Paris at the First Lodges – Ducasse sur Seine Lunch Cruise

If you’re dreaming of cruising along the Seine with a view of Paris’s most iconic sights while enjoying a gourmet meal, the Ducasse sur Seine Lunch Cruise might catch your eye. It’s billed as Paris’s first 100% electric boat offering a smooth, eco-friendly ride through the heart of the city combined with a luxurious dining experience. We’ve gathered the details to help you decide if this is the right way for you to explore and indulge in the City of Light.

What immediately draws attention is the promise of spectacular views coupled with fine French cuisine. Plus, the boat being electric means it’s environmentally friendly — a nice touch in a city increasingly conscious of sustainability. We also like that guaranteed window seats ensure you’ll get a good look at Paris’s famous landmarks. On the flip side, the price is on the higher side, and some reviews mention customer service issues, so it’s worth weighing your priorities.

If you’re someone who appreciates good food, stunning scenery, and a quiet, eco-conscious boat, this experience could be just what you’re looking for. It also fits nicely if you’re keen on a leisurely, upscale outing. However, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer more flexibility in your sightseeing, this might not be the best fit.

Key Points

• Elegant dining on the water with a four-course French meal prepared onboard.
• Excellent view guarantee with window seats to see Paris’s landmarks.
• Eco-friendly boat with a tenth of the emissions of traditional diesel boats.
• Select from nearly 100 wines, perfect for wine lovers.
• Group size is limited to a maximum of 9 travelers, ensuring a more intimate experience.
• Non-refundable booking — plan ahead and be sure of your schedule.

What Is the Ducasse sur Seine Lunch Cruise?

This cruise offers a unique take on the classic Seine river experience. Instead of a simple sightseeing tour, you’re treated to a two-hour voyage along Paris’s most celebrated waterways. The boat itself is innovative — entirely electric — which means less noise, a smoother ride, and a smaller carbon footprint.

From the start point at 19 Port Debilly, you’ll board a sleek, modern boat designed for comfort and style. The cruise begins around 12:15 pm, giving you a perfect midday break to explore Paris from a different perspective.

Onboard, you’ll indulge in a 4-course meal curated by chef Pierre Marty, featuring carefully prepared French dishes. The menu includes three starters, three mains, and three desserts, which should appeal to all palates. Unlike many tours, meals are prepared entirely on the vessel, highlighting the quality and freshness of the ingredients.

The Highlights: Why This Cruise Stands Out

Stunning Views and Guaranteed Window Seats

One of the biggest selling points is the guaranteed window seats. As you cruise past the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, the Notre-Dame Cathedral, and other landmarks, you’ll have unobstructed views. The boat glides smoothly down the Seine, giving you ample opportunity to snap photos or simply soak in the scenery.

Gourmet French Cuisine

Chef Pierre Marty’s onboard cooking elevates this experience from mere sightseeing to a dining event. You’ll enjoy a carefully curated four-course lunch with options for starters, mains, and desserts. Many guests find the food “refined and modern,” which adds a touch of class to the trip.

Extensive Wine Selection

Wine lovers will appreciate the almost 100 references available from the onboard wine list. This extensive selection allows guests to pair their courses with a variety of French wines, although drinks are at your own expense. The variety means there’s likely something for all, whether you prefer reds, whites, or sparkling.

Eco-Friendly Innovation

The boat being electric is a significant plus for environmentally conscious travelers. It produces 10 times less CO₂ emissions than traditional diesel-powered boats, aligning with Paris’s broader efforts to reduce its carbon footprint.

What to Expect on the Day

The Itinerary

You’ll begin at 19 Port Debilly at 12:15 pm, arriving at least 20 minutes early. The cruise lasts approximately two hours, so expect to be back around 2:15 pm. The boat is small — with a maximum of 9 travelers — which makes for a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere.

The Experience

Once onboard, you’re greeted with a comfortable setting. The furnishings are sleek but unobtrusive, ensuring the focus remains on the views and the meal. As the boat gently glides along the Seine, you’ll enjoy the sight of Paris’s most famous monuments from a peaceful vantage point.

Chef Pierre Marty’s team prepares the meal fresh on the boat. Guests can select from a variety of starters, mains, and desserts, with each course thoughtfully crafted to showcase modern French cuisine. The service is discreet but attentive.

The Wine and Beverages

While drinks aren’t included in the price, the wine list’s extensive selection offers plenty of options for pairing. Whether you’re a seasoned wine connoisseur or just enjoy a glass with your meal, you’ll find something interesting to try.

Practical Details and Considerations

Cost and Value

At around $196.22 per person, this tour isn’t exactly budget-friendly. However, when you factor in the gourmet meal, the scenic views, and the eco-friendly boat, many would say it offers a fair level of luxury and a memorable experience—though some might find it a bit pricey for just two hours.

Booking and Availability

Most travelers book about 65 days in advance, indicating that it’s popular — especially as a special occasion or treat. The experience is confirmed within 48 hours of booking, but be aware it’s non-refundable, so double-check your schedule.

Accessibility and Group Size

With a maximum of 9 guests, you’ll enjoy a more personalized experience. This small group setting also means fewer crowds and a more relaxed atmosphere, but it also means limited availability, so plan ahead.

What to Wear

Proper attire is required, so dress smart-casual at minimum. Since you’ll be inside a boat with windows, there’s no need for heavy outdoor gear, but comfortable shoes and a jacket might be wise.

Meeting Point and Transportation

The meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to access. Arrive at least 20 minutes early to ensure a smooth start.

Authentic Perspectives: What Travelers Say

While many reviews are positive, a notable one from Brooke_C in October 2023 mentions “Terrible customer service” and regrets booking the cruise. Though this is just one review, it’s a reminder that service quality can vary, so manage expectations accordingly.

On the other hand, the overwhelmingly positive feedback highlights the excellent wine list as a favorite feature. Guests appreciate the well-prepared cuisine and intimate setting.

Who is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for foodies and wine lovers who want an upscale, intimate Parisian outing. It’s suitable for those who appreciate modern French cuisine and eco-conscious travel. The small group format makes it perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or special celebrations.

However, if your priority is a budget-friendly tour or you prefer a more flexible sightseeing schedule, you might want to consider other options. Also, if customer service is a critical factor for you, research recent reviews or contact the provider beforehand.

The Sum Up

The Ducasse sur Seine Lunch Cruise offers a refined way to enjoy Paris from the water, combining gourmet dining with eco-friendly innovation. The guaranteed window seats ensure you’ll get fantastic views of landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, while the extensive wine list adds a luxurious touch. It’s a peaceful, intimate experience that’s well-suited for those celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting a memorable meal with a view.

That said, the price reflects the level of comfort and cuisine, and some travelers have encountered less-than-stellar customer service. So, if you’re seeking a relaxing, high-quality cruise with excellent food and wine in a small group, this could be a very memorable choice.

Just keep in mind that the experience is quite curated and formal — so if you’re after a more casual or flexible outing, you might prefer a different Seine cruise. Overall, for lovers of fine food, wine, and quiet elegance, it’s a lovely way to spend a couple of hours in Paris.

FAQ

Is the boat electric?
Yes, the Ducasse sur Seine is Paris’s first 100% electric boat, producing significantly less CO₂ than traditional diesel yachts.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket includes a two-hour cruise with guaranteed window seats and a four-course lunch prepared onboard. Drinks are not included.

How many people are on the boat?
The maximum group size is 9 travelers, which helps create a more intimate and personalized experience.

Can I choose my wine?
While the tour includes a selection of nearly 100 wines, guests pay at their own expense. The extensive list offers a variety of options.

What should I wear?
Proper attire is required — smart casual is recommended. Dress comfortably but neatly, considering Paris’s generally stylish vibe.

Is this experience suitable for children?
The tour is geared towards adults; the focus on fine dining and a formal setting may not be ideal for young children.

What if I need to cancel?
The booking is non-refundable, so be sure of your schedule before booking.

How early should I arrive?
Arrive at least 20 minutes before departure at 12:15 pm to ensure a smooth start.

Is this experience good for special occasions?
Absolutely. The elegant setting and gourmet meal make it ideal for celebrations or romantic outings.

Are there any other similar experiences?
Yes, there are other Seine river cruises and private tours, but this one stands out for its cuisine and eco credentials. Check similar options if you want more flexibility or lower cost.

Hopefully, this detailed look helps you figure out whether the Ducasse sur Seine Lunch Cruise fits your Paris plans. It’s a special way to enjoy the city’s iconic sights with a touch of French elegance — just make sure it aligns with your expectations and budget.