New Year’s Eve Seine Cruise and Dinner in Paris

If you’re considering ringing in the new year on the Seine, you’re in for an experience that promises stunning vistas, good food, and lively music. We’ve come across a popular option that offers just that—a New Year’s Eve Seine cruise and dinner in Paris, hosted by ParisCityVision. While it’s not perfect, it offers a memorable way to soak up the festive atmosphere of the City of Light.

What we really like about this cruise is how it combines beautiful river views with a festive vibe, making it a unique celebration. The chance to see some of Paris’s most iconic monuments illuminated at night while enjoying a gourmet meal is a definite plus. Plus, the lively DJ and dancing make it feel like a true New Year’s party on the water.

On the flip side, some reviews point out that the experience isn’t flawless—from foggy windows that block views to the layout of the tables. The price also gives some pause, especially considering the food and overall ambiance. That said, this tour seems best suited for travelers who want a lively, scenic way to welcome the new year, especially if they enjoy good wine, a festive atmosphere, and are okay with some minor imperfections.

If you’re dreaming of celebrating New Year’s in Paris and want to combine sightseeing with celebration, this cruise could be just what you’re looking for. It offers a blend of elegance, fun, and the thrill of spending midnight near the Eiffel Tower—an unforgettable way to start 2025.

Key Points

• Scenic Views: Pass by the most beautiful monuments of Paris, lit up for the night
• Gourmet Dinner: Enjoy a carefully curated menu featuring foie gras, scallops, beef tenderloin, and cheese
• Festive Atmosphere: Dance into the new year with a live DJ and upbeat music
• Convenient Meeting Point: Located at Quai de Bercy next to the Tolbiac Bridge
• Limited Windows: Expect fogged-up windows and possible viewing restrictions
• Price Point: Around $527 per person—consider whether the experience matches this value

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

Starting around 10 PM (depending on the schedule you book), you’ll meet at Cour Saint Emilion, next to the Tolbiac Bridge, where you’ll board a “La Marina” boat. From there, the adventure begins as you float along the Seine, offering views of Paris’s most celebrated landmarks—like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower—facing the river. The boat’s bay windows (if available) promise some of the best views, but reviews note that fogged-up windows can sometimes obscure the scenery, which is definitely something to keep in mind if panoramic views are high on your list.

Once on board, you’ll settle into individual linen-covered tables, creating a cozy, elegant dining setting amid the festive decor. The dinner is a specially prepared menu for the occasion, beginning with champagne and appetizers to toast the new year. The menu features high-end ingredients: Mi-cuit of foie gras with seasonal chutney, seared scallops with saffron risotto, and beef tenderloin with truffle jus. For cheese lovers, there’s a plate of aged cheeses selected by a master cheesemaker, followed by a midnight chocolate delight. The meal also includes half a bottle of wine per person (choices like Chardonnay 2024 or Puisseguin Saint-Emilion AOC 2022), water, and coffee.

As the clock approaches midnight, the boat’s atmosphere shifts into celebration mode. A live singer adds a musical backdrop, but the real highlight is the DJ, who keeps the energy up late into the night, encouraging dancing and fun.

The cruise lasts approximately 4.5 hours, ending around 1 AM. During that time, you’ll get a chance to enjoy the Parisian lights, the sounds of the city, and the company of fellow travelers—all while ringing in the new year in a unique setting.

The Good and the Not-So-Good

Based on reviews, many guests find the organization well-managed and praise the delicious food. One traveler from the United States mentioned, “Good food,” and a Brazilian guest called it “a wonderful New Year’s Eve.” The wine selection also earns positive remarks, with many appreciating the quality of drinks included.

However, not all feedback is glowing. Some guests describe disappointing experiences, citing fogged windows, crowded tables, and a less-than-stellar music system. One traveler from Germany said, “The windows fogged up, so we couldn’t really see anything,” which definitely impacts the sightseeing aspect. Another noted that the cruise started at 10 PM and lasted until 1 AM, making the listed 4.5 hours a bit of a stretch.

Pricing is another consideration. At over $500 per person, this isn’t a small splurge. While many say it’s good value for a special occasion, others might find the experience somewhat uneven relative to the cost, especially if the views or comfort don’t meet expectations.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for those wanting a lively, festive way to celebrate New Year’s in Paris. If you enjoy dancing, good wine, and a special dinner, you’ll likely have a good time. It’s also a good pick if you want to combine a scenic tour with your party—just keep in mind that viewing windows might fog up and that the overall experience can be a bit crowded or rushed.

If you’re seeking a quiet, romantic evening with uninterrupted views and a more elegant setting, this may not be the perfect choice. Plus, if you’re sensitive to crowds or weather conditions, or if you’re on a tighter budget, you might want to look elsewhere.

FAQ

Will I see the Eiffel Tower at midnight?
Yes, the cruise offers a stop near the Eiffel Tower at midnight, so you can enjoy the fireworks and celebrations from the water’s vantage point.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the cruise, crew, a special New Year’s Eve menu, drinks (including wine, water, and coffee), a live singer, and a DJ for dancing. The tables are linen-covered and individual, when available.

Is there a vegetarian or child’s menu?
Yes, there’s a child’s menu that includes puff pastry, poultry fillet, potatoes, vegetables, and a soft drink. Vegetarian options aren’t specifically mentioned, but it’s worth checking in advance if needed.

Are there any restrictions I should know?
Pets, smoking, luggage, or large bags aren’t allowed on board. Also, cancellations need to be made by email at least 8 days in advance to avoid penalties.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise runs approximately 4.5 hours, with departure times varying—be sure to check your booking details.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 3 days before the event for a full refund. Cancellations later than that won’t be refunded.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, you’ll need to meet at the designated meeting point at Cour Saint Emilion next to the Tolbiac Bridge.

Final Thoughts

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Paris aboard a Seine cruise offers a lively, scenic way to welcome the new year. The blend of iconic views, a gourmet dinner, and energetic music creates a memorable atmosphere, especially if you enjoy festive environments. While some guests report foggy windows and crowded tables, many appreciate the overall experience, describing it as “well organized” and “a lovely evening.”

This tour is best suited for travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a fun, party-like atmosphere. If your goal is a peaceful, romantic night with uninterrupted views, or if you’re looking for a more subdued celebration, you might find this cruise a bit too lively or imperfect. Still, for those who want to toast the new year with a splash of Parisian glamour, it’s likely to be a night to remember.

In the end, it’s a celebration that captures the spirit of Paris—joyous, vibrant, and a little bit dramatic. Just remember to manage your expectations around the views and the crowd, and you’re in for an unforgettable New Year’s Eve adventure.

You can check availability for your dates here: