You can tour Paris in many ways, but the most stylish and unique way is to board a Seine River cruise.
A Seine Dinner Cruise is the epitome of Parisian romance and enchantment.
You can enjoy sipping wine on a luxurious boat, the city lights sparkling like scattered diamonds on the water.
It is the perfect way to surprise your partner and take them on an unforgettable cruise in the City of Love.
What is the Paris Seine River Dinner Cruise?
Forget the ordinary dinner date! A Seine River Dinner Cruise in Paris is a magical experience combining a sightseeing cruise down the river with a delicious multi-course meal on board a luxurious boat.
These romantic boat rides in Paris operate after or from sunset, providing a scenic view of illuminated attractions like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame.
These cruises are top-rated for special occasions like anniversaries, birthdays, and proposals due to their romantic setting.
The meal typically includes French classics prepared by skilled chefs, such as foie gras, steak frites, and chocolate mousse.
The luxurious boats provide a comfortable and elegant setting for both the meal and the sightseeing experience.
Top 3 Seine River Dinner Cruises
1. Gourmet Dinner Cruise on the Seine River & Live Music
This dinner cruise has the right mix of sumptuous 3-course meals prepared on board by talented chefs, ambiance, music, and unparalleled views of Paris for a special night with your partner.
Enjoy live entertainment, including music and a DJ set, creating a vibrant atmosphere.
Savor exquisite dishes like egg parfait and filet of cod with roasted orzo risotto for a truly delightful dining experience.
Ideal for: Couples
- Dinner is prepared meticulously from fresh seasonal products.
- The duration is 2.5 hours through the heart of Paris. Enjoy a 3-course dinner menu.
- After dinner, end your evening on the dance floor with a DJ set.
Adult ticket (up to 99 years): €99
2. Dinner Cruise on the Seine River with Panoramic Views
This is one of the best Seine River Dinner Cruises.
It lets you experience an unforgettable night lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes from Île aux Cygnes to Île Saint-Louis with a delicious 3-course meal.
Relax on a luxurious boat equipped with an outdoor terrace, perfect for capturing memorable photos or immersing yourself in the romantic ambiance of Paris.
With this ticket, treat yourself to a memorable culinary and scenic adventure along the Seine River.
Ideal for: Couples & Sightseers
- Enjoy a 1.45-hour cruise along the Seine River with breathtaking Parisian sights illuminated at night.
- Relax in the temperature-controlled salon with plush seating.
- The cruise departs from Île aux Cygnes and goes to Île Saint-Louis.
- Adult ticket (13+ years): €62
- Children ticket (up to 12 years): €39
Cancel 24 hours in advance from the chosen time slot for a full refund.
3. Seine River Bistronomic Dinner Cruise
Cruise the Seine River and savor a 3-course traditional bistro fare served by attentive butlers.
Sail past landmarks, including the Louvre, Notre Dame, and the Eiffel Tower, with the highlight being the Eiffel Tower, illuminating the night sky at 11 pm.
Relax on the outdoor deck and soak in the fantastic atmosphere while experiencing the beauty of Paris from the water.
You can also choose from evening, lunch, or early dinner cruises to suit your schedule.
Ideal for: Foodies & Romantics
- Take in breathtaking 360-degree views of Paris from the open-air terrace
- Board the dinner cruise from the Alexandre III Bridge.
- Option to choose an early evening dinner or lunch cruise.
- Adult ticket (12+ years): €49
- Children ticket (3 to 11 years): €30
- Infant ticket (up to 2 years): Free entry
Cancel 24 hours in advance from the chosen time slot for a full refund.
Sights En Route
As you cruise down the Seine River on your dinner adventure, you will see some of the most famous landmarks illuminated under the night sky. Here are some of the highlights:
1. The Eiffel Tower: You will likely see this Iron Lady from multiple angles during the cruise. Keep an eye out for the magical moment when it twinkles to life with thousands of lights, usually around 11 pm.
2. The Louvre Museum: Home to the Mona Lisa and countless other artistic treasures, the Louvre’s grand exterior will be a sight to behold. Imagine all the history held within those walls!
3. Notre Dame Cathedral: This iconic Gothic cathedral is partially under restoration, but its majestic presence and beautiful stained glass windows (visible from the outside) will leave a lasting impression.
4. Latin Quarter: This historic neighborhood, known for its prestigious universities and intellectual atmosphere, will likely be visible from the Seine River.
5. Île Saint-Louis: This charming island in the middle of the river is a treasure trove of narrow streets, quaint cafes, and historic buildings. You will catch a glimpse of its peaceful atmosphere and unique architecture.
History
While the Seine River itself has been a vital part of Paris for centuries, dinner cruises are a relatively modern invention.
Paris was already a popular tourist destination, and the Seine River offered a beautiful way to see the city.
Offering a meal along with the sightseeing was a natural progression, allowing visitors to experience Parisian romance and cuisine.
Early dinner cruises were on simpler boats, but they likely offered similar highlights: delicious French food, breathtaking views of the illuminated city, and a touch of Parisian charm.
As the concept gained popularity, the dinner cruises became more sophisticated.
Larger, more luxurious boats were introduced, featuring open-air terraces for panoramic views and elegant salons for comfortable dining.
What are the Types of Seine River Dinner Cruises?
The Classic Parisian Experience: This ticket is the most common type, offering a 3-course meal of delicio. It offers cuisine served by attentive staff. The boats are comfortable and elegant, with both indoor and outdoor seating for enjoying the sights.
Luxury Dinner Cruises: If you are looking for an extra touch of opulence, there are luxury dinner cruises that take things up a notch. The boats will be even more luxurious, with plush seating and stunning decor.
Combo Dinner Cruises: Seine River combos offer a budget-friendly way to combine a delicious meal down the river and visit one attraction, like the Eiffel Tower, all in one convenient package.
Crepe Tasting: This night cruise with waffle tasting option offers a scenic cruise down the Seine River followed by a crepe-tasting experience at a nearby creperie, typically located near the Eiffel Tower.
Best Time to Take a Night Cruise
Set the mood with an early evening cruise between 5 pm and 8.30 pm to witness the magic of Paris as the day fades into night.
To skip the weekend crowds and potentially snag better deals, choose a weekday cruise from Tuesday through Thursday. You will get to enjoy the illuminated city witowds.
Spring (April, May) and Autumn (September, October) offer pleasant weather and potentially fewer crowds compared to the peak summer months.
But June is also a great option if you crave longer daylight hours to fully experience the dramatic sunsto experience the dramatic sunset views fully
| Best Time of the Day | Best day of the Week | Best Months |
|---|---|---|
| Early Evening (5 to 8.30 pm) | Weekdays (Tuesday to Thursday) | April, May, September, October & June |
Tips to Sail Smoothly!
- Request a window seat when booking your cruise for unobstructed views and the best lighting for capturing those perfect Parisian memories.
- Elevate your experience by dressing when booking your cruise up a bit. While formal wear isn’t required, a touch of elegance can add to the special feeling of the evening.
- Opt for dress pants, chinos, or a skirt for a more put-together look. However, if you must wear jeans, choose a dark wash and pair them with a nice top and blazer to elevate the outfit.
- Arrive a little early to board comfortably and capture some photos before arrive.
- Parisian evenings can be cool, especially on the water. Bring a light jacket, cardigan, or pashmina to keep yourself warm while looking chic.
Contents
FAQs
1. What’s included in a Seine River Dinner Cruise?
Most cruises include a multi-course meal of French cuisine, live music or entertainment on some boats, and stunning views of the Parisian landmarks lit up at night. Prices vary depending on the cruise option you choose.
2. I want a partial meal. Are there any alternatives?
While dinner cruises are the most popular option, there are sightseeing cruises with li options available. You can try a crepe-tasting night cruise for a light meal.
3. Is it noisy or crowded on the cruises?
The noise level and crowds can vary depending on the cruise type, day of the week, and time of year. Luxury cruises have a more intimate setting, while larger classic cruises can be livelier. Check out the best time for Seine River cruises to plan your trip hassle-free.
4. Are Dinner Cruises safe?
Yes, the Dinner Cruises are very safe. The operators adhere to strict safety regulations, and life jackets are available onboard in case of emergency. However, it’s always a good idea to be familiar with the safety procedures onboard before you set sail.
5. What should I wear on a Dinner Cruise?
While formal attire isn’t required, it’s recommended to dress elegantly for the occasion. Opt for dress pants, chinos, or a skirt with a nice top and blazer. Bring along a light jacket or cardigan for cooler evenings.
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