Champagne and gourmet dinners .

Deciding on the best Seine river cruise can feel like navigating a complex maze of options, each more tantalizing than the last.

That’s why I wrote this guide. I live in Paris, love the Seine River Cruises and curated this exclusive list of the best Seine River cruises available.

Let’s set sail and discover the Seine as you’ve never seen it before.

Salut, I am Lena – travel planning expert and parisienne since 2006 🩷

If you purchase through links on this site, I may earn – at no cost to you – a small commission. This helps me cover my costs and keep my website running. Thank you so much for your support 🙂   Learn more

Quick List: The Best River Cruise in Paris

If you’re not in the mood to sift through endless options and prefer a quick guide to the best choices, you’re in luck. Below, I’ve distilled the wide array of Seine River Cruises down to an essential shortlist—featuring the top 3 most popular and highly recommended experiences in Paris.

Best 1h River Seine Cruise

• Roundtrip Seine River Cruise
• Audio Commentary
• Panoramic Views on Eiffel Tower , Notre Dame and more
• Boarding at the Eiffel Tower

Best 2h River Seine Lunch Cruise

• All-inclusive 3-Course Lunch with drinks
• Panoramic Views on Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and more

Best Seine Dinner Cruise

• 3-Course Dinner with Drinks
• Live Jazz Music & Window Seating
• Panoramic views on Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and more
• Boarding near Musée d’Orsay

These top 3 Seine River Cruises are reliable picks if you prefer not to sift through the multitude of options available for river tours in Paris

However, if you’re interested in exploring additional options, or if you’re still undecided about which Seine River Cruise is the best fit for your Paris trip, continue reading

Don’t miss these articles, they can help you plan your Paris trip:

• Is the Louvre Worth It? Your No-Nonsense Guide
• 20 Arrondissements in Paris (Quick Guide + Map)
• 21 best things to do in Paris on a Sunday

The Agony of Choice: Find the Perfect Paris River Seine Cruise

I’ve created a decision tree to help you easily identify the Seine River Cruise that best matches your preferences, expectations, and budget.

The 5 Best Seine Cruises in Pairs

Do you know now which Cruise is the best for you? And which boat tour in Paris matches best your expectations? Then here’s for without further ado the compiled list of the best 5 Seine Cruises in Paris.

#1 The Go-To Option: One-Hour Sightseeing Cruise on the Seine

➲ Secure your seat on board of the Bateau Mouche here

The standard one-hour sightseeing cruise on the Seine is a fail-safe choice for any Paris visit.

This budget-friendly option allows you to view Paris’s most celebrated landmarks from the comfort of your seat—no extravagant add-ons, just the essentials.

For those pressed for time or seeking flexibility, this is an ideal pick. Most cruises of this kind depart every 30 to 60 minutes throughout the day.

The top-rated Seine River Cruise embarks right at the base of the Eiffel Tower. You can book it here . The tour offers a multilingual audioguide available in 10 languages , and accepts mobile vouchers—no need to worry about printing tickets. Just display it on your mobile device, and you’re all set to cruise.

Despite its straightforward approach, the tour doesn’t skimp on amenities, offering onboard WiFi for your convenience. Click here for exact schedules and booking info.

#2 Gourmet Lunch Cruise on the Seine: Savor the Sights

➲ Book this Lunch Cruise in advance , it sells out quickly

Picture this: you’re aboard a riverboat, cruising past iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Île de la Cité, all while indulging in a gourmet French meal and sipping fine wine . Sounds idyllic, doesn’t it? This two-hour Seine River Cruise offers just that experience .

As you sail, you’ll be entertained with live commentary and treated to a three-course à-la-carte French menu that includes an appetizer, starter, main course, and dessert. And let’s not forget the wine! For an even more authentic French experience, you can add a cheese course as an extra.

The cuisine on this lunch cruise is of a gastronomic caliber because it features a broad selection of French classics like foie gras and duck, as well as various meat, fish, and vegetarian options. To preview the menu in advance, click here.

Be aware that lunch cruises on the Seine are highly sought after and tables fill up quickly. To secure your spot, check rates and availability here and book in advance .

#3 Jazz & Dining: The Best Seine Dinner Cruise

➲ Book this 3-Course Dinner Sightseeing Cruise here before it’s booked out

Want to elevate your Paris experience? Consider hopping on a 3-course dinner cruise that sets sail close to the Musée d’Orsay. As you drift along the Seine, you’ll catch iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, all from the comfort of your guaranteed window seat.

But let’s talk about the food—you’ll get to savor a gourmet 3-course meal complete with wine, Champagne, and other beverages . If you’re a fan of live music, the Jazz band on board adds a touch of ambiance without overwhelming the experience.

You have the flexibility to choose between a 1.5-hour early evening sail or a more leisurely 2.5-hour cruise. The dress code? Smart casual , so it’s stylish yet relaxed.

One note: the cruise is intended for those 10 years and older.

Don’t wait too long to book . Spots tend to fill up fast.

➲ 1.5h Seine Dinner Cruise starting at 6 PM: See availabilities here

➲ 2.5h Seine Dinner Cruise starting at 8PM: See availabilities here

#4 Private Boat Tour in Paris: An intimate Seine Rive Cruise

➲ Book your private boat tour in Paris here

Opt in a Private Boat Tour in Paris for an intimate and luxurious adventure on the Seine .

The boat accommodates up to eight people, so it’s ideal for your small gatherings, celebrations, or simply an elevated sightseeing experience in Paris. If you travel with a pet, I have good news because your furry companions are also welcome on board.

The journey begins at the Statue of Liberty near the Eiffel Tower and sails all the way up to Notre Dame and back. Here you have the choice to either disembark where your tour began, or near the Louvre. A convenient drop off location, for your next Paris stop.

If you’re in the mood for a Parisian apéro, feel free to bring your snacks and drinks to enjoy as you cruise.

To top it off, the boat is equipped with Bluetooth speakers, so you can set the soundtrack to your unforgettable cruise. All while absorbing Paris from an entirely unique vantage point.

Click here to see if the Captain has still availabilities on your travel dates.

#5 Paris Night Cruise: The Illumination Cruise Explained

➲ Book your Night Time Paris Seine Cruise here

Discover the magic of Paris at night with an “Illumination Cruise” on the Seine. While the name might make it sound like an exclusive, high-priced affair, the reality is much simpler.

Essentially, this is your standard 1h-Seine River Paris Cruise but timed perfectly to showcase the city’s lights. Simply choose a late time slot—ideally around or just after sunset—to experience Paris as it transforms into the “City of Light.”

Aside from the dazzling lights, everything else about the cruise remains the same, from the iconic landmarks you’ll pass by to the ticket price. So you’re getting an extraordinary experience for the ordinary cost of a Seine cruise.

This evening adventure is perfect for photographers, romantics, or anyone wanting to see Paris from a different angle.

Don’t miss out on this enchanting yet surprisingly affordable experience. Book your Illumination Cruise now to capture Paris in its finest light.

Panorama View from a Bateau Mouche

You may be wondering what sights you’ll encounter on your Seine River Cruise and whether it’s worth your time and money. Rest assured, it’s a valuable experience.

Not only does a Seine cruise offer a picturesque overview of Paris in a condensed timeframe, but you’ll also glide past many of the city’s major landmarks.

• the Tour Eiffel
• Musée d’Orsay
• Musée de Louvre
• Île de la Cité
• Grand Palais
• Petit Palais

Your Seine river cruise will also pass through more than 20 bridges – some of them are the most famous bridges in France , like the Pont Neuf, the Pont Alexandre III, and the Pont des Arts.

Paris Seine Cruise: Travel Tips

Be Prepared for the Weather: Don’t overlook weather conditions. Pack sunscreen for sunny days or an umbrella and raincoat for unexpected showers. Keep in mind you may have to wait in an uncovered queue before boarding. ( Find the latest weather forecast here ).

Mobile Vouchers: Check in advance if your chosen tour accepts mobile vouchers. Some tours still require printed vouchers, which can be inconvenient if you’re already on the go.

Dress Code: If you’ve opted for a lunch or dinner cruise, be sure to review the dress code requirements to avoid any boarding issues.

Consider the Paris City Pass : Before finalizing your booking, take a look here at the Paris City Pass . It covers over 60 activities, including the Seine cruise. If you plan on multiple activities, the pass often offers better value. ( Click here for a full list of included activities ).

There you have it—the top Seine River Cruises in Paris, tailored to fit a variety of preferences and budgets. Whether you’re in the mood for an indulgent dinner cruise or just a laid-back scenic ride along the Seine, both are bound to be highlights of your Parisian adventure. Enjoy 🙂

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PS: Check out these posts, they will help you plan your trip to Paris

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FAQ Seine River Cruise in Paris

The standard 1h Seine River Cruise with one of the Bateaux Mouchesstarts at €16. Lunch cruises start from €60 and Dinner Cruises from €80.

A Seine Cruise is a lovely way to see Paris. It is very popular and one of the best things to do in Paris. Because while you sit relaxed on board, you see some of the most spectacular sights of Paris: The Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Pont Neuf and many more.

The standard Seine River Sightseeing Cruise in Paris takes 1h. If you opt in for a Lunch or Dinner Cruise on the Seine, allow 1.5 to 2.5 hours. To be on time, make sure to arrive 15-30 Minutes in advance.

To be on the save sight, it’s best to book the Paris Seine Cruise in advance. The standard Cruises are often not dated, and you can use the voucher whenever it suits you. Dinner and Lunch Cruises need to be booked in advance, as they sell out very quickly.

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River Cruise Help

Your Cruise Guide

How Long is the Seine River Cruise?

Are you curious about the Seine River Cruise and the different routes it offers?

Wondering about the duration of the most popular, shortest, and longest routes?

Want to know about the highlights of the cruise and the main landmarks you’ll see?

Interested in learning about ticket options, prices, and any discounts available?

Looking for tips on how to make the most of your Seine River Cruise experience?

This article has all the information you need for an unforgettable cruise along the iconic Seine River.

Key Takeaways:

• The duration of the Seine River Cruise varies depending on the route, but the most popular route takes about 1 hour.
• The shortest Seine River Cruise route takes about 30 minutes, while the longest route can take up to 4 hours.
• The best times to take the Seine River Cruise are during the day for optimal sightseeing and in the evening for a romantic and illuminated experience.

What Is the Seine River Cruise?

The Seine River Cruise provides a delightful way to explore the heart of Paris, offering picturesque views and memorable experiences along the iconic river.

One of the unique features of the Seine River Cruise is the opportunity to witness Parisian landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum from a different perspective, gliding peacefully on the water.

The gentle sway of the boat, coupled with the commentary providing insights into the history and culture of the city, enriches the cruise experience, making it both educational and relaxing.

The varied options available, from sunset cruises to dinner packages, cater to different preferences, ensuring there is something for every visitor to enjoy.

What Are the Different Routes of the Seine River Cruise?

The Seine River Cruise encompasses various routes that showcase the charm and elegance of Paris, with different tour operators offering distinct itineraries and experiences.

One popular route for the Seine River Cruise takes passengers past iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum, providing a picturesque view of the city’s rich history and culture.

• Bateaux Parisiens and Vedettes de Paris are renowned for their classic cruises that highlight these renowned sites.
• Companies like Canauxrama offer more specialized tours focusing on lesser-known gems along the riverbanks.

For a unique twist, some operators even host themed cruises like wine-tasting journeys or evening dinner cruises, adding a touch of exclusivity and sophistication to the experience.

How Long Is the Seine River Cruise?

The duration of a Seine River Cruise varies depending on the selected route and the level of narration or commentary provided during the journey, offering visitors flexibility in choosing a tour that suits their preferences.

Many Seine River Cruises range from a quick one-hour tour to a leisurely three-hour excursion, catering to diverse interests and time constraints. The narration options available on these tours also play a pivotal role in enriching the experience, with some offering detailed historical insights into iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. The number of sightseeing stops along the route can significantly impact the overall duration of the cruise, giving passengers the chance to explore key points of interest along the picturesque banks of the Seine.

What Is the Duration of the Most Popular Seine River Cruise Route?

The most popular Seine River Cruise route typically lasts around 1 to 1.5 hours, allowing passengers to admire iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre Dame Cathedral from a unique vantage point.

As the cruise gently glides along the Seine River, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of Paris ‘s renowned attractions. The journey offers glimpses of the majestic Eiffel Tower towering over the cityscape, the grand Louvre Museum displaying its cultural treasures, and the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral with its Gothic spires reaching towards the sky.

With each passing minute, the boat weaves through the heart of Paris, providing a picturesque backdrop of historic bridges, charming riverside cafes, and lively quays. The serene waters of the Seine reflect the city’s beauty, creating a mesmerizing sight for all aboard.

What Is the Duration of the Shortest Seine River Cruise Route?

The shortest Seine River Cruise route typically offers a quick 30-minute excursion, perfect for those looking to enjoy a brief yet enchanting voyage departing from central locations like Pont de l’Alma and Quai de Montebello.

These convenient departure points provide easy access for travelers to hop on board and start their journey along the iconic Seine River. Pont de l’Alma, situated near the Eiffel Tower, offers a picturesque starting point with breathtaking views of this architectural marvel reflecting on the water.

On the other hand, Quai de Montebello, located close to Notre Dame Cathedral, sets the stage for a historical and cultural experience as you sail past landmarks that narrate centuries of Parisian history.

What Is the Duration of the Longest Seine River Cruise Route?

The longest Seine River Cruise route offers an extended journey lasting up to 3 hours, catering to visitors seeking a comprehensive exploration of Paris’s beauty and accessibility to lesser-known gems along the river.

During this cruise, passengers can revel in the iconic sights of Paris, from the breathtaking Eiffel Tower to the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral, while also venturing into more secluded spots that are often missed by traditional tours.

The boat meanders through the heart of the city, passing by charming neighborhoods like Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Le Marais, offering a unique perspective of Parisian life along the riverbanks.

Explorers can witness the beauty of hidden gems such as the picturesque Île de la Cité and the enchanting Palais de Chaillot, gaining a deeper appreciation for the historical and architectural wonders that line the Seine.

What Are the Highlights of the Seine River Cruise?

The Seine River Cruise treats passengers to a visual feast of UNESCO World Heritage Sites , including the majestic Eiffel Tower, historic Notre Dame Cathedral, and the renowned Louvre Museum, among other Parisian landmarks.

As the cruise sails down the tranquil waters of the Seine, passengers are enchanted by the architectural marvels lining the riverbanks. The grand Palais Garnier, a masterpiece of Neo-Baroque architecture, and the iconic Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former railway station, offer a glimpse into Paris’ rich cultural heritage.

The picturesque Île de la Cité, home to the Sainte-Chapelle with its breathtaking stained glass windows, and the imposing Les Invalides complex, housing the tomb of Napoleon Bonaparte, are other highlights that showcase the city’s historical significance.

What Are the Main Landmarks Seen During the Seine River Cruise?

The Seine River Cruise offers splendid views of iconic landmarks such as the Champs-Elysées , Hôtel de Ville, and Pont Neuf, showcasing the grandeur and beauty of Paris from a unique perspective on the water.

As the boat glides along the Seine, passengers are treated to a picturesque sight of the Eiffel Tower standing tall against the Parisian skyline. The magnificent Louvre Museum, with its glass pyramid entrance, glistens in the sunlight, reminding visitors of the city’s rich artistic heritage. Moving further along, Notre Dame Cathedral, with its Gothic architectural splendor, emerges majestically, offering a glimpse into Paris’ historical significance.

Every turn on the cruise reveals a new marvel, from the Musée d’Orsay, known for its impressive collection of impressionist art, to the charming Ile de la Cité, the heart of Paris, where the timeless beauty of Sainte-Chapelle captures the imagination of all who behold it.

What Are the Best Times to Take the Seine River Cruise?

The best times to embark on a Seine River Cruise are during the early morning or evening hours, allowing passengers to witness the magical glow of Parisian landmarks like the Musée d’Orsay and Notre Dame Cathedral as the city awakens or twinkles at night.

During the serene morning hours, the soft light casts a gentle golden hue on the iconic Eiffel Tower, making it a picturesque sight against the backdrop of the River Seine.

Quietly floating past the Louvre Museum in the early hours provides a unique perspective on this world-renowned cultural hub. As the evening descends, the vibrant lights adorning the Palais de Chaillot and the romantic Pont Neuf bridge create a mesmerizing spectacle for those aboard the cruise, adding a touch of enchantment to the whole experience.

What Are the Options for Seine River Cruise Tickets?

Various ticket options cater to different preferences and budgets for the Seine River Cruise, allowing visitors to choose from standard fares, premium packages, or discounted rates for a personalized and affordable experience.

Travelers can opt for the standard fares, which provide access to the essential features of the river cruise experience. For those seeking extra comfort and luxury, premium packages offer exclusive amenities like onboard dining or private viewing decks. Discounted rates are available for seniors, students, or families, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the enchanting journey down the Seine without breaking the bank.

What Are the Different Ticket Prices for the Seine River Cruise?

The Seine River Cruise ticket prices vary depending on the chosen operator such as Bateaux Mouches , offering a range of options from standard tickets to exclusive packages that cater to different preferences and levels of luxury.

One of the most popular ticket options offered by Bateaux Mouches is their standard ticket, which provides passengers with a classic cruise experience along the Seine River at a reasonable price point.

For those seeking a more upscale experience, there are premium tickets available that often include additional perks such as priority boarding, complimentary drinks, and access to exclusive lounges on board.

Moreover, Bateaux Mouches also features special packages for occasions like sunset cruises, dinner cruises with gourmet meals, and even private charter options for intimate gatherings or events.

Are There Any Discounts or Special Offers for Seine River Cruise Tickets?

Special discounts and offers are often available for Seine River Cruise tickets, with operators like Batobus providing promotions, package deals, and seasonal discounts to enhance the affordability and appeal of the cruising experience.

These promotions can include discounted rates for children, students, and seniors, making it a great option for families and travelers on a budget. Plus the cost savings, some packages may also offer perks like complimentary drinks, guided tours, or even access to exclusive events along the Seine River. By taking advantage of these offers, passengers can not only enjoy a leisurely cruise but also experience the beauty of Paris from a unique vantage point, all while saving money and creating unforgettable memories.

What Are the Tips for a Successful Seine River Cruise Experience?

To ensure a memorable Seine River Cruise experience, consider packing essentials like a camera , comfortable attire, and perhaps a guidebook to fully appreciate the sights and sounds of Paris during the leisurely tour.

Don’t forget to bring along a pair of comfortable walking shoes as exploring the ports of call along the Seine River may involve some walking. It’s also advisable to pack a portable charger for your electronic devices, especially if you plan on taking photos or videos during the cruise.

To make the most of your experience, consider booking a sunset cruise to witness the breathtaking views of iconic landmarks illuminated by the setting sun. Taking a lightweight jacket or shawl is also recommended as the evenings can get cool on the water.

What Are the Recommended Items to Bring for the Seine River Cruise?

Recommended items to bring for the Seine River Cruise include a camera to capture moments at Jardin des Plantes, comfortable shoes for walking, and a light jacket to enjoy the open-air views along the river without discomfort.

Plus these essential items, it is also advisable to carry a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated during the trip, especially when exploring attractions like the Louvre or Notre Dame Cathedral along the Seine.

Snacks can be handy for long strolls on the riverbanks or impromptu picnics at Parc Rives de Seine. Packing a small daypack is ideal for storing your belongings while you visit iconic sites such as the Eiffel Tower or the Musée d’Orsay.

What Are the Best Spots to Take Photos During the Seine River Cruise?

Capture the beauty of Paris from the Seine River Cruise by snapping photos at iconic spots like Hôtel de Ville , offering stunning architectural backgrounds and scenic vistas that encapsulate the essence of the city.

If you want to ensure your photography captures the romantic essence of Paris, then Hôtel de Ville is the place to be. As you sail down the Seine River, the grand facade of this historic city hall will provide a breathtaking backdrop for your photos. The intricate details of the building’s architecture, with its ornate facades and stunning spires, create a picture-perfect setting. Plus Hôtel de Ville, be ready to capture shots of other iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum along the cruise, adding a touch of Parisian charm to your photography.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Seine River Cruise is a popular tourist activity in Paris, France that offers scenic views of the city’s landmarks. Here are some frequently asked questions about the duration of the cruise.

What is the average duration of the Seine River Cruise?

The average duration of the Seine River Cruise is about 1 hour and 15 minutes. This includes the time spent on the boat as well as the embarkation and disembarkation process.

Can I choose a longer or shorter duration for the Seine River Cruise?

Yes, there are options to choose a longer or shorter duration for the Seine River Cruise. Some companies offer extended cruises that can last up to 2 hours, while others have shorter cruises of 45 minutes.

What factors affect the duration of the Seine River Cruise?

The duration of the Seine River Cruise can be affected by various factors such as traffic, weather conditions, and the number of stops along the route. It is always best to check with the cruise company for the most accurate duration.

Are there any special cruises with longer durations?

Yes, there are special cruises that have longer durations on the Seine River. These include dinner cruises, which can last up to 3 hours, and themed cruises that may have different durations depending on the activities included.

Is there a recommended time of day for the Seine River Cruise?

The Seine River Cruise is a great activity to do at any time of day, but the duration may differ. Daytime cruises tend to be shorter, while evening cruises with dinner or live entertainment may be longer in duration.

Can I combine the Seine River Cruise with other activities to make a longer trip?

Yes, you can combine the Seine River Cruise with other activities to make a longer trip. Some companies offer packages that include a cruise, a visit to a museum or attraction, and a walking tour, making for a full day of sightseeing in Paris.

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Best River Seine cruises

Forget the Metro: Paris’s beautiful river is the best way to see the city’s sights – and beyond

It might be chock-full of tree-lined boulevards and covered by the sprawling Métropolitain network, but no trip to Paris is complete without a relaxing ride along the Seine. Trust us. Whether you want to take in the sights and attractions with a bottle of champagne, or prefer to hop on and off as you please, there’s a cruise out there to suit all tastes and budgets. In fact we’ve lined up the very best of them here. All you have to do is find your sea (okay, river) legs and hop aboard! Setting sail on a River Seine cruise really is one of the best things to do when visiting Paris.

Been there, done that? Think again, my friend.

Best cruises on the River Seine

1.  champagne tasting on a seine river cruise.

What could be more pleasureable than taking in the delightful Parisian sights while sipping on a bit of bubbly? Few things, we'll wager. On this 60-minute river cruise, you'll sail down the Seine in style, passing major landmarks like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower and Musee d’Orsay.

2.  Bateaux Parisiens Seine River dinner cruise

Let’s face it, cruises aren’t cheap so if you find one that hasn’t got that certain  je ne sais quoi then it’s not worth your money.   Thankfully, this beautifully decked out boat has you floating past all the sights with a glass of champers in hand, and a live band to keep you company while you tuck into a superb three-course à la carte menu. Tres glam, non?

3.  Skip-the-line Eiffel Tower and Seine River cruise

Like every world-famous landmark, the Eiffel Tower has become a victim of its own success, and one major frustration when visiting is is the snaking queues to climb up to its viewing galleries. That’s why the savvier visitor to Paris will book this cruise. Once you’ve whizzed up the elegant landmark and snapped a selfie with the Parisian skyline, stroll over to the banks of the Seine river for a close-up of all the sights by boat. 

4.  Seine River hop-on hop-off sightseeing cruise

Take in the City of Lights at a leisurely pace via the Seine River sightseeing cruise. This boat ride, which stops at nine points along the river – including Eiffel Tower, Musée d'Orsay, Notre Dame Cathedral – lets you hop on and off as you please. This not only saves on travel spending, but avoids you having to navigate the Metro network too.

5.  Paris illuminations river cruise

Explore the City of Lights in all its dazzling glory via this after-dark cruise, which takes you past floodlit monuments, luminous bridges, not forgetting all those pretty city lights glittering on the water. Oh, and let’s not forget one other pretty major highlight, which is the unbelievably cheap price. Parfait!

6.  Bateaux Parisiens Cruise: quick entry ticket

Spent all your euros on fancy plonk? See the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and more from this glass-topped trimaran, which is affordable and informative – if you opt for the audio guide. There’s a real-life human guide aboard too, to provide additional info. 

7.  Versailles, Paris city tour and Seine River cruise day trip

Kill three birds with one stone on this tour. It begins out of town at the opulent Palace of Versailles, takes you up to the summit of the Eiffel Tower and ends with a relaxing one-hour cruise along the Seine. Perfect for anyone who is only in Paris for a short while, but is determined to do as much in their scant time as possible. 

8.  Eiffel Tower, Seine River cruise and Moulin Rouge show

If a fancy dinner up the Eiffel Tower, a glitzy show at the Moulin Rouge and a calming cruise along the Seine are top of your Paris to-do list – and if they are, more power to you – then this tour is the one for you. Dig out your sparkliest glad rags and hop aboard! 

9.  Seine and Marne river loop cruise

Follow in the footsteps of the Impressionists with this six-hour tranquil cruise on the Seine and Marne rivers (the later being a smaller tributuary that makes its way through the east of the capital). The boat will be laid out for lunch so you can tuck into your baguette surrounded by the scenery that inspired some of France’s greatest artists.

10.  Seine River cruise and Paris canals tour

Explore the city's canalways; sailing beneath old tunnels steeped in character, through locks that date back tot he nineteenth century and under beautiful bridges. The trip lasts two and half hours and sets off in the morning and afternoon, depending on your preference.

11.  Three-in-one: Eiffel Tower, Louvre and Seine cruise tickets

When it comes to your travels, time is precious. So whatever time you save skipping the queues, you can spend enjoying the sights themselves. With this tour, you get to smugly saunter past the chumps waiting in line at the Eiffel Tower AND the Louvre Museum, before chilling on a one-hour cruise of the Seine. Winning! 

12.  Seine River cruise, Paris illuminations and dinner close to the Champs-Elysees

Ramp up the romance – you are in Paris, after all – with a lamp-lit cruise along the Seine before hopping on a coach that will take you on a route around the city. The tour ends with you tucking into a three-course meal and a glass of wine, overlooking the Arc de Triomphe on the Champs-Élysées.

13.  Paris Seine River Paris Night Bicycle Tour & River Cruise

There’s nothing better conclusion to a day of cycling around the streets of Paris than a boat cruise to rest your aching legs. Oh... and a well-deserved glass of plonk, of course. Combine both on this guided tour and you can contentedly sip your drink as you cruise past sights including the gorgeous Saint-Chapelle on the Ile de la Cité and the Latin Quarter.

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Everything You Need to Know About the Seine River Cruise Timings

Seine River cruises offer a captivating journey through Paris , showcasing iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral . With narrated tours, romantic dinner cruises, and panoramic views, they provide an unforgettable way to experience the city's charm and beauty.

Sightseeing Cruises Timings

April to September (High season)

• 10:15 am to 3:30 pm - Departures are scheduled every 45 minutes
• 3:30 pm and 10:30 pm - Departures are scheduled every 30 minutes

October to March (Low season)

Duration of Cruise - Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes

April to September

• 10 am to 10:30 pm - Departures are scheduled every 30 minutes (No departure at 1 pm and 7:30 pm)
• Last departure - 10:30 pm (subject to a minimum number of participants).
• June, July and August: 10 am to 11 pm (Departures every 30 minutes)
• Last departure on July 14 - 2 pm

October to March

• 10:30 am to 10:30 pm - Departures are scheduled every hour
• On French school holidays: 10 am to 10:30 pm
• Last departure on December 24 - 5 pm; on December 31 - 9:30 pm

Lunch Cruises Timings

Saturdays and Sundays

• Boarding time - 12 pm to 12:15 pm
• Departure - 12:30 pm
• Return to dock - 2:15 pm
• Duration - Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes

Operated Daily

• Departure - 12:45 pm
• Return to dock - 2:45 pm
• Duration - Approximately 2 hours

Dinner Cruises Timings

• Boarding time - 8 pm to 8:30 pm
• Departure - 8:30 pm
• Return to dock - 10:45 pm
• Duration - Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes

• Departure - 6:15 pm Return to dock - 7:30 pm
• Departure - 8:30 pm Return to dock - 11 pm

Batobus Hop-On-Hop-Off Tours

Ferry Timings

• Monday to Tuesday   -  10 am to 5 pm
• Friday to Sunday -  10 am to 7 pm
• December 24   -  10 am to 5 pm

What is the Best Time to Go on a Seine River Cruise?

Weekends in Paris are generally very crowded. If you want to cruise along the Seine without crowds and noise, we suggest booking a ticket during the weekday and enjoying your cruise before sunset.

The Seine River cruise is one of the most sought-after attractions in Paris, which means you will need to book your tickets in advance to ensure your spot. You can choose between a sightseeing cruise, a cruise with lunch and wine, or a cruise at night.

April to October

These months being the popular season, boat companies have frequent departures and the warm weather makes it pleasant to enjoy the cruise. The sunlight takes on a honey hue and makes everything glow in the afternoon, making for a magical experience. During windy seasons, you can appreciate the beauty of the river and the cruise experience from your closed boat.

Between June and August, the summer reaches its peak. Paris gets plenty of sunshine and occasional rain during summer, and it is also the season local Parisians leave the city for their vacation. Summer also tends to be an off-season as most of the tourists visit the city during the peak tourist season in Spring, which is from March to May.

You can watch Paris come to life as the city starts to light up and shimmer like gold around you. This is one of the best times to take a Paris boat tour as it is an enchanting experience. The first and last departures of the day are usually less crowded and can be a wonderful experience if you're visiting during the high tourist season.

How Long Do You Need To Go On A Seine River Cruise?

Usually 1 to 2.5 hours.

The duration of your Seine River Cruise depends on the type of cruise you choose. You can choose from multiple options like a sightseeing cruise , a lunch cruise or a dinner cruise . You can also choose between the French favourites of Bateaux Mouches and Bateaux Parisiens .

Book Seine River Cruise Tickets

Frequently asked questions about seine river cruise timings.

The Seine River cruise is functional between 12 pm and 9 pm.

Yes, the Seine River cruise is open daily.

The Seine River cruise is open every day throughout the year.

The duration of the Seine River cruise is between 1 to 2.5 hours, depending on the type of cruise you pick.

The best time to take a Seine River is during the tourist off-season between October to March.

Yes, the Seine River cruise is operational on public holidays. Book your Seine River Cruise online to stay updated with any last-minute changes or announcements.

You can take a Seine River cruise on a public holiday, but bear in mind that you may encounter large crowds.

The Seine River cruise timings are the same during public holidays, 12 pm to 9 pm.

Seine River Boat Tours

Cruise routes, times and prices

Here is some information on the usual routes taken by the Seine river boats, as well as departure and arrival times and the prices of the different cruises available.

The Bateaux-Mouches pier is located very close to the Pont de l’Alma on the Port de la Conférence. The boats depart from there and travel up the Seine towards Notre Dame de Paris, passing by the Louvre Museum, the Town Hall and the Conciergerie. The boat turns around near to the Arab World Institute. Passing via the Monnaie (Paris Mint), down a small arm of the Seine between the Ile de la Cité and the Left Bank, gives you a close-up view to admire the Cathedral of Notre Dame. The cruise continues alongside the Musée d’Orsay and the National Assembly towards the Eiffel Tower. Please note that the captain may change the route depending on the height of the Seine.

Boat Trip on the Seine

Times and durations.

High season (April to September) Cruise times / schedules : Departures every 30 minutes between 10 a.m. and 11p.m

Low season (October to March) Cruise times / schedules : Departures every 45 minutes between 10 a.m. and 10 p.m. Cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 10 mins.

• adult : 17€
• Children (under 13 yrs) : 8€
• Children (under 4 yrs) : Free
• group / School group : Contact us

Lunchtime cruise

IMPORTANT! Operated on Saturdays and Sundays only Boarding at Pont de l’Alma between 12.00pm and 12.15pm. Departure at 12.30pm and return to the quay at 2.15pm. Cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 45 mins. Smart-casual dress appreciated.

Douce France Menu adult : 85.00 € / adult child (4-12 years) : 39.00 € / child (4-12 years)

Dinner cruise

Service operated daily. Boarding at Pont de l’Alma – Paris, 8^th arrondissement, between 8pm and 8.30pm Departure at 8.30pm Return to the quay at 10.45pm Cruise lasts approximately 2 hours 15 mins Smart wear is required

Dinner menu - 6pm early bird Service adult : 90.00 € / adult child (4-12 years) : 39.00 € / child (4-12 years)

Prestige dinner menu adult : 120.00 € / adult child (4-12 years) : 39.00 € / child (4-12 years)

Excellence dinner menu adult : 165.00 € / adult child (4-12 years) : 39.00 € / child (4-12 years)

Get a Yes in Paris - Marriage Proposal adult : 340.00 € / adult

Formalities and dress code

At lunchtimes, smart-casual dress is appreciated.

In the evenings, smart dress is required. We will not allow on board any passengers wearing sportswear, flipflops, bermuda shorts, baseball caps... The Management reserves the right to refuse access out of respect for its guests.

Seine River Cruises Timings

About seine river cruise.

In addition to serving as a dividing line between the city's historically refined and hippy halves, providing transportation via riverboat, and offering plenty of opportunities for romantic strolls, the Seine's riverbanks are a UNESCO World Heritage Site lined with the city's top landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower , Notre Dame Cathedral , Musée d'Orsay , Jardin des Tuileries, and the Louvre Museum . Walking along the Seine, especially the central section between Les Invalides and Ile Saint-Louis, is a great way to see the river and the city of Paris.

There, you can cross the river in a zigzag pattern on the Pont Alexandre III, Pont Royal, and Pont des Arts and see some of France's most famous and prestigious buildings. Another option is to take a cruise down the Seine and see the same sights while relaxing in the comfort of a boat by ensuring the Seine Cruise timings. You can choose to merge sightseeing with a French meal by booking a brunch, lunch, or dinner cruise, or you can book a tour that includes both the Eiffel Tower and the cruise.

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Seine River Cruise Opening Hours

Every Saturday and Sunday at noon, there's the Lunch Cruise. There is a boarding time window of 12:15 to 1:15 at Pont de l'Alma for that. Arrival at the pier will be at 2:15 and departure will be at 12:30. The Cruise lasts for around an hour and 45 minutes, and guests are requested to wear business casual attire.

Also Chekout:

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The Dinner Cruise departs daily at 8 p.m. and 8.30 p.m. from Pont de l'Alma in the 8th arrondissement of Paris. The departure is at 8:30 p.m., and you'll get back to the dock by 10:45 p.m. The cruise will last about 2 hours and 15 minutes, and smart casual attire is required.

• Dinner Cruises
• Eiffel Tower Entrance

Best Time to Book Seine River Cruise

Tickets for the Seine River cruise, one of the most popular things to do in Paris, sell out quickly, so make sure to do so in advance keeping in mind the Seine River Cruise timings. Sightseeing cruises, cruises with lunch and wine, and evening cruises are all available. Saturday and Sunday in Paris are typically very busy. We advise taking a cruise on the Seine before sunset on a weekday if you wish to avoid the crowds and noise that accompany weekend cruises.

Do Checkout:

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• Eiffel Tower Secret Apartment

Between October and April, when the city is less crowded, is the ideal time to visit Paris but at the beginning of September, Paris enters its autumn phase. Temperatures drop to around 15 degrees Celsius during this time of year. Traveling to Paris in the summer, when temperatures are at their highest, is another excellent option for the cruise but make sure you are well updated with the Seine Cruise timings. The summer months in Paris are filled with warm temperatures, occasional showers, and out-of-town visitors. As with the spring, most visitors take a tour between March and May, making the summer a relatively slow time of year.

Also Explore: Cities on the Seine River

What is the best time to take a Seine River cruise?

A cruise down the Seine is most enjoyable during the off-season (from October to March) when tourists typically avoid the city. Temperatures drop to around 15 degrees Celsius during this time of year. Traveling to Paris in the summer, when temperatures are at their highest, is another excellent option for the cruise but make sure you are well updated with the Seine Cruise timings.

Is the Seine River cruise open on public holidays?

Yes, a ‘cruise down the Seine’ is available on weekends and holidays, and that is the best time to Book Seine River Cruise. Pre-purchasing your tickets online ensures that you will be informed of any updates or changes.

Should I take a Seine River cruise on a public holiday?

Yes, taking a sail along the Seine on a holiday is possible, as that is also the best time to Book Seine River Cruise, but you should be prepared for enormous crowds.

What are the Seine River cruise opening hours for public holidays?

On national holidays even, the usual 12 PM - 9 PM time window is the Seine Cruise timings.

What are the Seine River cruise opening hours?

The opening hours for a Seine River Cruise are 12 PM – 9 PM.

Is the Seine River cruise open every day?

Yes, the Seine River cruise is open every day.

When is the Seine River cruise closed?

The Seine River cruise is not closed, but is open each day of the year.

How long should I spend at the Seine River cruise?

Cruises along the Seine typically last for 1.5 hours but for those who have more time and wish to see more of Paris and the Seine, a longer 2.5 hour cruise is available.

Where do Seine River cruises leave from?

The Pont de l'Alma 1, near the base of the Eiffel Tower, is the starting point for the majority of Seine River Cruises.

Do you need to book a Seine river cruise in advance?

Yes, since the Seine River cruise is a popular tourist activity in Paris, so make sure to reserve your spot in advance. There are multiple cruise options to pick from, including those that focus on sightseeing, those that include lunch and wine, and those that take place at night.

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How Long Is The Seine River Cruise

Published: December 13, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Nellie Orr

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Introduction

If you’re looking for a magical way to explore the heart of France, a Seine River cruise is the perfect choice. As one of Europe’s most picturesque waterways, the Seine weaves its way through stunning landscapes, charming towns, and historic cities, offering a unique and unforgettable journey. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a lover of art and architecture, or simply seeking a romantic adventure, a Seine River cruise promises to deliver a truly immersive experience.

Flowing approximately 777 kilometers (483 miles) through northern France, the Seine River connects the city of Paris to the English Channel, passing through a diverse and captivating region known as the “Département de la Seine.” This breathtaking route takes you from the bustling cosmopolitan capital, with its iconic landmarks and romantic bridges, to the picturesque countryside, dotted with charming villages, vineyards, and châteaux.

One of the highlights of a Seine River cruise is the opportunity to witness the beauty of Paris from a different perspective. Sail along the river and admire renowned landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the enchanting bridges that span the Seine. As you venture further along the river, you’ll discover an array of captivating destinations, each with its own unique charm and cultural heritage.

As you embark on your Seine River cruise, you’ll be treated to luxurious accommodations, delectable cuisine, and exceptional onboard service. Traveling aboard a river cruise ship offers unparalleled comfort and convenience, as you unpack once and wake up to a new destination every day. From guided tours to immersive experiences, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the charming towns and iconic sites along the Seine, all while enjoying the relaxed pace and scenic beauty of river cruising.

Join me as we delve into the wonders of a Seine River cruise, exploring the route, the duration, the highlights, and everything you need to know to plan your perfect adventure on this remarkable waterway. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich culture, history, and natural beauty that the Seine River has to offer.

The Route of the Seine River Cruise

The Seine River cruise route takes you on a mesmerizing journey through the heart of France, showcasing the country’s rich history, charming towns, and breathtaking landscapes. Starting in Paris, the cruise winds its way upstream through the picturesque countryside to reach the charming town of Honfleur, before finally reaching the mouth of the Seine at the English Channel.

Departing from Paris, the Seine River cruise ship glides along the river, offering panoramic views of the city’s iconic landmarks. As you sail past the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the historic bridges, you’ll have the opportunity to appreciate the beauty of Paris from a unique perspective.

The cruise then continues upstream, passing through picturesque countryside and enchanting villages. You’ll have the chance to explore destinations such as Vernon, where you can visit Claude Monet’s enchanting gardens at Giverny, which served as inspiration for his famous water lily paintings.

As the cruise progresses, you’ll reach the historic city of Rouen, known for its medieval architecture and rich cultural heritage. Here, you can visit the magnificent Rouen Cathedral, explore the charming old town, and learn about its connections to Joan of Arc.

Further along the route, the cruise will take you to the lovely town of Les Andelys, nestled in the heart of the Seine Valley. From here, you can admire the stunning Château Gaillard, a medieval fortress built by Richard the Lionheart.

Continuing upstream, the cruise will pass through the picturesque landscapes of the Normandy region, renowned for its lush green fields and apple orchards. The journey culminates in the picturesque port town of Honfleur, where the Seine River meets the English Channel. Honfleur is known for its charming harbor, narrow streets, and historic buildings, making it a fitting end to this unforgettable river cruise.

The route of the Seine River cruise is carefully curated to showcase the best of France’s cultural and natural treasures. It allows you to immerse yourself in the country’s rich history, experience its vibrant cities, and discover the hidden gems that lie along the banks of the Seine. Whether you’re captivated by the romantic allure of Paris or the charm of the French countryside, the route of the Seine River cruise offers a truly immersive and unforgettable experience.

Duration of the Seine River Cruise

The duration of a Seine River cruise can vary depending on the specific itinerary and cruise company you choose. However, most cruises along the Seine River typically range from 7 to 10 nights, offering a perfect balance between exploration and relaxation.

A 7-night Seine River cruise allows you to experience the highlights of the route, giving you ample time to explore the charming towns and iconic landmarks along the way. The cruise typically begins and ends in Paris, providing the opportunity to explore the city’s famous attractions before embarking on your river adventure. During the course of the cruise, you’ll have the chance to visit destinations such as Giverny, Rouen, Les Andelys, and Honfleur, immersing yourself in the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of the region.

If you have more time to spare, a 10-night Seine River cruise will allow for a more leisurely exploration of the route, giving you additional opportunities to discover hidden gems and delve deeper into the local culture. This longer duration also provides more flexibility in terms of shore excursions and activities, allowing you to soak in the beauty of the Seine Valley and explore the surrounding regions at a more relaxed pace.

Regardless of the duration you choose, a Seine River cruise offers a perfect balance of guided excursions and free time to explore at your own leisure. Along the way, you’ll have the opportunity to participate in guided tours of historic sites, visit art museums, stroll through charming towns, and indulge in local cuisine.

It’s important to note that the duration of the cruise does not include any additional pre-cruise or post-cruise stays in Paris. Depending on your preferences, you may want to consider adding a few extra days before or after your cruise to fully enjoy the delights of the “City of Light” and make the most of your time in France.

Ultimately, the duration of your Seine River cruise will depend on your personal preferences, available time, and the level of immersion you desire. Whether you choose a shorter or a longer cruise, one thing is certain – a Seine River cruise is a delightful and captivating way to explore the heart of France and create lifelong memories.

Highlights of the Seine River Cruise

A Seine River cruise is a journey filled with incredible highlights that showcase the best of France. From the vibrant city of Paris to the charming towns and picturesque landscapes, here are some of the unforgettable highlights you can expect on your Seine River cruise:

• Paris: Begin your cruise in the stunning city of Paris, where you can explore world-renowned landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Champs-Élysées. Take a romantic evening stroll along the Seine and witness the city come alive with twinkling lights.
• Giverny: Visit the enchanting village of Giverny, where you can discover the former residence and stunning gardens of the famous artist Claude Monet. Marvel at the water lilies in the pond and stroll through the colorful flowerbeds that inspired some of his most iconic paintings.
• Rouen: Explore the historic city of Rouen, known for its medieval architecture and ties to Joan of Arc. Visit the magnificent Rouen Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and wander through the charming cobblestone streets of the old town, lined with timber-framed houses and lively squares.
• Les Andelys: Discover the picturesque town of Les Andelys, nestled on the banks of the Seine. Explore the ruins of Château Gaillard, a medieval fortress built by Richard the Lionheart, and enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding countryside from its hilltop location.
• Honfleur: Reach the picturesque port town of Honfleur, where the Seine River meets the English Channel. Explore the charming harbor, lined with colorful buildings, and wander through the narrow streets filled with art galleries, boutiques, and cafés. Don’t miss the chance to try the famous local seafood and visit the Sainte-Catherine Church, the largest wooden church in France.
• Scenic Landscapes: As you cruise along the Seine, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the French countryside. Admire the picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, vineyards, and charming villages, all offering a tranquil and idyllic backdrop to your journey.
• Gourmet Delights: Indulge in the culinary delights of France as you savor exquisite cuisine onboard your river cruise ship. From delicious cheeses and pastries to fine wines and regional specialties, you’ll have the opportunity to sample the flavors of France throughout your journey.

These are just a few of the many highlights that await you on a Seine River cruise. Each destination along the route has its own unique charm, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, making every day of your cruise a memorable experience. Get ready to immerse yourself in the rich history, art, and gastronomy of France as you sail along the Seine River.

Landmarks and Attractions Along the Seine River

A cruise along the Seine River offers a front-row seat to some of France’s most iconic landmarks and attractions. From historic monuments to renowned museums, here are just a few of the must-see sites you’ll encounter on your journey:

• Eiffel Tower: The symbol of Paris, the Eiffel Tower stands tall and proud, offering breathtaking views of the city. Whether you admire it from the river or visit it up close, this iconic landmark is a sight to behold.
• Louvre Museum: One of the world’s largest and most famous art museums, the Louvre is home to thousands of masterpieces, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo. Step inside this architectural marvel and immerse yourself in the world of art and culture.
• Notre-Dame Cathedral: A masterpiece of Gothic architecture, Notre-Dame Cathedral is a symbol of Paris. Marvel at its intricate facade, breathtaking stained glass windows, and towering spires.
• Palace of Versailles: Just outside of Paris, the extravagant Palace of Versailles awaits. Explore the opulent halls, gardens, and the iconic Hall of Mirrors, which once played host to the French monarchy.
• Rouen Cathedral: This magnificent cathedral in the heart of Rouen is a testament to Gothic architecture. Admire the stunning facade, intricate details, and the beautiful stained glass windows.
• Château Gaillard: Perched atop a hill overlooking the Seine River, the ruins of Château Gaillard offer a glimpse into medieval history. Explore the remnants of this strategic fortress built by Richard the Lionheart.
• Giverny: Discover the enchanting gardens of Claude Monet in Giverny. Take a stroll through the vibrant flowerbeds and cross the Japanese bridge, which served as inspiration for his famous Water Lilies series.
• Honfleur Harbor: Delight in the picturesque harbor of Honfleur, lined with colorful buildings and anchored by historic ships. Wander through the narrow streets, visit art galleries, and savor delicious seafood in this charming coastal town.

These are just a few of the iconic landmarks and attractions that can be found along the Seine River. As you cruise along, you’ll have the opportunity to visit museums, stroll through historic neighborhoods, and witness the architectural marvels that have made France famous throughout the world. Whether you’re an art lover, a history buff, or simply captivated by the beauty of these landmarks, the Seine River cruise promises a remarkable journey filled with awe-inspiring sights.

Activities and Excursions During the Seine River Cruise

A Seine River cruise offers a wide array of activities and excursions to enhance your experience and allow you to fully immerse yourself in the culture, history, and natural beauty of the region. From guided tours to cultural experiences, here are some of the activities and excursions you can enjoy during your Seine River cruise:

• Guided City Tours: Explore the cities along the Seine River with expert guides who will provide fascinating insights into the history, architecture, and hidden gems of each destination. Take guided walking tours through Paris, Rouen, and Honfleur to discover their unique charms.
• Museum Visits: Embark on cultural journeys through time by visiting world-renowned museums such as the Louvre and Musée d’Orsay in Paris. Marvel at masterpieces from different artistic periods and gain a deeper appreciation for art and history.
• Wine Tastings: Indulge in the rich wine culture of France with wine tastings in charming vineyards along the Seine River. Sample a variety of wines and learn about the traditional winemaking processes that have made France famous for its vintages.
• Local Cuisine: Delight your taste buds with culinary experiences featuring regional specialties. From enjoying freshly baked pastries and local cheeses to savoring gourmet French cuisine onboard the ship, every meal will be a gastronomic adventure.
• Visits to Châteaux: Immerse yourself in the grandeur of French history by visiting stunning châteaux along the Seine River. Explore the opulent Palace of Versailles, stroll through the gardens of Château de Malmaison, or marvel at the elegance of Château de Bizy.
• Scenic Walks and Bike Rides: Take advantage of the picturesque landscapes along the Seine by going on scenic walks or bike rides. Explore the charming villages, meander through vineyards, and soak in the serene beauty of the French countryside.
• Onboard Entertainment: Enjoy onboard entertainment options that range from live music performances to themed evenings celebrating French culture. Dance the night away, learn about local traditions, or simply relax and enjoy the ambiance of the ship.
• Optional Excursions: Tailor your experience by opting for additional excursions that match your interests. Choose from options such as a visit to the D-Day landing sites, a trip to the Normandy beaches, or a tour of Monet’s gardens at Giverny.

With a variety of activities and excursions available, a Seine River cruise ensures that there is never a dull moment. Whether you’re seeking history, art, cuisine, or simply the tranquility of the river, there are experiences to suit every preference. Each activity and excursion adds depth to your journey, allowing you to fully appreciate the rich tapestry of French culture and heritage along the Seine River.

Dining and Entertainment on the Seine River Cruise

A Seine River cruise promises not only captivating sights and immersive experiences but also an exquisite culinary journey and delightful onboard entertainment. From expertly crafted meals to engaging performances, here’s what you can expect in terms of dining and entertainment during your cruise:

Dining: When it comes to dining, a Seine River cruise offers a gastronomic experience that showcases the best of French cuisine. Onboard, you’ll be treated to delectable menus prepared by talented chefs, featuring a blend of traditional dishes and modern interpretations. Indulge in freshly baked pastries at breakfast, savor gourmet meals showcasing regional specialties at lunch and dinner, and delight in the extensive selection of fine wines and cheeses. Whether you choose to dine in the elegant dining room or enjoy an al fresco meal on the deck, you can expect exceptional service and culinary delights that will tantalize your taste buds.

Entertainment: Evenings on a Seine River cruise are filled with entertainment options to enhance your onboard experience. Enjoy live music performances, ranging from classical to contemporary, as talented musicians create a captivating ambiance. Take part in themed evenings that celebrate French culture, such as a lively “Can-Can” night or a Champagne reception. Engage in interactive workshops, such as cooking classes or wine tastings, where you can learn the secrets of French cuisine or gain insights into the art of wine pairing. Alternatively, simply relax in the lounge area with a book from the onboard library or socialize with fellow passengers while enjoying panoramic views of the Seine River through the large windows.

In addition to dining and entertainment, most Seine River cruises also offer opportunities for onshore experiences, allowing you to engage with the local culture and cuisine. From visiting local markets and sampling regional delicacies to participating in cooking demonstrations and wine tastings at select ports of call, these immersive activities provide a deeper understanding of the culinary traditions and cultural heritage of the places you visit.

The combination of gourmet dining, engaging entertainment, and cultural experiences ensures that your time onboard the Seine River cruise is not only a feast for the senses but also a chance to fully immerse yourself in the rich and diverse aspects of French culture.

Best Time to Take the Seine River Cruise

The Seine River can be enjoyed at any time of year, each season offering its own unique charm and appeal. The best time to take a Seine River cruise largely depends on your personal preferences, desired weather conditions, and the experiences you seek. Here’s a breakdown of the seasons to help you determine the best time for your cruise:

Spring (March – May): Springtime along the Seine River is a lovely season. The weather starts to warm up, and the landscapes come alive with vibrant colors. The gardens of Giverny, famously captured by Claude Monet, burst into bloom during this period. Spring also brings fewer crowds, allowing for a more peaceful and relaxed cruise experience.

Summer (June – August): Summer is a popular time to take a Seine River cruise, as the weather is generally warm and sunny. This season offers longer daylight hours, allowing for more time to explore destinations along the river. It is advisable to book in advance during this peak season due to higher demand.

Fall (September – November): Fall offers a picturesque setting along the Seine River as the leaves change colors, creating a breathtaking scenery. The weather tends to be milder during this time, providing pleasant cruising conditions. It’s also a great time for wine enthusiasts, as vineyards in the region come alive with the harvest season.

Winter (December – February): Winter along the Seine River can be chilly, but it offers a magical and romantic atmosphere. The holiday season brings festive decorations and lights to cities along the river, creating a cozy ambiance. Winter cruises often feature special holiday-themed activities and entertainment.

Ultimately, the best time to take a Seine River cruise depends on your preferences and the experiences you desire. If you prefer milder weather and fewer crowds, the shoulder seasons of spring and fall may be ideal. If you enjoy warm weather and longer days to explore, then summer is the perfect time. For a romantic and festive experience, a winter cruise can be truly enchanting.

It’s important to research and consider the specific itinerary of your chosen cruise, as some activities or attractions may be seasonally influenced or have limited availability during certain months. Whatever time you choose to embark on your Seine River cruise, you can expect a captivating journey filled with breathtaking scenery and memorable experiences.

Choosing the Right Cruise Company for the Seine River Cruise

When planning a Seine River cruise, selecting the right cruise company is crucial to ensuring a memorable and enjoyable experience. With several options available, it’s important to consider certain factors to find the company that best suits your preferences and needs. Here are some key considerations when choosing a cruise company:

Itinerary: Review the company’s itinerary to ensure that it includes the destinations, landmarks, and attractions you are most interested in. Look for cruises that offer a good balance of popular sites, hidden gems, and unique experiences along the Seine River.

Ship and Amenities: Take into account the size and amenities of the cruise ship. Larger ships may offer more facilities and entertainment options, while smaller ships provide a more intimate and personalized experience. Consider whether you prefer onboard features such as spas, fitness centers, or multiple dining options.

Accommodation: Check the types of cabins available and their amenities. Decide if you prefer standard cabins, suites, or even balcony options. Take into account factors such as comfort, size, and views from the cabin to ensure a pleasant and relaxing stay onboard.

Food and Dining: Consider the quality and variety of cuisine offered by the cruise company. Look for options that cater to your dietary preferences and offer a diverse range of dishes and local specialties. Reviews and recommendations from past passengers can provide insights into the dining experience.

Service and Staff: Research the reputation of the cruise company and its staff. Look for reviews that highlight the professionalism, friendliness, and helpfulness of the crew. A knowledgeable and attentive staff can enhance your overall experience and ensure a smooth and enjoyable cruise.

Onshore Excursions: Evaluate the range and quality of onshore excursions offered by the cruise company. Consider whether guided tours, cultural experiences, or active adventures align with your interests. It’s also important to check if these excursions are included in the cruise price or if there are optional or additional charges.

Price and Value: Compare prices among different cruise companies and evaluate the overall value you will receive for the cost. Take into account the inclusions, amenities, and services offered by each company to determine the best balance between quality and affordability.

Customer Reviews: Read reviews and testimonials from previous passengers to get an idea of their experiences with the cruise company. Pay attention to feedback on the overall cruise experience, staff, accommodations, dining, and excursions.

By carefully considering these factors, you can select the cruise company that aligns with your preferences and provides the best overall experience for your Seine River journey. Remember that each company offers a unique experience, and choosing the right one will help ensure a memorable and fulfilling cruise along the picturesque Seine River.

A Seine River cruise is a remarkable journey that allows you to discover the enchanting beauty of France along one of Europe’s most iconic waterways. From the bustling city of Paris to charming towns like Giverny, Rouen, Les Andelys, and Honfleur, a Seine River cruise offers an immersive experience filled with rich history, stunning landscapes, and world-renowned landmarks.

Whether you embark on a 7-night or 10-night cruise, each day brings new adventures and discoveries. From guided tours of historic sites to indulging in delectable cuisine paired with fine wines, every moment onboard is designed to create lifelong memories. The panoramic views of the Seine River, lined with quaint villages, picturesque countryside, and majestic châteaux, provide a serene and captivating backdrop to your journey.

Choosing the right cruise company is key to ensuring a personalized and fulfilling experience. Consider factors like itinerary, ship amenities, dining options, and the reputation of the cruise company to find the perfect fit for your preferences.

Whether you cruise in spring and witness the blossoming gardens of Giverny, explore in the peak summer season for longer days and warm weather, witness the picturesque fall foliage, or embrace the enchanting winter atmosphere, each season offers its own unique charm along the Seine River.

As the cruise concludes, you’ll leave with a greater appreciation for French culture, a deeper understanding of the region’s history and art, and a heart filled with cherished memories. The Seine River cruise combines breathtaking landscapes, world-class cuisine, immersive activities, and engaging entertainment to create an unforgettable experience.

So, embark on a Seine River cruise and let the gentle flow of the river transport you through the heartland of France. Immerse yourself in the rich culture, indulge in the gourmet delights, and be captivated by the beauty that surrounds you. Your Seine River adventure awaits.

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CRUISE ON THE SEINE

The ultimate guide to seine river cruises in paris, seine river dinner cruise, tickets, price, tips and more, book your paris dinner cruise tickets.

• 3 courses of your choice
• 2 Hour Cruise
• Live musical entertainment

Choose Your Dinner Cruise

Discover the Magic of Paris by Night on a Dinner Cruise with one of this best-sellers cruises:

Dinner Seine Cruise Types

Select from Gourmet Dinner, Cruise with Live Music, Italian Dinner and many more or to match your dinner cruise in Paris:

Gourmet Dinner Cruise

A gourmet dinner cruise along the Seine is a one of the most popular dinner cruise and a must-do experience in Paris. This luxurious journey offers a perfect blend of sightseeing and culinary indulgence.

Guests are treated to stunning views of iconic landmarks while savoring a multi-course meal prepared by renowned chefs. The elegant, romantic ambiance and candlelit tables, makes for an unforgettable evening that encapsulates the essence of Parisian sophistication and charm.

• Best Suited For: Couples, foodies, travelers seeking romance, luxury, and unique Parisian experiences.
• Duration: 2 hours
• Price Range: A round €100 per person

Dinner Cruise with live music

A dinner cruise with live music, is also on of the most popular cruises in Paris. The boat navigates through the city, passing by famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral. During the cruise, guests are served a multi-course meal prepared by the onboard chef while enjoying the performance of professional musicians.

The live music, which may include genres such as jazz, classical, or French pop, enhances the overall ambiance and provides a lively atmosphere for diners.

• Best Suited For : Music lovers, couples, tourists seeking dinner with Parisian entertainment and views.
• Duration : 2h 15mins
• Price Range : €90-110 per person

Paris Dinner Cruise Tickets Prices

When planning a dinner cruise in Paris, it’s essential to consider the ticket options and prices. Various companies offer dinner cruises along the Seine River, each with its own unique offerings and pricing structure.

Prices can vary depending on factors such as the type of cruise, the duration, the menu selection, and the inclusion of additional amenities like live music or a welcome cocktail. On average, dinner cruise tickets range from around €70 to €200 per person, with more luxurious experiences commanding higher prices.

Some cruises offer different seating categories, such as window seats or VIP tables, which may come at a premium. It’s important to compare prices and inclusions across different providers to find the best value for your preferences and budget.

Keep in mind that booking in advance is often recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, as these popular cruises can sell out quickly.

Here is a more detailed price range for all dinner cruise types

Where You Should Buy The Tickets?

The best way to purchase Dinner cruise tickets, is by well-known platforms which offer to order tickets in advance and discounts. Some of the most popular ones are “ Tiqets ” which is considered a very well-known online tickets platform, or “ Getyourguide ” which is also a very popular website.

Another convenient and recommended method is to secure your tickets online through the official websites of the cruise providers. This approach not only guarantees availability but also allows you to explore various cruise types, compare prices, and select the one that best suits your preferences.

For those who prefer a more spontaneous approach, ticket booths along the Seine River offer the flexibility to purchase tickets on the spot. However, this method is subject to availability, and during peak seasons, it’s advisable to book in advance to avoid disappointment.

Ultimately, the choice of where to buy tickets depends on your preference for convenience, planning, and the assurance of securing your preferred dinner cruise experience. Whether online through official websites, on-site ticket booths, or reputable travel platforms, the goal is to make the ticketing process as seamless as the cruise itself.

Top Seine Dinner Cruise Providers

Bateaux parisiens, bateaux mouches, pariscityvision, vedettes de la seine, upgrading your dinner cruise on the seine.

When booking a dinner cruise in Paris, many companies offer the option to upgrade your experience for an additional cost. These upgrades can enhance your evening on the Seine River and make it even more memorable.

One popular upgrade is securing a window seat or a table by the window, ensuring unobstructed views of the city’s iconic landmarks as you dine. Another upgrade option is a VIP table, which often includes a prime location on the boat, a premium menu, and attentive service.

Some cruise providers also offer exclusive packages, such as a private table for two, a romantic setup with flowers and champagne, or a special celebration package for birthdays or anniversaries. Upgrading your dinner cruise may also grant you access to additional amenities, such as a welcome cocktail, a souvenir photo, or a post-dinner dance party.

What to Expect on a Seine River Dinner Cruise?

When embarking on a Seine River dinner cruise, you can expect an enchanting evening filled with stunning views, gourmet cuisine, and a romantic ambiance. As you step aboard the boat, you’ll be greeted by the friendly staff and directed to your table, which may be adorned with elegant place settings and flickering candles.

The boat will gently glide along the Seine River, offering you a unique perspective of Paris’ iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. As you take in the breathtaking sights, attentive servers will present you with a delectable multi-course meal, showcasing the finest French cuisine.

Each dish is carefully crafted to delight your senses, and the menu may include appetizers, main courses, desserts, and a selection of French wines. Throughout the evening, you’ll be serenaded by live music or entertained by other performances, creating a truly immersive and unforgettable experience on the Seine River.

Dinner Seine River Cruise Menu

The menu on a Seine River dinner cruise typically features a delectable array of French cuisine. Guests can expect a multi-course meal that may include appetizers such as foie gras, escargots, or smoked salmon, followed by a choice of main courses like tender beef filet, roasted duck breast, or grilled sea bass. Vegetarian options are also available.

The meal is often accompanied by a selection of French cheeses and a delightful dessert, such as a classic crème brûlée or a rich chocolate mousse. The menu may vary depending on the cruise provider and the season, but the focus is always on showcasing the finest French culinary traditions.

To complement the exquisite food, dinner cruises on the Seine River offer a carefully curated selection of beverages. Fine French wines are a staple, with a variety of red, white, and rosé options available to pair perfectly with each course. Champagne is also a popular choice, especially for celebratory occasions or as a welcome drink.

Non-alcoholic options include mineral water, soft drinks, and fruit juices. Some cruise providers may also offer a cocktail menu or a digestif, such as cognac or armagnac, to conclude the meal. Many dinner cruises offer drink packages or à la carte options, allowing guests to choose their preferred beverages throughout the evening.

Dinner Cruise in Paris - Top Sights You'll See

What to wear on a dinner cruise in paris.

When dressing for a dinner cruise on the Seine River in Paris, it’s essential to strike a balance between elegance and comfort. Most dinner cruises have a smart casual dress code, meaning that men typically wear dress pants or nice jeans paired with a collared shirt or a sweater, while women opt for a cocktail dress, a nice blouse with slacks or a skirt, or an elegant jumpsuit.

Avoid overly casual clothing such as shorts, t-shirts, or flip-flops, as they may be considered inappropriate for the setting. Depending on the season, you may want to bring a jacket or a shawl, as it can get cool on the river in the evenings. Comfortable shoes are recommended, as you may want to walk around the boat to enjoy the views from different angles.

If you have upgraded to a more luxurious package or are celebrating a special occasion, a more formal attire, such as a suit or an evening gown, may be suitable. Ultimately, the key is to dress in a way that makes you feel comfortable and confident while respecting the atmosphere of the dinner cruise.

• Plan Your Trip

Dinner cruises on the Seine River in Paris typically operate daily, with some variations depending on the cruise provider and the season. Most companies offer dinner cruises year-round, with more frequent departures during the peak tourist months of April through October.

The usual dinner cruise hours are in the evening, with boarding times ranging from 7:00 PM to 9:00 PM and cruises lasting between 1.5 to 3 hours. Some providers may offer early dinner cruises starting at 6:00 PM or later cruises at 9:30 PM, catering to different preferences and schedules.

It’s essential to check the specific operating hours of the cruise company you are interested in, as they may have slight variations or seasonal adjustments. Additionally, some companies may offer special cruises for holidays like Valentine’s Day, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve, which may have different operating hours and durations.

To ensure availability and secure your preferred date and time, it’s advisable to book your dinner cruise in advance, especially during peak seasons or for special occasions.

The duration of a dinner cruise on the Seine River in Paris can vary depending on the cruise provider and the specific package you choose. On average, most dinner cruises last between 1.5 to 3 hours, providing ample time to enjoy the meal, take in the stunning views of Paris, and experience the entertainment on board.

Shorter cruises, usually around 1.5 hours, are perfect for those who want a more compact experience or have limited time in their schedule. These cruises typically include a three-course meal and a condensed sightseeing tour. Longer cruises, ranging from 2 to 3 hours, offer a more leisurely pace and often feature additional courses, live music, or even dancing.

These extended cruises allow you to fully immerse yourself in the ambiance and savor the evening without feeling rushed. Some companies also offer specially themed or holiday cruises that may have a different duration, so it’s essential to check the specific details when booking your dinner cruise experience.

Dinner cruises on the Seine River in Paris typically depart from various locations along the riverbank, depending on the cruise provider. Some of the most common departure points include:

Port de la Bourdonnais : Located near the Eiffel Tower, this port is a popular starting point for many dinner cruises. It offers easy access and stunning views of the iconic landmark. Port de Solférino : Situated on the Left Bank, near the Musée d’Orsay, this port is another frequent departure point for dinner cruises. Its central location makes it convenient for visitors exploring the city. Port Henri IV : Located near the Hôtel de Ville and the Île Saint-Louis, this port is a bit further east compared to the others but still offers a great starting point for a dinner cruise. Quai André Citroën : Some cruise providers depart from this port, which is located in the 15th arrondissement, offering a different perspective of the city.

The Seine River Dinner Cruise: A Parisian Experience Like No Other

A dinner cruise on the Seine River is arguably the best thing to do in Paris, offering a truly unforgettable experience that combines the city’s iconic sights, delectable cuisine, and romantic ambiance. This unique adventure allows you to see Paris from a different perspective while indulging in a gourmet meal and creating lasting memories. 

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, a dinner cruise on the Seine River is an essential addition to your Parisian itinerary. Here is the top 3 reasons why a dinner cruise is the ultimate way to experience the City of Light:

Stunning Views

A dinner cruise along the Seine River offers breathtaking views of Paris’ iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum. The river’s tranquil waters provide a serene backdrop, allowing you to appreciate the city’s beauty from a unique vantage point, especially when illuminated at night.

Gourmet Dining

Seine River dinner cruises feature exceptional gourmet menus prepared by talented chefs, showcasing the finest French cuisine. From delectable appetizers to decadent desserts, each dish is crafted to tantalize your taste buds, accompanied by carefully selected French wines. The elegant decor and intimate atmosphere enhance the overall dining experience.

Romantic Ambiance

A dinner cruise on the Seine River embodies the romance of Paris. The intimate setting, with candlelit tables and soft music, creates the perfect atmosphere for couples to connect and celebrate their love. Drifting along the river, taking in enchanting views and savoring delicious food, creates unforgettable moments together.

Dinner Cruise on the Seine - Insider Tips

• Book in Advance: Securing your tickets well in advance is advisable, especially during peak tourist seasons. This guarantees availability and allows you to choose from a wider range of cruise types and time slots.
• Check for Online Discounts: Many cruise providers offer exclusive discounts for online bookings. Keep an eye out for special promotions, early bird discounts, or package deals that may include additional perks.
• Flexible Timing: If your schedule allows, consider opting for midweek or early evening cruises. These time slots often have more availability and may offer better rates compared to prime dinner hours.
• Review Cancellation Policies: Before confirming your booking, familiarize yourself with the cancellation policies of the cruise provider. Knowing the terms and conditions can be beneficial in case unforeseen circumstances arise.
• Verify Inclusions: Ensure that you are aware of what is included in the ticket price. Some dinner cruises may have additional charges for specific services or upgrades. Understanding the inclusions helps avoid surprises on the day of the cruise.
• Read User Reviews: Before finalizing your booking, take the time to read reviews from other travelers. Platforms like TripAdvisor or Yelp can provide insights into the experiences of previous guests and help you choose a reputable cruise provider.
• Consider Package Deals: Some providers offer package deals that include other attractions or experiences in Paris. If you plan to explore multiple activities, these packages can provide cost-effective and convenient options.
• Verify Departure Point: Confirm the departure point of your chosen cruise provider. While many depart from near the Eiffel Tower, exact locations may vary. Double-check this information to avoid confusion on the day of your cruise.

How long do Seine River dinner cruises typically last?

Most dinner cruises are 2-3 hours, allowing sufficient time for a multi-course meal and sightseeing at a leisurely pace.

What types of cuisine are served onboard?

Most cruises serve French haute cuisine, with dishes like escargot, duck confit, seafood platters, cheese boards, chocolate mousse, and more. Menus change seasonally.

Are special dietary needs and restrictions accommodated?

Yes, inform the cruise company beforehand of any food allergies or preferences so they can cater for you appropriately.

What’s the best time to experience a dinner cruise?

Most depart between 7-9pm, perfect timing to enjoy sunset views over Paris and city lights after dark.

Are drinks like wine, beer, etc. included?

Beverage packages can be added on, but drinks usually need separate purchase unless specified.

What entertainment or music is featured?

Many dinner cruises have live piano, jazz trios, or accordion/violinists performing classic French tunes as you dine.

Is formal attire required or suggested?

Smart casual is recommended, though there is no official dress code. You’ll want to look nice, but not ballroom gowns or tuxedos.

Are dinner cruises suitable for younger children?

Children are welcome, though the timing and formality mean they likely appeal more to adults. Discounted kids’ fares generally available.

Dinner Cruise in Paris - Pros and Cons

• Unique ambience to take in Paris sights while enjoying a gourmet meal
• No need to choose a restaurant – dinner and sightseeing bundled
• Live entertainment provides a taste of French culture
• Romantic setting perfect for couples, honeymooners, celebrations
• Excellent value when factoring the high-end meal
• Panoramic views of the city after dark from the river
• Potentially less expensive than dining at Michelin-starred restaurants
• Pricing can run expensive, especially on premium evenings/holidays
• Dress expectations are elevated over casual daytime cruises
• Less flexibility than dining at restaurants with a la carte menus
• Potential motion sickness for those sensitive to boat movement
• Timing constraints to accommodate a 2+ hour experience
• Waiting staff moving between tables may be disruptive
• Not ideal for young children or extremely picky eaters
• Crowds at dock and on very large boats

More useful information about Seine River Cruise in Paris

•  Going to Paris with kids? here are the best  Seine River Cruises with Kids !
• Having a Low-Budget? Here are some  Cheap Seine River Cruises  with deals and discounts!
• Paris hop-on hop-off river cruise  – The best way to travel in Paris!
• What is  Seine Cruise Tickets Prices ?– The best Guide!

Cruise On the Seine - Who we are?

We are a group of travelers who love to explore and write about Paris. Over the years, we have gained extensive experience with cruising on the Seine River in Paris. Here, you could find all the essential information you need to know about Seine River cruises, including the different types of cruise, prices, tickets, operating hours, departure points, and many more. Bon voyage!

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Seine River & Paris Cruises

6 best seine river cruises for 2024-2025, paris & normandy, normandy & gems of the seine with highlights of paris, impressions of the seine & paris, normandy & gems of the seine, impressions of the seine & paris - cruise only, paris to normandy, top 6 luxury cruises to paris & the seine river for 2024-2025, 5 top riverboats cruising the seine river for 2024-2025, our favorite seine riverboats, ms amalegro, ms seine princess, ms botticelli.

• Summer – June-August
• Autumn – September-December
• Winter – December-March
• Spring – March-May
• As one of the most navigable rivers in all of France, the Seine River has been important to commerce since Roman times.
• The Seine River actually cuts Paris in half between the Left Bank and the Right Bank.
• It's possible to see some of Paris's most popular attractions right from your boat, including the Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum, and the trademark Eiffel Tower. 
• A replica of the Statue of Liberty is on an island in the Seine River in Paris and it looks west towards the Statue of Liberty that keeps vigil over New York City. 
• Paris was originally called "Lutetia" in Roman times.

Seine River Cruise Tips & Travel Guide

Top 13 ports to visit on a seine river cruise: a complete guide.

• Paris : The most iconic French city and the country's capital; home to the Eiffel Tower and heralded as the center of global fashion & style; you'll also likely stop in the suburban port of  Poissy
• Les Andelys:  You can visit nearby Château de La Roche-Guyon or the decadent Martainville Château.
• Giverny: This small town's claim to fame is the home of renowned painter Claude Monet. 
• Honfleur : At the confluence of the English Channel and the Seine River in Normandy, this was the harrowing site of the D-Day invasion, but its scenic beauty has also inspired the likes of Claude Monet & other French painters.
• Duclair: This town is most notable for its "Route des Abbayes," leading travelers along a trail of distinct & ancient abbeys.
• Rouen : Known as the "City of Art & History," this port town is home to the legendary Notre Dame Cathedral and well preserved medieval and Gothic architecture.
• Vernon  splits the distance between Paris and Rouen.

European Cruise: When to Go?

Top 11 things to do and see in paris - best attractions & experiences, france overview.

• Les Andelys
• Poissy, Giverny & Vernon
• The beaches of Normandy
• The Alabaster Coast

Seine River Cruise FAQs

How to choose a seine river cruise, best seine river cruise lines for 2024-2025.

• CroisiEurope  - has a fleet of 55 ships with 2 and 3 decks that accommodate only 16 to 200 passengers. Their size and cutting-edge technology allow them to sail exclusively on certain rivers and to moor in the heart of cities, as close as possible to places of interest. Visit Paris, Honfleur, and Normandy's coast differently on a Seine river cruise aboard the 138-passenger  MS Seine Princess .
• AMA Waterways  - lets you   enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours on your Paris and Seine river cruises. In many cases, you will choose excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes, and special interest tours. The 144-passenger  MS Amadante  offers a host of added comforts and conveniences, including a sauna, whirlpool, massage and hair salon, a stylish and inviting Main Lounge, and a specialty coffee station.
• Silversea Cruises  - offers luxury cruises to over 900 destinations across all seven continents. 4 dining options, 20 Zodiacs, and ten kayaks equal almost limitless possibilities aboard the 254 passenger  Silver Cloud . 
• Sea Cloud Cruises   - The  Sea Cloud Spirit combines traditional windjammer experience with 21st-century comfort with up to 136 passengers.
• Viking River Cruises   - was founded in 1997 and provided destination-focused journeys on rivers, oceans, and lakes worldwide. The Seine meanders on a winding path through the Norman countryside, a historical region of great pastoral beauty. Drift along with dreamy apple orchards and medieval ruins, explore elegant Paris, see Monet’s Giverny home, and honor World War II heroes on Normandy beaches.

Top Seine River Travel Destinations

Seine river trips by departure date.

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Seine River Tour

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Seine River Cruise Tour in 2024

Paris: 1-hour River Seine Cruise

Paris: Louvre Reserved Access and Boat Cruise

Paris: Eiffel Tower Direct Access and Seine River Cruise

Free cancellation, change of plans no problem. cancel up to 24 hours before your activity starts for a full refund. , combo seine river tour options.

Paris: Seine River Sightseeing Cruise with 3-Course Dinner

Paris: Seine Cruise & Crepe Tasting near the Eiffel Tower

Paris: Night Aperitif Cruise on the Seine River with Music

Types of seine river tours 2024.

• 1-hour Seine River Sightseeing Cruise Tour:

Take a round-trip cruise on the Seine River that begins at the base of the Eiffel Tower. Pass under the bridges of Paris and view a variety of picturesque landmarks while listening to commentary about the sights you pass by. Enjoy the tour and learn about famous landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral.

• Louvre Museum Express Access and River Cruise Tour:

Experience the best of Paris with a combination ticket for the Louvre Museum and a river cruise. Save time by avoiding long lines with this convenient package. Explore masterpieces from ancient Egypt to the Renaissance at your own pace, and then relax on a 1-hour river cruise, seeing the city from a different perspective. Enjoy the sights of Paris from the comfort of a leisurely boat, departing from the Eiffel Tower.

• Evening Dinner Cruise on the Seine River Tour:

Board an all-inclusive touring boat for a nighttime cruise along the Seine River in central Paris. Indulge in a 3-course Seine dinner cruise as you take in views of the “City of Lights” at night. Dine in a glassed-in boat and admire the historic quays and famous landmarks that pass by, including the golden dome of Les Invalides, the French Parliament, the former Beaux-Arts train station of the Musée d’Orsay, and the gothic facade of Notre Dame Cathedral.

• Seine River Cruise and Direct Access to the Summit of the Eiffel Tower with a Host:

See Paris’ most famous sights with this combined Eiffel Tower ticket and Seine River Tour experience. Enter the tower, visit the summit and see the multitude of UNESCO-listed structures in Paris. Embark on a sightseeing private Seine River cruise night at your convenience.

Seine River Tour Price 2024

• 1-hour Seine River Cruise Tour Price:

Starts from €16.00 per person, which includes a roundtrip cruise on the Seine, our live tour guide, and panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and other notable landmarks.

• Louvre Reserved Access and Boat Cruise Tour Price:

Starts from €27.60 per person, which includes our professional tour guide, reserved access ticket to the Louvre Museum (according to your chosen time), and a lavish cruise on the River Seine during the day or night.

• Evening Cruise with Dinner on River Seine a la carte Price:

Starts from €109 per person, which includes an all-inclusive Seine River dinner with an à-la-carte menu option, a River Seine cruise tour, champagne and appetizers (options available), and live entertainment by a singer.

• Eiffel Tower Direct Access with Host to Summit by Elevator and Seine River Cruise Price:

Starts from €62.01 per person, which includes direct access to the second level or summit (options available), our tour guide for Eiffel Tower, tower presentation in English, Seine River cruise tickets, and the cruise audio guide.

Seine River Tour Opening Times 2024

Opening Times: The Seine River tour works from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m.

Closing Times: The Seine River tour happens 24×7 and is never closed. 

Note: How your Seine River tour goes entirely depends upon the kind of tour tickets you choose. The duration of a normal Seine River tour is roughly between 1 to 2.5 hours.

• The Seine River tickets are valid for use within the next six months and depart every 30 minutes, seven days a week, from the Eiffel Tower.
• During the Seine boat trip, guests may be subject to bag and suitcase inspections for safety and security purposes.
• Guests are asked to dress in smart casual attire for the Seine River cruise.
• Large bags, backpacks, and suitcases are not permitted on private Seine River cruises.
• Children aged 4-12 years old are eligible for a reduced fare on Seine River tour tickets.
• The standard Seine River boat ride lasts for 1.5 hours, while Bateaux Parisien’s river cruises depart from the Port de la Bourdonnais every 30 minutes and last approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

About Paris Seine River

The Seine River flows through the heart of Paris, giving it its character as the “City of Light.” Visitors can explore the booksellers along its banks or take in the views from its many charming bridges.

The Seine River is the centerpiece of Paris, running through the heart of the city and playing an important role in its rich history. Along its banks, visitors can find traditional booksellers, picturesque streets, and notable cafes and landmarks. The river itself is a must-see attraction.

Taking a walk along the Seine or a leisurely boat ride down its waters is a great way to get to know Paris, also known as the “City of Light.” Along the way, visitors will pass by a variety of beautiful and historic bridges, as well as some of the city’s most famous buildings and landmarks, including the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame Cathedral.

Explore Seine River

Seine river cruise, traveler information, getting there, facts about seine river.

To board the boat, you’ll need to navigate 2 steps with the assistance of the captain. He will ensure a smooth boarding process and make your Seine river tour in Paris a memorable experience.

Our private boat on the Seine river in Paris features a cabin that can accommodate all passengers in case of inclement weather. However, even from the cabin, you’ll be able to take in the stunning views of Paris through the large windows and clear roofs.

If the weather conditions are unfavourable, there is an option to cancel your Seine river tour in Paris 48 hours in advance or to reschedule it 24 hours before the boarding time without any fee.

Indeed, the private Seine River Cruise is suitable for children. At all ages, children are welcome on board under the supervision of the accompanying adults. We request that children stay in the cabin and on the rear deck of the boat. Children under 14 are not allowed in certain areas of the boat. Life jackets are available if you wish for added safety. Your Seine River tour in Paris will be a great family destination!

Experience a memorable dinner journey on a private boat in Paris. Opt for the seasonal menu and indulge in the culinary delights offered. We will make sure that your night on our Seine River boat tour in Paris is a cherished memory!

Our tour on the Seine River in Paris lasts for approximately 2 hours. This is the perfect amount of time to explore the historic landmarks along the river. If you desire a shorter or longer tour, please let us know. We are happy to customize a Seine River tour in Paris that suits your preferences.

Our tour guide will share unique and authentic stories about some of Paris’ landmarks during the seine boat tour, allowing for a personalized and memorable experience. If you have an interest in art history, we can arrange for an expert guide to accompany us on the tour.

Our guide will share original and genuine narratives about various iconic sites in Paris during the Seine boat tour, providing an opportunity to make a directed visit through Paris on the Seine an unforgettable one. If you have a specific interest in the history of art, we can arrange for a specialist guide to join us on this voyage to Paris.

We welcome pets that are accustomed to being on a boat and feel at ease. However, if they are not, your private tour of Paris may not be as enjoyable.

We customize your dinner cruise on the Seine in Paris to accommodate any dietary restrictions, whether it’s a traditional meal or a vegan lunch. Our goal is to ensure your satisfaction and make your dinner cruise in Paris a truly unique experience.

Seine Privée has professional liability insurance for its vehicle operations with the Helvetia insurance company which specializes in inland waterway transport. This ensures that your private tour in Paris is protected.

It is a fact that the Seine river is not always a peaceful and calm stream. However, our boat is 12 tons heavy and it is the best assurance to ensure the safety and comfort of our passengers. To date, we have never had any passengers become ill during our private Seine boat tour in Paris.

• Destinations

The Iconic Paris Dining Experience That's An Unexpected Tourist Trap (& What To Do Instead)

Can you imagine anything more romantic than a river cruise along the Seine in Paris? You drift along the water past the Eiffel Tower, watching the other sights as you pass by. The idea feels like the Paris you'd see in a Hollywood movie . It can give even those with a limited time in the City of Light at least an overview of this wonderful place. However, like climbing the Eiffel Tower or getting overpriced macarons, it can be a tourist trap of sorts. Many boats have a small kitchen, which means if you've booked a dining experience, the food you're getting can often be reheated. 

Customer reactions reflect that, like this one on Rick Steves' travel forum who said, "Personally, we think it's better to have a great meal somewhere before the cruise. That way we can concentrate on the views of the city and not have to split our attention between eating and watching the view." Instead, you could take a less expensive boat tour and eat elsewhere. Paris is known for its great food, and there are plenty of ways to take that romantic cruise without wasting one of your precious meals. You don't get to have many on a short trip, and there are better options, like a lunch cruise or a hop-on, hop-off sightseeing tour. 

Take a lunch boat tour on the Seine instead

Even without the food, the idea of a leisurely trip along the water is really appealing. You could take a trip down the Canal Saint Martin, the Bassin de la Villette, and the Canal de L'Ourcq with a company like Marin d'Eau Douce that you can drive yourself. You don't need a permit and they're easy to operate. They have a small fleet that can accommodate groups of five, seven, or 11 people, and often include refreshments before or after. An electric boat for five people on the Bassin de la Villette costs between $50 and $104, depending on the boat and how long you take it out (between one and three hours). If you like, you can add things for an extra charge, like an aperitif basket or other snacks. Or you could just hit a grocery store for your own treats if you're eating on a shoestring budget .

Another option is a less expensive Seine cruise where they serve a snack or light lunch instead of a full meal. Bateaux Mouche, one of the less expensive options, has lunch cruises with a sandwich for around $30 per person including an option with champagne. That's a great price, as dinner cruises can be much higher. We found some between $80 for a dinner seat at a window to $150 per person for one with live music. Why not cruise first and eat at a restaurant instead?

Seeing Paris on the Batobus

If you want to really get a sense of Paris along the Seine, book a ticket on the Batobus for a hop-on, hop-off tour through nine stops. It's comparatively inexpensive. You can get a day pass for around $25 for adults and $14 for kids, or a two-day pass for only a little extra. (Kids under four can visit for free.) You can ride the entire day, get on and off at any of their stops as many times as you like, and not worry about additional fees. You can even get an annual pass (around $80 for adults and $53 for kids) if you plan on staying for a while.

This is pretty much the ultimate way to see Paris by boat. The Batobus goes in a two-hour loop around the Seine, with 15 minutes between stops. You'll be able to get off at the Jardin des Plantes, the Hôtel de Ville neighborhood in the Marais for shopping and galleries, the Louvre (don't forget about the secret entrances ), the Place de la Concorde with its Egyptian obelisk, the Eiffel Tower, Invalides where you can see the highly decorated bridge, the Pont Alexandre III, the Musée d'Orsay, the Latin quarter of Saint Germain des Pres where luminaries like Simone de Beauvoir and Jean-Paul Sartre hung out, and, of course, Notre Dame. "Pas cher et amusant!" (Inexpensive and fun!)

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• HISTORY & CULTURE

How the Seine River shaped the city of Paris

The history of Paris is inextricably linked to the river that flows through its center—from Neolithic settlement to this year’s Olympic games.

When the 2024 Summer Olympics kick off in Paris, the city is going for the wow factor. The opening ceremony won’t take place in a stadium but—bucking tradition—outside on the River Seine. For the Parade of Nations, boats carrying the participating teams will glide by an estimated 300,000 spectators congregated on the quays.

Bathed in myth and memory, the Seine is the lifeblood of the city that sprang up on its banks. Along this “main street,” as Napoleon called it, photogenic Pari­sian landmarks are on proud display, oozing grandeur and majesty. It’s so cen­tral to the city’s existence that building numbers are linked to the river: Those on perpendicular streets begin their num­bering closest to the Seine, while on parallel streets building numbers ascend in the direction of the current.

“For Parisians, there’s a strong historical and visceral attachment to the river,” says Pierre Rabadan, the deputy mayor in charge of sport, the Olympic and Paralympic Games, and the Seine.  

( Paris made an Olympic-size effort to clean up the Seine—did they succeed? )

The genesis of Paris

From its source in Burgundy, the Seine flows 483 miles to reach the sea at Le Havre, with the capital sitting nearly in the middle. The River’s Parisian cartography has changed over time, its course altered by incessant floods, its branches and channels ultimately merging into the serpentine riverbed we know today. The city’s Latin motto, “ Fluctuat nec mergitur— Tossed by the waves but does not sink,” evokes these historical floods, and Paris’s resilience in dealing with them. The city’s coat of arms depicts a ship under full sail.

It was near the Seine’s banks at Bercy that evidence of the city’s first human settlement was discovered. There have been older archaeological finds in Paris, namely the Mesolithic site unearthed in 2008 in the 15th arrondisse­ment that yielded flint arrowheads and bone fragments from a Seine-side hunting camp set up by nomadic hunter-gatherers. But the earliest fixed settlement was the Neolithic site excavated at the Bercy archaeological dig from 1991 to 1992.

Get science-backed tips to nurture your mind and body

“Situated on an arm, or canal, of the Seine, the village had been well pre­served under layers of sediment left by floods,” says Sylvie Robin, head curator for archaeology at the Carnavalet Museum . “We found traces of a palisade, a bridge, a hunter’s bow that’s one of the most beautifully preserved in Europe, and dugout canoes which had been placed on the riverbanks.”

The dugout canoe, measuring more than 16 feet today, was carved from a single trunk of oak—which experts believe required a lot of work, starting with the sourcing of the tree, which did not grow in the imme­diate vicinity. Robin says such a canoe was “a pearl”—a valuable asset designed to last for a generation.

Of boats and mariners

From whatever riverside vantage point—a pop-up bar, bridge, or the floating Joséphine Baker swimming pool—it’s easy to be mesmerized by the boat traffic on the Seine. The passing vessels may include a freight barge, a touristic open-top Bateaux Mouche, or a high-powered speedboat carry­ing the Brigade Fluviale, or river police, who patrol the Seine with obvious joie de vivre.

Boats have been plying these waters from time immemorial. It’s not surprising that one of the city’s oldest monuments is linked to the river’s mariners. Found during excavations under Notre Dame’s nave in 1711, the Pillar of the Boatmen formed the base of a statue offered to Emperor Tiberius by a guild of boatmen in the first century A.D.

“This rare, sculpted monument makes it possible to connect the Greco-Roman pan­theon and the Celtic gods such as Cernunnos,” says Séverine Lepape, director of the Cluny Museum-National Museum of the Middle Ages , where the pillar is housed. “It’s the symbol of an interesting syncretism of two types of pantheons united in one.”  

The same powerful boatsmen’s guild is thought to have financed part of the construction of the Gallo-Roman baths that form the museum’s pièce de résis­tance. Under a vaulted ceiling soaring nearly 50 feet high, the frigidarium (cold room), part of the city’s sizable thermal baths, is one of the best preserved Gallo-Roman sites north of the Loire.  

( Meet the ancient goddess of the Seine River: Sequana. )

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Beauty and industry.

The city’s beloved stone quays were built over the centuries as much for the city’s beautification as for its economy and defense. The earliest quays, Conti and Grands-Augustins, date from 1313. Like stone fortifica­tions, the quays also served to channel the river and attempt to curb flooding. As the mighty river fueled industry and empire, dams, locks, bridges, and later factories forever altered its fluvial patterns.

In the early 18th century, the Seine became so clogged with commercial boat traffic that Napoleon initiated a canal project, resulting in the Canal de l’Ourcq, Canal Saint-Martin, and Canal Saint-Denis. The network of canals not only alleviated the maritime congestion, deviating traffic from central Paris, but also brought fresh drinking water to the capital, since water from the sewage-saturated Seine—unfit for consumption—had caused epidemics.

Over time, engineers sought to control the Seine’s water flow: Baron Haussmann’s urban renewal project included a Seine transformation. Yet despite human intervention, the Seine is still known to flood. Parisians traditionally look to the statue of Zouave on the Pont de l’Alma as an unofficial means of measuring water level. Standing sentry over the Seine’s currents, the colonial army soldier dips his toe in the river in times of flood.

A river’s renaissance

For millennia, life was lived on the river. The Seine’s banks were a gathering place for work and leisure: Laundresses washed clothes, dockers unloaded cargo, merchants hawked their goods, and bon vivants sun­bathed and swam.

But a different approach to urban planning in the 20th century began to separate the populace from the river. In the 1960s, highways were constructed directly on the water’s edge. The quays even morphed into parking lots.  

The tide turned in 2013 when the city govern­ment decided to pedestrianize the motorway on the Left Bank. Cyclists and walkers returned to the quays, enjoying new installations such as climbing walls and floating gardens. A riverside park on the Right Bank’s motorway followed in 2016. The much vaunted $1.5 billion Olympic Games river cleanup project is the culmination of years of investment.

“We are now trying to reconnect and reclaim the Seine, what’s historically been a trame bleue [aquatic ecological cor­ridor] in a city that’s extremely dense and paved over,” says Rabadan. “We want to bring life back to the Seine.”

Artifacts found in the Seine

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For a century, it’s been illegal to swim in the Seine. Will Paris’s clean-up make the river safe for Olympic swimmers?

Associate Professor in Environmental Science, Western Sydney University

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Ian A. Wright receives consulting and research funding from industry, local, NSW and Commonwealth Government. He is also a regular swimmer.

Western Sydney University provides funding as a member of The Conversation AU.

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Five eagerly anticipated events in the Paris Olympics will be the mens and womens 10 kilometre marathon swimming races, as well as the 1,500 metre swimming section of three triathlon events. Why? Because all will be held in the Seine River in the centre of Paris. The swimmers – including four Australians – will pass famous landmarks such as the Musee d'Orsay as they swim through the historic heart of the city. This will have enormous scenic appeal for spectators.

But will it be safe for swimmers? Rivers running through large cities are often polluted , whether from stormwater, chemical pollution or wastewater spills. As the marathon swimmers pass the Paris Sewer Museum , they may well wonder if they’re in clean water.

For more than 100 years, swimming in the Seine has actually been illegal, due to concerns over what the water could do to human health. Authorities have been working to clean up the water, spending A$2.2 billion (€1.3 billion) on improving water quality. The goal: cut bacterial contamination by 75% before the first swimmer touches the water. These measures are having an impact – but recent heavy rains have seen bacteria levels spike.

While officials have put on brave faces, there’s now a contingency plan in case the Seine isn’t safe.

Why swim in the Seine at all?

Urban rivers have a questionable reputation. But this isn’t the first time the Seine River has been used for Olympic swimming.

In the 1900 Paris Olympics, seven swimming events were all held in the river. These games were the first modern Olympics where women could compete in some sports, but swimming was not one of those permitted.

The Australian swimmer who competed, Frederick Lane, had to swim under the United Kingdom’s flag as Australia did not have a flag until Federation the following year. He won two gold medals. One was for the 200 metre freestyle race, and the other for a bizarre race never held again: the 200m swimming obstacle race , where swimmers had to climb over poles and boats. These Olympics also saw the first and last underwater swimming race, which was also in the Seine.

Back then, the waters of the Seine were cleaner. That’s because there was a great demand for human waste on farms – and cities were the main source. Back then, “night soil” (human waste) had a real market value . No one would think of dumping it in rivers.

But as time went on, sewerage systems developed and other fertilisers such as guano and mineral fertilisers arrived. By the early 20th century, most of the city’s wastewater went into the Seine. In 1923, the swimming ban came into effect. A year later, Paris hosted the Olympics for its second time – and swimmers competed in 50 metre pools.

In recent years, many cities around the world have worked to clean up their urban waterways. River swimming is now common in cities such as Copenhagen, Berlin and Vienna, where river health has improved dramatically.

How can you clean a river like the Seine?

Cleaning the Seine is a challenge. Paris is home to 11 million people, with plenty of industry. Urban rivers are almost inevitably polluted by waste from the surrounding city .

Leaking and overflowing sewage systems are a major source of pollution. In places like the UK, sewage spills into waterways have become a major political issue.

When wastewater spills into rivers, it carries pollutants and dangerous loads of disease-causing microorganisms , such as Escherichia coli (commonly known as E. coli). Untreated water can have viruses, bacteria and disease-causing protozoa.

In the lead-up to the Paris games, authorities have been working to improve water quality enough to bring some Olympic swimming back to the Seine. Stormwater – often contaminated by dog poo or sewage overflows – is being cleaned before it is released into the river.

Despite the money and effort, there are still real questions over whether it will be enough to guarantee swimmer safety. Bacterial levels hit risky levels most days in June due to unseasonally heavy rains, but the water has improved in July .

This week, French sports minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra swam a few metres in the Seine in an effort to douse concerns.

By contrast, the other Olympic swimming events will take place in a recently constructed 50 metre pool, which will have very good water quality. The pool water is filtered and treated with a disinfectant such as chlorine or bromine. It will be regularly tested to ensure optimal water quality.

At the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, triathletes had to swim in polluted Tokyo Bay. But similar concerns over sickness proved unfounded. The real challenge was the oppressive heat .

What’s at risk?

The most likely outcome if races are held when bacterial levels are unsafe would be getting a gastrointestinal bug.

Officials have some control over this. Contamination is worst after heavy rain. Races could be delayed if need be.

Many swimmers – especially those who compete in open-water competitions – are familiar with swimming in water with some level of pollution. Some see it as worth the risk. Italian double world champion swimmer Gregorio Paltrinieri said in January :

Even if the water is dirty, I would rather swim in an electric atmosphere in the centre of Paris than in an anonymous stretch of water.

Paris 2024 organisers previously warned there was no plan B for the 10 km marathon races in the Seine if water quality testing is unsuitable. But this has now changed. If the river isn’t clean enough, open water swimming will be moved to the rowing venue.

The Olympic triathlon is planned around a swimming leg in the Seine. But triathletes have been told the swim leg could be skipped if the water is unsafe, which would turn the race into a running and cycling duathlon.

As the world’s attention turns to Paris, there will be many anxious officials behind the scenes hoping their hard work on making the Seine swimmable pays off.

• Water pollution
• Olympic games
• 2024 Paris Olympics
• river swimming

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Breaking news, paris mayor swims in seine river amid major e. coli concerns before 2024 summer olympics.

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Paris mayor Anne Hidalgo finally fulfilled her promise to take a dip in the long-polluted Seine River to prove that it was safe ahead of the 2024 Summer Olympics that begin next week. 

Hidalgo has insisted that the river is safe and would be swimmable for the three triathlon events and marathon swimming that are slated to take place in the famed Parisian river.

But it was only last week that high levels of E. coli bacteria were detected, The Athletic reported . 

Swimming in the Seine has been prohibited dating back to 1923, but Olympic organizers have spent $1.5 billion in order to clean the river in preparation for the events. 

“The Seine is exquisite,” Hidalgo said to reporters while taking a dip on Wednesday. “The water is very, very good. A little cool, but not so bad.’’

The 65-year-old Paris mayor had a wetsuit and goggles on and took the plunge near city hall and the Notre Dame Cathedral, being joined by the head of the Paris Olympics, Tony Estanguet, and the top government official for the Paris region, Marc Guillaume. 

Estanguet said to NBC News that the swim Wednesday was a “very important milestone because it’s the confirmation that we are ready for the Games.”

He added that the quality of the water in the Seine was “perfect.” 

Nevertheless, the concern over the water quality has been ongoing as E. coli levels rose in two different locations last week and spiked several times during June. 

Paris Olympics officials, however, believe higher temperatures have helped the levels improve since then, CNN reported . 

Hidalgo was originally planning on swimming in the famed Paris waterway in June but postponed it because of French parliamentary elections.

Anger toward the city hosting the Olympic games has been simmering, as Parisians have grown frustrated with the funds being spent on the event that some believe could be going to more pressing issues. 

It led to frustrated Parisians threatening to defecate in the Seine to protest against the games. 

But when the Olympics open, the Seine will serve as one of the centerpieces, with athletes riding down the river on boats of their respective nations during the opening ceremony. 

The triathlon and swimming events are scheduled to begin in late July. 

Olympic organizers revealed earlier this month there is a backup plan in case E. coli levels spike again, the Associated Press reported .

Organizers said the triathlon could be turned into a duathlon, with the swimming portion eliminated, while the marathon swimming competition could be moved to the Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium.

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Paris Mayor Swims in Long-Polluted Seine River to Prove Water Is Safe for Olympic Athletes

"The water is wonderful," Mayor Anne Hidalgo told NBC News

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo officially made good on her promise to swim in the River Seine ahead of the Olympic Games to quiet concerns of the water’s safety level.

On Wednesday, July 17, Hidalgo donned a wetsuit and goggles and took the plunge into the Seine near her office and Paris City Hall, according to NBC News . Entering the river with the help of a ladder, Hidalgo swam around 300 ft., showing off her aquatic skills with a breaststroke.

After coming out of the water, Hidalgo told the outlet, “The water is wonderful,” and "very cool and nice."

The mayor wasn’t alone during the swim event, as Paris Olympic President Tony Estanguet, Paris government official Marc Guillaume and City Council members also joined in.

Pierre Suu/Getty

Estanguet told NBC News that “the Seine quality is perfect,” and the day marked a “very important milestone because it’s the confirmation that we are ready for the Games.”

  Never miss a story — sign up for PEOPLE's free daily newsletter to stay up-to-date on the best of what PEOPLE has to offer, from celebrity news to compelling human interest stories.

Hidalgo had led a €1.4 billion plan to clean up the river ahead of the opening ceremony of the Paris Olympics on July 26, and on July 10 the mayor’s office said recent test results showed the Seine had acceptable levels of bacteria, CNN reported.

Two Olympic events — triathlon and marathon swimming — are currently scheduled to take place in the Seine, along with the opening ceremony, which will feature performances on vessels down the river. 

Swimming in the river has been mostly banned since 1923, according to the Associated Press. However, France plans to use its cityscape, including the river, to host several events throughout the upcoming 2024 Summer Games.

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Over eight days in August 1900, dozens of swimmers dove into the muddy waters of the Seine River in Paris to compete in the second Olympic Games. Cheering crowds packed the riverbank, as the strong downstream current carried athletes to impossibly fast finish times.

In a newspaper review, editor W. T. Stead described the Seine as "the main street" of what was then "the greatest show on earth" — even if it did have a bit of a smell.

"It is extraordinary, the extent to which the French have utilized their river," wrote Stead, then 51.

"In hot weather the fragrance reminds one of Venice, but, odourous or otherwise, the bright, rushing current … adds immensely to the general effect."

Water quality expert on whether he'd personally swim in the Seine

This summer, Olympic athletes could find themselves back in the Seine as the Olympics return to Paris. Triathlon and marathon swimming are scheduled to take place in the river, where it has been illegal to swim for a century. 

Politicians insist the water will be clean enough for athletes by then, but experts aren't so sure.

Is the Seine safe to swim in?

Like many old cities around the world, Paris has a combined sewer system, which means wastewater and storm water flow through the same pipes. Those pipes can reach capacity when it rains long and hard, meaning raw wastewater — like sewage — flows into the Seine instead of a treatment plant.

Swimming there has been banned since 1923, with a few exceptions for the odd competition.

The city has tried to clean up the river, but the water has tested unsafe for humans in recent weeks, though cleaner on other days. Data provided by the Fluidion Open Data Initiative  on E. coli bacteria levels in the Seine showed 852 colony-forming units per 100 millilitres as of Tuesday, down from 1,459 on Monday.

The World Triathlon Federation has determined 900 colony-forming units per 100 millilitres as safe for competitions.

Dan Angelescu, CEO of Fluidion, has been testing the river water for years. He spoke to CBC News in June and said, based on data available at the time, he personally wouldn't have swum in the Seine.

• Paris inaugurates giant water storage basin to clean up the River Seine for Olympic swimming

"When our data says the water quality is good, I'll be the first to jump in," Angelescu said.

"Over the past two months, we haven't seen a single day where water quality was acceptable. So we're starting to be a little bit worried."

Data posted online by the City of Paris showed the water was suitable for swimming six out of seven days between July 8 and 14, based on European water quality regulations . The city tests four sites in the Seine for E. coli and Escherichia coli and intestinal enterococci (IE), both typically used as primary indicators of fecal contamination.

"Despite a [river] flow rate that remains more than three times higher than the usual flow rate in summer, the water quality of the Seine is relatively good over the observed period," the site read on Wednesday.

How is Paris planning to clean the river?

Paris invested €1.4 billion ($2 billion Cdn) in building infrastructure to catch more storm water when it rains — the same dirty wastewater that flows into the Seine during heavy rainfall.

Officials opened a massive underground water storage basin next to the Austerlitz train station in May, hoping the facility can collect excess rainwater and stop waste water from getting into the Seine. The basin can hold the equivalent of 20 Olympic swimming pools of dirty water that will now be treated.

It's the main piece of major infrastructure improvements the city has rushed to finish in time for the Olympics, but also to ensure the Seine stays clean long after the closing ceremonies.

Parisians still express doubt despite French minister's swim in the Seine

The problem is that a few spells of heavy rain could push E. coli levels up.

"The Seine is not a special case," Metin Duran, a professor of civil and environmental engineering at Villanova University who has researched storm-water management, told The Associated Press. "It really is a complicated and very costly problem." 

So will the river be swim-ready in time?

Politicians and organizers have insisted it will be. French President Emmanuel Macron said the cleansing of the Seine "will be a tremendous moment of French pride and celebration," while Paris Deputy Mayor Pierre Rabadan said "there was no Plan B."

The cleaning plan took longer than expected due to unusually heavy spring rainfall, but organizers hope the combination of dry, sunny summer weather and new infrastructure will make enough of a difference.

• Unsafe levels of E. coli found in Paris' Seine River under 2 months before Olympics
• Paris Olympics organizers say swimming events still set for cleaned-up Seine River

"It's still a challenge because we know that, with big rain, we are exposed to risk. But … because we started the program four years ago, the water quality now is much better," Tony Estanguet, president of the Paris 2024 organizing committee and three-time Olympic canoeing champion, said in an interview with CBC News.

"So whatever will be the situation for the games, it will be a very positive legacy for the Seine." 

Estanguet and the top government official for the Paris region, Marc Guillaume, joined Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo for a dip in the river on Wednesday to prove the river is clean enough to host outdoor swimming events. French Sports Minister Amélie Oudéa-Castéra already took the plunge on Saturday.

The four officials all wore suits that covered most of their skin.

"The Seine is exquisite," said Hidalgo from the water. After emerging, she continued to rave, "The water is very, very good. A little cool, but not so bad.''

What's this about a 'shit in the Seine' protest?

Hidalgo was originally expected to swim in the river with Macron on June 23. Parisians who were fed up with the amount of money being spent on the Olympics encouraged people to poop in the river before the politicians took the plunge. Some declared their allegiance to the cause under the hashtag #JeChieDansLaSeineLe23Juin, which translates to "I shit in the Seine on June 23."

Angelescu said it would have to be an immense amount of human waste to bring down the water quality.

"It would have to be thousands and thousands of people that do this," said Angelescu. "I really hope it's not going to be the case, but it certainly makes headlines in the newspapers when people say that."

What happens to the outdoor swimming events if they can't use the Seine?

If the Seine isn't clean enough for the athletes, the triathlon will drop the swimming portion and run as a duathlon. The marathon swimming competition would be moved to the Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium, which is just outside Paris and is already going to be hosting the rowing and canoe-kayaking events.

"It's not very common, but it has happened a few times," Olalla Cernuda, head of communications at World Triathlon, told AP the possibility of the swim portion being cancelled.

"And it's always linked with water quality issues."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Senior Writer

Rhianna Schmunk is a senior writer for CBC News based in Vancouver. Over a decade in journalism, she has reported on subjects including criminal justice, civil litigation and climate change. You can send story tips to [email protected].

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With files from Adrienne Arsenault, Stephanie Jenzer and The Associated Press

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