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Everything You Need to Know About the Seine River Cruise Timings
Sightseeing cruises timings
A Seine River sightseeing cruise is one of the most famous experiences in Paris, offering a breathtaking journey through the heart of the city. As you glide along the historic waterway, you’ll pass by iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and Musée d’Orsay, all while soaking in the romantic atmosphere. The sightseeing cruises are operated by one of the two below-mentioned operators.
Bateaux Mouches
Bateaux Parisiens
Iconic Seine River cruises offering open-air decks and panoramic views of Paris’s landmarks
April to September (High season)
10am to 10:30pm - Departures are scheduled every 30 minutes.
October to March (Low season)
10:15am to 9:30pm - Departures are scheduled every 45 minutes
Duration of Cruise - Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes
Know more about the original iconic Seine cruiser
Guided commentary on glass-covered boats make for a memorable Parisian experience.
January 6, 2025 - February 14, 2025
- Mondays to Thursdays: Departures every 40–45 minutes:
10:30am - 9:20pm (last departure extended to 10:00pm in case of high demand). - Fridays: Departures every 30–40 minutes:
10:30am - 10:00pm (last departure extended to 10:30pm in case of high demand). - Saturdays: Departures every 30 minutes:
10:30am - 10:00pm (last departure extended to 10:30pm in case of high demand). - Sundays: Departures every 40 minutes:
10:30am - 9:20pm (last departure extended to 10:00pm in case of high demand).
Winter Holidays (February 15, 2025 - April 3, 2025)
Departures every 30–40 minutes:
10:00am - 10:30pm (last departure extended to 10:30pm in case of high demand).
Operator
Boarding time
Duration
Operates
Highlights
Menu
Book
Bateaux Mouches
12pm to 12:15pm
1.45 hours
Weekends only
Classic route with onboard pianist & 3-course meal
Bateaux Parisiens
12:45pm
2 hours
Daily
Glass-covered boats offering best views of the city with a classic French meal
Theo’s Boat
12pm
2.5 hours
Daily
Intimate seating, great for small groups, and slow scenic cruising
La Marina
11:45am
1.5 hours
Daily
Affordable lunch option with panoramic river views
Dinner cruises timings
Many Seine River dinner cruises are timed to coincide with the Eiffel Tower's nightly light show.
Bateaux Mouches
Experience a classic Parisian evening on the Seine with Bateaux Mouches. This spacious, open-air boat offers sweeping views of illuminated landmarks and a refined French dinner accompanied by live music.
Timings:
- Boarding: 8pm – 8:30pm
- Departure: 8:30pm
- Return: 10:45pm
Duration: ~2h 15m
Highlights:
- Live music on board
- Open-air upper deck for skyline views
- 4-course French menu
Bateaux Mouches dinner cruise options
- Bateaux Mouches Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music & French Menu
Bateaux Parisiens
Dine aboard a glass-covered boat with panoramic windows and elegant interiors. Choose between early or late departures to match your evening plans and catch the Eiffel Tower sparkle.
Timings:
- Departure 1: 6:15pm → Return: 7:30pm
- Departure 2: 8:30pm → Return: 11pm
Highlights:
- Premium seating with landmark views
- Refined dinner with optional upgrades
- Live music on select cruises
Explore Bateaux Parisiens dinner cruises
- Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Dinner Cruise with French Premium Menu
Theo’s Boat
A cozy, modern dinner cruise perfect for couples or small groups. Theo’s Boat offers two evening departures for a more intimate and relaxed river experience.
Timings:
- Early Cruise: Boarding 5:30pm → Return: 8pm
- Late Cruise: Boarding 9pm → Return: 11:30pm
Duration: 2 hours
Highlights:
- Smaller boat = more personal atmosphere
- Locally inspired 3-course menu
- Great for date nights
Best Theo’s Boat cruise tickets
- Théo Boat Seine River Dinner Cruise with Italian Menu
Le Diamant Bleu
This stylish floating venue offers a luxury dining experience with floor-to-ceiling windows and an upscale ambiance. Ideal for celebrating something special.
Timings:
- Boarding: 7:30pm
- Departure: 8:30pm
- Return: 11:20pm
Highlights:
- Sleek modern interiors
- DJ or live music on select nights
- Full-service dinner & bar
View Le Diamant Bleu cruise options
- Le Diamant Bleu Seine River Dinner Cruise with French Premium Menu
Maxim’s Dinner Cruise
Hosted by the legendary Maxim’s of Paris, this elegant dinner cruise blends haute cuisine with a luxurious river setting. A great pick for fans of vintage glam.
Timings:
- Early Cruise: Boarding 6:15pm → Return: 8pm
- Late Cruise: Boarding 8:45pm → Return: 11:15pm
Highlights:
- Gourmet French menu from Maxim’s chefs
- Stylish Art Deco ambiance
- Ideal for anniversaries or celebrations
See Maxim’s cruise options
- Maxim's Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music and Bistro Menu
Choose your perfect Seine cruise experience
Batobus hop-on-hop-off cruise timings
Explore Paris at your own pace with the Batobus — a flexible hop-on-hop-off cruise that lets you discover 9 iconic riverbank stops including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre.
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday: 10am – 5pm
- Friday to Sunday: 10am – 7pm
Boats run every 25–30 minutes
First and last departures are from the Eiffel Tower stop.
📍 Key stops include: Eiffel Tower, Musée d'Orsay, Louvre, Notre-Dame, Hôtel de Ville, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Champs-Élysées
Explore Batobus routes & passesWhat is the best time to go on a Seine River cruise?
Weekday vs weekend
- Weekday: For a calm and relaxed Seine cruise, weekdays are your best bet. With fewer crowds, you’ll enjoy a peaceful experience, especially if you book just before sunset – the perfect time for stunning views.
- Weekend: Weekends bring a lively buzz to Paris, and Seine cruises are no exception. Be sure to book ahead, as spots fill quickly. From sightseeing to romantic evening cruises, there’s something for everyone.
Best time of the year
- April to October: The warm weather and golden light make these months ideal for cruising. Whether it’s a sunny day or a breezy afternoon, the river’s charm is undeniable.
- June to August: Summer is quieter than spring, as many Parisians head off on vacation. Enjoy sunny days with the occasional rain – just keep an umbrella handy!
Best time of the day
At night: Paris at night is pure magic. As the city lights up, it shimmers in gold, creating a romantic and unforgettable backdrop for your Seine cruise. If you’re visiting during the busy tourist season, try to catch the first or last departure of the day—they’re usually quieter and feel extra special.
Frequently asked questions about Seine River cruise timings
Are there specific timings for sunset or dinner cruises?
Yes, sunset cruises usually begin an hour before sunset to offer the best views. Dinner cruises typically start between 7:30 PM and 8:30 PM, depending on the season and operator.
Does the timing of the cruise change with seasons?
Yes, timings may vary seasonally. In summer, more departures are scheduled due to extended daylight hours. Check with your specific operator for accurate schedules.
How far in advance should I arrive for boarding?
Arriving 15-30 minutes before your cruise time is generally recommended to ensure smooth boarding.
Are morning cruises better for sightseeing?
Morning cruises are perfect for sightseeing as the light is softer, and landmarks are less crowded. It's a serene way to start the day in Paris.
Do Seine River cruise timings align with the Eiffel Tower light show?
Many dinner and evening cruises are timed to pass by the Eiffel Tower when it sparkles, usually at the top of every hour after dusk.
Can I take a Seine River cruise in winter?
Absolutely! Winter cruises often have heated interiors, and the twinkling lights of Paris landmarks create a cozy and enchanting atmosphere.
Are Seine River cruises available on Sundays?
Yes, Seine River cruises operate seven days a week, including Sundays.
Is there a time limit for staying on the cruise?
Cruises have set durations, and guests disembark at the end of the tour, which is generally around 2 hours. Hop-on-hop-off cruises offer flexible boarding from any of the stops.