Paris at the First Lodges – Ducasse sur Seine dinner cruise

If you’re trying to decide whether a dinner cruise on the Seine is worth your time and money, you’re in the right place. We’ve looked into the Paris at the First Lodges – Ducasse sur Seine dinner cruise, and while we haven’t done it ourselves, the reviews and details paint a compelling picture. This experience combines the charm of cruising Paris’s most iconic sights with a refined, gourmet meal—the kind of outing that makes for a memorable evening.

Two things we genuinely like about this cruise: First, it offers the chance to see Paris’s major landmarks illuminated at night, giving you a fresh perspective on the city. Second, the quality of the food, prepared by chef Pierre Marty, gets consistently high praise, adding a layer of luxury to the experience.

On the flip side, a potential drawback is the price point—at over $269 per person, it’s not exactly budget-friendly, and drinks or extra expenses aren’t included. Plus, as with many structured tours, weather can be a concern, so you’ll want to plan carefully.

This cruise seems best suited for those looking to celebrate a special occasion or indulge in a luxurious, intimate way to enjoy Paris’s evening skyline. If you’re after a cozy, visually stunning, and gastronomically delightful experience, this could very well be worth considering.

Key Points

• Luxury dining with a gourmet four or five-course meal crafted by a renowned chef.
• Guaranteed window seating ensures you won’t miss the views.
• Intimate group size (max 9 travelers) for a more personal experience.
• Iconic sights like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre visible from the boat.
• Electric boat offers a silent, eco-friendly cruise with no engine noise to disturb the atmosphere.
• Timing: 7:30 pm departure, perfect for viewing Paris’s night lights.
• Weather-dependent; poor weather may lead to rescheduling or refunds.
• Booking in advance (about 30 days) is recommended, considering the limited seats and popularity.

A Deeper Look at the Experience

The Setting and the Boat

Picture yourself aboard a sleek, electric boat gliding silently along the Seine. It’s a quiet, smooth ride — unlike traditional boats with noisy engines — which enhances the overall sense of tranquility. The boat is designed to maximize your view with guaranteed window seating, so everyone can enjoy the spectacular sights without fighting for a good spot.

Reviews highlight that the boat itself is beautiful, adding to the luxurious feel. With a small group capped at nine people, you’ll get a more intimate vibe, and the hosts or guides can offer a more personalized touch. The experience starts at 7 Port Debilly at 7:30 pm, giving you enough time to settle in before the city lights come alive.

The Itinerary: Landmark by Landmark

The cruise is not just about eating—it’s a visual journey past some of Paris’s most famous monuments. You’ll glide past:

• Trocadéro and the Palais de Chaillot — a perfect spot for photos and great views of the Eiffel Tower.
• Eiffel Tower — the star of Paris, sparkling at night, and right in front of you.
• Les Invalides — home to Napoleon’s tomb, with the golden dome shining in the night.
• Musée d’Orsay — housed in a stunning former train station, filled with French masterworks.
• Saint-Germain-des-Prés — charming neighborhood with cafes and bookstores, perfect for a leisurely stroll later.
• Notre-Dame — one of the city’s most recognizable symbols, especially atmospheric when lit up.
• Jardin des Plantes — a lush green space and home to the Natural History Museum.
• Hôtel de Ville — the city hall, beautifully lit at night.
• Louvre Museum — the world’s largest art museum, with the glass pyramid glowing softly in the dark.
• Place de la Concorde — the largest square in Paris, with the Luxor Obelisk standing tall.
• Grand Palais — often illuminated beautifully, hosting exhibitions and events.

This route offers a comprehensive view of Paris’s most celebrated sights, all from the comfort of your elegant boat.

Dining and Cuisine

The meal is a highlight for many reviewers. Depending on the option chosen, you’ll enjoy a premium 4 or 5-course dinner crafted by chef Pierre Marty. The experience is designed to be refined, with guaranteed window seating, so you can dine while taking in the city’s illuminated skyline.

One reviewer called the food “absolutely delicious,” and the service “professional,” highlighting the care taken to make the evening special. The menu isn’t just about quantity but quality, with a focus on refinement and flavor.

Atmosphere and Service

Many reviews mention the staff’s professionalism and friendly attitude—key for making such a special night feel even more memorable. The experience unfolds like a well-scripted scene, with the city providing a spectacular backdrop as the meal progresses.

The small group setting is a plus, allowing for an intimate, cozy vibe. It’s the kind of experience you’d want to savor, especially if celebrating something special.

Pricing and What You’re Getting

At $269.40 per person, you’re paying for a combination of luxury dining, private window views, and a unique perspective of Paris at night. While this isn’t a budget outing, the price reflects the quality of the experience, the gourmet meal, and the exclusivity of the group size.

It’s worth noting that drinks and extra expenses are not included, so you might want to budget for that if you’re hoping to toast with champagne or wine.

Considerations and Tips

• Book early—about 30 days in advance—since spots are limited and popular.
• Be sure to arrive at least 20 minutes before departure to settle in comfortably.
• Dress appropriately; the experience is quite formal, so check the attire guidelines.
• Since the tour is weather-dependent, check the forecast and be prepared for possible rescheduling if rain or wind threaten the cruise.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This experience is ideal for couples celebrating a special night, lovers of fine dining, or anyone wanting a relaxed, romantic way to see Paris illuminated at night. It’s less suitable if you’re on a tight budget or prefer casual outings, as the cost reflects the luxury and exclusivity.

Travelers who appreciate gourmet cuisine paired with stunning visuals will find this a rewarding choice. If you’re keen on avoiding large crowds and want a more personalized experience, the small group size will be appealing.

Final Thoughts

The Ducasse sur Seine dinner cruise offers a rare blend of luxury dining, intimate ambiance, and breathtaking views of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. While the price might seem steep, many guests find the experience to be a worthwhile splurge—especially those celebrating a special occasion or seeking a refined way to see the city.

You’ll love the peaceful glide through the night-lit city, the high-quality meal, and the chance to see Paris from a fresh perspective. Keep in mind weather can affect plans, and booking well in advance is important. This cruise is a solid choice if you’re after elegance, memorable sights, and top-notch cuisine wrapped into one intimate package.

FAQ

How long is the dinner cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 2 hours, giving you ample time to enjoy the sights and meal without feeling rushed.

What time does it start?
The experience begins at 7:30 pm, so plan to arrive at least 20 minutes early.

Is the boat accessible for everyone?
While specific accessibility details aren’t provided, the boat is designed for a small group, and most travelers can participate. It’s best to check with the provider if you have specific needs.

Are drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the price. You might want to bring or purchase beverages separately.

What should I wear?
Smart, elegant attire is recommended, aligning with the upscale nature of the experience.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
This experience is non-refundable and cannot be changed. In case of poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

How many people are on each cruise?
The group size is limited to a maximum of 9 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Where do we meet?
The departure point is 19 Port Debilly. Make sure to arrive a bit early to check in comfortably.

Is this suitable for children?
The tour is designed for adults, with a formal dress code, so it may not be ideal for young children or those needing a casual environment.

If you’re looking for a sophisticated way to see Paris at night and enjoy world-class cuisine, this cruise could give you a wonderfully memorable evening. For others, perhaps a more casual Seine cruise or self-guided exploration might be a better fit. Either way, it’s good to weigh the experience against your personal travel style and expectations.