Overnight Stay onboard Paris Seine River Dinner with Cruise

If you’re dreaming of celebrating a special moment or simply want to see Paris from a new perspective, this overnight dinner cruise on the Seine might catch your eye. We haven’t personally taken this exact tour, but based on reviews and details, it offers a unique twist on the classic river cruise experience. It combines sightseeing, gourmet dining, live music, and a night’s stay onboard a luxury boat — an option that could make your trip truly memorable.

What we genuinely like about this experience is how it elevates the typical Seine cruise into a more luxurious and intimate event. Plus, the idea of spending a night on the water, waking up to views of the city, is appealing for those seeking something different. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that it’s not suitable for children, and the price point might seem steep if you’re just after a casual sightseeing trip. This experience would suit couples celebrating an anniversary, lovers of fine dining, or anyone looking to mark a special occasion with a unique overnight escape in Paris.

Key Points

• Luxury overnight experience combining sightseeing, dining, and sleeping on the Seine.
• Ideal for special events like anniversaries or romantic getaways.
• Includes gourmet 3-course dinner, live music, and a continental breakfast.
• Optional upgrades include a suite with private spa and jacuzzi.
• Limited to adult travelers, with no children allowed.
• Good value for those wanting a high-end, all-in-one Paris experience.

What Is the Experience Like?

This tour offers more than just a typical river cruise. Instead of a short evening sail, you’re booked for an entire night onboard a private boat, docked along the Seine’s UNESCO-listed banks. The experience starts at 6 pm from Port de la Rapée, where you’ll board your floating hotel. From there, the evening unfolds with some of Paris’s most famous sights passing by your window, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and Place de la Concorde.

One of the standout features is the 3-course gourmet dinner served with drinks, complemented by live music—a singer that adds to the romantic atmosphere. As one review noted, “Great boat, tasty dinner, friendly crew,” and the views of the Eiffel Tower from the boat are often described as spectacular. The dinner is a highlight, offering a special meal in a unique setting.

After dinner, the night stays lively with live music and dancing, giving the evening a celebratory feel. The boat stays docked during the night, allowing guests to sleep comfortably in their cabins or suites. Those who upgrade to a suite get access to a private spa, Jacuzzi, and sauna—a real treat for anyone wanting to unwind after a day of exploring.

The Itinerary in Detail

Unlike standard daytime cruises, this experience is about the full overnight immersion. The actual stops are more visual than physical, as the boat cruises past iconic Paris landmarks. The cruise route includes the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, the Louvre, Place de la Concorde, the Grand Palais, the National Assembly, the Orsay Museum, and the Cité de la Mode et du Design.

While you won’t be hopping off at each site, the journey provides an excellent view of these landmarks from the water, often illuminated at night. The boat passes by several key sights, giving you a sense of the city’s grandeur, especially at dusk and into the evening.

The reviews highlight that the views are excellent, with Beth commenting on how she loved seeing the Eiffel Tower up close from the boat. The experience is most appreciated for its combination of sightseeing and luxury, rather than active exploration or guided tours at each site.

Dining and Entertainment

The dinner itself is described as a 3-course gourmet meal. While some reviews praise the tasty food and friendly crew, others mention that the overall quality of the meal may vary. Still, the ambiance of dining on the water, with Paris lights shimmering around you, makes for a memorable experience.

Live music is part of the package, creating a lively and intimate atmosphere. The singer’s performance is often praised, adding an extra layer of charm to the evening.

Accommodation: What’s It Like?

The overnight stay is in a cabin or suite, depending on the option you choose. The basic cabins are small but reportedly adequate, with Beth noting they offer perfect views of the Eiffel Tower. The suite upgrade offers a private spa, Jacuzzi, and sauna, which many see as a luxurious addition, especially for romantic getaways.

One of the reviews from Noemi highlights the appeal of sleeping on the boat: “We stayed in the suite amour with a private spa and enjoyed the jacuzzi and sauna. The staff was really nice.” It’s important to note that only the suite option comes with the private spa amenities.

Practical Details and Considerations

Pricing is roughly $360.70 for a group of up to two people, which might seem high but includes almost everything: the cruise, dinner, live music, one night on board, and breakfast. Additional expenses like drinks (other than the included) and transport to and from the meeting point are not included.

The experience lasts about 24 hours, starting at 6 pm and ending back at the dock. It’s designed for most adults, but children are not allowed, likely due to the late hours and luxury setting.

The tour accepts cash only in euros onboard (no Amex), and WiFi is available during your stay. It’s a private experience, meaning only your booked group will participate, adding an exclusive feel.

What Are the Downsides?

While this cruise offers a romantic, high-end experience, there are some drawbacks. The rooms, especially the standard cabins, are quite small, which could be uncomfortable for some. The hygiene and decor of the rooms have been criticized by some guests, with one reviewer mentioning “décor façon d un cercueil” and “hygiène douteuse,” which might raise concerns for those sensitive to cleanliness or aesthetics.

The quality of the dinner has also received mixed reviews, with some travelers finding it just average. Plus, the experience is not suited for children or families, so if you’re traveling with kids, this might not be the best choice.

Who Would Love This Tour?

This overnight cruise is best suited for couples celebrating a special milestone, lovers of fine dining, or anyone wanting a unique way to experience Paris. If you’re looking for a romantic, luxurious stay on the Seine with stunning views and live music, you’ll likely enjoy it. However, if you prefer a more budget-friendly or casual experience, this might feel a bit too indulgent.

Final Thoughts

This experience offers a rare chance to combine sightseeing, fine dining, and an overnight stay in a single package. It shines brightest for those after a romantic escape or a special celebration in Paris, with the added thrill of sleeping on the Seine. The beautiful views, combined with the gourmet meal and live music, create a memorable atmosphere that many guests found appealing.

That said, it’s not perfect—rooms can be small and some aspects of hygiene and decor have room for improvement. The price reflects the luxury and exclusivity, so it’s worth considering whether this aligns with your travel style and budget.

In the end, if you’re after a sophisticated, intimate experience that feels like a true Parisian adventure, this cruise could be a fantastic choice. But if you’re seeking something more casual or family-friendly, you might want to explore other options.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for children?
No, this tour is not suitable for children. It’s geared towards adults and involves late hours and a luxury setting.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the Seine River cruise, a 3-course dinner, live music, one night’s stay on the boat (cabins or suites), breakfast, and WiFi onboard.

Can I upgrade my room?
Yes, you can choose a suite, which includes a private spa, Jacuzzi, and sauna, offering a more luxurious experience.

What are the meeting point and start time?
The tour begins at 6:00 pm from Port de la Rapée, 75012 Paris, France. It ends back at the same point.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks (aside from the included dinner drinks) are not part of the package. You’ll need to pay for additional beverages separately.

What happens if the weather is bad?
This experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

If you’re eyeing a special night in Paris that combines elegance, sightseeing, and a touch of romance, this overnight Seine cruise might be worth considering. Just keep expectations in check, especially regarding room size and the overall decor, and remember it’s best suited for those looking for an upscale, memorable experience.