river boat cruise in paris

Cruise on the Seine in Paris

Compagnie des Bateaux Mouches® is the leading provider of cruises on the river Seine. Take some time to explore Paris a little differently and uncover the historic heart of the city of lights whilst slipping down its most beautiful avenue. Commentated tour, lunch in a unique restaurant or romantic dinner, there’s a cruise for everyone...

See Paris by boat

Hopping onto a boat and enjoying a tour down the Seine, for over an hour-long trip, seeing the capital’s iconic monuments is surely top of the list of things to do during a trip to Paris.  Read more

This service includes a meal for one person and a cruise ticket. Four sandwich options are available: Le Bastille (Ham & cheese), Le Châtelet (Pastrami), Le Montmartre (Salmon & Avocado) and Le Champs Elysées (Roasted vegetables / vegetarian).

Champagne cruise in Paris

This package contains a combo ticket including a sightseeing cruise on the Seine river with the Compagnie des Bateaux Mouches and Half a bottle of EPC Champagne for 2 people to be collected from the « Bar » situated on the boarding area, just before the turnstiles.

Brunch with a view in Paris

How about brunch on the Seine right opposite the Eiffel Tower? Every Sunday Compagnie des Bateaux Mouches opens up its restaurant Mademoiselle Mouche, on the Port de la Conférence, right next to the Pont de l’Alma. The chance to brunch in a quirky location...

Boat & Bus Visit

Combine your leisure cruise on the Seine with a double-decker bus tour! Take advantage of OpenTour's open-topped double-decker buses to visit the heart of Paris on your own terms, getting on and off at will.

Lunch on the Seine

Every weekend and public holiday, Bateaux-Mouches® casts off its moorings and sets sail for a friendly, laid-back lunch. A fantastic guinguette atmosphere, reminiscent of the Paris of yesteryear.  Read more

Romantic Dinner Cruise

A romantic dinner cruise lulled by the sound of the piano and violin, bathed in the shimmering reflections of the lights of Paris on the Seine. Two menus, Excellence and Prestige, for an unforgettable evening... An extraordinary moment.   Read more

Dinner show

Combine the enchantment of our dinner cruise with the sassy glamour of the Crazy Horse cabaret, another Paris institution. An evening full of spectacle, from start to finish.  Read more

Dates and special evenings

For a special event such as a marriage proposal, renewal of vows or special dates like New Year, Valentine’s Day, Mother’s Day or 14th July, we offer special evenings. 

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The 8 best river cruises in Paris

There’s no better way to explore the City of Light than by water

In a city full of magical things to see and do, few activities can be more enchanting than a trip along the Seine. To sail down the river in the City of Love is to dip under narrow bridges, pass tree-lined boulevards and spot iconic  landmark after iconic landmark. The trips on offer don’t stop at the Seine either, and there are plenty of other canals and lakes to explore either as part of an organised tour or on your own steam. Ready to hit the water? Here’s our pick of Paris’s best river-based tours, trips and activities. Bon voyage!

This article includes affiliate links. These links have no influence on our editorial content. For more information, click  here .

RECOMMENDED: 🎭  See the best attractions in Paris 🏡Enjoy a stay at the best Airbnbs in Paris 🏨 Or head to the best hotels in Paris

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Best Paris river cruises

1.  City and River Seine Tour on Amphibious Bus

This unique river cruise in Paris includes some of the Paris favourites you see in the movies. You know, the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame... so you can stop for an iconic picture and you'll also get a 60-minute cruise along the Seine thrown in. You'll also see more of the city’s famous bridges and other historical landmarks on the cruise, making for a fun-packed but truly relaxing day out.

Time Out tip: Since there's no food aboard the boat, we'd recommend dining at L'Escudella, an elegant bistro with a lunch menu starting from €36. 

2.  Night Aperitif Cruise on the Seine River with Music

Ah, the city of love. Sure, Paris is great during the day, but it’s at night when its real romantic side comes to the fore. This tour gets things off to a fairy-tale start with a lamp-lit river cruise, before moving on to a coach or minivan tour that stops by landmarks like the Champs-Élysées and the Arc de Triomphe. 

Time Out tip:  Enjoy a glass of champagne, wine or beer while aboard. Just make sure to cheers the French way. 

3.  Seine Cruise and Crepe Tasting near the Eiffel Tower

Some tours can leave you feeling a little bit deflated – you traipse around after someone with an umbrella for two hours and the schedule is so tight you don't actually get to take in your surroundings. Fortunately, this isn't the case on this Vedettes du Pont Neuf tour, where the only thing flat is the pancakes (or crepes, as they are known en français ). The two-hour cruise along the Seine and Canal St Martin passes landmarks including Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Assemblée Nationale and the Eiffel Tower, while three crepes and a drink (cider, mulled wine, hot chocolate or lemonade) are included in the price.

Time Out tip: The cruise is more frequent in summer (departing every 30 minutes), which comes in handy if you're visiting for the weekend. 

4.  Seine River Cruise and Champagne Brunch with Panoramic Views

At this 90-minute Seine river ride courtesy of Capitaine Fracasse, you'll be treated to brunch while you cruise on, seeing sites like Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. There are both hot and cold brunch options, so you can take your pick depending on how you're feeling that day, and you can even upgrade your package to enjoy a half-bottle of champagne if you're feeling fancy! Experience a super relaxed atmosphere in comfy armchairs as you take in the views.

5.  Cruise on the Saint-Martin Canal and the Seine River

This tour doesn’t just take you meandering down the Seine, but also incorporates a journey up Paris’s idyllic, tree-lined Canal Saint Martin, with a guide sharing stories and facts along the way. Plus, there are some great stops on the way if you’re looking to inject some French style into your wardrobe.

Time Out tip: Can't decide on where to head next? This cruise offers you the perfect vantage point for your next destination. if in doubt, Cafe A is a good food stop - enjoy brunch out on the terrace.

6.  Marne River Loop Day Cruise with Lunch on Board

Seen the Seine? It's time to get off the beaten track and explore the outskirts of Paris via the River Marne instead. Marvel at Chinagora, a Chinese-inspired hotel complex, and stop for a spot of lunch on board – with 100% homemade recipes to try as you cruise around the outskirts of Paris.

Time Out tip: For this cruise, you're required to arrive 15 minutes before as the boat will leave at 10.25 am sharp. 

7.  Champagne at the Moulin Rouge and Seine River Cruise

Sure, this is on the pricier end of tours on offer, but it will definitely be a night you remember. The evening starts with a Seine river cruise past some of Paris’s biggest sights by night as they’re lit up in all their illuminated glory. The final destination is the world-renowned Moulin Rouge, where you’ll get to enjoy one of its legendary Féerie shows as well as a glass of bubbly.

Time Out tip: Since this late evening cruise  (starting at 8.45 pm) is jamp-packed enough, we'd  recommend light activity during the day. 

8.  Sail yourself around

Following a scheduled tour is fun and all, but nothing beats exploring for yourself. Marin d’Eau Douce allows you to do just that, taking to the open waters on your very own rental boat. Short hires are restricted to the Bassin de la Villette – Paris’ largest artificial lake – but opt for a longer session and you can explore the various canals that are connected to it. Boats fit five to 11 people and no sailing experience is required.

Time Out tip: Make it extra special and throw in an aperitif hamper for an extra €7 per person.  

More Paris tours and activities

Other tours and activities in Paris

Take a look through our complete list of trips, tours, activities and other sources of distraction in the French capital.

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

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 has to offer, with our 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.

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

Best Seine River Cruise for Families

Seine boat tour – best tips.

A Seine River cruise is one of the top attractions in the city. We 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 are working on the River Seine, and they all cover 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 more or less the same for all companies, from 10 am to 10.30 pm.

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

A Paris Seine River cruise (only sightseeing) usually lasts from 60 minutes to 90 minutes, and they are available every day of the week. Some of these 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 from 1hr 15 min to 3 hours, and it comes with or without 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, covering the part of the Seine River that goes through the central Arrondissements of Paris , from the Eiffel Tower in Paris 7 to Ile de Saint Louis in Paris 4.

Boats go downstream following the Seine’s Left Bank, and they turn after Ile de Saint Louis to go upstream following the Seine’s Right Bank.

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, Conciergerie, Concorde, Grand Palais, and Palais Chaillot.

With some companies, and usually with the Seine River dinner cruises, the boats 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, 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
• Light Green: Paris Duck Tour (tour on an amphibious bus)
• 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).

1. Bâteaux Mouches

The company Bateaux Mouches has been operating on the Seine River since 1949! The iconic Bâteaux Mouches is today the 4th 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 propose similar boat tours to the Bâteaux Mouches. The fleet consists of fully glazed boats for 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 and smaller boats that transport fewer people. During the 1-hour Seine River tour, learn about the history of Paris and the sights along the cruise 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 already know that you will fall into the temptation of trying some, we recommend booking them online with your ticket: usually, they are 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, 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 we know best because years ago, it was included in the monthly Navigo Pass Metro ticket. 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 hop off the boat from any of its 9 different 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 Eiffel Tower and Louvre stops are accessible to those in wheelchairs. The other stops have too many steps for wheelchairs.

5. Paris Duck Tour (Tour on an Amphibious Bus)

The Paris Duck Tour is the latest addition to this list of Seine River cruises in Paris. This small bus, for only 35 people, can also navigate along the Seine River, so you have a bus tour and a Seine boat tour for the price of one! Actually, the splash!, when the bus enters the water is one of the highlights of this unique Seine boat tour.

The itinerary is also different from the other Seine cruises. On the bus, you will pass by iconic sites like the Eiffel Tower, the Invalides, the Alexandre III Bridge, the Petit Palais and Grand Palais, the Champs-Elysées, the Arc de Triomphe, and more.

The splash! takes place on the outskirts of Paris, where you can discover the Seine Musicale, the Parc de Saint-Cloud, and the Bois de Boulogne. Count on sailing about 20 minutes of the 1 hr 45 min that lasts the full tour.

Another (big) difference is the guide, who was hand-picked for his humor and passion to make this tour fun and memorable.

• Duration: 1 hr 45 min
• Departure /arrival point: Place Vauvan, in Paris 7 (see our Google map)
• Options: sightseeing cruise only (no food or drinks)
• No toilets onboard

This is a new and unique tour much coveted by tourists and locals (yep, we also like trying new experiences!). Because of the small capacity of the bus, the Paris Duck Tours sold out very fast, so it is usually necessary to book many weeks in advance. If you don’t find this Seine River tour available for your dates, consider this Seine River + Canal Saint-Martin Duck Tour or this Paris to Versailles Duck Tour also with their unique amphibious bus.

Click here to book this Seine River Cruise

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, and it is 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 classics of Paris, 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 take the opportunity to 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 cruise (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 pm and the second starting at 8.30 pm 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 pm Seine River night cruise finishes around 7.10 pm. This means that during the summer, you will be sailing in daylight.
• With the 8 pm 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 cruise, a night option with dinner, starting at 8.30 pm.

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: we 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 proposing Seine River dinner cruises in Paris. However, their proposal is very attractive, flexible, and 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 view 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. 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 pm. 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 commentaries are 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.

The best Seine River cruise for families is, in our opinion, the Family Cruise on the Seine . This Seine River tour comes with a funny guide (English & French) specialized in capturing the imagination of the little ones.

»  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, our 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 explorers with a preference for lesser-known sights, we are continuously looking for new ideas and tips to bring you the best of the city of light read more about us ., we’re elisa, norbert, valérie, and cédric, four travel bloggers and friends living in paris. quirky explorers with a preference for the local side of our city and its lesser-known sights, we are 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 & our best tips learn more about us.

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• Multiple Duration Options

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Discover the soul of Paris with one of this best-sellers cruises:

Seine River Cruise - The Best Way to See Paris!

A Seine River Cruise in Paris is one of the best ways to explore and see the city’s highlights in a relaxing and fun way. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions for travelers in Paris with more than 4 million people taking cruises each year.

By taking a Cruise on the Seine River, you could see up close Paris’ top attractions like the Eiffel Tower , the Louvre Museum , Notre-Dame Cathedral , the Musée d’Orsay and many more and explore the historic heart of Paris from a new perspective.

Unique Views

A river cruise allows you to see iconic Paris landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, and more from unique vantage points along the Seine that you can’t get walking around the city. The river offers beautiful new perspectives of Paris’ architecture and scenery.

Relaxing Way to Tour

A boat cruise is a relaxed, calm way to take in the sights of Paris compared to a rushed walking tour or hectic metro trips. You can sit back with a glass of wine and watch the city unfold along the banks of the river. It’s an easy way to see a lot without wearing yourself out.

Intimate Experience

A small riverboat cruise offers a quaint, intimate feel that gets you closer to landmarks compared to packed tourist buses or boats. With fewer passengers and open decks, you have space to Admire views and snap great photos as you gently float by each attraction. It feels like a VIP tour around the City of Light.

Seine Cruise Types

Select from sightseeing, dining, leisurely riverboat or multi-attraction packages to match your Paris travel budget, timeline and interests:

Sightseeing Cruise

The most popular type, sightseeing cruises typically last 1-2 hours and journey along the Seine passing by the top landmarks of Paris like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, Orsay Museum and more. Most boats have open-air upper decks and some have interior lounge areas. Audio guides in multiple languages are usually available.

• Best Suited For : First-time visitors. Great way to see all the major sites along the Seine in 1 or 2 hour journey.
• Duration : Usually 1-2 hours in length. Many options for morning, afternoon, twilight or night tour times.
• Price Range : Starts from approximately 15€ for 1-hour cruise. Around 25-30€ standard rate for daytime cruise with audio guide.

Dinner Cruise

If you want to make the cruise more interesting, you can choose the Dinner Cruise which is more expensive cruise and include dinner, drinks, or even sometimes a live music show. These cruises will cost you more than the Sightseeing Cruises, but they take longer (around 2 hours) and do offer some more value to your trip. That is why many travelers choose this option. 

• Best Suited For: Couples celebrating anniversaries, honeymooners, those seeking a luxurious romantic dinner with sights.
• Duration : 3-4 hours, with boarding, multi-course meal, and cruise along the Seine
• Price Range : 60-120€ per person multi-course gourmet meal menus along with unlimited premium drinks.

Lunch Cruise

The Lunch Cruise allow you enjoy a gourmet multi-course French meal while floating past Parisian monuments. Meal options range from buffets to set menus paired with quality French wines. Many boats have live musical entertainment, some with dancing. 

• Best For : Families, couples, groups looking for a relaxed Seine sightseeing experience. Good daytime activity option.
• Duration : Usually 1.5-2 hours
• Price Range : 50-100€ per person. 

Cruise Packages

Many cruise companies offer discounted multi-ride packages like a 1-day Big Bus pass with a 1-hour Vedettes du Pont Neuf cruise, making it easy to tour around different Paris neighborhoods.

• Best For : Maximum convenience and affordability. Combine top Paris attractions.
• Duration : Depends on the paired activities, but cruise portion 1-2 hours typically.
• Price Range : Packages with bus, museum tickets etc can be 60€+ per person but offer good value.

Hop On Hop Off Cruise

The Hop on Hop Off cruise allows you to effortlessly visit popular locations such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral, Musée d’Orsay, Hôtel de Ville, Jardin des Plantes and more. It offers great flexibility to create your own DIY sightseeing itinerary and transportation around Paris’ most famous attractions.

• Best For : Visitors who want flexibility to see multiple Paris landmarks at their own pace.
• Duration : Ticket valid for 1-2 days so you choose how long to sightsee.
• Price Range : 30-35€ for 1 day pass, 35-40€ for 2 day pass.

Guided Cruise

Guided cruise provide history and cultural insight into Paris and its famous monuments. They can be customized to focus on different topics from art, architecture, WWII history, love stories and more based on passengers’ interests. Private tours for families or groups are also bookable.

• Best For : Travelers who want a tour guide to provide commentary, history and context at major sights along the river.
• Duration : Typically 1-2 hours.
• Price Range : Small group guided tours: €15-25 per person. Private 2-hour cruise: €200-300 total.

Top Sights You Will See

Gliding along the River Seine, a Paris river cruise offers views of the city’s most celebrated landmarks – the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, and Musée d’Orsay glow against the horizon. 

Neoclassical buildings grace the banks from the Alexander III Bridge to Les Invalides. In under an hour, iconic Parisian history and architecture comes alive on the water. 

Here are the top sights you will see a long the cruise:

Seine Cruise Route Map

Top Seine Cruise Providers

Bateaux parisiens.

Bateaux Parisiens is one of the largest and most popular Seine cruise companies in Paris. It offers sightseeing cruises along the Seine past top attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. Bateaux Parisiens also provides lunch, dinner, and entertainment cruises on board their fleet of glass-topped boats. The company is a family-owned business founded in 1958.

Bateaux Mouches

The oldest and largest river cruise operator in Paris is Bateaux Mouches which was founded in 1949. Bateaux Mouches operates a large fleet of glass-roofed boats departing frequently from Pont de l’Alma. They offer daytime and evening sightseeing cruises with audio guides in 18 languages. The company is especially known for their romantic evening dinner and dance cruises with live music.

Vedettes de Paris

Vedettes de Paris provides smaller, more intimate boat tours on the Seine. They are a top-rated company for their personal service, smaller groups, and ability to dock closer to sights. Vedettes de Paris also offers themed cruises like Paris historians and jazz cruises. Their boats have indoor salons and open-air upper decks. It is a family-owned company established in 1945.

Pariscityvision

Pariscityvision is a large company providing a wide variety of sightseeing tours in Paris, including Seine cruises. They usually market more towards tourists and large groups. Pariscityvision’s boats are completely glazed for better views, and also have interior salons. The company is a great budget option for basic daytime or evening sightseeing boat tours.

Paris Canal

Paris Canal specializes exclusively in 2-hour Paris canal boat tours versus Seine tours. Their small electric boats go through charming lesser-known waterways and locks providing a unique perspective of Paris gardens, bridges, and houseboats compared to major monuments.

Vedettes de la Seine

Vedettes de la Seine – Fracasse is a smaller boutique cruise company with just 2 to 3 boats. They offer specialized themed musical or Parisian gourmet dining cruises in an intimate setting with attentive service and unique French cuisine onboard.

• Plan Your Trip

When taking a Seine cruise in Paris, keeping the weather in mind is important for having an enjoyable experience:

Sunny Day If sunny, an open-top upper deck on the boat would be ideal. You can take in full views of landmarks like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower while staying protected from the sun in the shade. Sunscreen and hats are still a good idea.

Rainy/Overcast Day Many boats have both enclosed and open areas. If rain is forecasted, opting for a boat with indoor seating or retractable glass covers can allow you to stay dry. Bring lightweight raincoats or umbrellas as a backup. Check the wind direction so you don’t get stuck in the rain when boarding or disembarking.

Cold Weather If cruising in fall or winter months when it’s chilly, dress warmly in layers. Coats, scarves and gloves are recommended. Some boats may have climate controls or provide blankets so check ahead. Sipping hot chocolate or coffee can help keep you warm too!

Windy Conditions Higher winds on the river may impact the boat’s stability. If very windy, consider rescheduling since you likely won’t be able to enjoy upper deck seating.

No matter the forecast, confirming if your specific cruise will run as scheduled is advised. Checking for potential cancellations due to weather can help avoid disappointments. Being prepared for diverse Parisian weather will enable soaking in the magic of the Seine!

Most major boats and tour companies offer cruises throughout the day, typically starting as early as 10am and running as late as 9:30pm in the summer. Schedules vary by company and season with hours being more limited in the off-season between November-March. Lunch cruises are very common, lasting 1-2 hours in the early-mid afternoon. Dinner/evening cruises typically have boarding around 8pm and run for 1.5-2 hours.

Some companies offer flexible boarding times for independent, hop-on hop-off style cruises during the day which allow you to sightsee at your own pace. Smaller tour boats and private river yacht charters may have more flexibility for custom departure times. Cruise frequency ranges from boats departing every 30 minutes up to every 1-2 hours depending on the season, with more time in between departures earlier/later in the day.

Most cruises run for 1-2 hours in duration, many including boarding time and allowing time for commentary. Some full meal cruises can last 2+ hours. In summary – typical Seine cruise hours range from morning through evening, with greatest flexibility and frequencies through midday and early evening. But exploring your specific cruise company’s schedule is the best way to confirm details. Let me know if you have any other cruise operation questions!

When taking a Seine River cruise in Paris, you’ll have options for different durations to suit your schedule and interests:

The most common cruise duration is 1-1.5 hours. This allows you to cruise along the Seine at a comfortable pace while seeing top attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, Louvre Museum, and ornate bridges from unique vantage points. Cruises of this length will have running commentary to point out photo spots and give history.

Two hour lunch or dinner cruises are also very popular. These allow more relaxed dining and take in wider views between the Paris landmarks, heading both downstream and back upstream. Meals are served on board these cruises.

Some companies offer half-hour to 45 minute compact mini-cruises. These offer a quick glimpse at the Seine highlights if you’re short on time. The pace and route is more direct.

At the longer end, some full-day and multi-hour cruises are available for those really wanting an immersive experience. These may include multiple stops or activities like museum visits in addition to the Seine sightseeing.

River yacht charters can potentially customize cruise durations, but usually run in the 1-3 hour range. Private boats allow you to fully control the timing.

So in summary, first-timers may want to opt for a classic 1-1.5 hour river cruise, while return visitors could consider a longer or meal-inclusive option. Checking different company offerings for duration and scheduling will ensure the best Seine cruise fit.

The departure point for your Seine River cruise is an important piece of planning, as major cruise companies use various docks along the river. Most boats leave from ports near the Eiffel Tower or Notre Dame Cathedral given their convenient locations.

Common Eiffel Tower embarkation docks include Port de la Bourdonnais, just east of the landmark, and Port de Suffren to the west. Using these ports, your boat can head straight under the Eiffel Tower shortly after departure for great views. Another top departure point is Port Saint Paul by Notre Dame in the heart of Paris near lively shops and cafes. Cruise companies like Vedettes du Pont Neuf and Bateaux Parisiens use Port Saint Paul.

Depending on your specific cruise’s route, you may also embark at locations like Musée d’Orsay, the Louvre, Jardin des Plantes, or further east at Bercy Village. Check your tour information carefully for the meeting location. Third party sellers may use docks across from the islands in the Seine like Ile de la Cité. Arriving early is wise to account for walking time to your departure dock.

Maps of the Seine will display the various port names to confirm where your cruise embarks once you’ve booked. Central meeting spots like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame make getting on and off boats convenient as nearby transit options abound. But no matter which dock you start from, gorgeous river views await!

Seine Cruise Insider Tips

Here are some of the best insider tips for taking a cruise on the Seine River in Paris:

• Avoid the large, crowded Bateaux Mouches tourist boats if you want a more intimate experience. Look for small boat cruises or private boat rentals instead.
• Cruises in the morning or late afternoon tend to be less crowded than midday. Evening cruises can be romantic as you’ll see the monuments lit up.
• Sit on the right side of the boat if possible when heading downstream from the Eiffel Tower towards the Notre Dame Cathedral. This side offers the best views.
• Many boats have open air tops, so dress appropriately for the weather. Layers are a good idea.
• Bring a good camera! The views of the Parisian monuments from a unique vantage point on the Seine are ideal photo opportunities.
• You can bring your own snacks and drinks for a picnic-style experience on most boat cruises. Some smaller cruises may provide refreshments.
• Check when bridges go up to allow boat traffic to pass underneath. Times vary, but this lets larger boats continue down or up the Seine.
• Look into combo deals that pair a Seine cruise with activities like a city bus tour or museum visits for good value.

What is the best time of day to take a cruise?  

Early morning and sunset cruises are peaceful with smaller crowds. Afternoon offers the most frequent departures. Illuminations cruises at night showcase lit-up monuments.

What is the average length of a cruise?  

Most cruises are 1-1.5 hours. Two hour lunch/dinner cruises are also popular. Some are just 30 minutes while full-day options are available too.

Which side of the boat is best for views?  

If possible, sit on the right side heading downstream from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame for iconic landmark views.

Can you bring food and drinks on board?  

Yes, on most cruises you can BYO snacks and non-alcoholic drinks. Some boats have food/drink for purchase.

Is there inside seating?  

Many boats have both indoor and outdoor seating options. Open air top decks provide the best views.

Do boats have restrooms?  

Yes, Seine cruise ships are equipped with clean restrooms.

Is narration/commentary provided?  

Most standard sightseeing cruises include engaging audio commentary to point out photo spots and discuss sites along the route.

What language(s) are tours offered in?  

English and French commentary is typical. Some also offer Spanish, German, Italian, Japanese or Chinese narration.

Is the cruise wheelchair and stroller accessible?  

Many boats have wheelchair ramps and space for strollers. Confirm accessibility needs when booking.

Can you bring a dog?  

No, pets are not allowed onboard cruises. Service animals may be accommodated.

Is the cruise child-friendly?  

Yes! Seine cruises can be great for families and kids with commentary to entertain and windows to see sites.

Will the boat make stops along the river? Most standard sightseeing cruises do not stop, allowing you to stay aboard. A few may disembark at sites like the Eiffel Tower.

How big/crowded are the boats?  

Boat sizes and capacity ranges from small yachts to multi-level ships holding hundreds. Cruise at less crowded times or pick smaller ships.

Should I make reservations?  

Yes, it’s strongly recommend to book tickets in advance online for your preferred date/time. Walk-ups may have long waits or sell out.

Can I choose my departure dock?  

Tickets are generally tied to specific departure docks. But getting to the dock is fairly quick from central Paris locations.

Is tipping customary?  

Tips are not required but you can tip 10-15% for exceptional service. Some meal cruises may include gratuity.

What should I wear/bring?  

Dress for weather. Layers, hats, sunscreen, jacket and comfortable shoes are good. Umbrella if rain is forecasted.

Is there an onboard bathroom?  

Yes, fully equipped and clean restrooms are available on all standard public sightseeing cruise ships.

Do boats run year-round?  

Many operators sail all year, but services are reduced November-March. Some small boats pause cruises in winter months or harsh weather.

Can cruises be cancelled due to weather?

High water levels or storms may rarely cancel. Reach out directly regarding weather concerns over your booking date.

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The Seine River, Paris, France

As the second-longest river in France, the Seine River extends over 777 kilometers and is one of the most iconic sights of Paris as well as a worldwide tourist attraction. The city of Paris is built on the banks of the Seine River and there are many famous buildings and historic monuments surrounded by the banks, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, Notre-Dame de Paris and so forth. It is the Seine that divides the city into two parts, the Left Bank of the Seine is called “La Rive Gauche” in French, which is seen as more cultural and romantic. While the Right Bank is called “La Rive Droite”, and has a more modern and commercial feel. Both banks of the Seine are listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites and each of which offers its own taste of Paris. Between the two banks of the Seine are 37 bridges, each has its own unique character and a different view of Paris.

Having a cruise on the Seine by taking a boat ride is the perfect way to discover Paris and to admire the history that makes up its heritage. With Seine.com, you'll find top-quality cruises, dining, tours and events on the Seine River along with great accommodation near the banks at the best rates.

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5 Best Seine River Cruise in Paris: Your Ultimate Guide

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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 🩷

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 🙂

Parisienne since 2006 🩷

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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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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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THE CRUISE DETECTIVE

Home  » 5 Best Seine River Cruises in Paris in 2024 (Personally Tested)

5 Best Seine River Cruises in Paris in 2024 (Personally Tested)

Published: Dec 23, 2023 Last updated: April 5, 2024

Author: Adam Dimitrov — Owner & Head Cruise Detective

🏆 Editor's #1 Choice

✔️ tested by author

After personally testing the top five Seine river cruises in Paris, I concluded that Bateaux Parisiens offers the best sightseeing experience .

It's Paris's most popular Seine boat tour, offering a well-rounded experience with virtually no downsides. ‍

Here are the top 3 reasons why:

• Choose from two pre-recorded audio guides (14 languages) or enjoy live commentary.
• Explore the city on a spacious and modern ship with excellent amenities.
• Delight in the Parisian cityscape with 360° panoramic views.

The problem with river cruises in Paris is that there are too many to choose from !

Each promises a great experience, making the decision difficult.

The stakes are high — no one wants a poor choice to ruin an otherwise unforgettable vacation, especially in a city like Paris, which for many is a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Fortunately, the Cruise Detective is here to help.

I embarked on a 12-day journey to Paris to find definitive answers by trying out the five most popular river cruises and dinner cruises .

Each has thousands of glowing reviews, so the most reliable way to rank them was to experience them all .

This article gives you an incredibly detailed rundown of my findings.

‍ Note: I am not sponsored by any of the companies I review. I pay for my cruises with my hard-earned money and review anonymously to deliver thorough and unbiased reviews.

Disclaimer: This website uses affiliate links. I earn a small commission if you make a purchase through my links. This comes at no extra cost to you and helps sustain my work. Cheers!

Summary & Comparison — 5 Best Seine River Cruises in Paris

💡 Reviews are calculated using the weighted average and aggregate review count from GetYourGuide, Tripadvisor, and Viator.   I also include listings that I consider "arbitrary duplicates" of the original ones (e.g. the same cruise during the day vs night).

Paris River Cruise Itinerary

Every river cruise on this list follows the same itinerary (except the St. Martin Canal cruise), which runs between the Statue of Liberty and Pont de Sully (Sully Bridge). The route passes nearly 20 landmarks, including:

• The Eiffel Tower
• Pont Alexandre III
• Musée d'Orsay
• Grand Palais
• Petit Palais
• Institut de France
• Île de la Cité
• Notre Dame Cathedral
• Hotel de Ville
• Louvre Museum
• Place de la Concorde
• The Statue of Liberty

Is It Worth Trying A Seine River Cruise in Paris?

Yes, absolutely.

A caveat I’d add is that while the Eiffel Tower is beautiful to witness, particularly after 8 pm when the sparkling lights are on for 5 minutes at the start of every hour , I have to say that I found the Seine River to be less captivating compared to other cities like Budapest , London , or Amsterdam .

Next, let's get into the nitty gritty of our review.

1. 🏆 Best Paris River Cruise Overall (Bateaux Parisiens)

✔️ Great All-Around Experience ✔️ Modern and Well-Equipped Ship ✔️ Great Location at the Eiffel Tower ✔️ Great Smartphone Audio Guide (Web Browser Based, Download Not Required) ✔️ Live Commentary and Built-In/Non-App Audio Guide Available ✔️ Covered Waiting Area ✔️ Vending Machines Available On Board

❌ Top Deck Seats Face the Sides, Not the Front ❌ Built-In Audio Guide is Unhygienic, Impractical and Has Low Sound Quality ❌ Live Narrator Hard to Understand in Non-French Languages ❌ Smatphone Based Audio Guide Requires Earbuds

Summary & Review — How Was It and What to Expect?

Miles ahead of other Seine river cruises in popularity based on review counts, I was very curious to try Bateaux Parisiens.

I wasn’t disappointed.

Bateaux Parisiens and its boats are top-notch — they have spacious decks, 360° panoramic views up top, cozy seats, vending machines and clean restrooms. However, the top deck seats face the sides, which means some neck turning.

Peak season crowds are inevitable , but you know how Paris is — it's bustling everywhere. I experienced it myself, but when I visited in October, it wasn't that bad.

They claim to be wheelchair accessible, and they sort of are. The main deck has numerous 1-step stairs scattered around, and there’s limited space to maneuver with a wheelchair.

Additionally, there’s no way for a wheelchair user to ascend the stairs to the top deck unless you can cast Wingardium Leviosa.

(Update: They have access ramps available, so you can to move around on the bottom deck. The top deck is inaccessible.)

The audio guide on the smartphone is crystal-clear and of high quality. They offer three different options (smartphone, phone dial, and live), which is a little excessive.

The location is right next to the Eiffel Tower, so finding it is easy peasy.

In summary, the sightseeing cruise was well-organized from start to finish , with no next to no inconveniences during my experience.

💡 Duplicate listing warning: This Bateaux Parisiens sightseeing cruise with over 9700 reviews is exactly the same as the cruise I recommend in this article. Same service, same price, same ship. It's a duplicate. Just mentioning this to clear up any confusion.

About Bateaux Parisiens

Bateaux Parisiens was founded in 1956 and currently operates a fleet of 8 sightseeing boats and 5 restaurant cruise boats .

Their compound is located just 2 minutes away from the Eiffel Tower. The company has a diverse workforce of 270 staff members from 37 nationalities, representing 50 different professions.

Each year, they welcome 3.4 million passengers on board their boats.

💡 Other popular options cruises and bundles from Bateaux Parisiens: 1. Cruise with Crepe Tasting 🥞 near the Eiffel Tower 2. Day or Sunset Cruise with Drink 🍷, Ice Cream 🍨 or Dessert 🍰 3. Cruise with Louvre Museum Entrance Ticket 🎫 4. 2-Hour Lunch Cruise on the Seine

Video: Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise Review

Take a look at this short video I made to get an accurate feel of the cruise:

Teaser Video (Made by Bateaux Parisiens)

What's included.

• A 60-minute Seine river cruise with an audio guide (2 pre-recorded options and a live narrator are available) in up to 14 languages .
• Food or drinks are available from onboard vending machines.
• You can show up anytime (for the day you selected) and board the next cruise with your ticket.

Detailed Breakdown — Before the Cruise

Assembly area.

• Bateaux Parisiens is located in the most prominent section of the Seine’s lower embankment, near the Eiffel Tower , which makes it convenient and easy to find.
• The assembly area includes a ticket office, parking spots, restaurants (the Bistro Parisien), and various vendors selling food, drinks, and coffee.

• To board, head to Zone 3.1 for a mandatory bag check as part of the security process. After clearing security, you’ll enter a covered waiting area equipped with vending machines.

Getting There

• 🗺️ Meeting point: Port de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris, France

Detailed Breakdown — During The Cruise

• The ship is a modern and spacious double-decker with a 400-person capacity. For the best views and comfortable seating, head to the upper deck.
• Bateaux Parisiens has 8 sightseeing ships in its fleet, so you’re experience might be slightly different than pictured here.

The Lower Deck

• Seating downstairs is divided into two types: window seats and middle seats. The window seats are preferable, as you can’t see much from the middle seats.
• The lower deck also features a toilet (only urinal for men) and vending machines in the back.

The Top Deck

• The upper deck offers 360° panoramic views , which lets you enjoy the city panorama and snap photos.
• The seating arrangement consists of benches oriented to the sides (without backrests), with a standing-only frontal section available for those who prefer to face ahead.

Cruise Itinerary & Views

• The cruise follows a standard itinerary , covering the area between the Eiffel Tower and the Austerlitz Bridge.

• Key landmarks along the route include the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, the Palais Bourbon, Musée d’Orsay, Institut de France, Notre Dame Cathedral, the City Hall, the Conciergerie, the Louvre, the Obelisk, the Grand Palais.

Audio Guide

• The audio guide on Bateaux Parisiens offers three options .

Smartphone Audio Guide

• The best option is a mobile-friendly website available in 7 languages (French, English, Spanish, Portuguese, Italian, German, Chinese).
• It offers clear audio and high content quality , along with interactive features like photo filters and quizzes for each location.
• Try the fun photo filter. You won’t regret it 😉
• It's accessible through your browser. No app download is required.

Wired "Phone Dial" Audio Guide

• The second option is a wired audio guide that resembles a phone dial available at each window seat. They are literal dials that you could pull out from a hole and put next to your ear like an old phone. One could alternatively use plugged-in earbuds.
• It comes in 14 languages (English, German, Chinese-Mandarin, Korean, Spanish, Italian, Japanese, Dutch, Polish, Portuguese, Russian, French, Arabic, Hindi).
• Based on what I saw, not many people were using it . Maybe due to hygiene concerns? It had basic controls (change language, change volume) and subpar audio quality (like on an old phone).

Live Audio Commentary

• A live guide is also onboard , offering narration in multiple languages, including English, French, Spanish, and German, which can be heard everywhere on the ship.
• However, his heavy accent in languages other than French made them hard to understand . Personally, I found the smartphone option satisfactory if I wanted audio commentary.

Quick Facts

• 📅 Schedule: Cruises depart every 30-60 minutes from 10 am - 10 pm. Tickets include flexible arrival times - show up when convenient and board the next cruise.
• 🎟️ Ticket type: Mobile/printed
• 🌐 Wifi: Available ✔️
• 💨 Open air section: Available ✔️
• ❄️/🌡️ Aircon: Available ✔️
• 🐶 Animals: Not allowed (except service animals) ❌
• 🚬 Smoking: Not allowed ❌
• ♿ Wheelchair accessible: Lower levels only with access ramp ✔️
• 🚻 Restroom: Yes ✔️
• 👶 Baby stroller accessible: Accessible (️infant seats also available) ✔️
• % Children discounts: free for infants (age 0-3), 50% off standard ticket price (age 4-11) ✔️ ‍
• 🚗 Parking: Paid parking available near the meeting point (subject to availability) ✔️

2. 🥈 Second-Best Paris River Cruise (Bateaux Mouches)

✔️ Great All-Around Experience ✔️ Modern, Massive and Well-Equipped Ship ✔️ Great Location at the Alma - Marceau metro ✔️ Great Loudspeaker Commentary in English ✔️ Covered Waiting Area ✔️ Air-Conditioned Waiting Lounge ✔️ All Seats Face the Front

❌ No Bar or Vending Machines On Board ‍

Bateaux Mouches offers a slightly different yet stellar sightseeing experience in the same weight class as Bateaux Parisiens.

Located near the Alma-Marceau metro station, it’s a short walk from the Eiffel Tower .

The assembly area has a covered waiting area , an air-conditioned waiting lounge , and a ticket office.

Paid parking is also available (for free if you go on one of their dinner cruises ).

Their ships are massive, double-decker vessels capable of accommodating over 1000 passengers each at a time.

The upper deck of these boats offers 360° panoramic views and front facings seats (vs. side facing on Bateaux Parisiens  — this way, you don’t have to turn your necks constantly), ideal for photo opportunities.

The lower deck provides comfortable outdoor and indoor seating , though with a lesser panorama. The lower deck is spacious enough to accommodate wheelchair users .

The audio guide , broadcast via loudspeakers in English , offers high-quality sound and informative content, enhancing the sightseeing experience.

One notable feature is that they turn off the lights after dusk to eliminate window glare on the bottom deck.

Overall, Bateaux Mouches offers a memorable tour of Paris’ key sights along the Seine . There are no significant drawbacks, making it my number two choice.

💡 Why so few reviews? Bateaux Mouches is the second most popular cruise company in Paris, on Par with Bateaux Parisiens. They have five sightseeing and five dinner cruise ships running day and night. They've got a vast compound where I stood in line. It was brimming with people. This reality isn't well reflected online for some odd reason. They seriously need a proper online presence.

Video: Bateaux Mouches River Cruise Review

About bateaux mouches.

Bateaux Mouches, founded in 1949 , offers Seine sightseeing and dinner cruises with a fleet of 15 boats. It stands as the 4th top-paid attraction in Paris, serving 2.5 million visitors annually .

During peak seasons, the operation supports over 450 employees , and each sightseeing boat has a capacity of 1,000 passengers .

Since its inception, Bateaux Mouches has welcomed over 150 million guests.

💡 Other popular options cruises and bundles from Bateaux Mouches: 1. Louvre Museum Reserved Access and Boat Cruise 🎫

Before the Cruise

• A 70-minute Seine river cruise with an audio guide (pre-recorded, broadcast via loudspeaker) in English only .
• Food or drinks are available from the onboard bar.

• Bateaux Mouches is located next to Pont‘d Alma (metro station Alma-Marceau), a 15-minute walk from the Eiffel Tower.
• The assembly area includes a ticket office, parking spots, an air-conditioned waiting lounge, and vending machines.

• To board, head to the large building and get in line. There weren’t any security checks when I went. After validating your ticket, you’ll enter a covered waiting area equipped with vending machines and an air-conditioned waiting lounge .
• 🗺️ Meeting point: Port de la Conférence, 75008 Paris, France

During The Cruise

• The ship is a massive double-decker that has the capacity to accommodate over 1000 passengers on some ships. The upper deck provides better views, as usual.
• These boats can get crowded , but they have a large capacity to handle the crowd. Crowds are a common occurrence in Paris, it’s something we all have to accept.
• Bateux Mouches’s fleet comprises 6 sightseeing boats , so your experience may vary.

• The outdoor seating arrangement (on the sides of the ship) comprises two columns of chairs, each two chairs wide, with backrests facing the front. These have better views than the indoor seats, but they don’t offer 360° panoramic views like on the upper deck.
• The indoor seating arrangement has two columns of chairs, each three chairs wide, with backrests facing the front and a central aisle for walking. This area is great for warming up during winter, but it does not offer as much of a view.
• A nice touch I discovered is that they turn off the lights when it’s dark, allowing you to see outside without the glare.

• The upper deck offers 360° panoramic views , which lets you enjoy the panorama of the city and take photos.
• The seating arrangement comprises two columns of chairs, each three chairs wide , with backrests facing the front and a central aisle for walking.

Audio Commentary (Broadcast Through Loudspeakers)

• The audio guide on Bateaux Mouches is broadcast in English only through loudspeakers. I found it informative, enjoyable, and high quality - both in terms of sound and content.
• 📅 Schedule: Departures run frequently from 10 am to 10 pm.
• 🌐 Wifi: Not available ❌
• ♿ Wheelchair accessible: Accessible ✔️
• % Children discounts: free for infants (age 0-3), 6€ tickets (age 4-12) ✔️ ‍
• 🚗 Parking: Paid parking available near the meeting point (subject to availability)✔️

3.🥉 Best Paris River Cruise with French Music (Vedettes de Paris)

✔️ Great All-Around Experience ✔️ Modern and Well-Equipped Ship ✔️ Great Location at the Eiffel Tower ✔️ Bar Available On Board ✔️ Covered Waiting Area

❌ No Built-In Audio Guide Available, Only Optional Smartphone App ‍

If you're looking for a more intimate, cozy, and smaller-scale cruising experience, Vedettes de Paris is the perfect choice compared to sightseeing cruises, which handle massive crowds daily.

They are situated in a prime location near the Eiffel Tower and Bateaux Parisiens, which is perfect.

Their  small-to-medium-sized, double-decker ships  can accommodate around  220 passengers  each.

The  lower deck  features open-air built-in benches and indoor standard seating with limited views, whereas the  upper deck provides 360° panoramic views  of Paris – making it the prime spot for this cruise.

They played  pop music on their ships on the loudspeakers  on this cruise.

Update (2024 Jan):  They changed this to quintessential French songs so visitors can enjoy that quintessential Parisian vibe we all expect.

A downloadable audio guide app is available in six languages. Alternatively, you can join a  cruise with live narration in English and French .

On this Seine River cruise, you can  explore Parisian landmarks  between the Eiffel Tower and the Austerlitz Bridge, such as Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the Grand Palais.

Video: Vedettes de Paris River Cruise Review

About vedettes de paris.

Vedettes de Paris was established in 1976 and offers sightseeing cruises on the Seine River with smaller, more intimate boats in Paris.

The cruises depart from the Eiffel Tower and include guided day cruises and evening aperitif cruises with music.

The company has a dedicated staff of 70 employees .

💡 Other popular options cruises and bundles from Vedettes de Paris: 1. Seine Cruise with Drinks 🍷 and Snacks 🌭 2. Seine River Morning Guided Sightseeing Cruise 🌄 3. Family-Friendly River Seine Guided Cruise 👪

• A 60-minute Seine river cruise with an audio guide (via downloadable app) in 6 languages . This identical cruise by the same company has a live English/French narrator on board instead.

• Vedettes de Paris is located in the most prominent section of the Seine’s lower embankment, near the Eiffel Tower , which makes it convenient and easy to find. It’s right next to Bateaux Parisiens.
• The assembly area includes a ticket office, parking spots, restaurants (the Bistro Parisien), and various vendors selling food, drinks, and coffee. Just head over to Bateaux Parisiens to find them.

• To board, find the ticket office — the boarding area is right next to it . Vedettes de Paris has a covered waiting area, like most other cruises.
• 🗺️ Meeting point: 2 Port de Suffren, 75007 Paris, France

• The ship is a medium-sized double-decker that has the capacity to accommodate 220 passengers. There’s a wide variety of seating arrangements, so bear with me.
• Note that Vedettes de Paris operates different types of boats, so your boat may be slightly different from the one I experienced.

• The ship’s outdoor seating consists of built-in benches located both at the front and back. However, they are not front-facing . The toilet and stairs to the upper deck are located at the back.

• The indoor section has standard front-facing seats with backrests, which are located in the middle (below) and front areas (above).

• This deck doesn’t provide true 360° panoramic views, as seen in the photos. It’s better to go to the upper deck for that.

• The upper deck provides a 360° panoramic view of the city, perfect for taking photos.
• Seating-wise, there are two columns of chairs, each three chairs wide, with backrests facing the front and a central aisle for walking. There are a handful of side-facing benches at the front.

• There is no built-in audio guide available on this cruise. Instead, the ship’s loudspeakers play pop music. Update (2024 Jan): The company switched to quintessential French songs.
• There is a mobile app available in six languages (French, English, Spanish, Dutch, Italian, and German), that offers a glimpse into the history of Paris. Using the phone's GPS, it automatically plays the commentary corresponding to the attraction. I haven’t tested it (since I had no earbuds on me), so I can’t comment on the sound and content quality.

Live Commentary

• ‍ ‍ Alternatively, the company offers this nearly identical cruise with live commentary in French and English . It runs every day until 18:30.
• 📅 Schedule: Departures run frequently from 11 am to 9 pm.
• ♿ Wheelchair accessible: Not accessible ❌
• 👶 Baby stroller accessible: Accessible ✔️
• % Children discounts: free for infants (age 0-3), 9€ tickets (age 4-11) ✔️ ‍

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

✔️ 9 Hop-On Hop-Off Stops ✔️ Unlimited Use for 24–48 Hours ✔️ Can be Useful for Transportation and Getting Around

❌ Not Ideal for Sightseeing as There Are No Great Views. ❌ No Audio Guide available. ❌ The Top Deck is Not Accessible. ❌ If the Sun Shines Too Strongly, It Can Get Hot and Blinding. ❌ No Bar or Vending Machines Available on Board. ❌ Mediocre Ship

Batobus is a hop-on hop-off cruise that provides a flexible way to travel up and down the Seine, with nine different stops near major Parisian attractions.

It is not ideal for sightseeing, and it lacks basic amenities like an audio guide, toilet, bar, or vending machines.

The ship, designed more for transportation than sightseeing, is a single-decker accommodating up to 150-200 passengers . In other words, it lacks a top deck and there are no 360° panoramic views.

The main deck has a wacky seating arrangement , with seats facing every direction. The worst offenders are the seats in the middle of the ship, which offer virtually no views whatsoever.

The ship has a small open-air area in the rear, where people flock to shoot unobstructed photos of the Eiffel Tower or get some fresh air.

The views are rather limited even if you sit next to windows since you’re limited to seeing one bank of the Seine or the other.

Because the ship has lots of glass panels, if the Sun shines from a bad angle, not only it does it get hot, but you won't see anything either.

The cruise follows a standard itinerary between the Eiffel Tower and the Austerlitz Bridge, encompassing landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral.

Overall, I recommend skipping this cruise and instead using the metro for transportation and opting for a proper sightseeing cruise for a better experience.

Video: Batobus River Cruise Review

About batobus.

Batobus, established in 1989 , offers a hop-on hop-off river service along the Seine in Paris, featuring nine stops at major attractions . It operates a fleet of eight boats with a capacity of 200 passengers each and additional boats holding 150 passengers.

• A 60-minute Seine river cruise with NO audio guide .
• Food or drinks are NOT available onboard.
• You can embark/disembark as many times as you’d like since this is an unlimited hop-on, hop-off cruise.

💡 Other popular ecruises and bundles from Batobus: 1. Batobus/Tootbus Hop-on Hop-off Bus 🚍🚏 with Seine River Cruise

• There's no one major boarding area. Batebus has 9 stops next to every major attraction along the Seine , where you can embark/disembark as you please.

• I’ve only been to the Notre Dame stop — not sure how the others are. There’s an indoor ticket office there, but otherwise, it’s an open-air area with Batobus flags.
• Note: Batobus has several stations along the Seine, as you'd expect from a hop-on hop-off company.

• The ship is a relatively small single-decker with a 200-person capacity.
• This ship isn’t great for sightseeing compared to every other cruise I tried. There aren’t any 360° views either since there’s no top deck.

• The ship has mostly indoor seats , but they open the windows in the warmer season, which is nice since even in October, the sunlight can be blinding and it can be hot inside.
• The seats face every direction , some with virtually non-existent panorama (i.e. the middle seats, as seen in the photo above).
• This reinforces the idea that this boat is designed for transportation rather than sightseeing.
• The side glasses are transparent, while the roof panels are opaque.

• There’s a small open-air area in the back.
• Unlike most Seine river cruises, Batobus ships are single-decked, meaning there's only a ground floor deck .

• Batobus does not offer audio guides or commentary . However, an employee announces stops in English and French.
• 📅 Schedule: Departures run frequently from 10 am to 5 pm (Mon-Thu) and 10 am to 7 pm (Fri-Sun) , allowing for flexible arrival times — simply show up when it's convenient for you. s Not Operate Every Day of The Week ❌ Only Avai
• 🚻 Restroom: No ❌
• % Children discounts: free for infants (age 0-2), 13€ tickets (age 3-15) ✔️ ‍
• 🚗 Parking: Depends on which of the 9 stops you want to park near.

5. St. Martin Canal Cruise (Paris Canal)

✔️ Great All-Around Experience ✔️ Slow Paced Experience ✔️ Covers Unique Itinerary (St. Martin Canal) ✔️ Great Live Commentary by Experienced Guide in English/French ✔️ Bar Available On Board ✔️ Covers Part of The Seine Until Orsay Museum

❌ The Location is Hard to Reach ❌ No Covered Waiting Area ❌ Does Not Operate Every Day of The Week ❌ Only Available at 10 am/2.30 pm ❌ The Upper Deck Seats Are Side-Facing ❌ The Ship is Decent but Slightly Dated ❌ The Ride is a Bit Too Long (2-2.5h) ❌ Does Not Cover the Eiffel Tower

Paris Canal’s St. Martin Canal cruise offers a distinctive 2.5-hour experience, starting from Parc de la Villette and ending at Musée d’Orsay.

This journey avoids mainstream Parisian landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, instead offering a more authentic view of the city through the St. Martin Canal .

The cruise ship, though slightly dated, accommodates 500 passengers and features a double-decker design.

The lower deck provides indoor seating and a small bar, while the upper deck offers a panoramic view of the surroundings.

The seating , more comfortable on the top deck, includes benches and chairs, with some premium spots in the captain’s heated cabin.

An interesting feature of this cruise is the option to start either from Parc de la Villette or Musée d’Orsay the Seine.

The itinerary is rich in local charm , navigating several canal locks and a mile-long tunnel, presenting a side of Paris less seen by tourists.

The live audio commentary in English and French , delivered by an experienced guide, adds depth to the experience.

Despite its no-frills approach and the sometimes long waiting times at canal locks, Paris Canal’s cruise offers a unique and intimate glimpse into the heart of Paris , making it a worthwhile experience for those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist path.

Video: Paris St. Martin Canal Cruise Review

About paris canal co..

Paris Canal, established in 1977 , specializes in diverse cruises on the Seine, the Marne, and the Paris canals. With a dedicated team and 40 years of history , they offer sightseeing trips, group cruises, and private events, focusing on more unique, lesser-known parts of Paris.

💡 For clarity's sake, here are all the cruises on the St. Martin Canal: 1. St. Martin Canal Cruise TO Musée d'Orsay (2.30 PM) 2. St. Martin Canal Cruise TO Musée d'Orsay (10 AM) 3. St. Martin Canal Cruise FROM Musée d'Orsay (10 AM / 2.30 PM)

• A 2.5-hour long St. Martin canal cruise with drop-off at Musée d’Orsay. In other words, you won’t see the Eiffel Tower from this cruise.
• There’s live English/French narration on board.
• Food or drinks are available at the onboard bar.

• Paris Canal cruise starts from Parc de la Villette in the 19th district . There’s a park nearby which is worth exploring, so I’d come an hour earlier to do so.
• Alternatively, you can embark at the Musée d’Orsay and sail up the St. Martin Canal. Booking this is possible on Viator , but not on GetYourguide.

• There’s no major boarding infrastructure at Parc de la Villette, as this is quite a niche boat tour. It’s open air, but you can take shelter under nearby buildings if the weather is bad.
• 🗺️ Meeting point: 211 Av. Jean Jaurès, 75019 Paris, France
• Note: It's possible to have this trip in reverse e.g. boarding on the Seine and disembarking on Parc de Villete (Canal St. Martin). Note that the ticket is one-way only.

• The ship is a large, no-frills and slightly dated double-decker with a 500-person capacity . As always, for the best views and comfortable seating, head to the upper deck.

• Most of this deck has indoor seating with feeble-looking yet surprisingly sturdy but uncomfortable front-facing seats with backrests. You can’t see much from here and forget about 360° panoramic views.

• The outdoor section at the back and front of the ship does have better views, but alas, there are only a few cold metal seats available.

• There is a clean toilet and a small bar serving hot drinks and snacks on this level. Additionally, there’s a staircase in the center that leads up to the Captain’s cabin.

• The upper deck offers a 360° panoramic view of the St. Martin Canal and the surrounding cityscape. The only imperfection is that all of the seats are facing the sides instead of the front.

• There are three different types of seating options available.
• The first type is two rows of bench-style seating (on the sides), followed by two rows of mixed benches and ordinary chairs in a 50/50 ratio in the center.
• All of these were more comfortable than the seats downstairs.

• Bonus: There are a handful of seats available in the captain’s cabin , which is heated! I really appreciated this feature during the cold weather in November.

• Unlike most other cruises, Paris Canal’s cruise takes place on the St. Martin Canal , starting from Parque de la Villette and concluding on the Seine by the Musée d’Orsay.

• You will experience several canal lock crossings and a mile-long tunnel .

• I found the cruise to be much more interesting than the Seine , and the surrounding cityscape was more charming, authentic and offbeat. ‍
• However, there was considerable waiting at the canal locks , where you transition from one section of the canal to the next.

• Note: The itinerary doesn’t cover the Eiffel Tower.

• Paris Canal’s cruises offer a live audio commentary in English and French , performed by an experienced guide who provides informative and interesting insights and is also available to answer questions.
• 📅 Schedule: 10:00 and 14:30. Please check the schedule as they do not run every day.
• % Children discounts: free for infants (age 0-3), 15-20€ tickets (children, teenagers and seniors) ✔️ ‍
• 🚗 Parking: Paid parking available near the meeting point ✔️

TheCruiseDetective.com is your free guide to help choose the best river cruises around the world. We test, evaluate and review river cruises in the various cities around the world for your benefit.

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Bateaux Mouches

Bateaux parisiens.

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Seine River Cruise Tickets

Select Your Experience

1-Hour Seine River Sightseeing Cruise

• This flexible cruise is ideal for those who aren't able to commit to a set plan when traveling. With cruises departing every 30 minutes, pick a time that works best for you.
• Plug your earphones and enhance your cruise experience with audio guides, offering fascinating facts about Parisian landmarks in 14 languages.
• The best part about this cruise is it leaves every 30 minutes! You are sure to sail along the Seine River on this cruise.
• Soak in the panoramic views of iconic monuments of Paris, including the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Musee d'Orsay, which mainly holds French art dating from 1848 to 1914, and many more.
• Benefit from a 1-year valid ticket for boarding convenience from the Eiffel Tower base. Elevate your experience with an upgraded ticket for live commentary.
• 1-hour Bateaux Parisiens Seine River cruise (flexible ticket)
• Audio guide in French, English, Hindi, Arabic, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean
• Live commentary (optional)
• Tip: Enhance your sightseeing by bringing a pair of binoculars. They allow you to get a closer look at architectural details and observe interesting activities along the riverbanks.
• Note that the following items are not allowed: large bags.
• Click here to view the Bateaux Parisien cruise route.
• Click here to view the Bateaux Mouches cruise route.
• These tickets can't be cancelled. However, you can use them any time until 29 March, 2025.
• These tickets are valid until 29 March, 2025.

1-Hour Paris Illuminated Evening Sightseeing Cruise

• Aboard a glass canopy boat, admire and experience one of the most beautiful Parisian boulevards after dark on a standard Seine River cruise.
• Enjoy entertaining and informative commentary via handheld audio headsets that you can tune in and out of at your discretion over the course of your 1-hour cruise.
• Your flexible ticket allows you to board through the day and within 6 months from the date of purchase — no need to reserve a specific time slot upon checkout.
• With a convenient boarding point, located at the foot of Eiffel Tower, this cruise is easily accessible.
• As you cruise along the Seine, appreciate the glowing Pont Alexandre III bridge and the golden flame of the Statue of Liberty replica on Île aux Cygnes.
• 1-hour evening sightseeing cruise
• Tip: The glittering sights are a treat for the eyes, no doubt, but don't miss out on seeing the reflection of lights on the water for a calming environment.
• Only small backpacks and regular-size handbags are allowed inside.
• Note that the following is not allowed on this tour: large bags.
• The last two departures will be made with a minimum of 10 passengers.
• These tickets can't be cancelled. However, you can use them any time until 3 April, 2025.
• These tickets are valid until 3 April, 2025.

3-Course Italian Seine River Dinner Cruise on THEO

• You can cancel these tickets up to 72 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Set sail on a unique 2-hour cruise, on the intimate THEO, along the Seine River, offering a blend of historical sightseeing with Italian culinary delights right in the heart of the city.
• A convenient boarding at Av. du Président Kennedy near the Eiffel Tower makes for a beautiful starting point.
• Dine on a fresh veg and burrata entrée, lasagna bolognese, and a range of rigatoni dishes. Top it all off with a delicious tiramisu.
• From the terrace on deck, take a closer look at monuments like the glittering Eiffel Tower, the golden Invalides Dôme the arch-decked Alexandre III bridge, and the gothic cathedral of Notre Dame.
• 2-hour Seine River sightseeing cruise
• 3-course meal
• Mineral water
• Av. du Président Kennedy

Eiffel Tower

• Bir Hakeim Bridge
• Statue of the Liberty
• Bateaux-Mouches
• Pont de l'Alma
• Notre Dame de Paris
• Pont Alexandre III
• Tip: If you're a mushroom lover, add exquisite truffle cream, truffle oil, and mascarpone to your rigatoni dish at an extra cost.
• Please click here to see the dinner menu.
• Note that the following are not allowed during this experience: flash photography, tripods

3-Course Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music on Bateaux Mouches

• Witness Paris come alive under the stars aboard a vast Bateaux Mouches boat cruising on the Seine with live music to keep you company.
• Sip on a glass of wine, bite into your choice of filet, and devour a lemon basil tart as you watch landmarks like Notre Dame and Orsay Museum go by.
• Admire the grand Bourbon Palace, and glide past 2 natural islands in the Seine – Île de la Cité and Île Saint-Louis!
• Your experience is perfectly paired with the sweet, sentimental tone of the live music onboard!
• 2-hr 15-mins Seine River cruise
• Prestige or Excellence menus to choose from
• Wines or soft drinks
• Coffee or tea
• Apéritif of Castel Mouche or Moët champagne (as per ticket option)
• Duo or trio of cheeses (as per ticket option)
• Free parking at the departure point
• Tip: Watch out for the opulent arch-decked Alexander III bridge and its golden statues just as you depart on your cruise.
• For children, there is a special Infants Menu onboard.
• View the Prestige and the Excellence menus here.
• Facilities: Free Parking.
• Dress code : At night, an elegant dress code is required. Passengers in sportswear, flip-flops, shorts, and baseball caps will not be allowed on board. At lunchtime, smart-casual clothing is appreciated.
• Click here to view the cruise route.
• These tickets can't be cancelled or rescheduled.

Seine River Lunch Cruise on Bateaux Parisiens

• You can cancel these tickets up to 24 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Indulge in a delectable lunch consisting of an appetizer, a main course, and a dessert while taking a wonderful 2-hour Seine River cruise on the cozy and comfortable Bateaux Parisiens boat.
• With a convenient boarding point located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, this cruise is easily accessible and one that you simply cannot miss.
• Dig into a scrumptious 3 or 4-course lunch (with both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options) prepared specially by the chef onboard using the best seasonal produce.
• Select from 3 lunch options, Etoile, Privilege, or Premier Service with live music. Privilege and Premier include a bottle of wine (4 servings).
• 2-hour Seine River cruise
• 3 or 4-course meal
• Alcoholic beverages or soft drinks
• Live music (optional)
• Menu available here
• Tip: Instead of a regular wine pairing, ask for a dessert wine pairing with your sweet course. The right dessert wine can elevate your dessert to a whole new level of enjoyment.
• Check out the Bateaux Parisiens Seine River lunch-cruise menu here .

4-Course Seine River Dinner Cruise on Bateaux Parisiens

• Climb aboard the cozy Bateaux Parisians glass-canopy boat right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower and enjoy a magical 2.5-hour cruise, exploring the Gold Coast's iconic waterways.
• That's not all! Sway with the music as musicians perform their best melodies to the tunes of the Seine River.
• Get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy nighttime views of Paris landmarks, including the Louvre and the gold-domed Invalides, from the best vantage point.
• Choose your preferred seating, sip on a glass of champagne, and relish a 3 or 4-course meal, as per the option chosen.
• 2.5-hour Seine River cruise
• Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks
• Live entertainment by a singer
• Souvenir photo taken by the photographer on board
• Tip: Get your cameras ready to capture New York's Statue of Liberty replica situated on a tiny artificial island in the Seine – Île aux Cygnes.
• Click here to see the full menu.
• Objects, boxes or other containers left unattended as well as suspicious behavior must be reported to Bateaux Parisien's crews.

Batobus: 24/48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Seine River Cruise Tour of Paris

• Take in breathtaking views of Paris along the Seine with maximum convenience as you hop on and hop off unlimited times with your pass.
• Get access to 1 route with 9 stops dotted around the river with your 24 or 48 hour pass.
• Make use of the vending machines onboard and munch on delicious snacks as you cruise your way.
• The heated boats ensure a striking panoramic view of riverside landmarks from their open-topped decks.
• Some of the popular stops include Jardin des Plantes, Louvre Museum, Place de la Concorde, Eiffel Tower & Les Invalides.
• 24/48-hour unlimited hop on hop off river cruise pass
• Seine River cruise: Audio guide in 14 languages (French, English, Hindi, Arabic, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean)
• Entry tickets to attractions

Aug 16 to 20:

• First cruise at 12:30pm from Eiffel Tower
• Last cruise at 7pm from Eiffel Tower
• Frequency: Every 2 hours
• Popular stops: Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Orsay Museum

Aug 21 to Nov 12:

• First cruise at 10am from Eiffel Tower

Nov 13 to Dec 31:

Mon to Thu:

• Last cruise at 5pm from Eiffel Tower

Fri to Sun:

Please click here for a detailed route map and its boarding points.

• Start point: Eiffel Tower
• Assemblee Nationale
• Musee d'Orsay
• Institut de France
• Cite de la Mode
• Hotel de Ville
• Conciergerie
• Grand Palais
• Palais Chaillot
• Tip: Maximize your time by viewing the places from the ferry, then explore on foot during the second round starting from Eiffel Tower via Place de la Concorde.
• Facilities: Heated Boats, Vending Machine with Snacks & Drinks.
• The only wheelchair-accessible stop is the Eiffel Tower. However, the wheelchair access at this stop is a ramp also used by vehicles.
• Dogs wearing a muzzle and on a leash and small dogs in a carrier/bag are allowed on board.
• Compact luggage, baby carriages, and bicycles are allowed depending on how crowded the boat is.
• Note that the following are not allowed on this tour: suitcases, large bags, and alcoholic drinks.

3-Course Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music on Maxim's

• You can cancel these tickets up to 48 hours before the experience begins and get a full refund.
• Embark on an enchanting Seine River cruise, sailing past iconic Parisian landmarks with guaranteed window seating for the best views.
• Relish a sumptuous 3-course meal, prepared by the expert chefs of historic Maxim's restaurant while enjoying a captivating live music performance.
• With the early cruise, enjoy a well-curated menu consisting of a starter of creamy burrata, leek, and asparagus, followed by one of four main course options and moulleux (molten chocolate cake) for dessert.
• Opt for a longer and later cruise where appetizer choices include risotto with black truffle chips lobster ravioli in Thai broth, or a vegan option. Choose from a variety of dishes for your main and dessert course too.
• Seine River cruise
• Window seating
• 3-course menu
• Champagne aperitif, wine, water, and coffee or tea
• Live music entertainment
• Orsay Museum
• Bibliothèque Nationale de France
• Ile Saint Louis
• Hôtel de Ville
• Notre Dame Cathedral
• Place de la Concorde
• Statue of Liberty
• Tip: If you're a photography enthusiast, don't forget your camera! The evening illumination of Paris's landmarks offers some spectacular photo opportunities.
• Click here to view the dinner menu.

Combo (Save 3%): Disneyland® Paris Tickets + Seine River Cruise

• Access Disneyland® Park or Walt Disney Studios® Park or both and a Seine river cruise with this money-saving combo.
• Take an Indiana Jones-themed journey in Adventureland or stay forever young on Peter Pan’s Flight in Fantasyland. Sunset light shows are the cherry atop Disneyland® Paris!
• Catch the beauty of the Parisian Boulevard as you cruise down the Seine River and listen to an engrossing audio guide as you sail.
• Board at Bateaux Parisiens Port, where the iconic Eiffel Tower waves you off as you begin your 1-hour voyage.

Disneyland® Paris

• Entry to Disneyland® Paris
• 1-day access to Disneyland® Park and/or Walt Disney Studios® Park (depending on option selected)
• Access to Marvel Avengers Campus at Walt Disney Studios® Park
• Access to indoor and outdoor shows at selected park (subject to availability)

Seine River Cruise

• 1-hour Seine River Cruise
• Audio guide in French, English, Hindi, Arabic, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese & Korean
• Tip: Disneyland® Paris offers a variety of live shows, parades, and performances throughout the day. Don't miss out on iconic events like the Disney Stars on Parade or the nighttime spectacular, Disney Illuminations.
• Children under the age of 12 must be accompanied by an adult.
• Tip: Keep an eye out for the city's oldest bridge, Pont Neuf, which you can see right near Conciergerie!
• Small backpacks allowed, regular-size handbags allowed.
• Facilities: Wheelchair accessibility.

Seine Dinner Cruise, Eiffel Tower Ascent & Moulin Rouge Show Tickets

• Get the best of Paris with this 3-in-1 ticket offering access to the Seine River dinner cruise, Eiffel Tower’s 2nd floor, and Moulin Rouge show.
• Savor snacked scallops, vegetable casserole, and more as you cruise through the Seine and watch Orsay Museum, Conciergerie, and Notre Dame.
• Next stop is the ‘Iron Lady’ standing illuminated in all its glory! With reserved entry to the 2nd floor Eiffel Tower, bask in the city views from 377 feet up.
• Make way to the iconic Moulin Rouge and watch a cabaret show performed by over 100 performers and 60 stunning Doriss Girl Dancers sipping Champagne.
• Upgrade your ticket for ½ bottle of Champagne and city center transfers.
• Seine River cruise with dinner, drink & private table
• Reserved access to 2nd floor of Eiffel Tower
• Audio guide available in 14 languages (French, English, Hindi, Arabic, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean)
• Cabaret show at Moulin Rouge with 1 glass or ½ bottle of Champagne per person (depending on ticket selected)
• City center transfers in an air-conditioned coach (optional)
• Palace de chalet
• Chaillot's Palace
• Tip: Don't forget your camera as the Seine cruise during evening hours offers a unique view of the City of Love.
• Check out the full menu here
• The Moulin Rouge experience is restricted for guests aged 5 and under.
• No shorts, jeans or sneakers are allowed and is recommended to dress elegantly.
• Depending on the time of year, part of this excursion may take place during daylight hours.
• For the smooth running of the tour and out of respect for all participants, please arrive at the meeting point 20 minutes before the start of the tour.

Sail through the "City of Lights" on a Seine River cruise

The Seine River is a delightful way to explore the heart of Paris, one of the most iconic and beautiful cities in the world. Spanning 777 kilometers, and flowing through the heart of Paris, it provides a unique perspective of the city's famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame . Navigating its waters, you'll traverse historic bridges integral to the city's architectural tapestry. Thanks to the multilingual audio guides and live commentary, you will also learn the historical narratives of the monuments you glide past. Read ahead for the timings , operators, and other essential details.

Navigate your Seine River cruise guide

Why go on a seine river cruise in paris.

• Things to know before booking your cruise
• Your cruise options
• Find your best Seine River cruise match here

Who are the Seine Cruise operators?

Locating your seine river cruise boarding points.

• Know before you go on the cruise

Top landmarks to spot on your Seine River cruise

Know more about the seine river.

Sightseeing at its finest

Get a look at famous Parisian attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Orsay Museum from a unique vantage point, while you're on the Seine River. Discover why Paris is known as "The City of Lights" with a cruise at dusk, and see Paris light up at night - we promise, it's an experience that's worth the wait!

Convenient boarding points

Most Seine River cruises begin near the foot of the Eiffel Tower, but there are several boarding points for different cruise options. Choose which option best suits you, and don't forget to visit the attractions nearby, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadero Gardens.

On-board lunch, dinner & entertainment

Seine River cruises offer onboard lunch and dinner options, allowing you to enjoy the exquisite flavors of French cuisine while taking in the Parisian scenery. When onboard, you can hear live music and indulge in activities like wine tasting while experiencing some sensational views.

Cruises last 1 hour or longer

Choose the duration of your cruise based on how much time you have. 1-2 hour cruises are generally sightseeing cruises, where you can see the city's top landmarks from a glass canopy boat. Lunch and dinner cruises are longer, and can take up to 4 hours, as they involve being served a 3-course traditional meal.

Explore more of Paris with combos!

Experience the best of Paris by combining a visit to top attractions such as the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower into one package with your Seine River cruise. You can also enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Paris with a combination that includes a Moulin Rouge show or comedic performances.

Things to know before booking your Seine River cruise

• Most cruises are family-friendly. However, certain onboard experiences on an evening or themed cruise might have age restrictions. Check in advance if you are planning to travel with young children.
• Check that the commentary is offered in a language you understand and feel comfortable with. Many cruises provide options.
• With a tour option for every occasion, you can go on a sightseeing cruise to spot popular landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Paris Pantheon if you're in the mood for a Parisian trot, or relish a delicious meal aboard a lunch or dinner cruise if an authentic French meal is something you're craving. Want more? Pick the combo tours that let you experience the best of the city on a budget, or get tickets to a hop-on-hop-off cruise for an in-depth adventure!
• The best time to go on a Seine River cruise is ideally during the high season months of June to mid-September and mid-to-late December, with mostly clear skies making for an enjoyable boat ride. But don't worry if you can't make it then, as the shoulder season months from April to May and September to November are also magical.
• Can't decide what time of the day you should choose for an unforgettable sail on the Seine? Book a dinner cruise if a romantic night is what's on your mind, as live music adds to the charm of the sparkling city lights. If you're planning a cute brunch with your friends and family under the European sun, then a lunch cruise is your best bet!
• The boarding point for each operator is different, so make sure you check your ticket for the exact location. While the Bateaux Parisiens boarding is at   the Eiffel Tower, Bateaux Mouches picks up guests at   Pont de l’Alma.
• Club your boat trip with landmark hopping. Do your research and go on an excursion near the boarding points closest to you to get a slice of the city's popular attractions.
• Before booking your lunch or dinner cruises, have a look at the menu and the cuisine being offered. Choose an experience that caters to your taste and diet preferences, and any add-ons like live music or entertainment that you'd like while you're aboard the ship.

Your Seine River cruise options

Best for: Solo travelers, families, first-time visitors Duration: 1 hour Meals included: No

• See the sights of Paris and the city's iconic bridges from a glass canopy boat, and learn about their history with audio guides in 14 languages.
• You'll also get flexible boarding times and a generous 6-month ticket validity.

Recommended cruises

• 1-Hour Sightseeing Cruise in Paris
• 1-Hour Evening Sightseeing Cruise in Paris

Lunch and Dinner Cruises

Best for: Culinary enthusiasts, couples, families Duration: 1.5- 4 hours Meals included: Yes

• See Paris' iconic landmarks during the day or night while you enjoy 3-course meals crafted by renowned chefs, with dedicated menus for vegetarians and children.
• Select options offering added perks like live music, or complimentary wine servings.
• 3-Course Italian Seine River Dinner Cruise
• 3-Course Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music
• Seine River Lunch Cruise

Combo Tours

Best for: Budget travelers, history buffs, first-time visitors Duration: Flexible Meals included: Depends on the combo

• Experience the best of Paris by getting tickets to attractions such as Disneyland, the Louvre, or the Eiffel Tower in one package.
• You can also combine sightseeing with entertainment and opt for a Moulin Rouge show along with your cruise.
• Skip-the-Line Tickets to Louvre Museum & Seine River Cruise
• Tickets to the Eiffel Tower's 2nd Floor or Summit with Seine River Cruise
• Moulin Rouge Show and Seine River Cruise with Transfers

Hop-On Hop-Off Cruises

Best for: Budget travelers, families, first-time visitors Duration: Flexible (24/48-hour or Annual) Meals included: No

• Enjoy the freedom to explore Paris at your own pace as you can hop on and off as many times as you like at any of the 9 stops along the Seine.
• Highlights including Jardin de Plantes, Louvre Museum, Place de la Concorde, Eiffel Tower & Les Invalides.
• Batobus: 24/48-Hour/Annual Hop-On Hop-Off Seine River Cruise Tour of Paris

Find your best Seine River cruise match

Bateaux Parisiens is a popular cruise service that offers various types of cruises on the Seine, including sightseeing tours, lunch cruises, and dinner cruises. They have a fleet of glass-covered boats, and also provide audio commentary in multiple languages which helps gain insights into the history and significance of the landmarks along the route.

Location : Near the Eiffel Tower

• 2-Hour Seine River Cruise with Lunch
• Evening Delights on the Seine Dinner Cruise

Bateaux Mouches is one of the oldest and most iconic Seine River cruise companies. The term "mouche" means "fly" in French, and the name originally referred to the small boats used in the Lyon area. Bateaux Mouches offers a range of cruises, from simple sightseeing tours to elaborate lunch and dinner cruises. Their boats have open decks, which are especially popular in good weather.

Location : In the 8th arrondissement, near the Pont de l'Alma

• Bateaux Mouches Late Evening Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music
• Bateaux Mouches Seine River Lunch Cruise with Live Music

Head to your check-in point mentioned on your voucher, where the staff will guide you to the right pier/gate and hand you your boarding pass. While you wait for your boat to arrive, you can take a leisurely stroll or grab a drink, and when the signs go up, you can hop on board and have your seat.

Bateaux Mouches: Pont de l'Alma

Address:  Pont de l'Alma, 75008 Paris, France

Famous for: The Alma bridge, Eiffel Tower, Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris

Bateaux Parisiens: Port de la Bourdonnais

Address:  Port de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris, France

Famous for: Musée du quai Branly, Palais de l'Alma, Rue de l'Université

Know before you go on a Seine River cruise

Most Seine River cruises begin near the foot of the Eiffel Tower.

• Bateaux Parisiens: Eiffel Tower
• Bateaux Mouches: Pont de l’Alma
• Other Operators: Near the Eiffel Tower at the Port de la Bourdonnais , Av. du Président Kennedy , etc.

Note: Boarding points may be different for different cruise options. Check your tickets for accurate information.

Sightseeing Cruises : 10am - 10pm

Lunch Cruises : Starts Between 12pm - 1pm

Dinner Cruises : Starts Between 6pm - 8:30pm

Note: Exact timings may be different for different cruise options. Check your tickets for accurate information.

• Best time of year - High Season (June to mid-September and mid-to-late December) :   With minimal rain and clear skies, this is perfect for outdoor dining and enjoying the sunset. - Shoulder season (April to May and September to November):  Ideal for a balance between pleasant weather and smaller crowds with occasional evening showers. - Low Season (January to March):  Cold and damp with fewer crowds and inactive operators.
• Best time of day - Sunset hours:  View the city's iconic landmarks illuminated in the sunset golden light. - Daytime: Spend your cruise spotting the landmarks along the river in the daylight. - Dinner time:  Enjoy delicious multi-course meals with twinkling city lights creating a magical atmosphere. - Lunch time: Savour a delicious lunch while also getting the chance to sightsee during broad daylight.

Cruise down the picturesque left bank of the Seine River, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of iconic landmarks including:

• Palace de Chalet

Finally, make a U-turn at the Sully Bridge, and cruise back along the right bank of the Seine to finish your journey.

As the cruise is outdoors, book a cruise on a day with good weather to fully enjoy the sights and sounds of Paris.

Average temperature:

• Summers are generally warm, with highs ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Winters can be cool, with average highs between 7°C to 10°C (45°F to 50°F).
• Spring and autumn offer mild and pleasant weather.

Average daylight:

• During the summer months, enjoy longer daylight hours, up to 16 hours.
• Winter days are shorter, with around 8 hours of daylight.
• Spring and autumn have around 10-12 hours of daylight.

Average wind speed:

Paris experiences moderate wind speeds, ranging from 10 to 24 kilometres per hour (6 to 15 miles per hour). However, wind conditions can vary, so check the specific forecast for your chosen cruise date.

• Restrooms:  They are available on all boats
• Life jackets:  Stored on all boats for safety and readily accessible
• First-aid kit:  Ask the staff if needed in case of minor emergencies
• Seating arrangements:  There will be tables and chairs for comfortable dining or lounging
• Bar:  Serving soft drinks, juices, alcoholic beverages, and cocktails
• Open decks:  Boats generally have 1-2 open decks to enjoy the fresh air, river views, and city skyline
• Live entertainment (on some cruises):  Enjoy live music to create a festive atmosphere

• Arrive early:  Arrive at the boarding point at least 30 minutes before departure to allow for check-in.
• Boarding:  Follow the boarding procedures from the crew members as you get on the cruise.
• Smart casual attire:  Most cruises do not have a strict dress code, but opting for smart casual attire is recommended.
• Dietary restrictions:  If you have any dietary requirements, remember to inform the cruise operator in advance so they can make the necessary arrangements.
• Smoking:  Smoking is generally prohibited inside the boats, but you can look for designated smoking areas.
• Luggage:  Most cruises have limited storage space, meaning that large bags or suitcases might not be allowed.
• Outside food and drinks:  Bringing outside food and drinks is not allowed on board.
• Carry an ID: Carry a valid photo ID—passport, driver's license, or any official ID with a clear photograph—or a quick check-in.

• Timing is everything: Depending on what you want to see, the time of your cruise can impact your experience. Daytime cruises best showcase the city's architecture, while evening cruises offer a beautifully lit-up Paris at night.
• Dress appropriately: Even in the summer months, it can get chilly on the river, especially during evening cruises. Be sure to bring a jacket or wrap to stay warm.
• Find the best spot: For the best views, try to get a seat on the top deck. If you're on a dinner cruise, a window seat will provide the most scenic dining experience.
• Listen to the audio guide: The audio guide is full of useful insights about the landmarks you’ll pass on the cruise. It's a great way to deepen your understanding of the city and its history.
• Review the menu: If you’re taking a lunch or dinner cruise, review the menu in advance to ensure it caters to any dietary needs or restrictions.
• Capture the moment: Don't forget your camera! A Seine River cruise offers unique photo opportunities of Paris's most iconic landmarks
• Wheelchair accessibility: Most modern cruise boats are wheelchair accessible, but it's wise to confirm beforehand. Additionally, check if there are any provisions for guests with hearing or visual impairments.

A symbol of Paris and one of the most recognizable structures in the world. Go up to the observation decks for stunning views of the city.

The Seine River runs through the heart of Paris in northern France. It is a geographically dividing landmark that unifies the city of lights. As you sail on the Seine, you can catch a glimpse of every eminent landmark in Paris.

The river banks were once home to popular figures like Van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Napolean Bonaparte. The banks have also been the subject of many popular impressionist paintings.

Things to see on a Seine River cruise

• Left Bank : Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, Orsay Museum, Saint Chapelle, Palais Bourbon
• Right Bank:  The Louvre Museum, Notre Dame, The Centre Pompidou, Tuileries Garden, City Hall

Frequently asked questions about Seine River cruises in Paris

The Sightseeing cruise , perfect for a quick voyage through Paris, is the most popular cruise.

The combo Seine River cruise with a Paris City tour is perfect for families as it covers the best of the city from both land and water and is cost-effective.

The Seine River Dinner Cruise is perfect for couples as it is a very romantic experience. You can enjoy delicious French food and wine, accompanied by live music as you see the city come to life around you.

Yes, Seine River cruises operate throughout the year, though schedules may be adjusted based on seasonal considerations.

Yes, vegetarian options are available on meal-based Seine River cruises.

Yes, Seine cruise ships are equipped with clean restrooms. Larger boats, especially those used for dining and longer cruises, often have multiple restrooms, sometimes even separate facilities for men and women. On smaller sightseeing boats, there might be a single unisex restroom.

Many boats from all the boat operators have wheelchair ramps and space for strollers. For sightseeing cruises, the primary challenge might be navigating through the crowd, especially during peak tourist seasons. The piers at the Bateaux Parisiens and the Bateaux-Mouches have disabled restrooms and an access ramp onto the boat.

Many boats have both indoor and outdoor seating options. Open-air top decks provide the best views, as we know. Now, when it comes to inside seating, it is usually within a glass-covered area, giving you unobstructed views of the Parisian skyline and also protecting you from the elements.

Some cruises feature live guides who provide a more personalized and interactive narration, while others use pre-recorded audio guides. This commentary is generally offered in multiple languages through headphones or speakers, and helps you understand the rich history, architecture, and cultural significance of the landmarks viewed.

Tickets are generally tied to specific departure docks. But getting to the dock is fairly quick from central Paris locations. While Bateaux Parisiens depart from Eiffel Tower, Bateaux Mouches depart from Pont de l’Alma, which is at a 15 minutes walk from the Eiffel Tower.

Paris River Cruise: 10+ Top Rated Tours in 2024

If you’re looking for the perfect way to experience the City of Lights, a Paris river cruise is an ideal choice. From the comfort of your own boat, you can take in some of the city’s most stunning sights while enjoying a leisurely journey along one of Europe’s most iconic rivers.

But, as you’ve probably figured out by now there are actually dozens of companies that offer Paris boat tours… which makes figuring out which River Seine cruise is right for you, well… pretty difficult!

Fortunately, I’ve created this list of the top-rated sightseeing cruises for your next trip! From lunch cruises to epic dinner and dancing cruises, you’ll have everything you need to make an informed decision on the one that’s right for you.

Don’t have time to read the entire post? No problem!

This Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise is easily the #1 Paris boat tour on this list! With nearly 3,000 5-star reviews and a 3-course à la carte dinner with endless wine and champagne, this Paris river cruise is our #1 pick !

Not to mention, whether it’s day or night, there are plenty of attractions to see and experiences to be had on this beautiful stretch of water. From the Notre Dame Cathedral to the Eiffel Tower and even Le Louvre, you’ll get one of the most unique perspectives of Paris!

With its charming bridges, picturesque quayside, and exquisite views across Paris’ skyline, a Seine River cruise offers something truly special.

So, let’s jump into finding the Paris river cruise that’s right for you!

10 Top Rated Paris River Cruises

🚢1. eiffel tower, seine river dinner cruise, moulin rouge show.

What’s Included? ⤵️

• 7 hours in duration
• Choice of either a glass or half bottle of champagne
• Experience a traditional Parisian cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge
• Choose between dinner at the Eiffel Tower or on a Paris river cruise
• Priority access to the 2nd floor of the Eiffel Tower
• 1.5 hour cruise on the Seine River

Looking for the most bang for your buck? This adventurous tour takes you on three iconic experiences around the City of Lights! From taking in the panoramic views from the second floor of the Eiffel Tower and enjoying a classic cabaret show at the Moulin Rouge to embarking on a 90-minute Seine River Paris cruise, this tour knows how to plan a good time. With over 1,100 5-star reviews, this is one tour you should have at the top of your list when visiting Paris!

🚢2. Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Lunch & Sightseeing Cruise

• 2 hours in duration
• Free glass of local champagne
• 3-course à la carte lunch with wine
• Live music throughout the ride
• Convenient departure point

Another phenomenal boat tour in Paris with nearly 1,100 50-star reviews , this classic Bateaux Parisians boat ride offers a gourmet à la carte lunch and some lovely music to accompany your journey around the city. Enjoy a free glass of local champagne as you board to kick off your 2 hour cruise around some of Paris’ top sights!

🍷If the wine is catching your eye on this cruise along the Seine River, be sure to check out one of these 15+ Top-Rated Wine Tours in France for 2024 ! They offer popular wine tastings, visits to numerous vineyards, and the chance to learn more about the art of French winemaking!

🚢3. Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise

• 2.5 hours in duration
• 3-course à la carte dinner with wine
• Enjoy a complimentary glass of champagne (if option chosen)
• Live entertainment and music

On this exciting evening dinner cruise with Bateaux Parisiens , you will find yourself gliding past many of Paris’ most iconic sights all while dancing to live music (including a singer) and stuffing yourself with delectable French cuisine. Paired nicely with wine and even a glass of champagne if you so choose, this is easily one of the best tours on this list… which is probably why they’ve earned Viator’s Badge of Excellence award and have nearly 3,000 5-star reviews ! If you’re looking for a romantic dinner cruise to impress a special someone on your upcoming trip to Paris, this one surely won’t disappoint.

🗼These beautiful dinner cruises are just one of the items I mention in this list of 33 Magical Things To Do in Paris at Night !

🚢4. Paris Seine River Dinner Cruise & Live Music by Bateaux Mouches

• 3 hours in duration
• Traditional French 4-course dinner
• Beverages & coffee/tea
• Live music onboard

Looking for a classic, all-inclusive dinner cruise through Paris’ Seine River for you and someone special? This is it! Not only will you get an abundantly romantic boat ride in Paris , but also a 4-course French meal and endless drinks while on board. Perfect for friends and family, couples, Europe honeymooners , and even solo travelers, this tour has over 1,100 5-star reviews and always books up fast!

🚢5. Paris Gourmet Dinner Seine River Cruise with Singer and DJ Set

• 3.5 hours in duration
• Live musician/singer and DJ set
• Gourmet dinner
• Panoramic views from the terrace

Rightfully earning Viator’s Badge of Excellence, this exciting 3.5 hour evening cruise along the Seine River is sure to delight everyone in your group! Paired perfectly with a popular singer and full DJ set, you’ll be enjoying your evening floating down the Seine with a delicious dinner, a sparkling beverage, and epic views of the city from the enormous rooftop terrace!

🚢6. Paris Seine River Gourmet Dinner Cruise with Champagne

• 90 minutes in duration
• Gourmet 3-course dinner with Champagne (lunch option also available)
• All alcoholic beverages
• Coffee and tea
• Option to add the romance package (rose petals, window seating, & personal photos)

Thinking of popping the question to your partner on a trip to Paris? This gorgeous 1.5 hour Paris river cruise actually offers a romance package to help you out! Fitted with rose petals, preferred seating, and even a private photographer to capture the moment, they remove the stress of planning all of these small details out in advance. Talk about the ultimate Paris proposal package! Or, if you’re simply planning a nice evening out in the city, you’ll be treated to a delectable French meal and unlimited alcohol during your sightseeing cruise.

🚢7. Paris Seine River Private Boat Tour

• Fully private tour for you and your group
• Bring your own snacks & drinks
• Pet friendly!

Want to avoid the chaos of traveling with dozens of other tourists down the Seine? While it is nice to enjoy the all-inclusive options, sometimes a private Paris boat tour like this one can offer a more personalized and fun experience. Free to bring your own dinner and drinks and even your furry friend, this is the ultimate choice for anyone looking to drop a Paris proposal or simply want to enjoy the ride with just their friends and family. Easily one of the best Seine River night cruise options on this list, this tour has earned Viator’s Badge of Excellence award for good reason!

🚢8. Paris at the First Lodges – Ducasse sur Seine Lunch Cruise

• Exquisite views of the city and ensured window seats
• Four-course lunch of gourmet French cuisine
• Extensive wine list to choose from
• Ride on an electric boat that emits 10x fewer CO2 emissions than a traditional diesel boat

Are you or someone else in your group determined to be environmentally friendly on your Paris river cruise? If so, then we should be friends because I’m always looking for the lowest-emission tours available too! Fortunately for both of us, this tour is free of fuel and offers a glorious 4-course lunch and wine list for your afternoon glide along the Seine! With guaranteed window seats and an utter lack of pollution, this tour will leave you feeling guilt-free ( well, almost… it depends on how much wine you have! 😉)

🚢9. Paris at the First Lodges – Ducasse sur Seine Dinner Cruise

• Immaculate views of the city
• Guaranteed window seats
• Four or five-course dinner of gourmet French cuisine
• Fully electric boat

Similar to the lunch cruise, the Ducasse sur Seine dinner cruise is perhaps one of the most romantic dinner cruises on this list! Offering the choice between a 4 or 5-course evening meal, stunning views of the city at night, and a refreshing lack of fuel emissions, this is one tour that almost never has leftover space.

🚢10. Paris in a Day with Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay & River Cruise

• 9 hours in duration
• Small group tour
• Skip-the-line tickets to the Eiffel Tower 
• Skip-the-line tickets to the Musée d’Orsay
• Professional and local English-speaking tour guide
• One hour Paris Seine River cruise

Looking to take a Paris boat tour and see the Eiffel Tower and the Musée d’Orsay all in one? Now you can! With numerous skip-the-line perks to some of Paris’ most iconic sights and a one-hour cruise on the Seine, this Paris in a day tour is the perfect way to spend a full day in the City of Lights!

🚢11. Paris Seine River Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruise

• Choose between a 24 or 48-hour pass
• Heated boats in winter
• Rooftop terrace option available in summer
• Knowledgeable crew

The hop-on hop-off boat in Paris is easily one of the best Seine River night cruises without dinner you can take ( it actually has over 1,300 5-star reviews )! Keeping things ultra simple, you can choose a 2-hour ride on either a one-day or two-day option, though nothing onboard is included. If you’re trying to stay on a budget, then this is by far the best option! You’ll get the chance to see numerous sights across Paris, and have the option to hop on or off the Seine River cruise at the Eiffel Tower, L’Académie Lime, Musée d’Orsay, Quai Malaquais, Quai de Montebello, Quai Saint-Bernard, Quai de l’Hôtel de Ville, Quai du Louvre, or the Concorde – Quai des Tuileries stops! Plus, with free cancelation up until 24 hours before departure ( just like most of the tours on this list ), there’s really no stress in reserving your spot.

FAQ: Paris River Cruise

In this next section, I’m going to answer some important questions that are essential to your Paris boat tour!

How Much is a River Cruise on the Seine?

A Seine River cruise in Paris can cost you anywhere from $20 to $130 or more , depending on the type of cruise you choose. Lunch cruises tend to be cheaper than dinner and dancing cruises, while private boat tours are usually the most expensive ( rightfully so! )

It may be tempting to save some money on your dinner cruise and book the cheapest one, but unfortunately in Paris, and most of Europe for that matter, you get what you pay for .

Having walked along the Seine my fair share of times at this point, I will say that it is very obvious which boats are for budget travelers versus which boats ( more like cruise ships ) are for those who paid for dinner, dancing, or some champagne.

The overall cleanliness of the boat will vary as well as its comfort level, the onboard food and beverage selection, and the length of the trip.

Thus, it’s recommended to budget for this outing on your Paris itinerary rather than trying to save some cash in this department.

How Long Does a Seine River Cruise Take?

Most Seine River cruises last between 1-2 hours , although some last up to 4 hours. If you’re looking for a shorter river cruise, opt for lunch cruises that usually last around 1 hour.

But, if you’re looking for something longer and more immersive, private boat tours as well as dinner and dancing cruises are the way to go!

If you only have one day in Paris , then a lunch tour is perhaps the best choice.

Can You See the Eiffel Tower from a Seine River Cruise?

Yes, you usually will be able to see the Eiffel Tower from your Paris river cruise! Depending on which boat tour you take, you may have impressive views of the iconic structure from all angles.

Where do Paris Boat Tours Leave From?

Most Seine River cruises in Paris leave from the embankment near Quai de Montebello , which is right by Notre Dame Cathedral.

However, depending on the company you book with, there may be other departure points available such as the Port de la Bourdonnais which is near the Eiffel Tower.

What is the Beautiful River in Paris?

The name of the beautiful river in Paris is the Seine! The Seine is a 780 km-long river that runs through the north of France and is one of Europe’s most important rivers.

It flows through Paris from east to west, dividing the city into two halves known as the Left Bank and Right Bank.

Not only is the Seine beautiful, but it also serves an important purpose in terms of transportation.

Do I Need to Pre-book a Seine River Cruise?

While you don’t technically have to pre-book a Seine River cruise, it is highly recommended . The best ones book up months in advance, so if you want to get a seat in one of the more popular cruises, it’s best to book your tickets early.

Otherwise, you’ll be stuck roaming the banks of the Seine for a boat with enough tickets left for everyone in your party, which I’m guessing isn’t how you want to spend your day in Paris.

By booking in advance, you’ll save yourself time, stress, and even money!

Yes, you read that right. Many of the Seine River cruises offer discounts and deals for purchasing tickets online ahead of time, so this ultimately is the best way to manage your reservations.

Do River Cruise Prices Include Airfare?

No, none of the Paris river cruises on this list or any that are available along the Seine include airfare in their price.

These tour companies aren’t all-inclusive vacation planners, so you would need to handle airfare, lodging, and so forth either on your own or with an experienced travel agent prior to your trip.

What is the Cost of a Paris River Cruise?

The cost of a cruise on the Seine River will vary depending on which boat tour you choose.

A private boat ride in Paris will run you upwards of $400+ per group ( which really isn’t that bad depending on how big the group is ), but you can also find tours such as the hop-on hop-off boat in Paris for as little as $20 per person.

Again, you get what you pay for, so if you book the ladder, don’t expect top-rated service, food, or beverages!

What Should I Pack for a Seine River Cruise?

Depending on if you’re taking a day lunch cruise or an evening dinner cruise, you’ll need slightly different items, though many will carry over from one to the next.

The list below includes everything for both, so remove any items that don’t make sense in relation to the cruise you pick.

• Sunscreen/sunhat
• Comfortable clothing and footwear
• A light jacket for cooler evenings
• Camera with a charged battery
• Travel adapter (if needed)
• Passport/ID
• Cash or credit card for onboard purchases (food, drinks, French souvenirs )
• Reusable water bottle
• Snacks such as nuts, fruit, energy bars
• Day backpack (if allowed – check with your company)

Do River Cruises in Paris include Dinner?

Some river cruises in Paris include dinner while others do not.

If you are hoping for a Paris boat tour that includes an evening meal, check out the Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Gourmet Dinner & Sightseeing Cruise , the Paris at the First Lodges – Ducasse sur Seine Dinner Cruise , or the Eiffel Tower Access with Seine River Dinner Cruise and Moulin Rouge Show .

When is the Best Time to Go on a Paris River Cruise?

The best time to go on a Paris River cruise is during the spring and summer months when the weather will be warmer and sunnier .

The busiest times of year are usually during school holidays ( particularly in the months of June through August ), so if you’re looking for a more intimate experience try to plan your trip outside of these peak periods or opt for a private Paris river cruise.

For dinner cruises and private boat tours, late afternoon/early evening is the best time to go as you’ll get a chance to take in the city at night while enjoying your meal ( which means you’ll get to see the Eiffel Tower do its light show from the river! )

Just be sure to read this list of Paris safety tips if you’re planning on exploring the city at night.

For discounted and budget-friendly boat tours, opt for an early morning or late afternoon cruise when there are fewer people onboard.

✈️ For a more detailed explanation on when to go to the City of Lights, read up on The BEST Time to Visit Paris for Travelers in 2024 .

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While there are dozens of reasons to visit Paris , a boat tour on the Seine is probably one of the most important!

Now that you know what to look for in a Paris Seine River cruise, it’s time to start planning your journey! From lunch cruises to dinner and dancing tours, there is something special waiting for everyone.

So take some time out of your busy schedule to explore this beautiful city from one of its most iconic rivers and book yourself a memorable Paris river cruise today!

Hey there! I'm Emily Concannon, a seasoned globetrotter who has backpacked her way across over a dozen European countries, immersing myself in the diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines of the region.

My passion for travel transcends personal experiences; I've spent years learning how to transform my globetrotting knowledge into personalized itineraries for fellow travelers worldwide.

With a tally of 26 countries (and counting!) under my belt, my day job involves extensive research on different countries which often leads me to booking a new adventure every chance I get!

APRIL SALE:   Book now and get   up to 60% off!

River Cruises from Paris

A cruise starting in Paris is a great way to experience river cruising. We have 117 cruises that range from 2 days up to 25 days in length. The most popular time for river cruises leaving Paris is July.

117 Paris river cruises with 88 reviews

• River Cruise

Paris to Normandy 2024

Excellent! Wonderful, efficient employees. Great tour director. Friendly waiters and desk workers. Best food ever!

Paris to Normandy WWII Remembrance & History Cruise (Southbound)

• Sightseeing

Short Break in Paris (port-to-port cruise)

It was good Food was very good. Had great table mates. The crew did well with the seating arrangements for meals. English was widely spoken by the crew and they were pleasant and courteous. The only disappointment was the boat was docked at Porte de Bercy the first day. There was absolutely nothing to do there after the morning tour. It was far from everything and cabs were expensive.I had expected that it would be docked each day at Porte de Grenelle which was close to the Eiffel Tower and other tourist landmarks.

The Must-see Sights of the Seine Valley (port-to-port cruise)

I was kept informed & on promptly basis. A very professional approach by your staff

• Walking Adventure

Paris & Normandy (2024) (Paris to Paris, 2024)

Paris & Normandy (2025) (Paris to Paris, 2025)

Seine River Cruise from Paris

• €100 deposit on some dates Some departure dates offer you the chance to book this tour with a lower deposit.

La Belle France: Paris, Normandy and the River Seine (Paris - Paris)

Cruise was great. The crew were very friendly and helpful. The food was excellent. The tours were well planned, and even though there were a few technical problems, the staff worked very hard to make things go as smoothly as possible.

Seine Experience the Normandy 2024

Paris to Nice & Sensations of Lyon and Provence

Paris to Prague & Splendours of Europe

Beautiful Bordeaux with Highlights of Paris

Golf Cruise on the Seine (Paris - Paris)

Seine Rendez-vous with Paris 2024

• Wine tasting

Grand Seine & Bordeaux 2025

What people love about river cruise tours from paris.

It was a very comfortable and enjoyable cruise. The service staff were very friendly and attentive. The fellow passengers were very friendly and sociable which makes the whole cruise line one big happy family.

Food excellent rooms small but expected. Would have got excellent star if it was possible to get hot water for a tea earlier in the. Morning. Staff amazing. Great value

I was kept informed & on promptly basis. A very professional approach by your staff

Travel Styles

River cruise from paris.

• to Paris (53)
• to Arles (10)
• to Budapest (9)
• to Prague (6)
• to Bordeaux (6)
• to Nice (6)
• to Amsterdam (5)
• France Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
• Best 10 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• Best 7 Day France Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
• 10 Best River Cruise Companies (with Reviews)

Inside the Olympic effort to clean up the River Seine — and why it may be spoiled by a rainy day

PARIS — Meandering down the Seine R iver , the light breeze, gentle current and the sun’s glistening rays weren’t the only things the three kayakers were hoping to catch on a warm spring day — they were also on the hunt for garbage. 

By attaching nylon stockings to the side of their kayaks, they scooped up even the smallest fragments of plastic, as well as the everyday detritus of life in the French capital that washes to the river’s surface every time it rains. The members of the Arc de Seine Kayak club then sent what they had collected to be tested for bacterial levels. 

“My kayak capsized this morning and I’m OK,” a laughing Paul Maakad told NBC News on Sunday, at the Pont de Sevres in central Paris. 

But while Maakad, 40, and his fellow boaters said they were not scared of getting into the river, with less than 100 days to go before the 2024 Paris Olympics , fears are growing that events like the marathon swim, the triathlon and the paratriathlon could be postponed or canceled because of high pollution levels, or that the flotilla-based opening ceremony could be affected.

Earlier this month, Tony Estanguet, the president of the Paris Organizing Committee, expressed confidence "that it will be possible to use the Seine,” but admitted that the swimming leg of the triathlon could be canceled if pollution levels are too high. "It’s what we want to avoid, of course,” he said .

His comments came days after a French charity warned that bacteria, including “pollution of fecal origin,” was far higher in the river than permitted. 

As part of an ambitious plan to open up the Seine to public swimmers by 2025 — after being illegal for 100 years because of dangerously high pollution levels — France has spent 1.4 billion euros ($1.5 billion) on altering and upgrading the city’s antiquated sewage system, which now includes a 13-million-gallon overflow tank called the Austerlitz Basin. 

But in August, the swim portion of the test marathon event was canceled because the river failed pollution tests.

As the starting gun to the Games approaches, Fluidion, one of the companies the city of Paris contracted to monitor bacteria in the water, exclusively shared its findings with NBC News. 

A sample of water collected by the Pont Alexander III bridge, in the city’s center, showed E. coli levels two-and-a-half times the level considered safe for swimming. 

But that in itself isn’t necessarily a concern for the Games themselves, according to Dan Angelescu , the CEO of Fluidion, a tech company that develops water testing products. 

“In the summer when there is a lot of sunlight, when the water flow, river flow rate is really low, and when there is no rain for several weeks, let’s say two or three weeks without rain, you can actually reach really good water quality conditions,” he said in an interview this month.

But he added that even a small rain event could make E. coli levels shoot up. 

“You may swim in very polluted water and nothing may happen to you, or you may swim and you may develop itches, or you may develop infections, or you may catch a strain of E. coli that may be pathogenic," he said. "Those aren’t very common, but they exist, and that could get you really sick.” 

But he cautioned that exposure to other pathogens associated with the presence of E. coli could lead to contracting a norovirus, diarrhea “or you could get certain diseases that can really kill you.”

In a bid to boost public confidence, French President Emmanuel Macron and Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo have both promised to swim in the river to prove its cleanliness.

Pierre-Antoine Molina, a director of public policy in Paris, said he would follow suit. In an interview Monday, he said that water pollution in the river “has been gradually improving.”   

He added that the work to upgrade the city's sewage system had led to the modernization of wastewater treatment plants and an improvement in the network that separates wastewater and rainwater. 

“It’s an ancient city going back to Roman times, so inevitably that’s a big task,” he said, adding that a lot of buildings had been gone up after World War II “and the sewage system did not always cope.” 

Around 30 miles downstream from Paris, Edouard Combette, 50, showed no fear as he plunged headfirst into the storied waterway, which has inspired artists like the impressionist painter Claude Monet.   

“Life is good here,” he said after coming up for air, adding that he didn’t know whether the water was completely safe.  

“Don’t drink the water. You can swim, but don’t drink,” he said. “I haven’t heard of anyone dying or getting sick.”

Keir Simmons is chief international correspondent for NBC News, based in London.

A Zürich, Switzerland Land Trip With Viking River Cruise

D uring our unforgettable Paris to the Swiss Alps cruise with Viking River Cruises, my husband (Eddie) and I found ourselves in the captivating city of Zürich, Switzerland. Although I had been to Switzerland before, Zürich was an unexplored gem. Viking River Cruises seamlessly transported us from the cruise ship to the hotel, and later to the airport, as part of their all-inclusive package.

Zürich bewitched us with its mesmerizing beauty and undeniable charm, despite being notoriously expensive. Over the course of our two-day stay, we eagerly immersed ourselves in the city’s delights, making the most of the complimentary walking tour and invigorating boat ride organized by Viking River Cruises. Allow me to share a glimpse of what awaits you on your visit to Zürich.

Read more about the 12 day river cruise here.

Zürich Scenery

Breathtaking scenery unfurls in every direction in Zürich. Whether it be the grandeur of the architectural masterpieces or the vibrant façades of historical buildings, the snow-capped Swiss Alps serving as a backdrop or the enchanting cobblestone streets that wound their way through the city, there is no shortage of picturesque moments that will prompt your camera to work overtime.

Zürich is an incredible city to explore on foot. Without even realizing it, we covered an impressive seven miles in a single day, diligently recorded by our trusty Fitbit. Such was the pleasure derived from our stroll that the concept of distance faded away, leaving us fully engrossed in the awe-inspiring ambiance that unfolded at every turn.

The Food in Zürich

Switzerland is renowned for its exquisite culinary offerings, with one of my personal favorites being cheese. Everywhere you go, you’ll encounter a plethora of exotic cheese choices. During my visit, indulging in authentic Swiss cheese fondue at the Swiss Chuchi Restaurant , nestled in the heart of the old town, was a must for me and my companion Eddie.

We opted for the traditional recipe, combining Vaudois cheese, white wine, cherry liquor, and garlic, resulting in a gastronomic delight that exceeded all expectations.

Another popular cheese delicacy in Zürich is raclette, which has recently gained popularity even in American eateries. While exploring the town, we noticed numerous raclette shops scattered around, its tantalizing aroma captivating our senses well before catching sight of it.

It’s worth noting that dining in Zürich can be quite costly. Simple meals often came with a hefty price tag of $24, and even a small bottled soda would cost between $4 and $7 at our hotel. Surprisingly, beer turned out to be more economical than both water and soda.

However, in the old town, we stumbled upon a gem called Blue Monkey —a delightful Thai restaurant boasting chic decor and offering a lunch buffet priced at $26 per person. I wholeheartedly recommend this establishment for an exquisite culinary experience.

Overall, Switzerland’s gastronomic offerings, particularly its cheese creations, exceeded all expectations, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of my culinary adventure in this beautiful country.

Parade Square

Eddie and I thoroughly enjoyed strolling through Paradeplatz (Parade Square) located in downtown Zürich. This upscale district is renowned for its exceptional shopping opportunities and the chance to observe people in action.

Parade Square places fashion and accessories at center stage, while home accents come in a close second.

If you happen to be staying outside the downtown area, fret not as getting there is incredibly convenient via the tram system. Coming from someone who seldom relies on public transportation, I can attest to its ease of use.

Tram stations provide instructions in English and accept credit cards. They are maintained well, operate efficiently, and offer a superb means of traversing Zürich. As you journey through the city, do observe the dignified architecture and stunning floral displays that grace its streets.

Lake Zürich

During our Viking River post-cruise excursion, we had the pleasure of embarking on a delightful boat ride around the picturesque Lake Zurich. The boat tour commences from Bürkliplatz and extends for approximately 90 minutes.

With both indoor and outdoor seating options, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the serene lake and majestic, snow-capped mountains.

Our route led us to the charming medieval town of Rapperswil, featuring a captivating 12th-century castle gracefully perched on a hillside across the lake. If desired, passengers had the flexibility to disembark in Rapperswil and catch a later boat back into town.

Undoubtedly, the boat ride boasts exceptional scenery, allowing guests to relish the rejuvenating fresh air. Moreover, this memorable experience came at no cost for Viking River Cruise guests, ensuring that you seize the opportunity to partake in it.

Our Zürich Hotel

During our Viking River Cruise, we had the pleasure of being accommodated at the Sheraton Zürich Hotel , an elegant and sophisticated establishment situated in a cosmopolitan district. The rooms provide a comfortable sitting area, heavenly beds, an ergonomic desk and work area, a mini-fridge, and a refreshing shower, ensuring a pleasant stay.

To the delight of cruise ship guests, Viking offers a complimentary breakfast in a private space at the hotel, which proved to be a significant money-saving opportunity. Moreover, the Sheraton Hotel’s convenient location near the Toni-Areal tram station opens up a plethora of possibilities for exploring the city.

Zürich, Switzerland: One for the Books!

Zürich itself is known for its stunning scenery, making it a lovely city to visit. As part of Switzerland, a truly breathtaking country with an abundance of attractions, Zürich stands out as my favorite city thus far.

Read more from our Viking River Cruises:

Things to Know for your Viking Cruise

Remembering My Rhine River Cruise

Home Explore France Official Tourism Board Website

• Explore the map

8 reasons to cast off and cruise with the kids

Inspiration

Nature and Outdoor Activities With Family

Reading time: 0 min Published on 26 March 2024, updated on 22 April 2024

Cruising along French rivers and canals is an extraordinary experience of freedom that children will remember for a long time. Much more than simply renting a boat, it's a way of life that teaches the importance of slowing down - and has many surprises in store. Follow our guide.

A river cruise is an original alternative to modern travel methods, allowing you to move at your own pace with no stress, taking your time and recharging your batteries surrounded by the simple pleasures of nature, new landscapes and new perspectives. It's a true way to let go and be in the present moment.

With nearly 8,000 km of waterways, France boasts the largest river network in Europe - more than enough to please boat lovers and offer numerous ideas for weekends or longer getaways. Explore France in an unusual way, from village to village and from lock to lock.

Give the children new roles

A river cruise isn't just about a long, quiet river with nothing to do. Everyone has a role to play and children love being given new responsibilities: helping to steer, playing captain, helping pass through the locks, handling the ropes, keeping the boat glistening clean and keeping the water supply topped up. Everyone can be the perfect ship's boy.

Navigate in total safety

If you decide to rent a license-free boat with your children, don't panic! Everything to ensure their safety is provided on board. Each boat is perfectly equipped with buoys and lifejackets adapted to the sizes of the kids, and any little ones who haven't yet learned to swim can easily keep them on while aboard.

Combine boating with cycling

Before setting off on your cruise, you can rent bikes and take them on board. Take them for a gentle meander to explore the local villages and activities, or even to pick up supplies. A great classic for cyclists is the 250km-long Voie Verte cycle path on the Canal du Midi , built on the old towpath following the canal.

Treat yourself to delicious food

Taking in the terroir and local culture, cruises from Bordeaux on the Garonne, Dordogne and Gironde rivers are a great opportunity to taste traditional French food. You could combine this with exploring the prestigious vineyards of the Médoc and Sauternes areas. Natural wonders such as the Gironde estuary, Arcachon Bay and the Pilat Dune will really wow the kids.

Soak up local culture

Did you know that the Loire is the longest river in France - and follows in the footsteps of Leonardo da Vinci? Children will love journeying along it to see some of France's most famous chateaux. The region of Pays de la Loire is an ideal destination for cruisers seeking culture, rich history and heritage.

Try out new activities

During your journey, you'll no doubt need to make a few stops to keep the kids entertained. If they like zoos, animal parks and safaris, try the Parc de Sainte-Croix in Alsace or the Sigean African Reserve on the Mediterranean, between Narbonne and Perpignan. And for aspiring historians, many tourist sites have adapted childrens' tours, such as the MuséoParc Alésia in Burgundy or Aigues-Mortes in Occitanie. The choices are endless!

Find out more:

French boat rental companies: - Le Boat (French only) - Locaboat - Nicols Cruise excursions: - CroisiEurope . Admire the chateaux on a Loire river cruise or make a getaway from Arles to Sète via the Rhône canal.

Further reading: - French culture along the Canal du Midi - The Loire as you've probably never seen it

By Redaction France.fr

The magazine of the destination unravels an unexpected France that revisits tradition and cultivates creativity. A France far beyond what you can imagine…

8 Luxurious Boutiques in Paris

Corsican Cuisine

Destination: Etretat

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Naturist places in France

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3 hospitalized after knife attack on party boat in New York City along Brooklyn waterfront

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NEW YORK (AP) — A knife attack on a crowded party boat at a New York City pier Saturday resulted in the hospitalization of three people, police said.

A 911 call came in around 5 p.m. reporting the assault along the Brooklyn waterfront near 58th Street and the Brooklyn Army Terminal warehouse, NYPD Detective Sophia Mason said.

The victims were said to be a 32-year-old man with a stab wound to the torso, a 40-year-old man with stab wounds to the chest and abdomen and a 28-year-old man who was hit in the head with a bottle. They were taken to the NYU Langone Hospital and were in stable condition, Mason said.

Two more people were treated for injuries at the scene, but they declined further medical treatment, according to the fire department.

There were no arrests as of Saturday evening and the investigation was ongoing.

Around 3,000 people were aboard the vessel, the Cornucopia Majesty, at the time, police said. An event called BYFAROnABoat, which had advertised daytime and nighttime parties on the boat boarding at the Brooklyn Army Terminal on Saturday, said in a statement posted on social media that a “crime scene developed by the pier.” As a result, the night event was postponed.

“BYFAR Entertainment has always been a beacon of safe events in New York City and this rare occurrence has never been the norm with us,” the statement said.

The pier at the army terminal, a former military supply base that houses industrial businesses, is used by the city’s ferry service and private vessels.

Party cruises are a fixture in the waters off New York City in the warmer months, typically carrying DJs playing to large crowds as they take in views of the Statue of Liberty and Manhattan skyline. The city in the past has moved to restrict where and how late they can dock on the southern Brooklyn waterfront, following complaints from some area residents.

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• Bordeaux to Bordeaux

Châteaux, Rivers & Wine

• From $2,799
• 6 Guided Tours
• Dates & Pricing
• 2024 2025 2026

Châteaux, Rivers & Wine Map

Explore Bordeaux like never before

Discover the ports, vineyards, farms and forests of Aquitaine, once Europe’s richest kingdom. See Bordeaux’s fountains and cellars. Hunt for truffles in Périgord, and create your own personal blend of Cognac at the Camus distillery. Savor France’s finest oysters fresh from the bay at Arcachon. Sip Saint-Émilion, Médoc and Sauternes in their own “ terroir”  on an 8-day cruise through Bordeaux—a region synonymous with fine wine and finer living.

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Viking Inclusive Value

All you need included, with no surprises or hidden fees

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

From $999 | 3 Nights

Pre: Paris Premium

From $1,599 | 3 Nights

Pre: Bilbao & San Sebastián

From $1,499 | 3 Nights

Post: Loire Valley

From $1,449 | 3 Nights

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