Lunch Cruise
Seine River
Tickets, Price, tips and more!
Book Your Paris Lunch Cruise Tickets
- 3 or 4 courses of your choice with wine
- 2 Hour Cruise
- Vegetarian option available
- Booklet in English and many more language
Best Seine Lunch Cruise
Experience the Charm of Paris by Day on a Lunch Cruise along the Scenic Seine with this best-sellers cruises:
What to Expect?
When considering a lunch cruise on the Seine River in Paris, you can expect a delightful blend of sightseeing and fine dining. These cruises typically last between 1.5 to 2 hours, offering a leisurely journey through the heart of Paris while you enjoy a gourmet meal.
Prices for these experiences generally range from €68 to €85, with some premium options reaching up to €95 or more. The cost usually includes a multi-course meal (often 3 or 4 courses) with various menu options, including vegetarian choices. Some cruises also offer wine pairings or a glass of champagne, depending on the package you select.
Most Seine lunch cruises depart around midday, with common start times between 12:30 and 12:45. It’s essential to arrive at least 20-30 minutes before the scheduled departure to ensure smooth boarding and seating. Meeting points are typically located near iconic Parisian landmarks, such as the foot of the Eiffel Tower at Port de la Bourdonnais, or other easily accessible spots along the Seine like Port de Solférino or Port de la Conférence.
During your cruise, you’ll glide past many of Paris’s most famous sights, including the Louvre, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Musée d’Orsay, and the Eiffel Tower. Many boats feature large windows or glass tops to provide unobstructed views of the city’s stunning architecture and landmarks.
The dining experience on board is designed to showcase French cuisine. You can expect elegantly prepared dishes, often with seasonal ingredients. Some cruises offer live music to enhance the ambiance, creating a truly Parisian atmosphere as you dine and sightsee.
Most cruise operators provide multi-lingual services, with menus and informational materials available in several languages. It’s worth noting that while many cruises are wheelchair accessible, it’s best to confirm this when booking.
Dress codes can vary, but generally, smart-casual attire is appropriate. Some higher-end options may require more formal dress, so it’s wise to check the specific requirements when making your reservation.
Cancellation policies typically allow for changes or cancellations up to 24-72 hours before the cruise date, but this can vary between providers. It’s always best to review the terms when booking to avoid any issues.
Seine Lunch Cruise Tickets Price
Seine River lunch cruises in Paris offer tickets ranging from €68 to €95, with various options to suit different preferences. Standard tickets typically include a three to four-course French meal, with vegetarian options available. Some packages include wine or champagne, while others offer these as add-ons.
Upgraded tickets often feature premium seating, extra amenities like flower petals on tables, or welcome drinks. Different service levels, such as “Etoile,” “Privilege,” and “Premier,” provide increasingly luxurious experiences.
When purchasing tickets, consider what’s included beyond the cruise and meal. Some may offer guidebooks or souvenirs. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Popular platforms like Tiqets and GetYourGuide offer convenient ways to purchase digital tickets for Seine lunch cruises. These websites are favored by travelers for their user-friendly interfaces and 24/7 customer support. They often provide detailed information about each cruise option, making it easy to compare and choose the best fit for your needs.
Both Tiqets and GetYourGuide frequently offer combination tickets that bundle the lunch cruise with other Paris attractions, potentially saving money on overall sightseeing costs.
Cancellation policies are generally flexible, but it’s important to review the specific terms when booking. Remember to arrive at the meeting point 20-30 minutes before departure, and have your digital or printed ticket ready for boarding.
Top Lunch Cruise Providers
Bateaux Parisiens – Bateaux Parisiens offers a luxurious Seine River lunch cruise experience starting from €75.00. Their cruise lasts for 2 hours, departing at 12:45 from Port de la Bourdonnais, conveniently located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. They provide three service levels: Etoile, Privilege, and Premier, each offering increasingly premium experiences.
All options include a multi-course meal with wine, and live music enhances the ambiance. Bateaux Parisiens is known for its glass-covered boats, providing panoramic views of Paris landmarks. They offer vegetarian options and provide informational booklets in multiple languages.
Pariscityvision – Pariscityvision provides a Seine River lunch cruise at a slightly lower starting price of €68.00. Their cruise is shorter at 1 hour and 30 minutes, departing at 12:30 from Paris Seine La Marina at Port de Solférino. They offer a 3-course meal with options for each course, including vegetarian choices.
While their cruise is more budget-friendly, they still provide a quality dining experience with views of Paris’s iconic sights. Pariscityvision also offers a romantic upgrade option, which includes a special bay window table, flower petals, and a glass of champagne.
Bateaux Mouches – Bateaux Mouches, starting at €85.00, offers a 1 hour and 45-minute lunch cruise on the Seine. They depart from Port de la Conférence and are known for their open-air upper decks, providing unobstructed views of Paris. Their cruise includes a French lunch with vegetarian options available.
Bateaux Mouches has a more formal dress code compared to other providers, adding to the elegant atmosphere of their cruises. They also offer free parking for guests, which can be a significant advantage for those driving in Paris. Bateaux Mouches prides itself on providing a traditional Parisian river cruise experience.
| Cruise Provider | Price |
|---|---|
| Bateaux Parisiens | From €75.00 |
| Pariscityvision | From €68.00 |
| Bateaux Mouches | From €85.00 |
Seine River Lunch Cruise Menu
Seine River lunch cruises offer a delightful culinary experience that showcases French cuisine while passengers enjoy the scenic beauty of Paris. The menus typically feature three to four courses, carefully crafted to provide a taste of traditional French gastronomy with a modern twist.
Starters often include classic French appetizers such as foie gras terrine, smoked salmon, or a light seasonal salad. For example, you might find a delicate asparagus velouté or a goat cheese and herb tartlet. These appetizers are designed to whet the appetite without overwhelming the palate.
Main courses usually offer a choice between meat, fish, and vegetarian options. You might see dishes like slow-cooked beef bourguignon, pan-seared sea bass with a beurre blanc sauce, or a vegetarian risotto featuring seasonal vegetables. These main dishes are often accompanied by carefully selected side dishes that complement the flavors of the primary ingredient.
Cheese courses are a staple of French dining, and many cruises include a selection of fine French cheeses. This might be presented as a cheese plate with varieties like Camembert, Roquefort, and Comté, often served with crusty bread and perhaps a small salad or fruit compote.
Desserts round off the meal, offering sweet treats that France is famous for. You might find options like a rich chocolate mousse, a delicate crème brûlée, or a seasonal fruit tart. Some cruises also offer a café gourmand – a coffee served with a selection of mini desserts.
Vegetarian options are generally available for each course, and some cruises can accommodate other dietary requirements if notified in advance.
Beverages are an important part of the French dining experience. Many cruises include wine with the meal, typically offering a selection of red and white wines that pair well with the food. Some premium packages might include champagne or a wider selection of wines.
The presentation of the food is often as impressive as the taste, with chefs taking care to create visually appealing dishes that match the elegance of the surroundings. Many cruises use fresh, seasonal ingredients, ensuring that the menu changes throughout the year to offer the best flavors.
It’s worth noting that while the specific menu items can vary between cruise providers and may change seasonally, all aim to provide a high-quality dining experience that reflects the sophistication and culinary heritage of French cuisine.
What to wear on a Lunch cruise in Paris?
When planning your attire for a lunch cruise on the Seine in Paris, it’s important to strike a balance between comfort and style. Most lunch cruises have a smart-casual dress code, which allows you to enjoy the experience while feeling appropriately dressed for a Parisian dining atmosphere.
For men, a collared shirt or a polo shirt paired with dress pants or neat chinos is a good choice. A blazer or sports jacket can add an extra touch of elegance. Avoid wearing shorts, athletic wear, or overly casual t-shirts.
Women have more flexibility in their choices. A nice dress, skirt and blouse combination, or smart trousers with a stylish top are all suitable options. If you opt for a dress or skirt, knee-length or slightly above is appropriate. A light cardigan or jacket can be useful, especially on cooler days or in air-conditioned areas of the boat.
Comfortable yet stylish shoes are essential. For women, low heels or smart flats are ideal, while men should opt for dress shoes or clean, neat loafers. Avoid flip-flops or athletic shoes.
Some higher-end cruises may have a more formal dress code, so it’s always wise to check the specific requirements when booking. Generally, you should aim to dress as you would for a nice restaurant in Paris.
Plan Your Trip
Seine River lunch cruises in Paris typically operate daily throughout the year, offering a consistent schedule that caters to both tourists and locals. Most lunch cruises begin their service around midday, with departure times generally falling between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM.
The most common departure time across various operators is around 12:30 PM, allowing guests to enjoy their lunch during the prime daylight hours for the best views of Paris. The duration of these cruises usually ranges from 1.5 to 2 hours, meaning they conclude in the early afternoon, typically between 2:00 PM and 3:00 PM.
It’s important to note that while lunch cruises operate year-round, the frequency might increase during peak tourist seasons, particularly from late spring through early fall. During these busier months, some operators may offer additional time slots or increased capacity to meet demand.
Guests are typically asked to arrive 20-30 minutes before the scheduled departure time for check-in and boarding procedures. This ensures a smooth start to the cruise and allows everyone to be comfortably seated before the boat sets sail.
While most companies maintain a consistent daily schedule, it’s always advisable to check the specific operating hours when booking, as there might be slight variations depending on the day of the week or special events in Paris. Some operators may also offer special holiday cruises with adjusted schedules during festive seasons.
Seine River lunch cruises in Paris typically offer a delightful experience lasting between 1.5 to 2 hours. This duration has been carefully designed to provide guests with ample time to enjoy both their meal and the scenic views of Paris without feeling rushed or overly prolonged.
Most cruises, such as those offered by Bateaux Parisiens, last for a full 2 hours. This allows for a leisurely three or four-course meal to be served and savored while passengers take in the sights of iconic Parisian landmarks. The two-hour timeframe provides a comfortable pace for dining and sightseeing.
Some operators, like Pariscityvision, offer a slightly shorter experience of 1.5 hours. This condensed version still includes a full meal and comprehensive tour of the major sights along the Seine, but at a somewhat brisker pace.
The Bateaux Mouches cruise falls in between, with a duration of 1 hour and 45 minutes. This timing strikes a balance, offering enough time for a relaxed meal while keeping the overall experience concise.
Regardless of the exact duration, all these cruises are designed to cover the most picturesque parts of the Seine, passing by landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre. The carefully timed routes ensure that passengers can enjoy their meal while also having opportunities to step out onto the deck for photos or a closer look at the passing sights.
Seine River lunch cruises in Paris typically depart from convenient and easily accessible locations along the river. These departure points are strategically chosen to be close to major landmarks and transportation hubs, making it easy for tourists to find them.
Bateaux Parisiens, for instance, operates from Port de la Bourdonnais, located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower. This iconic location is not only easy to find but also allows passengers to start their journey with a stunning view of one of Paris’s most famous monuments. The port is accessible via metro line 6 (Bir-Hakeim station), line 9 (Trocadéro station), or RER C (Champ de Mars – Tour Eiffel station).
Pariscityvision cruises depart from Paris Seine La Marina at Port de Solférino, situated near the Musée d’Orsay. This central location is easily reached by metro lines 1 and 12 (Assemblée Nationale station) or RER C (Musée d’Orsay station).
Bateaux Mouches sets sail from Port de la Conférence, located between Place de la Concorde and the Alma Bridge. This spot is accessible via metro lines 1, 8, and 12 (Concorde station) or line 9 (Alma-Marceau station).
All these departure points are well-served by public transportation and are surrounded by other attractions, allowing passengers to easily combine their lunch cruise with other sightseeing activities. Most cruise operators recommend arriving at least 20-30 minutes before the scheduled departure time to allow for check-in and boarding procedures.
Seine River Lunch Cruise - Insider Tips
Here are some insider tips for making the most of your Seine River lunch cruise in Paris:
- Book in advance: Popular cruises can fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. Booking ahead ensures you get your preferred date and time.
- Arrive early: Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before departure. This gives you time for check-in, finding your table, and perhaps taking some pre-cruise photos.
- Choose your cruise time wisely: Midday cruises offer the best lighting for photographs. However, if you’re visiting in summer, a later lunch cruise might be more comfortable as the sun won’t be directly overhead.
- Request a window seat: If possible, ask for a window seat when booking. These offer the best views, though they might come at a premium.
- Dress appropriately: While most lunch cruises have a smart-casual dress code, dressing up a bit more can enhance the experience. Avoid sportswear or overly casual attire.
- Bring a light jacket or wrap: Even on warm days, it can get breezy on the river. A light layer can keep you comfortable, especially if you want to step out onto the deck.
- Don’t rush your meal: The cruises are timed to allow you to enjoy your food and the views. Take your time with each course.
- Step out on deck: While the views from inside are great, stepping out on deck offers unobstructed photo opportunities and a different perspective.
- Pay attention to the audio guide: Many cruises offer commentary about the passing landmarks. This can provide interesting historical context to what you’re seeing.
- Prepare your camera: Charge your camera or phone fully before the cruise. The constant photo-taking can drain batteries quickly.
- Consider dietary restrictions in advance: If you have special dietary needs, inform the cruise company when booking. They can usually accommodate with advance notice.
- Opt for a package deal: Some operators offer packages that combine the lunch cruise with other attractions. These can offer good value if you’re planning to visit multiple sites.
- Use public transportation: Parking near the departure points can be challenging and expensive. Using the metro or bus is often easier and more economical.
- Learn a few French phrases: While staff typically speak English, knowing a few French pleasantries can enhance your experience.
- Avoid sitting at the very front or back: The middle of the boat often offers the most stable ride if you’re prone to motion sickness.
- Don’t overindulge in wine: While it’s tempting to enjoy the French wines, remember that you’ll want to be alert to enjoy the sights.
- Bring cash for tips: While not always expected, having some cash on hand for tipping is a good idea if you receive exceptional service.
- Take note of landmarks: The cruise is a great way to orient yourself in Paris. Use it to plan which sites you might want to visit later on foot.
- Check the weather forecast: While the boats are covered, knowing the weather can help you plan your outfit and whether you might want to spend time on the open deck.
- Consider a night cruise: If you enjoy your lunch cruise, consider booking a dinner cruise for a different perspective of Paris illuminated at night.
FAQ
How long do the lunch cruises last?
Most lunch cruises last between 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the operator.
What is included in the ticket price?
Typically, the ticket includes the cruise, a multi-course lunch, and often a glass of wine or champagne. Some premium packages may include additional drinks or amenities.
Is there a dress code?
Most cruises have a smart-casual dress code. Avoid sportswear or beachwear. Some higher-end cruises may require more formal attire.
Are vegetarian options available?
Most cruises offer vegetarian options. It’s best to inform the operator of any dietary requirements when booking.
Can I bring children on the cruise?
Children are generally welcome. Some operators offer reduced prices for children.
Is the boat wheelchair accessible?
Many boats are wheelchair accessible, but it’s important to check with the specific operator when booking.
What language is the commentary in?
Most cruises offer commentary in multiple languages, including English and French. Some provide audio guides in additional languages.
What if it rains?
The boats are covered and climate-controlled, so the cruise will operate rain or shine.
Can I take photos during the cruise?
Photography is encouraged. Many boats have outdoor areas for unobstructed views.
Is seating assigned?
In most cases, seating is assigned. Some operators allow you to request specific seating (like window seats) for an additional fee.
Are the cruises suitable for those prone to motion sickness?
The Seine is generally calm, and the boats are stable. However, those very sensitive to motion may want to sit in the middle of the boat.
Can I combine the lunch cruise with other attractions?
Many operators offer combination tickets that include the lunch cruise and entry to other popular Paris attractions.
More useful information about Seine River Cruise in Paris
- Going to Paris with kids? here are the best Seine River Cruises with Kids!
- Having a Low-Budget? Here are some Cheap Seine River Cruises with deals and discounts!
- Paris hop-on hop-off river cruise – The best way to travel in Paris!
- What is Seine Cruise Tickets Prices?– The best Guide!
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!