Paris Seine River cruises offer a variety of options to suit different preferences and budgets. From sightseeing cruises that showcase the city’s iconic landmarks to dinner cruises that combine fine dining with stunning views, and even combination tickets that include a Seine cruise and admission to other popular Parisian attractions.
Let’s start by exploring the different types of Seine River cruises available and their respective prices:
A sightseeing cruise is the most affordable option for those looking to explore the beauty of Paris from the Seine River. These cruises typically last 1 hour and offer audio guides or live commentary, providing insight into the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks. Prices for sightseeing cruises range from around 15€ to 20€ per person, making them a budget-friendly choice for travelers.
For a more leisurely experience, consider a Seine River lunch cruise. These cruises typically last between 2 to 3 hours and include a multi-course meal, allowing you to savor the flavors of French cuisine while taking in the stunning views of Paris. Prices for lunch cruises usually range from 50€ to 85€ per person, depending on the menu and the cruise provider.
For a truly romantic and memorable experience, opt for a Seine River Dinner Cruise. These cruises typically last between 3 to 4 hours and include a gourmet multi-course meal, accompanied by live music or entertainment. Prices for dinner cruises vary depending on the menu, cruise duration, and the level of luxury offered. You can expect to pay anywhere from 60€ to 150€ or more per person.
Type of Cruise | Price Range |
---|---|
Sightseeing Seine Cruise | €15 – €20 per person |
Seine River Lunch Cruise | €50 – €85 per person |
Seine River Dinner Cruise | €60 – €150 per person |
For those looking to make the most of their time in Paris, combination tickets that include a Seine River cruise and admission to other popular attractions can be a great value. These packages often bundle a sightseeing cruise with entrance to iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, or the Palace of Versailles.
When searching for the best prices on combination tickets, be sure to compare offers from different providers and look for promotions or cheap tickets. Prices for combination tickets vary depending on the attractions included and the duration of the cruise, but they can range from 30€ to 100€ or more per person. However, by taking advantage of special discounts and offers, you can often find great deals that make these packages even more affordable.
When it comes to purchasing Seine Cruise tickets, the best option is to book through large third-party ticket sellers like Tiqets, GetYourGuide and other well-known platforms. These platforms offer Seine cruise tickets online with numerous advantages, including 24/7 customer support, exclusive discounts, and the ability to bundle tickets with other attractions.
Their user-friendly interfaces allow you to securely reserve your preferred date, time, and tour type while taking advantage of special online offers. These platforms often sell packaged deals bundling a Seine cruise with other attractions like museum visits. These combo tickets offer potential savings like this ticket, or this.
Purchasing tickets once you arrive in Paris at the dock ticket offices is another option. However, availability for specific tours can be limited at dock offices, especially during peak times.
Some hotels in Paris may also sell Seine cruise tickets as part of concierge services. While this can add convenience, prices may be higher, and the selection may be limited compared to online third-party sellers.
No matter where you purchase tickets, it’s advisable to book Seine cruises 1-2 months in advance if visiting during the popular spring and summer months when availability is tightest. Using a reputable third-party platform ensures you have access to the widest range of options and the best deals, along with reliable customer support throughout your booking process and trip.
Buying online ahead of your trip ensures you can secure tickets for your preferred cruise time, date, and departure point, especially during the high summer season when availability sells out. Walk-up spaces at dock offices can be very limited.
Pre-booking online also allows you to take advantage of any early booking discounts the cruise company may offer. These can give 10-15% off pricing or other perks. Dock office prices are regular rate.
However, if you have flexibility on timing, buying dock office tickets upon arrival can sometimes accommodate a last-minute schedule change versus being locked into a pre-set online time.
If purchasing as part of a package deal with a tour agency, hotel, or bundler, then online pre-booking may be required or be the better value with discounts. Check restrictions.
Online booking allows payment by credit card ahead of time. Dock office counters may accept cash or card upon purchase depending on the company.
With exchange rates and foreign transaction fees, paying ahead online in your home currency can potentially be less expensive compared to a dock office credit card payment.
For peace of mind, we recommend booking Seine River cruise e-tickets online prior to your Paris trip whenever possible. But dock office purchases offer more flexibility if needed.
Bateaux Mouches is one of the largest Seine cruise companies operating big glass-roofed boats holding 700 people. They offer lunch, dinner, and sightseeing cruises with multilingual audio guides starting at around €15 for a 1-hour daytime tour up to €100 for a 2-hour dinner. Bateaux Mouches boats depart primarily from Port de la Bourdonnais near the Eiffel Tower.
Bateaux Parisiens also has a large fleet of glass-topped boats and similar offerings to Bateaux Mouches like lunch cruises from €65 and sightseeing trips from €15. They also operate fun dance party event cruises. Tours depart from the Port de la Bourdonnais docks.
Vedettes du Pont Neuf focuses on smaller, open-air boats holding just 250 people. The open upper decks provide great views of sights. Prices run €10-15 for basic 1-hour tours. They depart from the Square du Vert Galant beside the Pont Neuf bridge.
Canauxrama runs glass-roofed cruises between Musée d’Orsay and Pont Marie on the Left Bank. Their lunch cruise is €68 and sightseeing cruises start around €18. Canauxrama boats leave from the Port de Solférino dock by the Musée d’Orsay.
Vedettes de Paris has open-air boats with indoor salons holding 300 passengers. Popular 1-hour sightseeing cruises start at €15. They also offer private yacht charters for €150-250/hour. Tours leave from Port Suffren by the Eiffel Tower.
Company | Boat Type | Sample Prices |
---|---|---|
Bateaux Mouches | Large glass-roofed boats | €15-€100 |
Bateaux Parisiens | Glass-topped boats | €15-€65 |
Vedettes du Pont Neuf | Small open-air boats | €10-€15 |
Canauxrama | Glass-roofed boats | €18-€68 |
Vedettes de Paris | Open-air boats | €15-€250 |
Here are some important things to be aware of when booking tickets for a Seine River cruise in Paris:
Purchasing tickets online in advance through the cruise company’s website typically provides the best rates and guarantees your spots for specific tour times, especially during peak summer months. Walk-up availability at docks is limited.
Check the websites for any current discount codes or special promotional offers before booking. For example, some companies offer 10-15% off bookings made 60+ days in advance.
If aiming to avoid crowds, consider booking morning tours shortly after opening hours or in the late afternoon when many daytime tourists have departed but before evening rush.
For chartering a private yacht, reserve well ahead of your target date, ideally 4-6 weeks out. These can book up quickly, especially for popular spring and summer dates. Lock in your perfect charter for special occasions.
On larger boats, try to reserve seats on the upper open decks for the best open-air views along the route. Lower and indoor seats have more limited visibility.
Reading online reviews and comparing different Seine cruise companies can help you select the one that offers the best fit for your needs, priorities and budget. Check TripAdvisor, Google or travel sites.
Booking your perfect Seine cruise tour in Paris may take a bit of advance research and planning, but securing tickets online ahead of time will ensure you have a memorable on-the-water experience.
You can buy tickets for a Seine River cruise from tour operators, travel agents, but the best way is to buy online on tickets websites.
The cost of a Seine River cruise ticket varies, depending on the type of cruise and time of year. On average, tickets range from €15 to €30.
Yes, discounts may be available for students or seniors on Seine River cruise tickets. Check with the tour operator for specific details.
No, Seine River cruise tickets are not included in the Paris Museum Pass
Yes, there are discounts available for children on Seine River cruise tickets. The amount of the discount varies depending on the tour operator, so be sure to check with them directly.
The duration of a Seine River cruise is typically 1-2 hours.
Yes, most Seine River cruise boats are wheelchair accessible. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance to confirm their accessibility.
The best time to take a Seine River cruise is during daylight hours, when you can fully appreciate the sights along the river. Sunset cruises can also be a romantic option.
Yes, it is possible to book a private Seine River cruise. Private cruises can be arranged through tour operators and may be more expensive than regular public cruises.
Yes, there are dinner cruises available on the Seine River. These cruises typically feature a multi-course meal and a scenic tour of the river at night.
Yes, Seine River cruises are available year-round. However, some tour operators may have limited schedules during the winter months, so be sure to check with them in advance.
No, there is no specific dress code for Seine River cruises. Casual attire is usually appropriate.
Yes, Seine River cruises can be suitable for families with children. Check with the tour operator for specific details on whether their cruises are kid-friendly.
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!