Early evening Dinner Cruise with drinks by Bateaux Parisiens

Thinking about seeing Paris from a different perspective? This early evening dinner cruise offered by Bateaux Parisiens might just fit the bill. It’s a popular choice for travelers wanting a relaxed, scenic way to start their evening, with the city’s most famous landmarks illuminated in the twilight. While I haven’t personally been on this exact cruise, I’ve looked into what makes it a compelling experience — and where it might fall short.

Two things we really like about this cruise are its stunning views — especially during sunset — and the quality of the food and wine. The meal is a three-course affair, offering a taste of classic French cuisine with options for different palates, all enjoyed with a glass of wine or champagne. The chance to pass beneath iconic bridges and see landmarks like the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and the Eiffel Tower from the water offers a perspective you simply can’t get from street level.

A possible consideration? The reviews suggest that the service can feel rushed, especially during the meal, and the portion sizes are on the smaller side. Also, there’s no live commentary about the sights, which might leave some guests wondering what they’re looking at unless they use the QR code or ask their waiter. Still, this cruise is better suited for those wanting a relaxing, scenic dinner rather than a detailed guided tour.

This experience suits couples, small groups, or anyone looking for an elegant way to unwind after a day of sightseeing. If you’re after an up-close view of Paris’s shimmering lights and a peaceful dining setting, this cruise can be a great choice. Just keep in mind that if you want detailed storytelling about the sights, you’ll need to rely on the QR codes or your own research.

Key Points

• Beautiful views from a glass-canopy boat make for a memorable evening.
• A three-course French menu paired with wine offers great flavor and ambiance.
• The cruise departs early in the evening at 6:15 pm, leaving the rest of your night free.
• No live commentary means you’ll need to ask questions or use QR codes for details.
• Small portions and somewhat rushed service are common critiques.
• Excellent service and knowledgeable staff are often highlighted in reviews.

Why This Dinner Cruise Stands Out

If you’re someone who values scenic views and a romantic setting, this cruise hits the mark. The boat is a sleek, glass-enclosed vessel, which means even if the weather isn’t perfect, you’ll still be able to enjoy the spectacle outside. The route covers many of Paris’s key sights—like the Musée d’Orsay, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre—each one framed beautifully against the evening sky.

We loved the way the views come alive at night. Seeing the Eiffel Tower lit up from the water is truly magical, and the cruise’s timing—departing at 6:15 pm—lets you catch the sunset and watch the city light up. Many reviews mention how spectacular the sights are during this golden hour, and the nighttime illumination adds a layer of glamour that’s hard to match.

The food quality is another highlight. Guests frequently mention how the dishes are well-prepared, with a good variety, including vegetarian options. The chef’s effort shows in the presentation and flavor, making the meal more than just a side note to the views. Plus, the inclusion of wine, champagne, mineral water, and coffee enhances the overall experience, making it feel special without breaking the bank.

The Itinerary: What You Can Expect

The cruise begins at the Port de la Bourdonnais, conveniently located at the feet of the Eiffel Tower. This spot is perfect for snapping some photos before or after the cruise. Once aboard, you’ll start your journey down the Seine, passing under the Pont Alexandre III, which is notably a gift from Tsar Alexander III. It’s a stunning bridge, and passing beneath it on a boat feels like being part of a fairy tale.

The boat will glide past the Dome des Invalides, a monument that houses Napoleon’s tomb, offering a sense of history alongside the visual feast. As you approach the Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris, you’ll be greeted with views of the Notre Dame Cathedral—especially impressive with its gothic silhouette against the evening sky.

Further along, expect to see the Île Saint Louis, the historic heart of Paris, with its charming architecture. Passing under the Pont Marie, locals say making a wish when you go underneath might just work—though that’s more folklore than fact! The Conciergerie, where Marie-Antoinette and Louis XVI were imprisoned, adds a touch of revolutionary history to your scenic journey.

As you near the Louvre, you’ll get a close-up view of its impressive facade, which looks especially spectacular when lit up at night. The route also takes you past the Place de la Concorde, the site of many historic executions, with its Egyptian obelisk standing tall amidst the city lights.

Throughout the cruise, the service team will serve your meal with efficiency, though some reviews mention that it can feel a bit rushed—likely because the cruise duration is just over an hour and fifteen minutes. The food is served at a private table, which adds a touch of intimacy to the experience.

What the Food and Drinks Are Like

Guests consistently praise the quality of the French cuisine, describing it as well-cooked and beautifully presented. The menu is à la carte, with options to suit vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. The included wine, champagne, mineral water, and coffee elevate the dining experience, making it feel indulgent but without excessive expense.

However, some reviews note small portion sizes and a rushed service, with courses sometimes arriving before you’re finished with the previous one. If you’re a hearty eater or hoping for a leisurely pace, keep this in mind. But if you’re more interested in the overall ambiance and views, the food will still satisfy.

Guests have also mentioned that photographers onboard try to sell photos during the cruise, which is an optional purchase but worth noting if you’re hoping to keep the experience purely about the moment.

The Pros and Cons

Pros

• Exceptional views of Paris landmarks during sunset and nighttime illumination
• Comfortable, modern boat with a glass canopy for optimal sightlines
• High-quality French cuisine and a good selection of drinks
• Convenient departure point at Eiffel Tower foot
• Private tables for a more intimate dining experience
• Knowledgeable staff with attentive service

Cons

• Service can feel rushed, especially during meal service
• Portion sizes are small for some guests
• No live commentary on sights, relying on QR codes or questions
• Photo sales during the cruise might be a turnoff for some
• Limited time for sightseeing due to the cruise length

Who Is This Cruise For?

This experience is ideal for couples celebrating something special, small groups wanting to enjoy the sights in a relaxed setting, or anyone seeking a romantic introduction to Paris at night. If you’re after a scenic, wine-and-dine experience without the fuss of a full-length tour, this cruise offers a balance of beautiful views and good food.

It’s also perfect if you want a quick, early dinner that frees up the rest of your evening for exploring or more activities. However, if you prefer detailed commentary or a more leisurely pace, you might find this cruise a bit too brisk.

Final Thoughts

The Early evening Dinner Cruise with drinks by Bateaux Parisiens is a solid choice for travelers wanting to combine sightseeing with a meal in a beautiful setting. The combination of stunning views, good food, and great service delivers a memorable experience, especially at sunset and night.

While some aspects like the rushed service or small portions are worth considering, they don’t overshadow the overall charm of cruising past Paris’s most iconic landmarks from a comfortable boat. If you’re craving a romantic, scenic dinner that’s easy to fit into your itinerary, this cruise could be just the ticket.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available on the à la carte menu, making it accessible for different dietary preferences.

What time does the cruise start?
It departs at 6:15 pm, giving you an early evening experience that leaves the rest of your night free.

Does the cruise include live commentary?
No, there’s no live narration onboard, but a QR code at the table provides information about the sights, and wait staff are helpful if you ask questions.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.

Are drinks included?
Yes, a glass of kir or champagne (depending on your option), wine, mineral water, and coffee are included.

Can I cancel this experience?
Yes, there’s free cancellation available if you cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.

Is it accessible for people with service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed onboard.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is at the Port de la Bourdonnais, near the Eiffel Tower.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed for children, the cruise is generally suitable for most travelers, though small kids might find the boat a bit confined with limited space.

What should I bring?
Bring your camera fully charged, and dress according to the season—an evening in Paris can be cooler, especially on the water.

Whether you’re after a romantic date night, an elegant way to kick off your trip, or just want a different view of Paris’s famous sights, this dinner cruise offers an experience to remember — with a few quirks, but plenty of charm.