Seine Cruise

Cruise Through Paris - Discover, Dine & Relax

Panoramic Views
Panoramic Views
Frequent Departures
Frequent Departures
Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
Sightseeing & Onboard Meal Options
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Sail through the "City of Lights" on a Seine River cruise

The ​Seine River is a delightful way to explore the heart of Paris, one of the most iconic and beautiful cities in the world. Spanning 777 kilometers, and flowing through the heart of Paris, it provides a unique perspective of the city's famous landmarks like the ​Eiffel Tower and ​Notre Dame. Navigating its waters, you'll traverse historic bridges integral to the city's architectural tapestry. Thanks to the multilingual audio guides and live commentary, you will also learn the historical narratives of the monuments you glide past. Read ahead for the ​timings, operators, and other essential details.

Plan Your Visit

Navigate your Seine River cruise guide

  1. Why go on a Seine River cruise in Paris?
  2. Things to know before booking your cruise
  3. Your cruise options
  4. Find your best Seine River cruise match here
  5. Who are the Seine Cruise operators?
  6. Locating your Seine River cruise boarding points
  7. Know before you go on the cruise
  8. Top landmarks to spot on your Seine River cruise
  9. Know more about the Seine River

Why go on a Seine River cruise in Paris?

seine river cruise
Convenient boarding points
On-board lunch, dinner & entertainment
Cruises last 1 hour or longer
Explore more of Paris with combos!
1/5

Sightseeing at its finest

Get a look at famous Parisian attractions like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and Orsay Museum from a unique vantage point, while you're on the Seine River. Discover why Paris is known as "The City of Lights" with a cruise at dusk, and see Paris light up at night - we promise, it's an experience that's worth the wait!

Convenient boarding points

Most Seine River cruises begin near the foot of the Eiffel Tower, but there are several boarding points for different cruise options. Choose which option best suits you, and don't forget to visit the attractions nearby, such as the Eiffel Tower and the Trocadero Gardens.

On-board lunch, dinner & entertainment

Seine River cruises offer onboard lunch and dinner options, allowing you to enjoy the exquisite flavors of French cuisine while taking in the Parisian scenery. When onboard, you can hear live music and indulge in activities like wine tasting while experiencing some sensational views.

Cruises last 1 hour or longer

Choose the duration of your cruise based on how much time you have. 1-2 hour cruises are generally sightseeing cruises, where you can see the city's top landmarks from a glass canopy boat. Lunch and dinner cruises are longer, and can take up to 4 hours, as they involve being served a 3-course traditional meal.

Explore more of Paris with combos!

Experience the best of Paris by combining a visit to top attractions such as the Louvre or the Eiffel Tower into one package with your Seine River cruise. You can also enjoy the vibrant nightlife of Paris with a combination that includes a Moulin Rouge show or comedic performances.

Things to know before booking your Seine River cruise

  • Most cruises are family-friendly. However, certain onboard experiences on an evening or themed cruise might have age restrictions. Check in advance if you are planning to travel with young children.
  • Check that the commentary is offered in a language you understand and feel comfortable with. Many cruises provide options.
  • With a tour option for every occasion, you can go on a sightseeing cruise to spot popular landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Paris Pantheon if you're in the mood for a Parisian trot, or relish a delicious meal aboard a lunch or dinner cruise if an authentic French meal is something you're craving. Want more? Pick the combo tours that let you experience the best of the city on a budget, or get tickets to a hop-on-hop-off cruise for an in-depth adventure!
  • The best time to go on a Seine River cruise is ideally during the high season months of June to mid-September and mid-to-late December, with mostly clear skies making for an enjoyable boat ride. But don't worry if you can't make it then, as the shoulder season months from April to May and September to November are also magical.
  • Can't decide what time of the day you should choose for an unforgettable sail on the Seine? Book a dinner cruise if a romantic night is what's on your mind, as live music adds to the charm of the sparkling city lights. If you're planning a cute brunch with your friends and family under the European sun, then a lunch cruise is your best bet!
  • The boarding point for each operator is different, so make sure you check your ticket for the exact location. While the Bateaux Parisiens boarding is at the Eiffel Tower, Bateaux Mouches picks up guests at Pont de l’Alma.
  • Club your boat trip with landmark hopping. Do your research and go on an excursion near the boarding points closest to you to get a slice of the city's popular attractions.
  • Before booking your lunch or dinner cruises, have a look at the menu and the cuisine being offered. Choose an experience that caters to your taste and diet preferences, and any add-ons like live music or entertainment that you'd like while you're aboard the ship.

Know More About Paris Boat Tours

Your Seine River cruise options

Sightseeing Cruises

Sightseeing Cruises

Best for: Solo travelers, families, first-time visitors
Duration: 1 hour
Meals included: No

  • See the sights of Paris and the city's iconic bridges from a glass canopy boat, and learn about their history with audio guides in 14 languages.
  • You'll also get flexible boarding times and a generous 6-month ticket validity.

Recommended cruises

Read More
Lunch Cruises

Lunch and Dinner Cruises

Best for: Culinary enthusiasts, couples, families
Duration: 1.5- 4 hours
Meals included: Yes

  • See Paris' iconic landmarks during the day or night while you enjoy 3-course meals crafted by renowned chefs, with dedicated menus for vegetarians and children.
  • Select options offering added perks like live music, or complimentary wine servings.

Recommended cruises

Read More
Combo Tours

Combo Tours

Best for: Budget travelers, history buffs, first-time visitors
Duration: Flexible
Meals included: Depends on the combo

  • Experience the best of Paris by getting tickets to attractions such as Disneyland, the Louvre, or the Eiffel Tower in one package.
  • You can also combine sightseeing with entertainment and opt for a Moulin Rouge show along with your cruise.

Recommended cruises

Hop-On Hop-Off Cruises

Hop-On Hop-Off Cruises

Best for: Budget travelers, families, first-time visitors
Duration: Flexible (24/48-hour or Annual)
Meals included: No

  • Enjoy the freedom to explore Paris at your own pace as you can hop on and off as many times as you like at any of the 9 stops along the Seine.
  • Highlights including Jardin de Plantes, Louvre Museum, Place de la Concorde, Eiffel Tower & Les Invalides.

Recommended cruises

Who are the Seine Cruise operators?

Bateaux Parisiens

Bateaux Parisiens

Bateaux Parisiens is a popular cruise service that offers various types of cruises on the Seine, including sightseeing tours, lunch cruises, and dinner cruises. They have a fleet of glass-covered boats, and also provide audio commentary in multiple languages which helps gain insights into the history and significance of the landmarks along the route.

Location: Near the Eiffel Tower

Recommended cruises

Learn More About Bateaux Parisiens
Bateaux Mouches

Bateaux Mouches

Bateaux Mouches is one of the oldest and most iconic Seine River cruise companies. The term "mouche" means "fly" in French, and the name originally referred to the small boats used in the Lyon area. Bateaux Mouches offers a range of cruises, from simple sightseeing tours to elaborate lunch and dinner cruises. Their boats have open decks, which are especially popular in good weather.

Location: In the 8th arrondissement, near the Pont de l'Alma

Recommended cruises

Learn More About Bateaux Mouches

Locating your Seine River cruise boarding points

Head to your check-in point mentioned on your voucher, where the staff will guide you to the right pier/gate and hand you your boarding pass. While you wait for your boat to arrive, you can take a leisurely stroll or grab a drink, and when the signs go up, you can hop on board and have your seat.

Bateaux Mouches: Pont de l'Alma

Address: Pont de l'Alma, 75008 Paris, France

Famous for: The Alma bridge, Eiffel Tower, Musée d'Art Moderne de la Ville de Paris

Bateaux Parisiens: Port de la Bourdonnais

Address: Port de la Bourdonnais, 75007 Paris, France

Famous for: Musée du quai Branly, Palais de l'Alma, Rue de l'Université

Know before you go on a Seine River cruise

Boarding Points

Most Seine River cruises begin near the foot of the Eiffel Tower.

Note: Boarding points may be different for different cruise options. Check your tickets for accurate information.

Timings

Sightseeing Cruises: 10am - 10pm

Lunch Cruises: Starts Between 12pm - 1pm

Dinner Cruises: Starts Between 6pm - 8:30pm

Note: Exact timings may be different for different cruise options. Check your tickets for accurate information.

Know More About Timings
Eiffel Tower in Paris with tourists enjoying a sunny day, featured in Paris Travel Guide.
  • Best time of year
    - High Season (June to mid-September and mid-to-late December): With minimal rain and clear skies, this is perfect for outdoor dining and enjoying the sunset.
    - Shoulder season (April to May and September to November): Ideal for a balance between pleasant weather and smaller crowds with occasional evening showers.
    - Low Season (January to March): Cold and damp with fewer crowds and inactive operators.
  • Best time of day
    - Sunset hours: View the city's iconic landmarks illuminated in the sunset golden light.
    - Daytime: Spend your cruise spotting the landmarks along the river in the daylight.
    - Dinner time: Enjoy delicious multi-course meals with twinkling city lights creating a magical atmosphere.
    - Lunch time: Savour a delicious lunch while also getting the chance to sightsee during broad daylight.
Know More
Common Cruise Route

Cruise down the picturesque left bank of the Seine River, where you'll be treated to breathtaking views of iconic landmarks including:

  • Eiffel Tower
  • Assemblee Nationale
  • Musee d'Orsay
  • Institut de France
  • Pantheon
  • Cite de la Mode
  • Hotel de Ville
  • Notre Dame
  • Conciergerie
  • Palace de Chalet
  • Chaillot's Palace

Finally, make a U-turn at the Sully Bridge, and cruise back along the right bank of the Seine to finish your journey.

Weather

As the cruise is outdoors, book a cruise on a day with good weather to fully enjoy the sights and sounds of Paris.

Average temperature:

  • Summers are generally warm, with highs ranging from 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
  • Winters can be cool, with average highs between 7°C to 10°C (45°F to 50°F).
  • Spring and autumn offer mild and pleasant weather.

Average daylight:

  • During the summer months, enjoy longer daylight hours, up to 16 hours.
  • Winter days are shorter, with around 8 hours of daylight.
  • Spring and autumn have around 10-12 hours of daylight.

Average wind speed:

Paris experiences moderate wind speeds, ranging from 10 to 24 kilometres per hour (6 to 15 miles per hour). However, wind conditions can vary, so check the specific forecast for your chosen cruise date.

seine river cruise tables
  • Restrooms: They are available on all boats
  • Life jackets: Stored on all boats for safety and readily accessible
  • First-aid kit: Ask the staff if needed in case of minor emergencies
  • Seating arrangements: There will be tables and chairs for comfortable dining or lounging
  • Bar: Serving soft drinks, juices, alcoholic beverages, and cocktails
  • Open decks: Boats generally have 1-2 open decks to enjoy the fresh air, river views, and city skyline
  • Live entertainment (on some cruises): Enjoy live music to create a festive atmosphere
Bateaux Mouches on Seine River
  • Arrive early: Arrive at the boarding point at least 30 minutes before departure to allow for check-in.
  • Boarding: Follow the boarding procedures from the crew members as you get on the cruise.
  • Smart casual attire: Most cruises do not have a strict dress code, but opting for smart casual attire is recommended.
  • Dietary restrictions: If you have any dietary requirements, remember to inform the cruise operator in advance so they can make the necessary arrangements.
  • Smoking: Smoking is generally prohibited inside the boats, but you can look for designated smoking areas.
  • Luggage: Most cruises have limited storage space, meaning that large bags or suitcases might not be allowed.
  • Outside food and drinks: Bringing outside food and drinks is not allowed on board.
  • Carry an ID: Carry a valid photo ID—passport, driver's license, or any official ID with a clear photograph—or a quick check-in.
Dress appropriately
  • Timing is everything: Depending on what you want to see, the time of your cruise can impact your experience. Daytime cruises best showcase the city's architecture, while evening cruises offer a beautifully lit-up Paris at night.
  • Dress appropriately: Even in the summer months, it can get chilly on the river, especially during evening cruises. Be sure to bring a jacket or wrap to stay warm.
  • Find the best spot: For the best views, try to get a seat on the top deck. If you're on a dinner cruise, a window seat will provide the most scenic dining experience.
  • Listen to the audio guide: The audio guide is full of useful insights about the landmarks you’ll pass on the cruise. It's a great way to deepen your understanding of the city and its history.
  • Review the menu: If you’re taking a lunch or dinner cruise, review the menu in advance to ensure it caters to any dietary needs or restrictions.
  • Capture the moment: Don't forget your camera! A Seine River cruise offers unique photo opportunities of Paris's most iconic landmarks
  • Wheelchair accessibility: Most modern cruise boats are wheelchair accessible, but it's wise to confirm beforehand. Additionally, check if there are any provisions for guests with hearing or visual impairments.

Top landmarks to spot on your Seine River cruise

Eiffel Tower

Eiffel Tower

A symbol of Paris and one of the most recognizable structures in the world. Go up to the observation decks for stunning views of the city.

Louvre Museum
Notre Dame
Orsay Museum
Grand Palais

Know more about the Seine River

seine river cruise

The Seine River runs through the heart of Paris in northern France. It is a geographically dividing landmark that unifies the city of lights. As you sail on the Seine, you can catch a glimpse of every eminent landmark in Paris.

The river banks were once home to popular figures like Van Gogh, Claude Monet, and Napolean Bonaparte. The banks have also been the subject of many popular impressionist paintings.

Things to see on a Seine River cruise

  • Left Bank: Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, Orsay Museum, Saint Chapelle, Palais Bourbon
  • Right Bank: The Louvre Museum, Notre Dame, The Centre Pompidou, Tuileries Garden, City Hall
Read More

Frequently asked questions about Seine River cruises in Paris

Which is the most popular Seine River cruise?

The ​Sightseeing cruise, perfect for a quick voyage through Paris, is the most popular cruise.

Which is the best Seine River cruise for families?

The combo Seine River cruise with a Paris City tour is perfect for families as it covers the best of the city from both land and water and is cost-effective.

What is the best Seine River cruise for couples?

The ​Seine River Dinner Cruise is perfect for couples as it is a very romantic experience. You can enjoy delicious French food and wine, accompanied by live music as you see the city come to life around you.

Do cruises operate year-round?

Yes, Seine River cruises operate throughout the year, though schedules may be adjusted based on seasonal considerations.

If I take a meal-based Seine River cruise, will I be able to get vegetarian food?

Yes, vegetarian options are available on meal-based Seine River cruises.

Do boats have restrooms?

Yes, Seine cruise ships are equipped with clean restrooms. Larger boats, especially those used for dining and longer cruises, often have multiple restrooms, sometimes even separate facilities for men and women. On smaller sightseeing boats, there might be a single unisex restroom.

Is the cruise wheelchair and stroller accessible?

Many boats from all the boat operators have wheelchair ramps and space for strollers. For sightseeing cruises, the primary challenge might be navigating through the crowd, especially during peak tourist seasons. The piers at the Bateaux Parisiens and the Bateaux-Mouches have disabled restrooms and an access ramp onto the boat.

Is there inside seating?

Many boats have both indoor and outdoor seating options. Open-air top decks provide the best views, as we know. Now, when it comes to inside seating, it is usually within a glass-covered area, giving you unobstructed views of the Parisian skyline and also protecting you from the elements.

Do Seine River cruises have live commentary?

Some cruises feature live guides who provide a more personalized and interactive narration, while others use pre-recorded audio guides. This commentary is generally offered in multiple languages through headphones or speakers, and helps you understand the rich history, architecture, and cultural significance of the landmarks viewed.

Can I choose my departure dock?

Tickets are generally tied to specific departure docks. But getting to the dock is fairly quick from central Paris locations. While Bateaux Parisiens depart from Eiffel Tower, Bateaux Mouches depart from Pont de l’Alma, which is at a 15 minutes walk from the Eiffel Tower.

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