Paris: 2-Hour River Seine Lunch Cruise with 3-course-menu

If you’re looking for a way to combine sightseeing, great food, and a bit of relaxation, this Paris Seine lunch cruise might be just what you need. It’s a popular experience, often praised for its scenic views and quality cuisine, making it a lovely midday escape in the City of Light. We’ve looked into what makes this tour tick, and what potential travelers might want to keep in mind.

Two standout features really appeal: the panoramic views from the glass-enclosed boat are stunning, especially with landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame just a glance away. Plus, the all-inclusive 3-course meal with beverages means you can focus on enjoying your surroundings without worrying about extra costs. On the flip side, some might find the 2-hour duration a bit short, especially if they’re keen on exploring Paris more extensively afterward. This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, high-quality experience that combines sightseeing with fine dining — perfect for those who enjoy a more refined, yet laid-back, adventure.

Key Points

• Beautiful panoramic views of Paris from a glass canopy boat make for perfect photo opportunities.
• High-quality, 3-course à-la-carte lunch with drinks included offers good value, especially with options like wine, mineral water, and coffee or tea.
• Flexible starting points in central Paris make it easy to fit into your day’s plans.
• Expert staff and attentive service are frequently highlighted in reviews, making the experience more enjoyable.
• A short but immersive cruise that allows you to see many iconic landmarks like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower in just two hours.
• Ideal for travelers seeking a mix of sightseeing and fine dining in a relaxed, scenic setting.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect from the Experience

Imagine stepping aboard a sleek glass canopy boat just below the Eiffel Tower, feeling a bit of that Parisian excitement as you settle into your seat. The boat’s transparent roof gives you unobstructed views of the skyline, which is a real bonus if you’re fond of taking photos or just want to soak in the scenery without the noise of city streets.

The cruise lasts about two hours, giving you plenty of time to enjoy your meal, snap some pictures, and admire the sights without feeling rushed. The 3-course menu is crafted by skilled chefs using seasonal ingredients, which means you’ll get fresh, well-prepared dishes. Some options, especially if you choose the Service Privilege or Service Premier packages, include a cheese course, elevating the experience even more.

Beverages are included—think aperitif, wine, mineral water, and coffee or tea—so you can sip as you glide past the most famous sights. Many reviews mention the quality of the wine and the friendly service, which helps create a relaxed, almost celebratory atmosphere.

The Landmarks You’ll See

Starting from the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the cruise takes you along the Seine, passing by a treasure trove of Paris’s most recognizable monuments. One of the highlights is definitely Notre Dame Cathedral — its Gothic grandeur looks even more impressive from the water. The Louvre, with its iconic glass pyramid, is a visual feast, and you’ll also pass by the Musée d’Orsay’s stunning Beaux-Arts architecture.

Les Invalides, with its shimmering golden dome, provides a touch of regal elegance, and the French Parliament buildings along the riverbank remind you of the city’s political history. The cruise also offers a charming perspective on Paris’s historic bridges, each with its own story of romance and history.

The Itinerary and Starting Points

Flexibility is a key perk of this tour, with five different starting locations carefully chosen around central Paris, including Port de la Bourdonnais, Les Invalides, Musée d’Orsay, Île de la Cité, and Notre Dame. This makes it convenient whether you’re visiting the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, or just wandering nearby.

The cruise ends at one of five possible locations, allowing you to plan your post-cruise day easily. The departure time is usually around 12:45 pm, with check-in at 12:15 pm, so it fits well into a typical midday schedule.

The Food and Service

The meals are consistently praised for their quality. Guests frequently mention the delicious entrees, tasty desserts, and the generous wine pours. Several reviews highlight how the staff are attentive, engaging, and professional—think of it as dining in a high-end restaurant with the added bonus of incredible views.

If you opt for the Service Privilege or Premier options, the addition of a cheese course can really elevate the meal. Many reviewers mention the wine selection as a particularly enjoyable aspect, with some noting the “excellent bottle of red wine” included in their package.

Considering the price point of around $92 per person, this experience tends to be viewed as excellent value, especially when you factor in the high-quality cuisine, drinks, and scenery all in one package.

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Authentic Traveler Insights

Reviewers consistently say things like “a lovely relaxing way to enjoy seeing Paris” and “fabulous food and service”, which sums up the general sentiment. Several mention celebrating special occasions here, like birthdays, and feeling well taken care of. One guest even shared that they were celebrated with a cake and sparkler, showing how well the staff accommodate those moments.

A common theme is how the cruise offers a peaceful, scenic alternative to busy sightseeing tours, allowing you to enjoy the city’s highlights from a comfortable, luxurious setting. The boat’s smooth ride and climate-controlled glass roof make it a comfortable experience, even on warmer days.

However, not all is perfect—some find the 2-hour duration a little quick to take in everything. Also, the restaurant-style service might not be ideal if you’re looking for a casual, quick bite, but it’s a big plus for those seeking a relaxed, refined meal with a view.

Practicalities and Tips

• Dress code is casual but avoid shorts, sportswear, or large bags, as these aren’t permitted onboard.
• Timing is straightforward: check-in at 12:15 pm for a departure at 12:45 pm, returning around 2:45 pm.
• Meeting points vary, but all are centrally located and easy to access.
• Be prepared for some hot days—it might get warm sitting near the glass roof, so consider bringing some light layers or requesting blinds if available.
• Photos taken by the staff are not included in the package, so bring your camera or phone to capture the views yourself.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is ideal for travelers who want to experience Paris in a more relaxed, elegant way. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion or anyone eager to combine sightseeing with a quality meal. If you enjoy good wine and scenic, unobstructed views, you’ll find this experience suits you well.

Those looking for a quick, scenic overview of the city’s highlights from the water will love how much they can see in just two hours. On the other hand, if you’re on a tight schedule or prefer a more active exploration, this might feel a little limited in scope.

The Sum Up

For anyone who appreciates the idea of dining with a view, this Paris Seine lunch cruise offers a memorable midday experience. The combination of delicious food, attentive service, and stunning panoramic views makes it a standout choice for those visiting Paris. It’s particularly well-suited for travelers seeking a relaxed, refined outing—whether celebrating, enjoying a romantic day, or simply wanting to see the city from a different perspective.

While the cruise isn’t a comprehensive city tour, it offers a focused, enjoyable slice of Paris that balances scenery and gastronomy beautifully. The high praise in reviews—from friendly staff to quality cuisine—confirms it’s a popular, reliable choice.

If you’re after a peaceful, scenic lunch in the heart of Paris with great food and views, this experience is likely to leave you with lasting memories and plenty of picture-perfect moments.

FAQ

What is included in the cruise?
You’ll get a 2-hour cruise on a glass canopy boat, a 3-course meal (starter, main, dessert), and beverages including aperitif, wine, mineral water, and coffee or tea.

Are drinks included?
Yes, your package includes a selection of drinks such as aperitif, wine, mineral water, and hot beverages.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, starting around 12:45 pm after check-in at 12:15 pm and returning by 2:45 pm.

Where does the cruise depart from?
There are five starting options around central Paris, including Port de la Bourdonnais near the Eiffel Tower, Les Invalides, Musée d’Orsay, Île de la Cité, and Notre Dame.

Can I choose the premium meal options?
Yes, options like Service Privilege or Service Premier include an added cheese course, elevating the meal experience.

Is it suitable for children or families?
The experience is more suited for adults or couples, especially those looking for a refined dining experience. The tour does not specify family-friendly features.

What should I wear?
Casual attire is fine, but avoid sportswear, shorts, or large luggage. It’s best to dress comfortably yet neatly, especially if you want to look good in photos.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your schedule shifts.

All in all, if scenic views paired with excellent cuisine sound appealing, this Paris lunch cruise offers a truly enjoyable way to spend a couple of hours in the city.

You can check availability for your dates here: