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Paris Pass Seine River Cruise – Here is what you need to know!

Paris Pass is a great way to enjoy free entry and skip-the-line access to over 60 top attractions in Paris, including Cruise on the Seine River. Here is what you need to know.

• By: Olivia Jensen

Paris Pass Seine Cruise Options

The pass includes these cruise choices:

Bateaux Parisiens – 1 hour sightseeing cruise Bateaux Mouches – 1 hour sightseeing cruis.

Vedettes du Pont Neuf – 1 hour sightseeing or lunch/dinner cruise Canauxrama – 1 hour circular sightseeing cruise

You can pick the company and cruise that interests you most with a pass.

Here is some of the best dinner Seine River Cruises in Paris:

Using your pass.

Activating your pass means you can book your cruise whenever you want during the pass validity (consecutive days).

• Reserve online in advance or same-day depending on availability
• Present pass at cruise check-in
• No need to pay any additional cost

The pass allows flexibility to take your Seine cruise whenever it fits your schedule.

Choosing Your Cruise

All included cruises offer audio commentary of top Paris sights like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral.

Pick based on:

• Budget – lunch/dinner cruises cost extra without a pass
• Interests – Canauxrama has charming old boats, Bateaux Mouches has dance floors
• Hours – night cruises available in summer

Paris Pass Seine River Cruise - Insider Tips

• Reserve your cruise as soon as you activate your pass to get your preferred date/time
• Flexible passes allow reserving even if you haven’t fixed your Paris dates yet
• Look for night time cruises during summer months for views of illuminated sights
• Check company websites before choosing to pick the boat style and amenities you prefer
• Print out booking confirmation and bring your pass as backup to show staff
• Arrive 30 minutes before departure time to exchange voucher for ticket
• Choose an upper deck outdoor seat for the best photo opportunities
• Download the cruise company’s app for more details on your boat’s features
• Read reviews of the different companies to make an informed choice

Paris Pass Seine River Cruise - FAQ

No, food and drinks are at your own expense, except for lunch/dinner cruises.

Yes, all cruises include pre-recorded audio commentary of sights.

Audio guides are available in at least 8 languages: French, English, Spanish, German, Italian, Portuguese, Japanese, Chinese.

Yes, boats have both indoor salon seating and outdoor open deck areas.

Reserve as soon as you activate your pass for the best availability. At least 24 hours is recommended.

Yes, children 4 and above can use their pass for Seine cruises. Under 4s sail free.

More useful information about Seine River Cruise in Paris

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

Cruise On the Seine - Who we are?

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

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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 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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Bateaux Parisiens

Sightseeing Cruise in Paris on the Seine

Discover Paris in a unique way with the Commented Cruises of Bateaux Parisiens. Embark on an adventure along the Seine, uncovering the history and beauty of the City of Lights. Our commented cruises provide an immersive experience, highlighting the famous Parisian landmarks with informative and engaging commentary. Onboard our fully glassed boats, enjoy an exceptional panoramic view of Paris’ iconic sites. Whether you’re a tourist seeking discoveries or a local wanting to rediscover your city, our commented cruises are designed to offer you a unique perspective on Paris. Book your river journey now and dive into the fascinating history of the French capital with Les Bateaux Parisiens.

E-tickets / Fast-track tickets valid at the time of your choice for greater flexibility

Only e-tickets guarantee boarding

• Useful information

The guided cruise aboard the Bateaux Parisiens is available every day of the week (7 days a week) at the following times:

* Your e-tickets give you direct access to the boats at the time of your choice, without having to wait at the ticket office. The times and address are shown on the ticket.

Weekday Departures (Monday to Thursday):  10:30 am, 11:15 am, 12:00 pm, 1:15 pm, 2:00 pm, 2:45 PM, 3:30 pm, 4:15 pm, 5:00 pm, 5:40 pm, 6:20 pm, 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm, 8:40 pm, 9:20 pm

Friday Departures:  10:30 am, 11:15 am, 12:00 pm, 1:15 pm, 2:00 pm, 2:45 pm, 3:30 pm, 4:15 pm, 5:00 pm, 5:30 pm, 6:00 pm, 6:30 pm, 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm, 8:30 pm, 9:00 pm, 9:30 pm

Saturday Departures:  10:30 am, 11:15 am, 12:00 pm, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:00 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:30 pm, 4:00 pm, 4:30 pm, 5:00 pm, 5:30 pm, 6:00 pm, 6:30 pm, 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm, 8:30 pm, 9:00 pm, 9:30 pm, 10:00 pm

Sunday Departures:  10:30 am, 11:15 am, 12:00 pm, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:00 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:30 pm, 4:00 pm, 4:30 pm, 5:00 pm, 5:40 pm, 6:20 pm, 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm, 8:40 pm, 9:20 pm

Duration of the cruise: 1h00

In the event of unforeseen circumstances, your e-tickets are automatically valid for 12 months at the date and time of your choice.

Your E-tickets :

• Are sent instantly by e-mail
• Are queue-cutting and allow you to board without waiting at the ticket office
• Are automatically valid for 12 months

Get ready for an unforgettable cruise with Bateaux Parisiens by buying your e-tickets in advance. Avoid long queues , especially during busy periods such as weekends, bank holidays, school holidays and summer.

Accessibility for people with reduced mobility (PRM): Yes

Explore our options for dinner cruises and lunch cruises to enhance your experience with Bateaux Parisiens.

The Bateaux Parisiens depart from the Port de la Bourdonnais 75007 Paris.

Nearest Parking : Port de la Bourdonnais – 75007 Paris

Are you a group of more than 14 people? Contact us for a personalised quote. Paris en un Clic guarantees you the best tickets at the best prices!

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Welcome to Les Bateaux Parisiens, your must-visit destination for memorable experiences along the Seine! Whether you’re seeking a peaceful river cruise or a delightful taste of French cuisine, this exceptional fleet invites you to explore Paris in a truly unique way.

The diverse offering, including restaurant boats and scenic cruise boats, provides an immersive experience with fully glazed walls. Enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Paris’s most beautiful landmarks unfolding to the rhythm of the water. Whether it’s a romantic getaway, a special celebration like Valentine’s Day, Christmas, New Year’s, or any other significant event, treat yourself to the magic of the Seine from one of the most beautiful viewpoints in the City of Light.

Immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of Paris while savoring carefully prepared French cuisine on board. Our services are designed to offer you an unforgettable evening, combining the elegance of our fleet with the delicacy of our dishes.

Booking on our site is simple and fast, allowing you to plan your Parisian experience with just a few clicks. Discover the magic and enchantment of the Seine with Les Bateaux Parisiens. Book now and get ready to experience unique moments in the heart of the City of Light!

Included in your cruise

Commented Cruises:

• 1-hour cruise on the Seine departing from the Eiffel Tower – Port de la Bourdonnais (return to the same location)
• Panoramic view of the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and other iconic sites in Paris
• Individual audioguides available in 14 languages
• Open seating: access to 2 levels (covered and glazed below – open sky above)

Lunch Cruises:

• 2-hour cruise
• Lunch Star service: Central location on the boat + Aperitif + Starters + Main courses + Desserts + Drinks (1/4 bottle of wine + mineral water) + Coffee
• Lunch Privilege service: Bay window location + Aperitif + Starters + Main courses + Cheese + Desserts + Drinks (1/4 bottle of wine + mineral water) + Coffee
• Lunch Premier service: VIP location at the front of the boat + Aperitif + Starters + Main courses + Cheeses + Desserts + Drinks (1/4 bottle of wine + mineral water + Glass of champagne) + Coffee + Mignardises

Dinner Cruises:

• 2h30 for the 8.30pm departure or 1h15 for the 1st round at 6.15pm
• Dinner Star service: Central location on the boat + Aperitif + Starters + Main courses + Desserts + Drinks (1/4 bottle of wine + mineral water) + Coffee
• Discovery Dinner service : Location with panoramic view + Aperitif + Starters + Main courses + Cheeses + Desserts + Drinks (1/4 bottle of wine + mineral water) + Coffee
• Privilege Dinner service: Bay window location + Aperitif + Starters + Main courses + Cheeses + Desserts + Drinks (1/4 bottle of wine + mineral water) + Coffee
• Premier Dinner service: VIP location at the front of the boat + Aperitif + Starters + Main courses + Cheeses + Desserts + Drinks (1/4 bottle of wine + mineral water + Glass of champagne) + Coffee + Mignardises

Adult Rate (12 years and older): 16 euros (instead of 18€ on-site)

Reduced Rate for children (4 to 11 years): 7.50 euros (instead of 9€ on-site)

Free for babies and children under 4 years old

Lunch Star formula

Adult Rate (12 years and older): 75 euros

Reduced Rate for children (up to 11 years): 39 euros

Lunch Privilege formula

Adult Rate (12 years and older): 95 euros

Lunch Premier formula

Adult Rate (12 years and older): 115 euros

Dinner Star formula – 06:15 pm

Reduced Rate for children (4 to 11 years): 39 euros

Dinner Star formula – 08:30 pm

Discovery Dinner formula

Unique Rate for Adults and Children: 139 euros

Privilege Dinner formula – 06:15 pm

Unique Rate for Adults and Children: 125 euros

Privilege Dinner formula – 08:30 pm

Unique Rate for Adults and Children: 185 euros

Premier Dinner formula – 06:15 pm

Unique Rate for Adults and Children: 149 euros

Premier Dinner formula – 08:30 pm

Unique Rate for Adults and Children: 215 euros

Scenic Cruises:

Weekday departures (Monday to Thursday): 10:30 am, 11:15 am, 12:00 pm, 1:15 pm, 2:00 pm, 2:45 pm, 3:30 pm, 4:15 pm, 5:00 pm, 5:40 pm, 6:20 pm, 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm, 8:40 pm, 9:20 pm

Friday departures: 10:30 am, 11:15 am, 12:00 pm, 1:15 pm, 2:00 pm, 2:45 pm, 3:30 pm, 4:15 pm, 5:00 pm, 5:30 pm, 6:00 pm, 6:30 pm, 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm, 8:30 pm, 9:00 pm, 9:30 pm

Saturday departures: 10:30 am, 11:15 am, 12:00 pm, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:00 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:30 pm, 4:00 pm, 4:30 pm, 5:00 pm, 5:30 pm, 6:00 pm, 6:30 pm, 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm, 8:30 pm, 9:00 pm, 9:30 pm, 10:00 pm

Sunday departures: 10:30 am, 11:15 am, 12:00 pm, 12:30 pm, 1:30 pm, 2:00 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:00 pm, 3:30 pm, 4:00 pm, 4:30 pm, 5:00 pm, 5:40 pm, 6:20 pm, 7:00 pm, 8:00 pm, 8:40 pm, 9:20 pm.

The duration of Scenic Cruises is 1 hour.

The selected date during the reservation is a tentative date. Please note that e-tickets are valid for 12 months, allowing you to come on the date and time that suits you.

12:15 pm: Boarding

12:45 pm: Departure

2:45 pm: Return to the dock

Duration of the cruise: 2 hours

8:00 pm: Boarding

8:30 pm: Departure

11:00 pm: Return to the dock

Duration of the cruise: 2 hours and 15 minutes

FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

Where is the boarding point for Bateaux Parisiens?

All cruises of Bateaux-Mouches take place at Port de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris. Boarding and arrivals occur at the same location.

Is advance booking necessary?

For Commented Cruises, reservation is not mandatory, but due to high demand, it is highly recommended (average waiting time on-site: 1 hour). Opt for our E-tickets for direct access to the boats, eliminating any wait at the ticket counters. For a convenient and hassle-free experience, these electronic tickets are not nominative, providing total flexibility in their use. Additionally, for on-site reservations, please note that a surcharge of €2 per E-ticket applies. E-tickets are valid for any reserved day departure and, in case of unforeseen circumstances, automatically remain valid for 12 months, always on the date and time of your choice. For lunches and dinners, advance booking is mandatory. We recommend a reservation at least 15 days in advance.

When will I receive my E-tickets for the cruise?

Upon confirmation of your purchase, your E-tickets are automatically dispatched via email and are ready for use upon receipt.

How long are my Scenic Cruise E-tickets valid?

Your E-tickets are automatically valid for a period of 12 months and can be used at the date and time of your convenience. The calendar aims to keep you informed of any closures in the coming weeks.

Will I be seated in a bay window?

Regarding Commented Cruises, seating is open on the boats. The boats are fully glazed and also have an open upper deck. For lunch/dinner cruises, bay window seats are guaranteed with the formulas:

• For lunch cruises: Privilege & Premier formulas,
• For dinner cruises: Privilege & Premier formulas.

Are there stops during the Cruises?

All cruises are non-stop with departure and return at Port de la Bourdonnais, at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.

Are pets allowed on board?

For hygiene and safety reasons on board the boats, unfortunately, we are not able to accept pets, except for guide dogs.

What is the recommended dress code for visiting Bateaux Parisiens?

No specific attire is required for Commented Cruises. However, for lunches and dinners, decent city attire is appreciated. Please note that sportswear, flip-flops, shorts, and caps are not allowed.

Where can I park when I go to Bateaux Parisiens?

The Port de la Bourdonnais has a pay car park reserved primarily for tourism professionals. We recommend that you park in the public car park at the Musée du Quai Branly.

Are Bateaux Parisiens cruises available throughout the year?

Bateaux Parisiens are delighted to welcome you throughout the year, except on January 1st for Lunch Cruises and on the second Monday of January when the site closes at 5 pm, regardless of the service. Please note that these hours may be subject to changes in case of exceptional navigation restrictions imposed by the authorities.

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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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Is France a Continent? The Facts for 2024 27 BEST Day Trips from Paris by Train in 2024 25 BEST Beaches Near Paris for Summer 2024 13+ Impeccable Bordeaux Wine Tours for 2024 11 Top-Rated Normandy Tours from Paris for 2024: D-Day Beaches & Mont Saint-Michel 23+ BEST Things To Do in Chamonix, France 2024 Where to Stay in Chamonix in December 2024 Paris or Amsterdam: A Complete Comparison Lake Annecy, France: Hotels, Campsites, Things To Do, and More! Does France Celebrate Halloween? La Toussaint Explained Paris Postal Code & Paris Zip Code 2024 (& Diagram!) Best Time to Visit Normandy: The Complete 2024 Guide

Jump to the bottom of the post? No problem!

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!

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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.

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.

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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Paris Top Ten

Best of Paris

Paris River Cruise: A Comprehensive Guide to Unforgettable Experiences

Paris, the enchanting City of Lights, is renowned for its iconic landmarks, gastronomic delights, and romantic atmosphere. One way to experience the city’s charm and unravel its history is to embark on a river cruise along the Seine, which meanders through the heart of the French capital. These cruises provide a unique vantage point to appreciate the architectural splendor of Paris , showcasing famed attractions like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral.

A Parisian river cruise can cater to various preferences, from leisurely sightseeing to formal dinner cruises. Companies like Bateaux Parisiens and Bateaux Mouches offer a range of options that allow travelers to take in the breathtaking cityscapes while enjoying on-board entertainment and gourmet cuisine. Informative commentary, often provided during these cruises, further illuminates the history and cultural significance of the sights that unfold along the Seine’s banks.

Whether you opt for a daytime jaunt or an enchanting evening cruise beneath the starry sky, a Paris river cruise is an unforgettable way to explore the city’s treasures from a different perspective. As your vessel glides along the river, you’ll witness remarkable scenes that capture the essence of the French capital, ensuring a memorable experience to cherish long after you disembark.

Table of Contents

Overview of Paris River Cruises

Seine river, types of cruises, cruise operators, sightseeing cruises, popular attractions, cruise duration, romantic cruises, dinner cruises, private cruises, cultural and historical monuments, museums and landmarks, architecture, cruise packages and experiences, lunch cruises, themed cruises.

The Seine River is the centerpiece of Parisian cruises, as it winds its way through the heart of the city. Many iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower , Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum, can be spotted along its banks. The Seine stretches for 777 kilometers (483 miles) and cruises on this river can last anywhere from 1 to 31 days.

Paris river cruises cater to various interests and needs, with diverse offerings such as:

• Sightseeing Cruises : These cruises typically last for 1-2 hours and cover key Parisian landmarks, offering a unique perspective of the city’s beauty.
• Dinner Cruises : Combine sightseeing with a gourmet meal prepared by onboard chefs, featuring traditional French cuisine and fine wines.
• Themed Cruises : Some cruise operators offer themed itineraries, such as art or history-focused cruises, allowing passengers to delve into their interests while enjoying the scenery.
• Multi-Day Cruises : Longer cruises range from 4-day trips to extended voyages of up to 31 days. These cruises may cover multiple destinations along the Seine River, beyond Paris, including stops in Normandy, Lyon, and other regions.

There are several cruise operators offering various types of cruises in Paris. Some of the noteworthy operators include:

• Avalon Waterways : Known for its luxurious ships and attention to detail, Avalon offers several itineraries in and around Paris, often including themed cruises.
• Viking River Cruises : A reputed cruise line offering Paris and Normandy itineraries , Viking River Cruises provide an extensive range of packages catering to different tastes and budgets.
• Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection : This operator specializes in all-inclusive, immersive experiences that often include unique, themed Paris river cruises.
• CroisiEurope : As one of the largest river cruise operators in Europe, CroisiEurope features numerous itineraries focusing on Paris and other regions along the Seine River.

Enjoying a river cruise in Paris is an unforgettable way to explore the city and its surroundings. With various types of cruises and a range of operators to choose from, there’s something for every traveler seeking an unforgettable journey along the Seine River.

See Related : Affordable Restaurants in Paris with a View

Sightseeing cruises along the Seine River offer a unique perspective of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. These cruises provide an opportunity to admire the stunning architecture and captivating history of the city while comfortably navigating the waters. Some of the most popular attractions that can be seen during a Seine River sightseeing cruise include:

• Eiffel Tower : The most famous symbol of Paris, this towering masterpiece is a must-see on a sightseeing cruise.
• Louvre Museum : Home to the renowned Mona Lisa and countless other intriguing artworks, the Louvre Museum is a must-visit. Its striking glass pyramid is easily visible from the cruise.
• Notre Dame : This world-famous Gothic cathedral , with its stunning stained glass and imposing architecture, is a prominent highlight on a Paris river cruise.
• Bridges : Paris boasts numerous historic and architecturally significant bridges , including the stunning Pont Alexandre III and the romantic Pont des Arts.

There are various durations available for Seine River sightseeing cruises, depending on your preferences and schedule. Some popular options are:

• 1-hour Seine River Sightseeing Cruise : This is a relaxing round-trip cruise that begins at the base of the Eiffel Tower . Passengers will have the opportunity to admire Paris’s picturesque landmarks while listening to informative commentary. >From €7.50 ( source ).
• Hop-On Hop-Off Sightseeing Cruises : These flexible cruises allow you to hop on and off the boat at various points along the Seine River. It is an excellent way to explore Paris at your own pace. Prices start at $22.40 ( source ).
• Dinner Cruises : For a more intimate experience, dinner cruises offer a romantic setting while savoring French cuisine as you glide along the Seine River. Prices for these cruises start at €75 ( source ).

Remember, when planning your sightseeing cruise, to consider factors such as the time of day, the weather, and the type of experience you desire. While the Seine River offers a stunning backdrop for your adventure, it is essential to choose the right cruise to ensure an unforgettable experience.

Romantic dinner cruises offer an unforgettable experience for couples looking to celebrate a special occasion or simply enjoy a magical night together. You can experience Paris from its most famous waterway, the Seine River, and indulge in delicious French cuisine as you float past iconic landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral.

One popular dinner cruise operator is Bateaux Parisiens. Their cruises include tempting multicourse menus, live music, and stunning views of Paris at night . Alternatively, you can choose the Marina de Paris, which provides a refined atmosphere for a gourmet meal accompanied by city views.

Some key features of these dinner cruises include:

• Gourmet French cuisine
• Live music and entertainment
• Exquisite views of Parisian landmarks
• Elegant atmosphere

For couples seeking intimacy and exclusivity, a private river cruise is the perfect choice. These cruises offer a more personalized experience, whether you’re celebrating an anniversary or planning to pop the big question.

There are various operators offering private cruises along the Seine River , allowing you to choose the vessel, duration, and even catering options to suit your preferences. Customizable features may include:

• Choice of romantic route
• Champagne and canapés
• Candlelit dinner
• Personalized music selection

A private cruise in Paris provides an unparalleled romantic atmosphere, allowing you and your partner to experience the breathtaking beauty of the city while creating lasting memories together.

See Related: Paris Night Attractions: Top Spots for Memorable Evenings

Paris is a city rich in culture and history , with its stunning architecture and prestigious museums. A Seine river cruise provides a unique vantage point to view and appreciate these iconic landmarks.

Paris is home to some of the world’s most renowned museums and landmarks:

• The Louvre Museum : The world’s largest art museum , housing famous works such as the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
• Notre Dame : This iconic Gothic cathedral, with its stunning stained glass windows and dramatic architecture, is a must-see during a Seine river cruise.
• Les Invalides : A complex of buildings that includes a military museum and the burial site of Napoleon Bonaparte.
• Seine River Cruise : Visiting sights such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral while cruising along the Seine River is a fantastic way to experience Paris in all its glory.

The architecture of Paris is diverse and showcases various styles throughout the centuries. From Gothic cathedrals to contemporary structures, the city’s buildings are a reflection of its rich history and innovative spirit. A few examples include:

• Notre Dame Cathedral : Built in the Gothic architectural style, Notre Dame is famous for its flying buttresses, gargoyles, and intricate stained glass windows.
• Eiffel Tower : An emblem of Paris, this iconic iron lattice tower was constructed for the 1889 World’s Fair and remains a symbol of French ingenuity.
• Musée d’Orsay : Once a railway station, this beautifully restored Beaux-Arts building now houses a stunning collection of Impressionist and Post-Impressionist art.

Throughout the Seine River cruise, passengers will witness the beautiful marriage of old and new architectural styles, telling the story of a city that continues to evolve while remaining proudly rooted in its history.

Paris is a city known for its rich history , stunning architecture, and vibrant culture. One of the best ways to experience the city and its sights is through a Seine River cruise. There are several options to choose from, each offering a unique perspective on the City of Light.

Lunch cruises are perfect for those looking for a memorable dining experience while taking in the beauty of Paris . These cruises typically last for a couple of hours, providing ample time to enjoy a delicious meal and admire the surrounding scenery, including iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.

• Bateaux Parisiens : This cruise company offers a Seine River lunch cruise with a gourmet meal and live music. While enjoying your lunch, you can take in panoramic views of Paris from the boat’s large windows.
• Le Calife : Offering a unique elegance, Le Calife’s lunch cruises include a three-course meal, allowing you to savor traditional French cuisine as you glide through the heart of Paris.
• Paris En Scène : For a more affordable option, Paris En Scène’s lunch cruises feature tasty dishes and the same stunning views, all at a competitive price point.

If you’re interested in a more immersive experience, themed cruises are an excellent choice. These cruises cater to specific interests, adding an extra layer of excitement to your river journey.

• Paris Boat Tour & Louvre Museum Express Access : This package combines a Seine River cruise with express access to the Louvre Museum, allowing you to bypass the long lines. After exploring the museum’s masterpieces, relax and enjoy a 1-hour cruise that highlights the city’s architecture and history.
• Amphibious Bus City and River Seine Tour: This unique cruise allows you to explore Paris on land and water. Discover the city’s most famous landmarks aboard an amphibious bus that transforms into a riverboat for a cruise along the Seine.
• Paris Seine River Sightseeing Cruise with Commentary by Bateaux Parisiens : For those who want to delve deeper into the history and significance of the monuments along the Seine, this option offers expert commentary during the cruise, providing a more educational experience.

For those interested in hosting exclusive events, many cruise operators provide the option to book private cruises. These can be tailored to suit a variety of occasions, from weddings and birthdays to corporate events and celebrations. By choosing a private cruise, you can ensure a bespoke experience that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Related Resources:

• Paris Night Attractions: Top Spots for Memorable Evenings
• Best Skip-the-Line Tours in Paris
• Best Things to Do in Paris With Kids in 2023

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Bateaux Parisiens

Overview of bateaux parisiens.

Nothing beats exploring the City of Lights on a boat excursion down the French, the Seine river . Bateaux Parisiens is one of the leading excursion cruise companies in Paris that offers you an unforgettable experience of catching mesmerising views of top Parisian attractions while sailing across the Seine. Whether you go for a lunch or a dinner cruise, the Bateau Parisien will present you with panoramic views of monuments like the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Eiffel tower. While you enjoy these spectacular sights, the chefs on board will treat you to authentic French delicacies available in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

You may also celebrate the incredible river tour of Paris with a glass of champagne offered on the cruise. If you only have a few hours and want to take a fast river tour of the city, Bateaux Parisiens Paris also provides a sightseeing cruise. This trip offers riverside views of prominent monuments such as the Musee d'Orsay, Pantheon, Notre Dame, and the Conciergerie. Whatever option you choose, the Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise assures a fantastic trip through the French capital and, as such, should be at the top of your bucket list when visiting Paris.

Get Your Bateaux Parisiens Tickets

• Take in the stunning sights of Paris from a glass canopy boat floating down the Seine.
• View iconic Parisian landmarks such as the Hotel de Ville, Conciergerie, Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower, Pantheon, Musee d'Orsay, and Cite de la Mode.
• Listen to the audio commentary in 14 languages to learn fascinating insights about the French capital city and its prominent sites.
• Individual audio headsets will be provided on board to allow you to listen to the audio commentary in the language of your choice. Throughout your voyage, you can tune in and out at your leisure.

Also Explore: Eiffel Tower Dinner Tickets & Sightseeing Seine River Cruise

• Experience the beauty of Paris as it sparkles in the night sky in this 1-hour Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise.
• Admire the 360-degree panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower as it sparkles with lights during the evening hours.
• View other famous monuments of Paris like the stunning cathedral of Notre Dame, the Louvre, and Musee d'Orsay.
• Pick up fascinating information about each prominent Parisian landmark that you pass by listening to the audio commentary available on board in 14 languages.
• Use the individual audio headsets to listen to the commentary in your preferred language, tuning in and out as needed.

Checkout: Seine River Hop-On Hop-Off Cruise, Paris

• Sail across the river Seine and enjoy spectacular afternoon views of the city in a glass-canopy boat.
• Capture picturesque riverside views of some of the most iconic Parisian monuments like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Musee d'Orsay, and more.
• Relish a delicious authentic three-course French meal that includes a starter, main dish, and a delectable dessert available in both vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.
• Sip in a glass of Champagne and admire the beauty of Paris while floating down the beautiful Seine river in this 2-hour Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise.

Also checkout: Eiffel Tower Tour with Seine River Cruise

• Embark on a night tour of Paris and witness the splendour of the City of Lights while enjoying this 2.5-hour Bateaux Cruise.
• Enjoy spectacular views of the top monuments of Paris, including the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and Les Invalides, as they illuminate the night sky.
• Dig in a hearty three-course authentic French meal freshly prepared by the chefs on board the river cruise.
• Celebrate with your loved ones by toasting a glass of champagne and making memories that will last a lifetime.

Explore: Seine River Sightseeing Cruise, Paris

Highlights of Bateaux Parisiens

• Enjoy an incredible exploration of the French capital city, Paris, by cruising down the Seine and seeing the riverside of prominent structures.
• View the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Cathedral de Notre Dame, the Musée d'Orsay, the Parliament, the Pantheon, and Les Invalides from a fresh angle.
• Take your partner on a romantic lunch or dinner date and revel in the breathtaking splendour of Paris.
• Enjoy a magnificent authentic French lunch or dinner with several vegetarian and non-vegetarian alternatives as you float along the beautiful river on an open boat.
• Sip in a glass of champagne while admiring the magnificence of Parisian monuments cruising down the Seine.
• Learn intriguing facts about the French capital Paris and its various landmarks that’ll pass before your eyes from an audio commentary available in 14 different languages.
• Sit in a comfortable air-conditioned lounge or stand on the open-air deck of your Bateau-Parisien as it glides down the Seine.
• Go on a night tour of Paris and witness how beautifully the buildings and bridges of the city sparkle in the night sky.
• Embark on a quick tour of the most famous sites of the City of Lights without being pushed by large crowds present at these tourist attractions.

Explore: Eiffel Tower Dinner, Seine River Cruise and Moulin Rouge Show

Types of Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Cruise

Get onboard a 1-hour Bateaux Parisien Cruise to get panoramic views of some of the top highlights of Paris. As you cruise around, you may listen to the onboard audio commentary in 14 different languages and learn intriguing details about Paris and its landmarks. Some of the prominent Parisian sites that you will witness during the Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise include Musée d’Orsay, Musée du Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame. Explore: When to visit Seine River

Capture stunning views of Paris and its famous sites on this two-hour lunch cruise down the Seine. Discover riverfront views of renowned attractions such as the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame, as well as several other UNESCO World Heritage Sites. While admiring these magnificent sceneries, the chefs onboard will treat you to an authentic three-course French lunch and wine. Explore: About Seine River

Experience the City of Lights as it comes alive during the nighttime. While floating across the dazzling Seine, marvel at the majestic monuments of Paris illuminating the night sky. Besides getting a chance to view the sparkling Eiffel Tower, you can discover the night beauty of other famous monuments like Notre Dame and the Louvre. On board, this 2 hour 30 mins cruise, relish a delicious three-course dinner with your partner and celebrate love with a glass of wine. Explore: Seine River Bridges

Sights Covered in Bateaux Parisiens Tour

The majestic Eiffel Tower in Paris needs no introduction. With a height of 330 metres, the Eiffel Tower was formerly the tallest man-made structure on the planet. The brilliant iron meshwork and the imposing height of the tower are what make it such a popular tourist destination in the world. Today, it attracts over six million visitors every year and is the most recognized landmark of Paris. Luckily, on a Bateau Parisien, you can catch both morning and night views of this iconic structure.

Musee d'Orsay is one of the many spectacular art museums in France. It is in fact counted among the largest art museums in Europe. Every year, Musee d'Orsay attracts a large number of visitors and is renowned for holding the world's largest collection of Impressionist paintings. From Van Gogh to Renoir, you can view exquisite artworks ever produced in the world under a single roof. In addition to its art collection, Musee d'Orsay is also famous for its stunning architecture.

In the 18th century, the French architect Jacques-Germain Soufflot designed a Parisian Pantheon inspired by the Roman Pantheon. This magnificent monument was built to replace an ancient church dedicated to Saint Genevieve, the patron saint of France. Its architecture is identical to the Roman Pantheon, but its interior is decorated with paintings from French history. The Pantheon became a memorial for French heroes during the French Revolution, and many renowned French personalities, like Marie Curie, Voltaire, and Van Hugo, are buried here.

Suggested Read: Bars near Eiffel Tower Paris

The Notre Dame Cathedral is a magnificent site located on the Île-de-la-Cité. It is one of the most popular locations in Paris and was formerly the city's tallest building, standing at 70 metres. This cathedral features typical Gothic architecture, including stained-glass windows and lofty flying buttresses. The construction of Notre Dame began in the 12th century and lasted about 200 years, employing countless architects and stonecutters. Even though a large portion of the ancient cathedral was damaged in a devastating fire, you may still admire its stunning grandeur on a river cruise tour.

Must Read: Eiffel Tower Entrance 2

The Conciergerie is another Gothic architectural masterpiece on the Île-de-la-Cité, one of two small islands in the middle of the Seine. This UNESCO World Heritage site was constructed in the 6th century and served as the first royal residence of the French kings. Besides its enormous archways and splendid architecture, the Conciergerie is also famous for its history. During the French Revolution, this fortress served as a prison for numerous significant French figures, including the French queen Marie Antoinette, who was imprisoned and later guillotined.

Must Checkout: Versailles Hall of Mirrors

The Louvre Museum , housed in the former royal residence Louvre Palace, is the world’s largest and the most-visited museum. It holds nearly 35,000 artworks in its collection, spanning from Greek and Roman antiquities to Egyptian artefacts. It also houses the world's most renowned portrait painting, Leonardo Da Vinci's Mona Lisa, as well as many other masterpieces such as Venus de Milo and La Dentellière. Since this famous museum is located on the banks of the Seine, you can easily enjoy its breathtaking views while on a Bateaux Parisien cruise.

Suggested Read: Versailles Markets

The Grand Palais is one of Paris' most recognizable landmarks. It was built for the Exposition Universelle held in 1900 and is easily identified by its huge conservatory-style glass dome. Since 2000, this architectural wonder has been designated as a historical monument. The sprawling estate includes a number of art galleries, a scientific museum, a cultural centre, and a nave. Several large-scale national and international events, such as horse riding and art conventions, take place here every year.

Also Read: Inside Eiffel Tower Secret Apartment

This beautiful monument Les Invalides , is a shrine to the military heritage of France. Located on the banks of the Seine, this property was constructed in the 17th century as a care facility for military veterans and a place of worship. Among all the other stunning Parisian buildings, Les Invalides stands out due to its massive golden dome and highly ornamented Baroque style architecture. Within its premises, Les Invalides houses several tourist attractions, including the mausoleum of Napoleon Bonaparte, a church, and three well-known museums.

Also Read: Restaurants in Versailles Palace

Among the cream-colored classic Parisian buildings, you will be surprised to see the ultra-modern sight of Cite de la Mode. This building immediately catches attention due to its bright green colored exterior. Cite de la Mode is a fun area to go out at night. It has a number of quick food joints, cafes, pubs, and clubs where you can eat, groove, and have a good time. Moreover, its terrace offers the best views of the Seine and its surroundings.

Plan Your Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Cruise Experience

Sightseeing Cruise - It operates from Wednesday to Sunday.- The boat leaves the dock every hour between 12 PM to 9 PM. - Duration - one hour.

Lunch Cruise - The lunch Bateaux-Parisiens Paris cruise operates every day. - The boat departs sharply at 12.45 PM and returns to the dock at 2.45 PM. - Duration - 2 hours.

Dinner Cruise - The dinner-time Bateaux-Parisiens Paris cruise takes place every day. - The cruise boat departs from the port at 8.30 PM and returns to the Seine quay at 11 PM.- Duration - 2 hours and 30 minutes.

Also Checkout: Restaurants near Seine River

Port de la Bourdonnais: Port de la Bourdonnais is located at the foot of Eiffel Tower. - By Metro: Take either Metro Line 9 towards Trocadéro station or Metro Line 6 towards Bir-Hakeim station. - By Train: take RER C to Champs de Mars-Tour Eiffel Station.- By Bus: Take bus no. 82, 42, 87, and 69.

Quai de Montebello: Quai de Montebello is located near Notre Dame Cathedral. - By Metro: Take either Metro Line 10 and get off at Maubert - Mutualité metro station (4-minute walk away) or board Metro Line 4 to reach Saint Michel Notre-Dame Station (5-minute walk away). - By Train: Take RER B and C to Champs de Mars - Saint Michel Notre-Dame Station.- By Bus: Take bus no. 47, 87, N15, and N22 and alight at the Quai de Montebello bus stop.

Also Explore: Places to eat on Seine River

• The Bateaux Parisiens Paris is a famous tourist activity that sells out quickly. As a result, it is best to book your seats online ahead of time to save money.
• Carry a sweater, jacket, or stole with you when you board the cruise as the weather tends to get cold at night.
• Although audio headsets are available on board, bringing your own is recommended to avoid direct contact.
• Contactless payments are preferred. So, as far as possible, avoid using cash.

Explore: What to do near Seine River

Why take a Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Cruise?

Boarding a Bateaux Parisiens Paris is your ticket to enjoy the best of the city in a single package. From sightseeing some of the major attractions of Paris, you can also enjoy a delicious French meal, sip a glass of wine, and enjoy the ride down the Seine.

What is Bateaux Parisiens?

Bateaux Parisiens is among the leading companies of excursion boats in Paris that offer visitors sightseeing services while cruising the Seine river.

What are the opening hours of the Bateaux Parisiens panoramic cruises?

The Cruise service is available all year. Between April and September, the cruise trip leaves two times in an hour from 10 AM to 10.30 PM. In the period between October and March, it departs once every hour from 10 AM to 10 PM.

What do I see on a Seine River cruise by Bateaux Parisiens?

On a Bateau Parisien, you can enjoy spectacular views of some of the most iconic landmarks of Paris. These include Notre Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Les Invalides, Grand Palais, and the Conciergerie.

Where is the boarding of the Bateaux Parisiens sightseeing cruises?

You can board a Bateau Parisien Paris at two points. One is Port de la Bourdonnais that is located on the foot of the Eiffel Tower and the other is Quai de Montebello near Cathedral de Notre Dame.

Are there any stopovers during the Bateaux Parisiens cruise?

No, there are no stopovers during the river cruise trip. The Bateaux Parisiens offer a non-stop tour of Paris on the Seine.

Can we eat on board the Bateaux Parisiens boats?

Yes, you can have a snack during your Bateaux Parisiens River Cruise. You can even grab a snack before or after your excursion at one of the many fast food joints located at Port de la Bourdonnais. However, if you want to enjoy an authentic French dining experience, opt for a Bateaux Parisiens lunch or dinner cruise.

How long is the Bateaux Parisiens river cruise?

The duration of each Bateau Parisien river cruise varies. The sightseeing cruise lasts about an hour, while the lunch and dinner cruises last about 2 hours.

Top Things to Do in Paris

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• Visitor Information

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Passing Thru Travel

Navigating 15 Majestic Rivers – A 2024 Guide to River Cruises and Expeditions

Posted: February 21, 2024 | Last updated: February 21, 2024

Embark on a journey through the veins of our planet – its great rivers. This guide will take you through the most iconic river expeditions, offering a unique perspective on the landscapes, cultures, and histories of various regions. From the Danube’s serene waters to the Amazon’s wild rapids, each river tells a story waiting to be explored.

1. The Amazon River, South America

Your adventure on the Amazon River immerses you in the densest rainforest on Earth. Starting from Iquitos, Peru, this expedition brings you face-to-face with a vast ecosystem, home to an incredible variety of wildlife. Cruising down this river, expect to encounter pink river dolphins, sloths, and a multitude of bird species. Night expeditions add an extra thrill, revealing the nocturnal life of the Amazon. The sounds of the jungle, coupled with the knowledgeable guides, make this a nature lover’s paradise.

Insider’s Tip: Book a small boat tour for a more intimate wildlife experience.

When To Travel: May to June for lower water levels and better wildlife sightings.

How To Get There: Fly to Lima, Peru, and then take a domestic flight to Iquitos.

2. The Nile River, Egypt

Cruise the Nile and step into a world of ancient wonders. The journey typically begins in Luxor or Aswan, taking you through a landscape dotted with temples and historical sites. You’ll see the Luxor Temple illuminated at night, the imposing statues of Ramses II at Abu Simbel, and traditional feluccas sailing the river. This cruise isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s an immersion into the heart of ancient Egyptian civilization, with each stop narrating a chapter from its rich history.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during late fall to avoid the scorching summer heat.

When To Travel: October to April for cooler temperatures.

How To Get There: Fly to Cairo, then take a domestic flight to Luxor.

3. The Danube River, Europe

A Danube River cruise is a picturesque journey through the heart of Europe. The river passes through historic cities and beautiful landscapes, offering a mix of cultural and natural attractions. You’ll explore Vienna’s architectural splendor, Regensburg’s medieval charm, and Budapest’s vibrant culture. Each city along the Danube has its own unique appeal, from grand palaces and museums to quaint villages and local markets.

Insider’s Tip: Look for cruises that offer cultural tours in each city.

When To Travel: May to September for pleasant weather.

How To Get There: Fly to a major city like Budapest or Vienna to start your journey.

4. The Mississippi River, USA

The Mississippi River cruise offers a deep dive into the heart of American culture and history. The cruise heads north through the American heartland, starting from the vibrant New Orleans, famous for its jazz and Creole cuisine. You’ll pass historic river towns, witness the rolling landscapes of the Midwest, and learn about the river’s role in America’s development. Onboard, enjoy live jazz, lectures about the river’s history, and Southern hospitality.

Insider’s Tip: Spend a few extra days in New Orleans for its rich musical heritage.

When To Travel: Spring or fall for moderate weather.

How To Get There: Fly into New Orleans or Minneapolis, depending on your starting point.

5. The Yangtze River, China

Your journey on the Yangtze River will take you through the heart of China, offering a blend of modern wonders and ancient traditions. The highlight of the cruise is the breathtaking Three Gorges, where steep cliffs rise dramatically from the water. Beyond the natural beauty, you’ll experience the engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam and explore lesser-known sites like the Shibaozhai Pagoda. The cruise provides insights into China’s history and culture, with stops in bustling cities and tranquil villages.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a cruise that includes a visit to the Lesser Three Gorges.

When To Travel: April to October for the best river conditions.

How To Get There: Fly to major cities like Chongqing or Shanghai, depending on your itinerary.

6. The Rhine River, Europe

The Rhine River cruise is a journey through European history and culture. Starting from Amsterdam, the river takes you through the heart of Germany and into Switzerland, with stops at historic cities, medieval castles, and vineyard-covered hills. The Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly stunning, with its picturesque villages and the legendary Lorelei Rock. Each port along the Rhine offers its own unique attractions, from Gothic cathedrals to lively beer gardens.

Insider’s Tip: Take a vineyard tour in one of the quaint towns along the river.

When To Travel: April to October for pleasant cruising weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Amsterdam or Basel to start your journey.

7. The Mekong River, Southeast Asia

A cruise down the Mekong River is an exploration of Southeast Asia’s diverse cultures and landscapes. The journey often begins in Vietnam’s vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, winding through rural landscapes and floating markets before reaching the mystical temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Along the way, you’ll witness daily life on the river, visit local artisans, and taste regional specialties. The Mekong’s rich cultural tapestry is matched only by its scenic beauty, with lush greenery and traditional villages lining its banks.

Insider’s Tip: Extend your trip to explore the Angkor Wat temple complex.

When To Travel: November to February for cooler, drier weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City or Siem Reap to begin your cruise.

8. The Volga River, Russia

The Volga River cruise is a window into Russia’s soul, connecting the cosmopolitan cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg with the quieter, historic towns along the river. Moscow’s Red Square and the Kremlin, the opulent palaces of St. Petersburg, and the ancient towns of Russia’s Golden Ring provide a rich tapestry of Russian history and culture. With its serene landscapes and diverse wildlife, the river offers a peaceful backdrop to the bustling cities.

Insider’s Tip: Try traditional Russian dishes like borscht and pelmeni on board.

When To Travel: May to September for warmer weather.

How To Get There: Start your journey in either Moscow or St. Petersburg.

9. The Douro River, Portugal

Cruising the Douro River takes you through Portugal’s famous wine country, renowned for its Port wine production. Starting from the coastal city of Porto, the cruise travels through the Douro Valley, with its terraced vineyards and quaint villages. You’ll have opportunities to visit local wineries, taste regional cuisine, and explore historic towns like Peso da Régua and Pinhão. The Douro’s scenic beauty is a constant companion, with its rolling hills and serene waters.

Insider’s Tip: Take a port wine-tasting tour in one of the vineyards.

When To Travel: March to October for the best weather and wine harvest season.

How To Get There: Fly to Porto to start your river cruise.

10. The Ganges River, India

A cruise on the Ganges takes you through the spiritual heart of India. Starting from the historic city of Kolkata, the journey heads towards the holy city of Varanasi, passing through rural Bengal with its traditional villages and temples. The Ganges is not just a river; it’s a lifeline for millions and a sacred entity in Hinduism. Witnessing the river’s rituals, from the daily baths to the grand aarti ceremonies, is a profoundly moving experience.

Insider’s Tip: Witness the evening aarti ceremony in Varanasi for a spiritual experience.

When To Travel: October to March for cooler temperatures.

How To Get There: Fly to New Delhi and take a domestic flight or train to Varanasi.

11. The Amazon River, Brazil

The Brazilian Amazon offers a unique river experience, navigating through the world’s largest rainforest and its intricate network of tributaries. Starting from Manaus, you’ll venture deep into the jungle, exploring its diverse flora and fauna. The expedition includes visits to remote indigenous communities, offering a glimpse into their way of life. The Amazon’s wildlife is a major draw, with chances to see monkeys, birds, and perhaps even the elusive jaguar.

Insider’s Tip: Pack insect-repellent and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing for jungle excursions.

When To Travel: July to December for the dry season and better wildlife viewing.

How To Get There: Fly to Manaus, the main gateway for Brazilian Amazon cruises.

12. The Seine River, France

Cruising the Seine River combines the romance of Paris with the charm of France’s countryside. The journey typically starts or ends in the French capital, allowing time to explore its iconic landmarks. As you sail away from Paris, the Seine takes you through picturesque landscapes and historic towns like Rouen and Honfleur. The river’s pace is leisurely, offering ample time to soak in the scenery and enjoy the French way of life.

Insider’s Tip: Enjoy a Parisian evening meal on the riverbank for a memorable experience.

When To Travel: April to October for pleasant cruising conditions.

How To Get There: Start your journey in Paris, easily accessible by international flights.

13. The Zambezi River, Africa

Embark on a journey down the Zambezi River in Africa for a truly unique cruising experience. As you navigate these waters, you’ll be awed by the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the planet’s largest and most stunning waterfalls. This adventure isn’t just about the breathtaking scenery; it’s also an opportunity to witness the rich African wildlife that inhabits the riverbanks. Hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species are just some of the fauna you might encounter. For an insider tip, consider taking a sunset cruise to witness the falls bathed in golden hues.

Insider’s Tip: Take a sunset cruise for stunning views of Victoria Falls.

When To Travel: May to October for the dry season and optimal wildlife viewing.

How To Get There: Fly to Livingstone, Zambia, or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

14. The Chobe River, Botswana/Namibia

The Chobe River, straddling the borders of Botswana and Namibia, offers a unique cruising experience that doubles as an extraordinary safari adventure. This river delineates the northern edge of the famous Chobe National Park, a sanctuary renowned for its massive elephant populations and diverse wildlife. As you cruise along the river, you can expect to see large herds of elephants bathing, along with a variety of other animals quenching their thirst along the banks. A river safari is highly recommended for those seeking an even closer encounter with nature.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a river safari for close-up wildlife encounters.

When To Travel: May to October for the dry season, ideal for wildlife spotting.

How To Get There: Fly to Kasane, Botswana, to start your river safari.

15. The Irrawaddy River, Myanmar

A cruise along the Irrawaddy River explores Myanmar’s rich historical tapestry and vibrant cultural heritage. This journey is more than just a scenic ride; it’s a passage through time, where you’ll witness the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations. As the river winds through Myanmar, you’ll encounter spectacular sights such as the ancient pagodas, traditional villages, and the historic city of Bagan, a site renowned for its thousands of temples and stupas. These architectural marvels offer a glimpse into a past era of opulent kingdoms and spiritual devotion. For an authentic experience, visit a local village to immerse yourself in the daily life and customs of the Burmese people.

Insider’s Tip: Visit a local village for an authentic glimpse into Burmese life.

How To Get There: Fly to Yangon or Mandalay, where many cruises begin.

The Bottom Line

River cruises offer a unique way to explore the world, combining the comfort of travel with the excitement of discovery. Each river has its own character, culture, and history, making every journey distinct. As you chart your course down these majestic waterways, you’re not just a traveler but an explorer uncovering the stories that flow through the heart of our world. So, pack your bags, set sail, and let the river’s current guide you to new adventures.

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The post Navigating 15 Majestic Rivers – A 2024 Guide to River Cruises and Expeditions was republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Calin Stan.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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100 days until Paris Olympics 2024: What are the challenges facing France?

• Tuesday 16 April 2024 at 7:18pm

Terrorism threats, pollution warnings, and strike action are just some of the issues facing the organisers of the 2024 Olympic Games, which is set to begin in Paris in 100 days time.

The summer Games will start on July 26 and will see the first Olympic opening ceremony to be held outside of a stadium setting.

Around 10,500 athletes are set to parade on boats along a 3.7-mile route through the heart of the French capital, but in the run up to the big event, not everything is proving to be smooth sailing for the organisers.

Opening Ceremony 'could be delayed' over terrorism threat

French President Emmanuel Macron has said authorities will have an alternative plan in case of a terrorism threat at the Opening Ceremony.

“If we think there are security risks, we’ll have plan B, and even plan C,” Macron said in an interview French broadcaster BFMTV during a visit to The Grand Palais, one of the Olympic sites.

Macron also mentioned the option of "restricting the ceremony to the Paris Trocadero square facing the Eiffel Tower" or moving it to the Stade de France stadium in such an event.

Organisers originally planned for approximately 600,000 people to attend, with most watching free of charge from the banks of the river.

But earlier this year the overall number of spectators was reduced to around 300,000 by the government due to security and logistical concerns.

The president added that authorities will put a security perimeter around the ceremony site days, if not weeks, before the start.

"We will screen all the people who enter and leave (the security perimeter),” Macron said.

"We are going to restrict traffic a lot. Sorry to all the local residents because it will be a lot of constraints for individuals and businesses. Eight days before, we will be completely closed. "

Last month, at least 137 people were killed and over 100 wounded in a mass shooting at a concert hall in Russia's capital , Moscow, which saw several gunmen storm and set fire to the venue.

The attack sparked concerns over copycat attacks in other countries, and led to France’s government increasing its security alert warning to the highest level.

Just last week, Paris police boosted security measures for the Champions League quarterfinal between Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona.

The heightened security presence followed a threat from the so-called Islamic State terror group against the Parc des Princes and other European football stadiums hosting Champions League matches.

Foreign countries to provide armed officers

With its own resources stretched thin, France has asked 46 countries to help provide about 2,200 extra officers, many of whom will be armed.

French police officers will also receive bonuses of up to 1,900 euros (£1,625) for working during the Olympics, after unions protested over working conditions during the Games.

The French Defense Ministry has also asked foreign nations for a small number of military personnel, including sniffer dogs.

Around 30,000 police officers are expected to be deployed each day, with 45,000 working the opening ceremony.

Tony Estanguet, the head of the Paris Games’ organising committee, said: "France has never deployed so many means for security. I have faith that the security services in our country will make the Games safe."

So far, 120 heads of state have confirmed they will attend the Opening Ceremony. Cameras will be increased around the city, but facial recognition will not be used after privacy concerns were raised.

Concerns over pollution in the River Seine

Organisers have said they hope for a socially positive, less polluting and less wasteful Olympics for 2024, but critics have been quick to point out the flaws.

Last year it was announced that the River Seine would open for public swimmers in 2025, after staging triathlon events at the Games this summer. But since then, doubts have been cast after concerns were raised over the level of pollution in the water.

To tackle the issue, the City of Paris has embarked on a €1.4 billion (around £1.2b) cleanup project.

However, these efforts don’t appear to have been as successful as hoped, according to analysis from a non-profit organisation, Surfrider.

Surfrider says that of the 14 samples taken by the NGO’s team over the past six months - on both dry and rainy days - only one was of "satisfactory" quality.

Responding to the study, the City of Paris told Euronews that the samples were taken during rainier months when pollution is more likely.

Officials said they are “surprised” by the timing of the report, adding in a statement: “The Seine is not intended to accommodate swimmers from mid-September to June," adding that for “safety reasons” it will only be swimmable in the summer.

So surfers won't actually be in Paris but instead will compete nearly 10,000 miles away from the capital in Teahupo’o, a coastal village in Tahiti, and they will sleep on a cruise ship docked at the French Polynesian island.

Transport issues

Some of the 2.1 million people living within the city limits plan to flee Paris for two-plus weeks while motorists are angered by a proposal that would require them to apply online for a QR code to access traffic-restricted zones.

Staff on Paris' public transport system have been given thousands of artificial intelligence-supported translation devices to help the influx of hundreds of thousands of tourists navigate the city.

Tourists opting for a Paris 2024 pass will pay 16 euros (roughly £13.60) per day or 70 euros (nearly £60) weekly - a far cry from the free public transport once envisaged.

And an express train running from Paris’ main international airport, Charles de Gaulle, to the centre of the city in 20 minutes has been shelved until 2027.

But a newly extended Metro service on Line 14 is expected to be ready in June, carrying people from Paris’ second airport, Orly, to an Olympic hub. There's also the threat of train strikes to take into account.

Striking workers risk disruption

The CGT public servants union has announced plans to strike during the Olympics, which could mean many transport workers walking out.

Transport operators are gearing up to carry between 600,000 to 800,000 Olympic visitors per day.

CGT union, which represents the largest number of state employees – including hospital staff and transport workers – has issued a strike notice saying there could be a five-month window of strike action between April 15 and September 15, which could cover around 5.7 million public workers.

This would impact both the Olympic and Paralympic Games, though no specific industrial action has been declared.

Over the last few months, France has been hit with various protests and strike action, including one by angry farmers who took to the streets of Paris on their tractors to demand more support from the government.

Expensive accommodation

The Olympic Village will house more than 14,000 athletes and officials, with apartments holding a maximum of eight people.

Fans and tourists, however, have been subjected to an increase in hotel and Airbnb prices.

The Paris region has France’s biggest concentration of hotel accommodation, with 160,000 rooms. Adding rental accommodations, campsites and other options, the region has around 260,000 rooms ready for the Olympics.

Although some hotels had tripled in price, competition from Airbnbs has forced them to backpedal.

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See the world aboard a small ship: wilderness travel’s cruise collection.

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Humpback Whale breaches on overcast summer day in Alaska.

For big adventures this year, consider expedition cruising to discover engaging and enlivening destinations across the globe. Wilderness Travel has a curated line-up for 2024—2025, which includes tours to the world’s last frontier—Antarctica; journeys to the far north in the Arctic; exclusive once-a-year odyssey cruises to multiple locales around the planet like the coast of West Africa, northern Europe, and Asia; and dynamic river cruises on the planet’s most well-loved rivers—the Danube, Mekong, Amazon, Magdalena, and Rhine. Keep reading to plan out your next voyage.

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Bucket List Trips: Arctic Cruises

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If you’ve been itching to see polar bears, walruses, or whales in the wild, now is your chance. Not only will you see incredible wildlife on an Arctic cruise, but also, you’ll have the chance to learn about indigenous peoples and their diverse cultures as they’ve been stewards of the land for over thousands of years. Explore the Svalbard Archipelago, follow the path of the Vikings, travel from Ireland to Iceland, see the aurora borealis, or watch whales aboard a 36-passenger vessel in Alaska’s Aleutian Islands. The options are seemingly endless.

Bucket List Trips: Unique Expedition Cruises

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Hop on board a luxurious expedition vessel, complete with guest speakers and expert lecturers, and visit a destination that has always been on top of your wish-list. For the Through the Heart of Japan tour, for example, you’ll spend 11 days around Japan and 4 days around South Korea for a deep dive into the beautiful landscapes, cities, and cultures of the area. Other engaging tours include Circumnavigation of Japan: National Parks, Art, & Culture; Circumnavigation of Sumatra ; Undiscovered Philippines and Indonesia; Explore the Wonders of Papua New Guinea, the Solomon Islands, and Vanuatu ; and West Africa Odyssey. If you can dream it, it’s likely on this roster of itineraries.

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Best 5% interest savings accounts of 2024, bucket list trips: yacht cruises.

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Bucket List Trips: River Cruising

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Perfect for multi-generational travelers, Wilderness Travel’s river cruising collection is super exciting this year, especially in Europe. Experiencing the continent via inland waterways provides a special way to experience your most-loved countries in a newfangled way. See Amsterdam, Ghent, Antwerp and Brussels on the Dutch and Belgian Waterways. Make your way through 10 countries on the Danube. Witness the Rhine, which flows through Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. Sip wine and nosh on cheeses in Paris as you make your way down the Seine. See vineyards thrive along the Douro River Valley and experience the aromas and flavors of Portugal and Spain .

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Paris Games’ grandiose opening ceremony being squeezed by security, transport issues

The Olympic rings are set up on Trocadero plaza in Paris, on Sept. 14, 2017, a day after the official announcement that the 2024 Summer Olympic Games will be in the French capital. (Michel Euler/AP)

PARIS — The talk before the opening ceremony of the Paris Games ideally should be about its grandiose backdrop: a summer sun setting on the Seine River as athletes drift by in boats and wave to cheering crowds.

But behind the romantic veneer that Paris has long curated, mounting security concerns already have had an impact on the unprecedented open-air event. In January, the number of spectators allowed to attend the ceremony was slashed from around 600,000 to around 320,000.

Tourists were told they won’t be allowed to watch it for free from riverbanks because the French government scaled back ambitions amid ongoing security threats. Then, on March 24, France raised its security readiness to the highest level after a deadly attack at a Russian concert hall and the Islamic State’s claim of responsibility.

French President Emmanuel Macron says the ceremony could be shifted instead to the national stadium at Stade de France if the security threat is deemed too high.

Security and transportation are the biggest concerns heading into the Paris Games, which run from July 26-Aug. 11.

Here is an overview of preparations:

The Olympic Village and the bio-based Aquatics Centre are in proximity to Stade de France. The 5,000-seat aquatics venue made predominantly of wood connects to the national stadium via a footbridge.

While the village and the aquatics center in the poor, run-down area both leave a legacy for the future, the Games are steeped in history across the 35 venues.

Equestrian riders will gallop on the grounds of the royal Palace of Versailles, where Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette once held lavish banquets.

B-boys and B-girls cutting improbable shapes, BMX freestylers launching into gravity-defying moves, skaters flipping boards and 3-on-3 basketball players facing off will provide a youthful vibe at an urban park at Place de la Concorde, a prominent location in France’s gory past.

It is where Louis XVI died by guillotine in 1793 and where French revolutionary Maximilien Robespierre met the same fate a year later. It’s also been home to the Luxor Obelisk for nearly 200 years.

The Grand Palais, built for the Paris Universal Exhibition in 1900, hosts fencing and taekwondo, while the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium in the northwest suburb of Colombes is another link to the past: It was the main venue for the 1924 Paris Games. This time it holds field hockey matches.

The Parc des Princes soccer stadium, home to Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappé, is one of seven stadiums around the country hosting matches. France fans hope Mbappé will play for Les Bleus.

Beach volleyball takes place near the foot of the Eiffel Tower, while tennis, naturally, is at Roland Garros, home of the French Open. Roland Garros, where Rafael Nadal has made history with his record 14 Grand Slam titles at one tournament, also packs a punch as the venue for boxing.

Surfers won’t be in Paris, however, but rather nearly 10,000 miles away in Teahupo’o, a coastal village in Tahiti, and they will sleep on a cruise ship docked at the French Polynesian island.

Breezy Marseille hosts the sailing events.

TICKET SALES

Around 9 million of the 10 million available tickets have been sold, organizers said, with 63% of buyers from France. The top 10-selling sports in order: soccer, track and field, basketball, rugby sevens, volleyball, handball, beach volleyball, field hockey, tennis and water polo.

The Paris Games’ organizing committee will put an additional 250,000 tickets up for sale on April 17 to mark the 100 days to go.

Tickets are on sale via the official platform, with a sliding barometer allowing buyers to choose a price ranging from 24 euros ($26) to 2,700 euros ($2,900) — the highest price for watching the opening ceremony, the first to be held outside of a usual stadium setting.

Remaining hospitality packages for soccer matches and the women’s basketball quarterfinals begin at 250 euros ($269), and they start at 375 euros ($404) for the men’s basketball game between the United States and South Sudan in Lille — one hour from Paris by train — on July 31.

Regular tickets for the U.S. women’s gold medal-game rematch against Japan on July 29 range from 50 euros ($54) to 200 euros ($216).

Want to watch the BMX freestyle finals? Regular tickets are sold out.

But fans can still get tickets for the men’s 200 meters and women’s 400 meter hurdles finals on Aug. 8 at Stade de France with tickets that day priced at 295 euros, 525 euros and 980 euros.

Around 30,000 police officers are expected to be deployed each day, with 45,000 working the opening ceremony.

Police officers patrol the Trocadero plaza near the Eiffel Tower in Paris, on Oct. 17, 2023. France says it has asked 46 countries if they can supply more than 2,000 police officers to help secure the Paris Olympics. (Michel Euler/AP)

With its own resources stretched thin, France has asked 46 countries to help provide about 2,200 extra officers, many of whom will be armed. The French Defense Ministry also has asked foreign nations for a small number of military personnel, including sniffer dogs.

Tony Estanguet, the head of the Paris Games’ organizing committee, said there will be unprecedented security measures.

“France has never deployed so many means for security,” he said. “I have faith that the security services in our country will make the Games safe.”

Cameras will be increased around the city, but facial recognition will not be used.

So far, 120 chiefs of state have confirmed they will attend the opening ceremony. Holding it outside a stadium means greater exposure for athletes paraded on 84 boats on the Seine along a 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) route toward the Eiffel Tower, with 20,000 people living in apartments having views of the ceremony. Behind multiple security cordons, paying spectators will watch from the lower embankments while upper embankments are free for those with invitations.

An area around the Seine is expected to be closed to traffic a week before the parade and airspace will be closed on the night of the ceremony, France’s Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin said.

Swedish swimmer Victor Johansson will not attend the ceremony because it’s the day before the 400-meter freestyle, but is confident it is safe.

“I don’t have any worries at all,” Johansson said. “I think they’ve taken all the precautionary actions to make it safe and fun for everyone involved.”

TRANSPORTATION

Driving in congested Paris can be hellish at the best of times, let alone during a major international event.

Some of the 2.1 million people living within the city limits plan to flee Paris for two-plus weeks while motorists are angered by a proposal that would require them to apply online for a QR code to access traffic-restricted zones.

There’s also the threat of train strikes to take into account.

The CGT public servants union has announced plans to strike during the Olympics, which could mean many transport workers walking out.

Transport operators are gearing up to carry between 600,000 to 800,000 Olympic visitors per day. An ad campaign on billboards called “Anticipate the Games” directs people to a website instructing them how to lessen the impact.

National rail giant SNCF has blocked sales of tickets for July 26 to and from three major stations all very near the Seine: Gare de Lyon — France’s biggest station for main line trains — Paris-Bercy and Austerlitz. Some other smaller stations will also close.

Subway tickets will rise from €2.10 ($2.30) to €4 ($4.30) for a single ticket and a book of 10 tickets from €16.90 ($18.30) to €32 ($34.60).

Tourists opting for a Paris 2024 pass pay 16 euros ($17) per day or 70 euros ($76) weekly, a far cry from the free public transport once envisaged. And an express train running from Paris’ main international airport, Charles de Gaulle, to the center of the city in 20 minutes has been shelved until 2027.

But a newly extended Metro service on Line 14 is expected to be ready in June, carrying people from Paris’ second airport, Orly, to an Olympic hub that includes the village, national stadium and aquatics center.

ACCOMMODATIONS

The Olympic Village will house more than 14,000 athletes and officials, with apartments holding a maximum of eight people.

Fans and tourists, however, have been subjected to an increase in hotel and Airbnb prices.

The Paris region has France’s greatest concentration of hotel accommodation, with 160,000 rooms. Adding rental accommodations, campsites and other options, the region has around 260,000 rooms for the Olympics.

Although some hotels tripled prices, competition from Airbnbs forced them to backpedal. Average prices for a one-night stay dropped from about 760 euros ($825) to 520 euros ($565) — still far higher than the average price last July of 200 euros ($220)

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The Paris Games’ grandiose opening ceremony is being squeezed by security and transport issues

FILE - Police officers patrol the Trocadero plaza near the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Tuesday, Oct. 17, 2023. France says it has asked 46 countries if they can supply more than 2,000 police officers to help secure the Paris Olympics. Organizers are finalizing security planning for the July 26-Aug. 11 Games, the French capital’s first in a century. (AP Photo/Michel Euler, File)

FILE - The Olympic rings are set up on Trocadero plaza that overlooks the Eiffel Tower, a day after the official announcement that the 2024 Summer Olympic Games will be in the French capital, in Paris, Thursday, Sept. 14, 2017. The organizers of the Paris Games say the Olympic rings will be displayed on the Eiffel Tower. The five-ring creation is 29-meters long and 15-meter high, made entirely of recycled steel, the Games organizers said in a statement Monday April, 8, 2024. (AP Photo//Michel Euler, File)

French President Emmanuel Macron and Tony Estanguet, president of the Paris 2024 Olympics Organising Committee, attend the inauguration of the Olympic Aquatics Center (CAO) in Saint-Denis, near Paris, Thursday, April 4, 2024. The aquatic center will host the artistic swimming, water polo and diving events during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. (Gonzalo Fuentes/Pool via AP)

A detail of Apollo’s Chariot fountain after it was given water again after renovation, Friday, March 29, 2024 in the park of the Chateau de Versailles, west of Paris. The Palace of Versailles is reinstalling Apollo’s Chariot, a masterpiece from the 17th century after a major restoration undertaken ahead of the Paris Olympics, during which the site will be the venue for equestrian sports. (AP Photo/Thomas Padilla)

Construction of the stands are under way for the upcoming summer Olympic Games, Friday, March 22, 2024 on the Place de la Concorde in Paris. The Paris 2024 Olympic Games will run from July 26 to Aug.11, 2024. (AP Photo/Michel Euler)

French President Emmanuel Macron, surrounded by Tony Estanguet, president of the Paris 2024 Olympics Organising Committee, left, Ile-de-France’s Regional Council President Valerie Pecresse, third left, and Grand Paris’ Metropole President Patrick Ollier visit the Olympic Aquatics Center (CAO), a multifunctional venue for the 2024 Paris Olympic in Saint-Denis, near Paris, Thursday, April 4, 2024. The aquatic center will host the artistic swimming, water polo and diving events during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. (Gonzalo Fuentes/Pool via AP)

The Olympic rings are pictured at the Roucas Blanc Marina constructed for the upcoming summer Olympic Games in Marseille, southern France, Tuesday, April 2, 2024. Marseille will host the Olympic sailing events during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games that run from July 26 to Aug.11, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

A couple jogs past the stands to watch the equestrian sports, Friday, March 29, 2024 in the park of the Chateau de Versailles, west of Paris. The site will be the venue for equestrian sports at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The Chateau de Versailles is seen in background. (AP Photo/Thomas Padilla)

School children sail during a demonstration at the Roucas Blanc Marina constructed for the upcoming summer Olympic Games in Marseille, southern France, Tuesday, April 2, 2024. Marseille will host the Olympic sailing events during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games that run from July 26 to Aug.11, 2024. (AP Photo/Daniel Cole)

Workers build the stands for the upcoming summer Olympic Games on the Champ-de-Mars just beside the Eiffel Tower, in Paris, Monday, April 1, 2024 in Paris. The Paris 2024 Olympic Games will run from July 26 to Aug.11, 2024. (AP Photo/Thomas Padilla)

The Trocadero gardens are seen Thursday, March 28, 2024 in Paris. The Trocadero will host road cycling and some athletic competitions at the Paris 2024 Olympic but will also the place for athletes to celebrate the Games. (AP Photo/Aurelien Morissard)

Youths play field hockey, at the renovated Yves-du-Manoir stadium in Colombes, outside Paris, Thursday, March 21, 2024. The stadium will host the men’s and women’s field hockey competitions during the Pairs 2024 Olympic Games (AP Photo/Thibault Camus)

French President Emmanuel Macron, center, and officials attend the inauguration of the Olympic Aquatics Center (CAO) in Saint-Denis, near Paris, Thursday, April 4, 2024. The aquatic center will host the artistic swimming, water polo and diving events during the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. (Gonzalo Fuentes/Pool via AP)

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PARIS (AP) — The talk before the opening ceremony of the Paris Games ideally should be about its grandiose backdrop: a summer sun setting on the Seine River as athletes drift by in boats and wave to cheering crowds.

But behind the romantic veneer that Paris has long curated, mounting security concerns already have had an impact on the unprecedented open-air event. In January, the number of spectators allowed to attend the ceremony was slashed from around 600,000 to around 320,000.

Tourists were told they won’t be allowed to watch it for free from riverbanks because the French government scaled back ambitions amid ongoing security threats. Then, on March 24, France raised its security readiness to the highest level after a deadly attack at a Russian concert hall and the Islamic State’s claim of responsibility.

French President Emmanuel Macron says the ceremony could be shifted instead to the national stadium at Stade de France if the security threat is deemed too high.

Security and transportation are the biggest concerns heading into the Paris Games, which run from July 26-Aug. 11.

Here is an overview of preparations:

The Olympic Village and the bio-based Aquatics Centre are in proximity to Stade de France. The 5,000-seat aquatics venue made predominantly of wood connects to the national stadium via a footbridge.

While the village and the aquatics center in the poor, run-down area both leave a legacy for the future, the Games are steeped in history across the 35 venues.

Equestrian riders will gallop on the grounds of the royal Palace of Versailles, where Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette once held lavish banquets.

B-boys and B-girls cutting improbable shapes, BMX freestylers launching into gravity-defying moves, skaters flipping boards and 3-on-3 basketball players facing off will provide a youthful vibe at an urban park at Place de la Concorde, a prominent location in France’s gory past.

It is where Louis XVI died by guillotine in 1793 and where French revolutionary Maximilien Robespierre met the same fate a year later. It’s also been home to the Luxor Obelisk for nearly 200 years.

The Grand Palais, built for the Paris Universal Exhibition in 1900, hosts fencing and taekwondo, while the Yves-du-Manoir Stadium in the northwest suburb of Colombes is another link to the past: It was the main venue for the 1924 Paris Games. This time it holds field hockey matches.

The Parc des Princes soccer stadium, home to Paris Saint-Germain star Kylian Mbappé, is one of seven stadiums around the country hosting matches. France fans hope Mbappé will play for Les Bleus.

Beach volleyball takes place near the foot of the Eiffel Tower, while tennis, naturally, is at Roland Garros, home of the French Open. Roland Garros , where Rafael Nadal has made history with his record 14 Grand Slam titles at one tournament, also packs a punch as the venue for boxing.

Surfers won’t be in Paris, however, but rather nearly 10,000 miles away in Teahupo’o, a coastal village in Tahiti , and they will sleep on a cruise ship docked at the French Polynesian island.

Breezy Marseille hosts the sailing events.

TICKET SALES

Around 9 million of the 10 million available tickets have been sold, organizers said, with 63% of buyers from France. The top 10-selling sports in order: soccer, track and field, basketball, rugby sevens, volleyball, handball, beach volleyball, field hockey, tennis and water polo.

The Paris Games’ organizing committee will put an additional 250,000 tickets up for sale on April 17 to mark the 100 days to go.

Tickets are on sale via the official platform , with a sliding barometer allowing buyers to choose a price ranging from 24 euros ($26) to 2,700 euros ($2,900) — the highest price for watching the opening ceremony, the first to be held outside of a usual stadium setting.

Remaining hospitality packages for soccer matches and the women’s basketball quarterfinals begin at 250 euros ($269), and they start at 375 euros ($404) for the men’s basketball game between the United States and South Sudan in Lille — one hour from Paris by train — on July 31.

Regular tickets for the U.S. women’s gold medal-game rematch against Japan on July 29 range from 50 euros ($54) to 200 euros ($216).

Want to watch the BMX freestyle finals? Regular tickets are sold out .

But fans can still get tickets for the men’s 200 meters and women’s 400 meter hurdles finals on Aug. 8 at Stade de France with tickets that day priced at 295 euros, 525 euros and 980 euros.

Around 30,000 police officers are expected to be deployed each day, with 45,000 working the opening ceremony.

With its own resources stretched thin, France has asked 46 countries to help provide about 2,200 extra officers, many of whom will be armed. The French Defense Ministry also has asked foreign nations for a small number of military personnel, including sniffer dogs.

Tony Estanguet, the head of the Paris Games’ organizing committee, said there will be unprecedented security measures.

“France has never deployed so many means for security,” he said. “I have faith that the security services in our country will make the Games safe.”

Cameras will be increased around the city, but facial recognition will not be used.

So far, 120 chiefs of state have confirmed they will attend the opening ceremony. Holding it outside a stadium means greater exposure for athletes paraded on 84 boats on the Seine along a 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) route toward the Eiffel Tower, with 20,000 people living in apartments having views of the ceremony. Behind multiple security cordons, paying spectators will watch from the lower embankments while upper embankments are free for those with invitations.

An area around the Seine is expected to be closed to traffic a week before the parade and airspace will be closed on the night of the ceremony, France’s Interior Minister Gérald Darmanin said.

Swedish swimmer Victor Johansson will not attend the ceremony because it’s the day before the 400-meter freestyle, but is confident it is safe.

“I don’t have any worries at all,” Johansson said. “I think they’ve taken all the precautionary actions to make it safe and fun for everyone involved.”

TRANSPORTATION

Driving in congested Paris can be hellish at the best of times, let alone during a major international event.

Some of the 2.1 million people living within the city limits plan to flee Paris for two-plus weeks while motorists are angered by a proposal that would require them to apply online for a QR code to access traffic-restricted zones.

There’s also the threat of train strikes to take into account.

The CGT public servants union has announced plans to strike during the Olympics, which could mean many transport workers walking out.

Transport operators are gearing up to carry between 600,000 to 800,000 Olympic visitors per day. An ad campaign on billboards called “Anticipate the Games” directs people to a website instructing them how to lessen the impact.

National rail giant SNCF has blocked sales of tickets for July 26 to and from three major stations all very near the Seine: Gare de Lyon — France’s biggest station for main line trains — Paris-Bercy and Austerlitz. Some other smaller stations will also close.

Subway tickets will rise from €2.10 ($2.30) to €4 ($4.30) for a single ticket and a book of 10 tickets from €16.90 ($18.30) to €32 ($34.60).

Tourists opting for a Paris 2024 pass pay 16 euros ($17) per day or 70 euros ($76) weekly, a far cry from the free public transport once envisaged. And an express train running from Paris’ main international airport, Charles de Gaulle, to the center of the city in 20 minutes has been shelved until 2027.

But a newly extended Metro service on Line 14 is expected to be ready in June, carrying people from Paris’ second airport, Orly, to an Olympic hub that includes the village, national stadium and aquatics center.

ACCOMMODATIONS

The Olympic Village will house more than 14,000 athletes and officials, with apartments holding a maximum of eight people.

Fans and tourists, however, have been subjected to an increase in hotel and Airbnb prices.

The Paris region has France’s greatest concentration of hotel accommodation, with 160,000 rooms. Adding rental accommodations, campsites and other options, the region has around 260,000 rooms for the Olympics.

Although some hotels tripled prices, competition from Airbnbs forced them to backpedal. Average prices for a one-night stay dropped from about 760 euros ($825) to 520 euros ($565) — still far higher than the average price last July of 200 euros ($220).

AP Olympics: https://apnews.com/hub/2024-paris-olympic-games