Paris New Year Eve Dinner Cruise by Bateaux Mouches

Celebrating New Year’s in Paris is a dream for many, and doing it on a boat cruising along the Seine sounds like something straight out of a fairy tale. While I haven’t personally been on this specific cruise, the reviews and details paint a pretty clear picture of what to expect. It’s a well-reviewed experience, rated around 4 out of 5 stars, and offers a mix of great food, scenic views, and lively atmosphere.

What really catches our eye about this cruise is the opportunity to see Paris’s famous landmarks illuminated at night from the comfort of a glass-enclosed boat—nothing beats those iconic views of the Eiffel Tower and bridges. Plus, the included Champagne and wine make the evening feel extra special, turning a dinner into a celebration. On the flip side, some reviews mention that the late-night entertainment can fall flat or end earlier than expected, which is good to keep in mind if you’re hoping for a full-blown party atmosphere.

This cruise will suit those who want a refined yet lively way to toast the New Year, especially if you’re after delicious French cuisine paired with Parisian sights. If you’re traveling with friends or a partner and love a festive, scenic setting, this could be a fantastic choice. However, if you’re after a more relaxed, less structured experience, or are seeking a party that lasts until dawn, it might not be the perfect fit.

Key Points

• Unbeatable views of illuminated Paris landmarks from the Seine
• Includes a generous 4-course dinner with French specialties and a vegetarian option
• Champagne and wine are included, elevating the festive vibe
• Live music and dancing help ring in the new year, but entertainment quality varies
• Price point is on the higher side, reflecting the all-inclusive experience
• Not suitable for late-night party animals expecting continuous entertainment until dawn

What to Expect from the Paris New Year Eve Dinner Cruise

If you’re considering this experience, it’s helpful to visualize what the evening will look like. The cruise departs from Port de la Conférence at 9:00 pm, so arriving about 30 minutes early is recommended. The boat itself is covered, with both a main deck and an upper deck, giving you options to enjoy the sights or stay sheltered if the weather isn’t perfect.

Starting the Night: A Toast and Appetizers

As soon as you step aboard, you’re greeted with a glass of Champagne and amuse-bouches—a nice touch to start the evening. These bite-sized appetizers are a great way to settle in while taking in the cityscape. The views during this initial phase are often highlighted as particularly enjoyable, with sights like the Eiffel Tower sparkling and the bridges lit up. Reviewers frequently mention how impressive the nighttime scenery on the Seine is, making this cruise a photo-worthy experience.

The 4-Course Dinner: French Classics with a View

The meal is served in courses, with options that include foie gras, filet mignon, and cheese—pretty much classic French fare. A vegetarian meal is available if you specify earlier, which can make the evening more comfortable for non-meat eaters. The quality of the food seems to range from very good to just okay, with some reviewers praising the flavors and presentation, while others found the dishes somewhat average or inconsistent. Given the price, some think the food could be of higher quality, especially for groups or those expecting a gourmet experience.

Celebrating the New Year: Music and Dancing

After dinner, the party really kicks off with live music, often featuring a violinist and singer. Most reviews say the ambiance is lovely, with many appreciating the chance to dance while cruising past Paris’s lit-up monuments. Some reviewers, however, noted that the entertainment can be somewhat underwhelming or ends too early—around 1 am instead of the advertised 2 am, leaving the party feeling rushed. If you’re hoping for a night that lasts until dawn, this might be disappointing.

The Final Moments: Views and Reflections

As you approach midnight, you’ll be on the lookout for the Eiffel Tower’s fireworks (though the cruise itself doesn’t include fireworks), and you’ll toast the new year with Champagne in hand. The views from the boat are consistently described as stunning, with many remarks about how beautiful Paris looks at night from the river. You’ll spend about five hours on the water, making this a leisurely yet lively way to ring in the year.

The Details that Matter

• Duration: Approximately 5 hours, starting at 9 pm
• Price: Around $530.10 per person, which covers dinner, drinks, live music, and the cruise
• Booking: Usually booked 120 days in advance, so plan ahead
• Group size: Max 200 travelers, with reservations for up to 14 people at a time
• Dress code: Smart casual—think of it as a nice evening out rather than formalwear
• Extras: Souvenir photos are available for purchase, but not included; hotel pick-up/drop-off isn’t part of the package
• Cancellation: No refunds if you miss the cruise or cancel last-minute

The Itinerary Breakdown

The cruise begins at Port de la Conférence, where you’ll be greeted and led to your table. The initial toast with Champagne and amuse-bouches sets a festive mood. As the boat moves along the Seine, you’ll see Paris’s most famous sights—each illuminated and glowing against the night sky. The cruise passes by iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre Dame, with many guests commenting on how magical the views are.

The dinner features French dishes, with some highlights like foie gras and filet mignon. The cheese platter and dessert—French vanilla with wild strawberries and Champagne—help close the meal on a sweet note. Throughout the night, you can enjoy live music, with some reviews praising the violinist and others noting that the entertainment can be somewhat lacking or too loud.

After dinner, the party picks up with dancing and more live music. The atmosphere varies depending on the performers and how long the entertainment lasts, but many find it a lively and memorable way to usher in the new year.

Honest Review from Travelers

Many guests agree that the stunning views and delicious food are the highlights, with some describing the experience as “incredible” and “unforgettable.” One reviewer mentions, “Seeing the Eiffel Tower sparkling while we ate was magical,” capturing the essence of this cruise.

However, some critique the entertainment, with one saying, “The music wasn’t great, and it felt like they were closing early,” which can be a letdown if you’re expecting a full dance party. Others mention that the food quality is hit or miss, with some dishes being excellent and others only average, especially considering the price point.

The pricing is considered high by some reviewers—around $530 for a dinner cruise—but many feel it’s justified by the views and special occasion vibe. Still, some mention that the drinks, like Champagne and wine, could be more generous, with only one glass of Champagne and half a bottle of wine included for the entire evening.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise is perfect for couples or small groups looking for a romantic, scenic way to celebrate New Year’s Eve in Paris. If you appreciate French cuisine, beautiful views, and a lively atmosphere with music and dancing, you’ll likely enjoy this experience. It’s also suitable for those wanting a festive, all-in-one celebration without having to organize multiple events or go out into the cold to see fireworks.

Keep in mind, though, that it’s not the best choice if you’re after a late-night party with continuous entertainment until dawn, or if you’re seeking a gourmet meal that surpasses expectations for the price. The experience leans more toward a formal dinner and scenic cruise with some lively celebration, rather than a party-focused event.

Final Thoughts

The Paris New Year Eve Dinner Cruise by Bateaux Mouches combines some of the best elements of a festive celebration: gorgeous views, French cuisine, and Champagne, all aboard a classic riverboat. While the food generally scores well and the sights are spectacular, the entertainment quality varies, and some guests felt the party ended sooner than they’d hoped.

For romantic couples, small groups, or travelers eager to enjoy Paris’s nighttime skyline while indulging in French delicacies, this cruise offers a memorable way to mark the start of a new year. It’s an experience that provides a perfect blend of scenic beauty and culinary delight—though, as with any special event, it’s worth setting realistic expectations about the entertainment and overall value.

If you’re looking for a classy, scenic, and festive night that captures the magic of Paris by night, this cruise could be just what you need. But if you’re after an all-night dance party or gourmet-level cuisine, you might want to explore other options or adjust your expectations.

FAQ

Is there free seating on the boat?
No, seating is allocated upon arrival. The Maître d’Hôtel will escort you to your table, with priority given to those who booked the higher-tier menus. If you want to sit together with a larger group, it’s best to notify the organizer at least 24 hours in advance.

Can I be seated with friends I’ve booked separately?
Yes, but you need to contact the tour provider beforehand to ensure you’re seated together, especially if you want to be at a specific table or in a particular section.

Is the boat covered?
Yes, all boats have a covered main deck, so you’re protected from rain or cold. There’s also an upper deck you can access during the cruise.

Can I smoke on the boat?
Smoking is only permitted on the upper deck, outside of the main enclosed areas.

Are children allowed?
This tour isn’t suitable for very young children or babies. There are menus for kids aged 4 and over, but if you’re bringing infants, you might need to bring their own food. Highchairs are available on request.

What should I wear?
Smart casual is the recommended dress code—think of it as a special night out, but not necessarily formal attire.

What happens if I’m late or miss the cruise?
There are no refunds for missed departures or late arrivals, so plan to arrive early to avoid disappointment.

Navigating special occasions like New Year’s in Paris can feel overwhelming, but booking a well-organized cruise like this can simplify your plans while offering memorable sights and tastes. Keep your expectations in check, enjoy the views, and toast to a new year filled with promise.