Unique Cruise on the Canal Saint-Martin and the Seine

Imagine slipping away from the crowds and busy streets, gliding through quiet canals and past shimmering monuments—sounds pretty appealing, right? That’s exactly what this private cruise offering from Mon Bateau Privé promises. It’s a 2.5-hour journey designed for small groups of up to nine people, blending the secret charm of the Canal Saint-Martin with the grandeur of the Seine’s iconic sights. We haven’t taken this exact tour ourselves, but from what’s shared and reviews, it sounds like a delightful way to see Paris from a different perspective.

What really catches our eye is the intimate format—limiting the group size to create a cozy, exclusive vibe. And the itinerary itself is fascinating, taking you from lesser-known waterways to the famous river, where Paris’s most celebrated landmarks unfold before your eyes. The combination of quiet, secret spots with the sweeping views of Paris’s skyline can make for a memorable and peaceful experience, especially if you’re after something more personal than the usual crowded boat tours.

But, of course, no experience is perfect. One thing to keep in mind is the price—at $924 for a group up to nine people, it’s a premium option, which makes sense given the exclusivity and customization. For some, this might be a splurge, but for others, the privacy and tailored atmosphere could justify the cost. This tour tends to suit travelers who value quality and intimacy over sheer volume, especially those looking for a romantic or special occasion outing. If you’re traveling with friends or a small family who appreciate a more relaxed, personalized experience, this could be just right.

In short, if you’re after a quiet, elegant way to see Paris—away from the hustle, with a touch of exclusivity—this cruise has a lot to offer. It’s not your typical touristy boat ride, but rather a chance to savor Paris’s waterways and monuments in a peaceful, private setting.

Key Points

• Small group size: Max 10 passengers ensures an intimate and relaxed atmosphere.
• Unique itinerary: Combines the lesser-known Canal Saint-Martin with famous Parisian landmarks on the Seine.
• Flexible and personalized: Enjoy your cruise at your own pace, with optional gourmet treats available.
• Beautiful scenery: From quiet canals lined with colorful facades to the renowned monuments of Paris, the views are diverse and picturesque.
• Premium experience: The cost reflects exclusivity, comfort, and a private atmosphere—ideal for special occasions.
• Inclusive details: Includes a professional captain, background music, insurance, and blankets for cooler evenings.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Route and What You’ll See

Starting point at Parc de la Villette
The adventure begins in this sizable, green cultural space, which is somewhat off the beaten path for most travelers. Departing from the Villette basin, your boat makes its way towards the Crimean drawbridge—an impressive iron structure that lifts to let boats through. This sets a tone of discovery, far from the usual tourist crowds.

Passage through the locks and footbridges
Soon, you’ll enter the Canal Saint-Martin, a favorite among Parisians but less frequented by visitors. The canal’s charm lies in its swing bridges, lively terraces, and colorful facades—think quaint, lively, and a bit artsy. Spotting the Hotel du Nord, famous from classic films, adds a touch of cinematic nostalgia. As your boat passes through a lock, you’ll notice the water rising or falling slowly, accompanied by the gentle clanking of mechanisms—a calming, rhythmic ballet of the waterway.

The underground tunnel experience
One of the unique highlights of this cruise is the underground tunnel—over a kilometer long, dark, vaulted, and punctuated with skylights. It’s an atmospheric stretch that adds a sense of mystery, as if you’re traveling through a secret passage in the city. The quiet reflected waters and play of light create a magical, almost surreal environment, giving you the feeling of slipping into a parallel Paris.

Emerging at the Port de l’Arsenal and the Bastille
Exiting the tunnel, you’ll see the Place de la Bastille, with its July Column standing tall. This transition from the intimacy of the canal to the grandeur of the Seine is striking—like moving from a hidden alley into the main square of Paris. The Port de l’Arsenal, right here, offers a scenic backdrop before you switch onto the Seine.

The Seine and its legendary sights
Once on the Seine, the views open up significantly. You’ll have prime vantage points of key monuments: Notre-Dame (on the Île de la Cité), the Conciergerie, the Louvre, and the Musée d’Orsay. As you glide further, the Eiffel Tower looms in the background, shining like a beacon—an unmistakable symbol of Paris. The seamless transition from quiet canal to lively river makes this cruise a perfect blend of serenity and spectacle.

What You Can Expect on the Cruise

This isn’t just about sightseeing—although those views are stunning. It’s also about enjoying the moment. You can relax with a glass of champagne, savor some cold cuts or cheese platters, or indulge in macarons and petits fours if you request the gourmet add-ons. The background music (via Bluetooth) adds an elegant touch, making the atmosphere even more refined.

Timing-wise, the cruise is long enough to unwind—2.5 hours—so you can truly take your time. The boat is small and private, which means no jostling with crowds and plenty of room to find your own space. Plus, blankets keep you cozy if the weather turns chilly, adding to the comfort.

The Real Value of This Experience

At nearly $100 per person (considering a group of nine), this cruise is an investment. But it’s one that pays off if you value exclusivity and personalized service. The boat is cleaned after each trip, and passenger insurance is included—so you can relax and enjoy without worries. The flexibility to choose your departure point (either La Villette or Jardins des Plantes) and the option to add gourmet treats make this a tailored experience.

A few reviews mention how the quiet canal and the underground tunnel felt almost magical, with one traveler noting, “It was a peaceful and intimate journey, away from the busy streets—and the tunnel added a mysterious charm.” Others appreciated the scenic views of Paris’s iconic monuments, describing the experience as “romantic and relaxing, with the best views of the Eiffel Tower I’ve seen from the water.”

However, it’s worth noting that this isn’t a large-scale, all-you-can-eat cruise—if you’re craving a lively dinner or a big party vibe, this might not be the right fit. It’s more about savoring the beauty, serenity, and uniqueness of Paris’s waterways.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This cruise appeals most to couples, small groups of friends, or anyone celebrating a special occasion who desires an exclusive, peaceful way to see Paris. If you’re someone who appreciates fine details, intimate settings, and a more “off-the-beaten-path” experience, you’ll likely find this tour charming. It’s also suitable for those interested in a quieter, more contemplative sightseeing option, especially if you’re eager to enjoy the city’s sights without the crowds.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the calm nature of the cruise and the slow pace could make it suitable for older children or teenagers—particularly if they’re interested in seeing Paris from a different vantage point. Just keep in mind that the experience is relaxed and more refined, so it might not hold the attention of younger kids used to more energetic activities.

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The Sum Up

If you’re searching for a way to explore Paris that’s a bit different from the standard sightseeing tours, this private cruise on the Canal Saint-Martin and Seine offers a peaceful, elegant escape. It’s about savoring the city’s quieter waterways, discovering lesser-visited corners, and enjoying unrivaled views of Paris’s most famous monuments—all in the comfort of a small, private boat.

This experience works best for travelers who value intimacy and a personal touch, whether celebrating a special event or simply craving a refined moment of relaxation. While the price tag isn’t cheap, the exclusivity, scenic beauty, and tailored service make it a worthwhile splurge for those looking to add something special to their Paris visit.

For anyone wanting to combine quiet discovery with iconic sights—without the crowds or the rush—this cruise could be a real highlight. It’s a chance to see Paris from a different angle, with just the right amount of luxury, charm, and peacefulness.

FAQs

Is this a private cruise?
Yes, the cruise is private for your group of up to nine people, ensuring an intimate and personalized experience.

Where does the cruise depart from?
You can choose to meet at La Villette in front of the MK2 Seine cinema or at the Jardins des Plantes at Quai Saint Bernard, offering flexibility depending on your location.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise lasts 2.5 hours, giving you plenty of time to relax, take in the sights, and enjoy the moment.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the private cruise, a professional captain, fuel, background music with Bluetooth, insurance, and blankets for cooler evenings.

Can I add gourmet treats?
Absolutely. You can request champagne or wine, charcuterie and cheese platters, and sweet treats like macarons or petits fours to enhance your experience.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility if your plans change.

This cruise offers a refined, peaceful way to see some of Paris’s most beloved sights while enjoying a quiet, private atmosphere. It’s perfect for those who want a special, intimate experience that combines scenic beauty with comfort and exclusivity.

You can check availability for your dates here: