Paris : NYE Special Diner Cruise on the Seine River

Traveling to Paris for New Year’s Eve? If you’re looking to combine the magic of the city with a special celebration on the water, this NYE dinner cruise along the Seine might catch your eye. We haven’t personally taken this cruise ourselves, but based on reviews and the detailed itinerary, it offers a pretty compelling way to see Paris from a different perspective.

What really stands out are the spectacular views of iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, especially when it sparkles at night, and the chance to enjoy a full French three-course meal with drinks included, all while gliding past the city’s most famous sights. The setting seems romantic and festive, perfect if you’re celebrating something special or just want a memorable night out.

That said, a key consideration is the timing. One reviewer pointed out that the cruise docks early in the evening, at 11:22 pm, so it might not be the full midnight celebration you might envision for NYE. Also, given the 3.5-hour duration, it’s a relatively compact experience—so if you’re after a boisterous, all-night party, this might not be the best fit.

This cruise is likely best suited for travelers seeking a romantic, scenic, and leisurely way to ring in the New Year, especially if they value quality cuisine, beautiful views, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Key Points

• Spectacular Views: See Paris’ main sights from a unique vantage point, especially the Eiffel Tower’s sparkling lights.
• Gourmet Dining: Enjoy a full French 3-course meal with drinks included, perfect for a special night.
• Prime Location: The pier is centrally located near the Pont de l’Alma and Paris’ top hotels, with easy access via public transport.
• Festive Atmosphere: Live music options, like piano and violin, create a joyful and romantic vibe, especially if you choose the 9 pm start.
• Limited Duration: The cruise lasts about 3.5 hours, so it provides a snapshot of the city but isn’t overly long.
• Early Docking: The cruise docks at 11:22 pm, so it may not align with midnight celebrations depending on your schedule.

You can check availability for your dates here:

In-Depth Review of the Experience

The Location and Accessibility

The cruise departs from a conveniently located pier near the Pont de l’Alma, right in the heart of Paris. If you’re staying in the city’s center or nearby, you’ll find it easy to reach via public transportation, and there’s also free parking for those driving. The coordinates (48.8641, 2.3055) point to a central spot, making it straightforward to find.

Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by friendly staff who’ll guide you through check-in. The process is smooth and professional, which sets a relaxed tone for the evening. For larger groups (more than 14 people), the organizers ask for a menu choice in advance, so plan ahead if you’re celebrating with friends or family.

The Boarding Experience

Once onboard, the maître d’hôtel will escort you to your table and introduce you to the evening’s plan. An aperitif kicks things off as the boat departs, and you start to take in the sights. The boat itself offers plenty of windows, ensuring you’ll have good views whether you sit inside or venture onto the upper deck for a more open-air experience.

The Route and Sights

The cruise heads toward Île de la Cité, showcasing some of Paris’ most famous monuments. As you glide along, you’ll see a mix of bridges, quays, and historic buildings with a backdrop of the city’s illuminated skyline. The highlight, of course, is passing in front of the Eiffel Tower as it begins to sparkle—a magical moment for photos. A reviewer mentioned that this is a “perfect picture opportunity,” especially during the brief window when the tower lights up with its signature shimmer.

The route also allows you to appreciate the charming houses lining the Seine and the various bridges, each with its own history and character. It’s a leisurely way to see the city without the crowds, especially on New Year’s Eve when street celebrations can be hectic.

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The Dining Experience

The meal is described as a full French 4-course menu, with drinks included. The experience of dining on a boat adds an extra layer of romance and novelty. The dishes are served progressively, giving plenty of time between courses to chat, enjoy the scenery, or take photos.

A notable feature is the live music—at least for the 9 pm option—where piano and violin musicians create an elegant, joyful backdrop. This is especially appreciated by couples and those celebrating a special occasion. If you’re planning a romantic night, this added ambiance can make the evening feel truly memorable.

The Atmosphere and Ambience

Throughout the cruise, the atmosphere is described as joyful and romantic. The combination of good food, beautiful views, and live music creates a warm, festive environment. Whether you’re seated inside or outside, the panoramic windows and open deck enable you to soak in the sights.

A guest review highlighted the impeccable service, which helps make the experience feel even more special. However, one downside is the early docking time, which means the cruise ends just before midnight—some might prefer a midnight toast or more time to celebrate on the water.

Final Touches and Return

After the main course and some sightseeing, the cruise concludes with dessert and coffee, leaving you with a sense of contentment and appreciation for the cityscape. The return to the dock is described as smooth and unhurried, giving you a relaxed end to your night.

For those opting for the 9 pm start, there’s also a plan to extend the evening until around 1 am in some cases, which might suit travelers who want to continue celebrating in the city afterward.

What Do Reviews Say?

The experience has garnered a generally positive response, with a 4.3/5 rating from four reviews. One traveler from the US called the service “impeccable,” emphasizing the quality of the staff and the overall atmosphere. However, there’s a notable critique about the cruise’s length and timing—specifically that it docked at 11:22 pm and didn’t continue into the midnight countdown as many might hope for a NYE celebration.

This points to an important consideration: if you’re seeking a full midnight celebration on the water, you may want to confirm whether this cruise aligns with your expectations, as some experiences might end before the clock strikes twelve.

Pricing and Value

While the exact cost isn’t specified here, it’s worth noting that you’re paying for a package that includes a meal, drinks, and a scenic cruise. The value is likely good if you’re after an elegant, all-in-one experience that combines sightseeing, dining, and celebrating in one setting. The convenience of location and the quality of the included amenities make it a solid option for those wanting a special night out without stressing over reservations at multiple venues.

Who Should Consider This Cruise?

If you’re after a romantic, scenic, and relatively relaxed way to mark New Year’s Eve in Paris, this cruise ticks many boxes. It’s also suitable for those who appreciate good food and live music in a beautiful setting. However, if your main goal is to stay out until midnight or beyond, you might want to check if the schedule aligns with your plans or consider extending your celebration elsewhere afterward.

The Sum Up

This Seine River dinner cruise offers a great way to see Paris from a different perspective while enjoying a delicious meal and celebratory atmosphere. It’s especially well-suited for couples or anyone wanting a romantic, elegant way to spend NYE. The views of the Eiffel Tower and the city skyline are unforgettable, and the service generally appears attentive and professional.

However, keep in mind the cruise’s early dock time and limited duration—it’s a shorter experience that might not suit those looking for an all-night party or full midnight festivities. It’s a good pick for travelers who value quality over quantity, and who want to combine sightseeing with a memorable meal in a charming setting.

If you’re considering this experience, just plan your evening accordingly, and you’ll likely find it a lovely highlight of your Paris trip.

FAQ

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts approximately 3.5 hours, giving you a leisurely way to enjoy the sights and meal without feeling rushed.

What time does the cruise start?
There are options, but the most common start time is around 9 pm, with some plans extending until 1 am after returning to the dock. Check the specific ticket for your preferred date.

Does the cruise include drinks?
Yes, drinks are included with your full French 3-course meal, adding to the relaxed and festive atmosphere.

Can I take photos during the cruise?
Absolutely. The boat’s panoramic windows and open upper deck are perfect for photos, especially when passing in front of the sparkling Eiffel Tower.

Is this experience family-friendly?
The description doesn’t specify, but the focus on gourmet dining and romantic ambiance suggests it’s primarily aimed at adults. If traveling with children, consider whether the atmosphere suits their comfort.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if plans change.

Traveling to Paris on New Year’s Eve? This dinner cruise offers a memorable, elegant way to ring in the new year—just double-check the schedule to make sure it fits your celebration plans.

You can check availability for your dates here: