Paris New Year Eve Dinner Cruise by Bateaux Mouches

Planning a celebration for the New Year in Paris? Imagine ringing in 2024 aboard a classic Bateaux Mouches boat, drifting along the Seine with shimmering lights of the city and iconic monuments right outside your window. This five-hour cruise combines a gourmet four-course dinner, live music, and champagne, offering what many consider a truly special way to welcome the new year.

While it promises enchanting scenery and a festive atmosphere, some travelers have noted that not every aspect hits the same high note—particularly regarding entertainment and value. But if you’re after a memorable evening with spectacular views, quality food, and a touch of elegance, this cruise might just be the perfect fit.

This experience is best suited for those who appreciate a scenic, romantic setting with good food, and don’t mind splurging a bit for a once-in-a-lifetime celebration. If you’re looking for a lively party atmosphere with carefree dancing and loud music, keep reading; this cruise leans more toward refined elegance and classic Parisian charm.

Key Points

• Stunning river views of Paris’ landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and bridges.
• Excellent wine and Champagne included, enhancing the celebratory vibe.
• Four-course French dinner with options including foie gras, filet mignon, and cheese.
• Live music and dancing to keep the party going well into the night.
• Convenient starting point with a central dock, easy to access.
• Some reviews highlight overpriced value and mixed entertainment quality.

What to Expect on the Paris New Year Eve Dinner Cruise

The Experience Begins: Boarding and First Impressions

Your evening kicks off at the Port de la Conférence, central Paris, with a recommended arrival 30 minutes before departure at 9:00 pm. As soon as you step aboard, you’ll be greeted by the courteous staff, including the Maître d’Hôtel, who will escort you to your assigned table. For those who opt for the Excellence menu, seating is prioritized near the glass windows, ensuring the best views of the city.

The cruise is designed to provide an intimate, elegant atmosphere with a maximum group size of about 200 travelers. The boat is covered, so you’ll stay cozy regardless of the weather, and the upper deck offers an open-air option when you want a breath of fresh air or better views.

The Scenic Journey Along the Seine

Once underway, you’ll notice the remarkable way Paris’s illuminated landmarks come into focus. Reviewers mention that the Eiffel Tower sparkles beautifully while guests dine—it’s a view that many say makes the experience worth the price alone. Bridges like Pont Alexandre III and the historic Conciergerie castle float past your window as the boat glides smoothly through the night.

The initial moments involve a glass of Champagne and amuse-bouches—a small but thoughtful gesture to set the tone of celebration. Reviewers have appreciated the quality of these appetizers, noting the inclusion of osciètre caviar and other delicacies, which elevate the experience early on.

The Gourmet Four-Course Dinner

The highlight for most is undoubtedly the dinner service. The menu (subject to change) features classic French dishes: foie gras served with mini blinis, a duo of scallops and lobster tail, and a main course of capon suprême with mushroom sauce and potato muffins. For cheese lovers, there’s a trio of AOP cheeses, and dessert is a French vanilla delight with wild strawberries and Champagne—rich, indulgent, and fitting for the occasion.

While many reviewers describe the food as delicious, some expressed that the quality was not quite on par with the hefty price tag. Comments ranged from “very good” to “so-so,” especially regarding the steak and lobster salad, which some found disappointing. For context, the cruise is priced at over $530 per person, so expectations for culinary excellence are naturally high.

The Celebratory Atmosphere: Music, Dancing, and Midnight Toast

As dinner winds down, the boat transitions into party mode with live music and dancing. The onboard band and violinist help create a lively yet refined ambiance. Guests have enjoyed the entertainment and the ability to dance with views of the city as a backdrop.

However, some reviews mention that the music quality varies—with one noting that the singer performed off a karaoke machine, which detracted from the overall vibe. Others mention that the entertainment felt cut short around 1 am, just as the clock struck midnight, which was somewhat disappointing for those hoping for a full night of celebration.

The Midnight Moment and Final Views

The highlight of any New Year’s Eve cruise is, of course, the midnight countdown and the view of fireworks or, at the very least, the Eiffel Tower’s sparkling display. Many reviews praise how magical it was to see the iconic lights as the clock struck twelve. Some noted that there was no sparkling wine or champagne at midnight—a minor point, but noteworthy given the price.

The cruise concludes back at the dock, typically around 2 am, but some guests felt the event’s entertainment and atmosphere wound down too quickly, leaving them wishing for a more prolonged celebration.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Arrival and Boarding

The process is straightforward thanks to the centrally located dock and clear instructions. Arriving 30 minutes early is advisable to ensure you settle in comfortably and enjoy the pre-departure Champagne and canapés.

Scenic Cruise and Landmark Viewing

The cruise route covers the main sights of Paris – the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and the bridges – all beautifully lit at night. Reviewers mention that the panoramic glass roof makes it easy to see everything, even if the weather isn’t ideal.

Dinner Service

Expect a luxurious four-course meal, with French classics. The menu includes items like foie gras, scallops, lobster, filet mignon, and cheese, all served in a refined setting. The focus on quality ingredients is clear, but some guests found the food to be inconsistent, with some dishes falling short of expectations.

Post-Dinner Festivities

After the meal, the music ramps up, and guests are encouraged to dance and celebrate. The lively music helps mask some of the perceived shortcomings in entertainment quality, but it’s important to note that reviews suggest the party atmosphere isn’t nonstop.

New Year Countdown and Fireworks

Guests often describe the midnight countdown as a magical moment, with the Eiffel Tower shining brightly in the background. Still, the absence of sparkling wine at midnight was a common complaint from those expecting a more traditional toast.

Is It Worth the Price?

At $530.10 per person, this cruise is definitely a splurge. The value hinges on what you prioritize—if stunning views, quality French cuisine, and a sophisticated atmosphere matter most, many find it worth it. However, reviews also point out that the food quality can be hit or miss, and the entertainment might not justify the cost for everyone.

Some guests felt that the overpriced experience didn’t fully live up to expectations, especially considering the extra drinks paid for beforehand and the limited amount of Champagne included. The fact that no sparkling wine is served at midnight was another disappointment for some.

That said, for those seeking a romantic and scenic way to welcome the new year, the views of Paris lit up at night are genuinely unforgettable. The experience offers a sense of occasion, and many appreciate the elegant setting, the classic Parisian ambiance, and the opportunity to celebrate with a group or partner.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Consider This Experience?

If you value a beautiful setting with iconic views, enjoy French cuisine, and are willing to pay a premium for a special night, this cruise could be perfect. It’s especially suitable if you’re celebrating a romantic getaway or marking a milestone like New Year’s Eve.

However, if you’re after lively, full-blown party vibes with nonstop dancing and high-energy entertainment, this might feel a bit subdued. The mixed reviews on the quality of food and entertainment suggest it’s better suited for those who seek an elegant, scenic experience rather than a wild celebration.

In summary, the Paris New Year Eve Dinner Cruise by Bateaux Mouches offers an iconic way to see the city and toast the new year in style. While it certainly has its flaws, the combination of stunning views, excellent Champagne, and a refined atmosphere makes it a memorable choice for a special celebration in Paris.

FAQ

Is there free seating on the boat?
No, guests are assigned tables upon boarding. Those who book the Excellence menu get priority near the windows for the best views.

Can I sit with friends who made separate reservations?
Yes, but you’ll need to notify the tour provider at least 24 hours in advance to be seated together, as seating is allocated.

Is the boat covered?
Yes, all main decks are covered, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather. An upper deck is also available for open-air views.

Can I smoke onboard?
Smoking is only permitted on the upper deck, outside the main covered areas.

Are there options for babies or children?
No, there are no special menus for children under four, and bringing your own food is recommended for babies. Highchairs are available free of charge.

What should I wear?
Smart casual attire is recommended; think neat, elegant clothing suitable for a refined dinner setting.

Is the experience refundable?
No, bookings are non-refundable and cannot be changed once confirmed. Be sure of your plans before booking.

In the end, the Paris New Year Eve Dinner Cruise by Bateaux Mouches offers a blend of classic Parisian charm, scenic beauty, and fine dining—perfect for those seeking a special, memorable way to welcome the new year, despite some questions about value.