Paris New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise Early Service

A Practical Review of the Paris New Year’s Eve Dinner Cruise Early Service

Planning a memorable way to ring in the New Year in Paris? If you’re considering a dinner cruise, this experience aboard the Diamant Bleu offers a sleek mix of scenic views, fine food, and lively music—all wrapped into a two-hour evening. We’ve taken a close look at what this cruise has to offer so you can decide if it fits your celebration style.

What immediately catches your eye is the stunning setting—sailing along the Seine with a panoramic view of Paris’s illuminated landmarks. Plus, the gourmet four-course dinner is designed to impress, with high-quality seasonal ingredients and a refined menu. The live music, including a singer-guitarist duo, adds a convivial touch that encourages dancing after the meal.

That said, there’s one aspect to keep in mind: the experience is fairly structured and pretty tight on time, with boarding at 5:45 pm and the cruise wrapping up around 8:15 pm. If you’re hoping for a longer or more relaxed celebration, this might feel a bit rushed. Also, the experience is geared more towards adults, with no kid-friendly menu or specific accommodations for children or those with mobility issues.

This cruise suits travelers who want a stylish, scenic dinner with good food and lively entertainment, all without the fuss of multiple stops or long hours. It’s perfect if you’re after a refined but fun way to see Paris sparkle as you toast to 2024.

Key Points

• Prime location: Board at 36, quai d’Austerlitz, easily accessible by public transport or parking.
• Elegant setting: Sail on the Diamant Bleu with panoramic rooms and a spacious rooftop to enjoy city views.
• Gourmet dinner: Four courses made from fresh seasonal ingredients, with drinks included.
• Live entertainment: A singer-guitarist duo creates a lively atmosphere perfect for dancing.
• Early service timing: From 5.45 pm to 8.15 pm, ideal if you prefer an earlier start to your night.
• Limited flexibility: No window seat unless you opt for VIP; no late arrivals allowed.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

When you step aboard the Diamant Bleu, you’re greeted with a modern setting that promises both comfort and style. The boat features a 450 m² panoramic room—a great space for taking in the sights—and a spacious 350 m² rooftop that offers a fantastic vantage point to see Paris’s famous skyline illuminated beneath the stars.

You’ll start your evening with a welcome cocktail and a half bottle of wine for two, setting the tone for a relaxed, celebratory meal. The menu is focused on quality ingredients, with a starter of foie gras seasoned with pepper and complemented by kumquat chutney—definitely a refined choice that’s sure to impress. The main course features veal tenderloin with truffle mille-feuille and morel sauce, showing attention to gourmet details. For dessert, the chef’s surprise aims to end the meal on a sweet, memorable note.

Throughout the meal, you’ll enjoy live music from a singer and guitarist, whose tunes add to the festive ambiance. After dinner, there’s plenty of room to dance, making this a lively, social celebration if you’re in the mood. The cruise offers a panoramic view of Paris’s main monuments, including the Eiffel Tower, which sparkles brilliantly at night.

Based on reviews, many travelers appreciated the overall quality of the food and the views. One guest called it “excellence,” highlighting the enjoyable experience, while another pointed out that the food and drinks were “regular,” suggesting that expectations should be set accordingly—this isn’t an ultra-luxury cruise, but rather a solid, enjoyable experience.

What to Expect from the Cruise

Boarding and Timing:
Arrive by 5.45 pm, and be prepared to depart promptly at 6.15 pm—latecomers aren’t accepted. The cruise lasts about two hours, which means you’ll be back on land by around 8:15 pm. This is perfect if you’re planning a longer celebration afterward or want an early start to your evening.

The Setting:
The boat itself offers a refined environment with large windows and a rooftop to maximize views. You’ll glide past Paris’s iconic landmarks, lit up beautifully at night—a truly photogenic moment. The experience is intimate enough to enjoy good conversation but lively enough to feel festive.

The Food:
The four-course menu emphasizes seasonal, fresh ingredients—expect gourmet touches like foie gras, veal tenderloin, and a surprise dessert. Drinks are included, with a cocktail, wine, and water, but additional beverages are extra. It’s worth noting that there’s no mention of vegetarian options or children’s menus, so this experience leans more towards adult guests.

Music and Dancing:
The live duo provides entertainment during dinner, and afterward, there’s ample space to dance. The musical ambiance helps transition from dinner to celebration—great if you want to start your party early.

The View:
Perhaps the highlight, you’re treated to panoramic, unobstructed views of Paris’s shimmering skyline, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre. Many reviews mention how breathtaking the sights are, especially with the city’s lights reflecting on the water.

The Price and Value

At $242 per person, this experience isn’t cheap—Paris dining and sightseeing are often costly, and this cruise falls into the more premium category. However, considering what’s included—gourmet food, drinks, live music, and prime views—the cost can be justified for a special occasion like New Year’s. For travelers who appreciate quality over quantity and want a dinner with a view, this cruise delivers a solid experience.

A key point from reviews is that the quality of the food and wine seemed to meet expectations, enjoyable but not overly lavish. The inclusion of a half-bottle of wine and a cocktail adds value, especially if you’re looking to toast the New Year comfortably.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

This experience is ideal for adults celebrating a special night in Paris, especially if you appreciate fine dining, scenic views, and lively music. It’s less suited for families or travelers with mobility issues, given the timing and setup, and there’s no dedicated child menu. If you’re after a lengthy, relaxed celebration or a more casual affair, you might want to explore other options.

If you’re someone who values a beautiful setting combined with good food and a lively atmosphere, this cruise can be a memorable way to start 2024. It’s also a good choice if you prefer an early- evening celebration rather than staying out late into the night.

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FAQs

Is there a dress code?
Yes, the cruise recommends smart casual attire, so think neat, stylish clothing but nothing too formal.

Are children allowed?
While children over 3 are generally permitted, this cruise doesn’t offer a child menu and is primarily designed for adult enjoyment.

Can I book a window seat?
Not unless you choose the VIP option, which is limited to groups of up to five passengers.

What’s included in the price?
A gourmet four-course dinner, a welcome cocktail, half a bottle of wine for two, half a bottle of mineral water per person, access to the cruise, the rooftop, and live music.

Are there vegetarian options?
Vegetarian choices are available, but you should advise when booking.

Is the experience suitable for people with mobility issues?
No, the tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments.

What happens if I’m late?
Late arrivals cannot be accommodated, so plan to arrive at least 15 minutes early.

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

How long is the cruise?
Exactly two hours, from boarding at 5.45 pm to returning around 8:15 pm.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a stylish, well-organized way to see Paris’s illuminated landmarks while enjoying a gourmet dinner, this cruise is a strong contender. It combines the magic of the Seine with quality food, good drinks, and lively entertainment—ideal for travelers who want a festive, early-evening toast to the New Year.

While it’s not the most budget-friendly option, the experience offers a level of comfort and visual spectacle that many will remember fondly. It’s best suited for adults who relish a sophisticated celebration and are eager to start their New Year in style.

For those who value aesthetic views, good wine, and a lively atmosphere in a convenient, elegant setting, this cruise hits the right notes. Just be sure to arrive early, dress nicely, and enjoy the moment as Paris lights up around you.

Remember: This experience is about celebrating with good company, excellent scenery, and a taste of Parisian elegance—making it a memorable way to welcome 2024.

You can check availability for your dates here: