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The Ultimate Guide to Help You Plan Your Seine River Cruise Visit

Seine River CruisePlan Your Visit

Seine River cruises offer a captivating journey through the heart of Paris, gliding past iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral. These leisurely voyages provide panoramic views of the city's enchanting architecture and vibrant atmosphere.

Seine River Cruises | Visitor Information at a Glance

Woman in Seine River Cruise

Sighseeing Cruises

Opening Hours: 10 am - 10 pm

Duration: 1-2 Hours

Must Know:

  • These cruises are perfect for a quick voyage through the city and provide stunning views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre Museum.
Lunch on Seine River Cruise

Lunch Cruises

Opening Hours: Starts Between 12 pm - 1 pm

Duration: 2 Hours

Must Know:

  • Lunch cruises are a great way to enjoy a meal while taking in the sights of Paris from the Seine River.
Seine Dinner Cruise

Dinner Cruises

Opening Hours: Starts Between 8 pm - 9:30 pm

Duration: 2.5-3 Hours

Must Know:

  • Dinner cruises are longer in duration and often include onboard entertainment such as live music or a cabaret show.

What is the Best Time to Go on a Seine River Cruise?

  • Spring (April - June): Experience mild weather and fewer crowds, ideal for enjoying the picturesque views and pleasant temperatures along the Seine River.
  • Fall (September - November): Enjoy warm temperatures and the vibrant hues of autumn foliage, providing a picturesque backdrop for your Seine River cruise.
  • Winter (December - February): While chilly, the holiday season adds a festive charm to the Seine River, despite the crowds that flock to Paris during this time.
  • Summer (July - August): Expect busy, hot days with crowds of tourists, but the long daylight hours offer ample time to enjoy a Seine River cruise amidst Paris's summer ambiance.

Seine River Cruises Boarding Points

Bateaux Mouches
Bateaux Parisiens

Departure point: Eiffel Tower, at Port de la Bourdonnais

Getting There:

  • By Metro: Métro line 9 - Trocadéro and Métro line 6 - Bir-Hakeim
  • By RER: RER C: Champs de Mars - Tour Eiffel station
  • By Bus: Buses 82, 42, 87 and 69

Departure point: Eiffel Tower, at Port de la Bourdonnais

Getting There:

  • By Metro: Métro line 9 - Trocadéro and Métro line 6 - Bir-Hakeim
  • By RER: RER C: Champs de Mars - Tour Eiffel station
  • By Bus: Buses 82, 42, 87 and 69

Know Before You Go on a Seine River Cruise

Facilities
Accessibility
Seine River Cruise with Kids
Rules & Regulations
What to Wear?
Washroom
  • Seine River cruise boats typically have indoor and outdoor seating areas.
  • Restrooms and a bar or cafe where you can purchase drinks and snacks are often available.
  • Lunch & Dinner menus are often available in 5+ languages.
  • Most Lunch & Dinner cruises offer live entertainment with an open dance floor.
  • You can also substitute your alcoholic beverage with a soft drink.
  • Some cruises also provide audio commentary or live tour guides.

wheelchair

  • The Bateaux-Mouches cruises near Pont de l'Alma bridge are wheelchair accessible.
  • The Bateaux Parisiens cruises near the Pont d'Iéna bridge offer assistance to wheelchair users.
  • However, it's recommended to check your tickets in advance to confirm the accessibility of the boat.
  • Some boats may have limited accessibility or require assistance to board.
small kid on the cruise in paris

  • Most Seine River cruise operators offer a special kids menu for lunch and dinner cruises.
  • The kids menu typically includes child-friendly options such as burgers, chicken nuggets, or pasta dishes.
  • Some operators also offer a vegetarian or gluten-free option for children with dietary restrictions.
  • Children's meals may also include a dessert or a soft drink, and some operators may provide coloring books or other activities to keep kids entertained during the meal.
  • Dress your child appropriately for the weather and bring a light jacket or sweater, even during the summer months.
rules and regulations
  • Smoking is generally not allowed on most Seine River cruise boats.
  • Arrive at the boarding point at least 15-30 minutes before the scheduled departure time.
  • Pets are generally not allowed on Seine River cruises, with the exception of service animals.
  • For safety reasons, passengers may be asked to wear life jackets during the cruise, especially in case of emergency.
  • Follow the instructions of the crew and staff on board.
what to wear
  • The dress code for Seine River cruises is generally casual, so you can wear comfortable clothing and shoes.
  • It's recommended to dress in layers, especially during the cooler months, as the temperature can vary on the boat.
  • For an evening cruise or a dinner cruise, you may want to dress slightly more formal than during the day, although there's no strict dress code.
  • Avoid wearing high heels or other uncomfortable shoes, as you may have to walk on slippery surfaces or climb stairs to access the boat.

Visitor Tips

  • Consider what time of day you want to take the cruise based on what you want to see. Day cruises are better for sightseeing the city, while evening cruises are better for seeing the city lit up at night.
  • Bring a jacket or wrap, especially if you are taking an evening cruise, because it can get chilly on the river.
  • If you want the best views, try to get a seat on the top deck. If you are on a dinner cruise, try to get a window seat so you can enjoy the view while you eat.
  • Take advantage of the audio guide to learn more about the landmarks you will see during the cruise.
  • If you are taking a lunch or dinner cruise, look at the menu beforehand to make sure there is food that you can eat.
  • Bring your camera so you can take pictures of the famous landmarks from a unique perspective.
  • Most cruise boats are wheelchair accessible, but it is always a good idea to confirm this beforehand. You should also ask about any services for guests with hearing or visual impairments.



Book Seine River Cruises Tickets

1-Hour Seine River Sightseeing Cruise from the Eiffel Tower
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Audio guide
More details
Seine River Morning Cruise with Breakfast
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr. 45 min.
Audio guide
More details
from
€29.90
1-Hour Paris Illuminated Evening Sightseeing Cruise
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr.
Audio guide
More details
from
€16.86
Batobus: Seine River Hop-On Hop-Off Boat Tour
Free cancellation
Extended validity
Instant confirmation
Flexible duration
More details

Frequently Asked Questions About Seine River Cruises

What does a Seine River cruise include?

A Seine River Cruise includes a scenic cruise along the Seine river with views of iconic Parisian landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and Orsay Museum.

How much do Seine River cruises cost?

Seine River Sightseeing cruises start at €15 while lunch and dinner cruises cost around €60 - €160.

What is the best time to take a Seine River cruise?

The best time to take a Seine River cruise is in Spring, between April and June.

What are the Seine River cruise opening hours?

Seine River cruises typically run between 10 am - 10 pm.

Will I get seasick on a Seine River cruise?

No, you won't get seasick on a Seine River cruise as the boats move at slow speeds and the water is generally calm.

Are pets allowed on a Seine River cruise?

Pets are generally not allowed on Seine River cruises, with the exception of service animals.

Can I take a Seine River cruise with a group?

Yes, you can take a Seine River cruise with a group. Be sure to book your tickets in bulk early.

Can I take a Seine River cruise with my kids?

Yes, Seine River cruises are suitable for all ages. However, children must be accompanied by an adult and supervised at all times.

Are the Seine River cruises wheelchair friendly?

Most Seine River cruises are wheelchair friendly. The boats have been fitted with ramps to provide easy access for passengers in wheelchairs.

What are the facilities on a Seine river cruise?

The cruises provide facilities such as toilets, snack bars and souvenir shops. Some boats even have open air decks for passengers to take in the sights and sounds of Paris!

How long is a Seine River cruise?

Most Seine River cruises last between 1 - 3 hours.

Is food and drinks served on board?

Most Seine river cruises provide snacks and drinks for purchase onboard. You can also book lunch or dinner cruises for a complete meal.