Paris: 3-Course Lunch Cruise on the River Seine

Imagine gliding along the River Seine, the midday sun warming your face, while you indulge in a delicious French meal and watch the city’s most famous landmarks drift by. That’s essentially what you get with the Paris Seine 3-course lunch cruise — a popular way to enjoy Paris in a relaxed, scenic setting. With a solid rating of 4.3 out of 5 from over 1,300 reviews, this experience has definitely won many hearts, especially those looking for a memorable meal combined with sightseeing.

What we love about this cruise is the stunning views of Paris’s iconic monuments and the gourmet lunch served onboard. You get to see landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre from a unique perspective, all while enjoying a well-curated French menu. The atmosphere feels both elegant and friendly, making it suitable for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a laid-back way to take a break from walking around.

On the flip side, a possible consideration is the duration — just 1.5 hours, which might feel a bit short for those wanting a more in-depth exploration or a leisurely day on the water. Plus, since there’s no hotel pickup or drop-off included, you’ll need to plan your transport to the meeting point, which could be a minor hassle during busy times or if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

This cruise appeals most to travelers who want a combination of decent value, good food, and scenic views. It’s especially well-suited for those looking for a quick, picturesque escape from Paris’s busy streets, or for special occasions like romantic dates or small celebrations.

Key Points

• Stunning Sights: Enjoy panoramic views of Paris’s landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre.
• Gourmet Meal: Indulge in a well-thought-out 3-course French menu with options for every palate.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: Cruise in comfort on a glass-enclosed boat with friendly service.
• Value for Money: At $80 per person, it offers a solid balance of experience and affordability.
• Convenient Booking: Reserve now, pay later, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Limited Duration: The experience lasts about 1.5 hours, ideal for a quick scenic break but not a full-day excursion.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An Honest Look at the Experience

If you’re considering the Paris Seine lunch cruise, it’s worth knowing what to expect so you can decide if it fits your travel style. The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours and departs from Port Solferino, located at the bottom of stairs leading to the Seine. You’ll board a glass-enclosed boat, meaning you get fantastic views regardless of weather, plus the comfort of being indoors if it’s chilly or rainy.

The Itinerary and Sights

Once underway, you’ll cruise past some of Paris’s most recognizable sights. The Eiffel Tower is a natural highlight — you’ll see it from below and at different angles, even as you enjoy your meal. The boat then glides past the Musee d’Orsay, housed in a former railway station, with its ornate façade providing a picturesque backdrop.

You’ll also pass the Louvre Museum, the French National Assembly, and sail under the Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris, which adds a historic charm to the experience. The route is designed to maximize sightseeing while keeping the cruise relaxed, so there’s plenty of time to absorb the scenery without feeling rushed.

The Food & Drink

The highlight—beyond the views—is definitely the three-course meal. The menu offers classic French dishes like Duck Foie Gras with red fruit chutney, a choice of main courses such as sea bream or beef, and a selection of gourmet desserts. Vegetarian options are available, which is helpful for dietary restrictions.

Reviews are generally very positive about the food, with many noting that the quality of the meal is good for the price. The desserts, particularly, seem to shine — options like the chocolate puck or raspberry chou are popular. Coffee or tea is included, making a perfect ending to your meal.

Service & Atmosphere

Guests frequently mention the courteous and friendly staff. Several reviews highlight how attentive and helpful the crew are, which helps elevate the entire experience. The boat itself feels comfortable and well-maintained, with enough space so you won’t feel cramped. The atmosphere is often described as both romantic and lively, making it suitable for couples and smaller groups.

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The Review Buzz

Many reviewers, including those from the UK, Ireland, and the US, say this cruise is “a lovely experience,” “great value,” and “a fantastic way to see Paris,” especially emphasizing the stunning views and good food. Some mention that reserved seats mean you don’t have to arrive early to claim a good spot, which is a plus.

However, a few comments highlight that the cruise can get crowded if fully booked, and during peak times, the boat might feel a little tight. Also, since the cruise is only 1.5 hours, don’t expect a leisurely, drawn-out experience — it’s more of a quick scenic meal.

Practical Tips

• Arrive on time: Boarding is straightforward, but arriving early ensures your preferred seating and a smooth start.
• Pre-order your main course if your group exceeds 15 people, to avoid delays.
• Bring a camera — the views are worth capturing.
• Consider the weather: The boat is glass-enclosed, but it’s best to go on a clear day for the full effect.
• No hotel pickup: Plan your transport to the meeting point; it’s centrally located at Port Solferino.
• Skip the drinks package: Drinks are available but not included; if you want wine or champagne, book the package in advance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re after a quick, scenic break with good food, this cruise is a solid pick. Couples seeking a romantic lunch, friends wanting a hassle-free way to see Paris’s iconic sights, or travelers with limited time will find it especially appealing. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate the comfort of indoor seating combined with panoramic views.

Not the best choice if you’re looking for a long, leisurely day or an in-depth guided tour — the 1.5-hour duration means it’s more about the experience than exhaustive sightseeing. Also, if you’re sensitive to crowds or prefer a more private setting, avoid peak times or fully booked days.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, vegetarian options are available, and the menu can be adjusted to meet dietary needs, though it’s best to specify when booking.

Does the experience include hotel pickup or drop-off?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point isn’t included, so plan accordingly.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 1.5 hours, making it a perfect short escape in the middle of a busy day.

What landmarks will I see?
You’ll pass the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and sail under historic bridges like the Pont Neuf.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the base price, but there’s an option to purchase wine, champagne, or other beverages onboard.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family activity, it’s suitable for most ages, especially given the indoor comfort and scenic views.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably; consider layers if the weather is variable, and bring sunglasses or a hat for sunny days.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and booking can be flexible with the “reserve now, pay later” option.

Final Thoughts

The Paris Seine 3-course lunch cruise offers a charming way to experience the city’s top sights from the comfort of a glass-enclosed boat, all while enjoying a thoughtfully prepared French meal. It’s particularly well-suited for those wanting a quick yet memorable sightseeing break that combines culinary delight with iconic scenery. The positive reviews underscore its popularity — many travelers rave about the friendly staff, the delicious food, and the unbeatable views, even if some note the cruise is a bit short.

If you’re visiting Paris for a limited time or want a special lunch that doubles as sightseeing, this experience is worth considering. It’s not a cheap, luxury cruise, but for $80, you get a lot of value in a relaxed setting that captures the essence of Paris from its most romantic vantage point.

Whether you’re celebrating, seeking a romantic moment, or simply want to see Paris from a new angle, this cruise could be just the ticket for a charming and tasty midday escape.

Remember: Book in advance, arrive on time, and enjoy your meal with a side of stunning Parisian views.

You can check availability for your dates here: