Who said exploring Paris through the Seine River cruise has to be limited to Sightseeing?
If you are craving a truly unique experience, take a lunch cruise on the Seine River to elevate the already unique and fun-filled experience to the next level.
You can also choose to relax, sit back, and sip some French wine as you enjoy the beautiful sights of Paris and equally amazing food.
What is the Seine River Lunch Cruise?
The Seine River Lunch Cruise is a sightseeing cruise on the Seine River in Paris that includes a lunch meal.
It’s a great way to see the city’s famous landmarks, such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Notre Dame Cathedral, from a unique perspective while enjoying a delicious meal.
They last around 1.5 to 2 hours and depart from several locations along the river. They offer a variety of menus, from casual to gourmet, to suit all tastes and budgets.
Here are some popular Lunch Cruise companies:
- Bateaux Parisiens: One of the most well-known companies, Bateaux Parisiens, offers a variety of lunch cruises, including a gourmet lunch cruise and a lunch cruise with live music.
- Bateaux Mouches: Another popular option is the Bateaux Mouches, which offers a classic lunch cruise that is a great way to see the sights of Paris.
Top 3 Lunch Cruise Tickets
1. 2-Hour River Seine River Lunch Cruise
Step aboard for a delightful day cruising along the Seine River in central Paris.
Meet your host at Port de la Bourdonnais and settle in for a memorable journey.
As you glide along, savor a delicious 3-course lunch paired with fine wines, with iconic sights like Notre Dame Cathedral and the Louvre passing by.
Choose from premier, privilege, or elite service packages for added perks.
Ideal for: Families & Romantics
- The cruise will depart from the Port de la Bourdonnais in central Paris.3-course lunch with appetizer, white and red wine, mineral water, and coffee
- Host or greeter speaking English, French, German, and Spanish.
- Vegetarian menu options are available on request.
- Adult ticket (12+ years): €75
- Children ticket (up to 11 years): €39
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
2. Gourmet Meal Lunch Cruise on the Seine River
If the usual sightseeing cruise is too mainstream for you, then you can treat yourself to a fancy 3-course meal on this unforgettable lunch cruise on the Seine River.
Experience breathtaking scenery, impeccable service, and exquisite cuisine while soaking in the beauty of Paris from the river.
If you want to celebrate an occasion with your partner, you can take it up a notch and upgrade it to a romantic cruise for a memorable experience.
Ideal for: Couples
- 3-course of your choice (starter + main course + dessert)The menu is in English and French, along with options for coffee or tea.
- Enjoy flower petals on the table and privileged bay window seating.
- Opting for the Romantic Cruise includes a complimentary glass of champagne.
- Adult ticket (12+ years): €68
- Children ticket (3 to 11 years): €35
- Infant ticket (up to 2 years): Free entry
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund
Sights En Route
The Seine River Lunch Cruise will take you on a scenic voyage through the heart of Paris. Here are some of the sights you can expect to see on your cruise:
1. Eiffel Tower: The grand dame of Paris will likely be visible for a good portion of the cruise. You might even get an excellent perspective of the tower from underneath!
2. Louvre Museum: The vast Louvre, home to the Mona Lisa and countless other treasures, will be along the river at some point. Keep an eye out for its grand facade.
3. Notre Dame Cathedral: While currently undergoing restoration after a fire, you will still get a glimpse of this iconic Parisian landmark.
4. Grand Palais and Petit Palais: These impressive Beaux-Arts exhibition halls face each other across the Seine River. Their grand architecture and dome roofs make them a striking sight along the riverbank.
5. Jardin des Tuileries: This sprawling public garden is a Parisian gem. If your cruise route takes you by its edge, you might see lush green spaces, fountains, and even people strolling or relaxing on the neatly manicured lawns.
The Evolution of Seine River Lunch Cruises
The Seine River has been a waterway for Parisians for centuries, but lunch cruises are a reasonably recent invention.
Historical records suggest that pleasure boats called ‘bateaux-mouches’ have been carrying passengers since the late 1800s.
However, it wasn’t until after World War II, with tourism on the rise, that companies began offering lunch cruises as a way for visitors to experience the city in a unique way.
Things got even more enjoyable with the introduction of eco-friendly boats, like the Ducasse sur Seine.
These cruises showed a significant evolution, combining luxury dining with sustainable practices.
Today, lunch cruises have become a staple of Parisian tourism. They offer delicious meals and stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks.
What are the Types of Seine River Lunch Cruises?
1. Classic Lunch Cruise: This is your typical lunch cruise experience. You will get a leisurely 3 to 4-course meal featuring French favorites like quiche or roasted chicken, all while sightseeing.
2. Brunch on the River: In the mood for something lighter? Brunch cruises are your friend! They offer pastries, omelets, smoked salmon, and crepes, all paired with mimosas and French wines. The atmosphere is casual, so come relaxed and ready to enjoy a midday outing.
3. Themed Lunch Cruise: Want something unique? Look for themed cruises! Imagine a romantic Valentine’s Day dinner cruise complete with unique decorations or maybe a lively music cruise with entertainment.
4. Combo Cruise: Combo tours are perfect for families as it combines sightseeing, a Seine River cruise, and a unique dining experience at the Eiffel Tower.
Best Time to Take a Lunch Cruise
For the best experience, aim for a late afternoon cruise between 1.30 pm and 3 pm.
During this time, the midday crowds have thinned out, but it’s still early enough to enjoy the beautiful sunlight.
Weekdays, especially Tuesday to Thursday, are your best bet to avoid the weekend crowds.
This means shorter wait times for boarding and service and a more relaxed atmosphere overall.
The best months are Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October). These seasons offer picturesque views and comfortable weather, making your cruise even more enjoyable.
| Best Time of Day | Best Day of the Week | Best Months |
|---|---|---|
| Late Afternoon (1.30 pm to 3 pm) | Weekdays (Tuesday to Thursday) | April, May, September, October |
Tips to Sail Smoothly!
- The sun reflects more intensely off the water, so apply sunscreen even on cloudy days.
- Please bring a light scarf or sweater, as it gets chilly, and sunglasses and a hat are a must.
- If the menu leans towards seafood, salads, or quiche, a white wine like crisp Sauvignon Blanc from the Loire Valley or vibrant Pinot Gris from Alsace would be excellent.
- Aim for a put-together look that feels effortless and Parisian. Dress pants or tailored trousers paired with a nice top or sweater are another excellent option.
- Keep jewelry simple and elegant. A statement necklace or a pair of sparkling earrings can elevate your look.
Contents
FAQs
1. How long is a Seine River Lunch Cruise?
Most Seine River Lunch Cruises last around 1.5 to 2 hours. This gives you ample time to enjoy a leisurely meal while taking in the sights.
2. What time of day is best for a Lunch Cruise?
For a pleasant experience, consider a late afternoon cruise between 1.30 pm and 3 pm. The crowds are thinner then, and you can still enjoy the sunshine.
3. What should I wear on a Lunch Cruise?
Aim for a bright, casual look. You can wear dress pants, a skirt with a blouse, or a tailored sundress. Avoid overly casual attire like shorts or tank tops.
4. What if I get seasick quickly? Is a Seine River Lunch Cruise a good option?
The Seine River is very calm, and the cruises are on large, stable boats. Seasickness is unlikely.
5. Are Seine River Lunch Cruises appropriate for children?
Absolutely! Many families enjoy Lunch Cruises as the sightseeing aspect is entertaining for children. Keep in mind that younger children might get restless during the 1.5 or 2-hour cruise, so bring some activities to keep them occupied.
6. How do I know the departure points of cruises?
Seine River Lunch Cruises depart from various locations along the Seine River. You can look for the dock address listed in your cruise confirmation or check the departure points for more details.
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