Early evening Dinner Cruise with drinks by Bateaux Parisiens

Picture yourself floating gently along the Seine River, with Paris’s illuminated landmarks passing by your window. That’s precisely what the Early Evening Dinner Cruise with Drinks by Bateaux Parisiens offers—a chance to enjoy a lovely dinner while taking in some of the most iconic sights of the City of Light. Priced at around $130.80 per person, this experience is quite popular, often booked about 7 weeks in advance, and boasts a solid 4.5-star rating from nearly 60 reviews.

What makes this cruise special? For starters, it’s a relaxing way to see Paris from a unique vantage point without the hassle of navigating busy streets or crowded tourist spots. Plus, the glass canopy boat ensures panoramic views, no matter where you’re seated. You’ll enjoy a three-course meal paired with French wines, making it both a visual and culinary treat. However, some reviews hint at certain minor drawbacks, like portions being small and the service feeling a bit rushed at times. This cruise tends to suit travelers looking for a combination of good food, stunning views, and a relaxed evening.

If you’re considering a special dinner, a romantic outing, or a way to kick off your Paris visit in style, this cruise could be just right. But let’s explore in detail what you’re getting, what to expect, and how to make the most of it.

Key Points

• Spectacular views of Paris’s most famous landmarks from the Seine, including the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre-Dame, and more.
• Three-course French dinner with wine, mineral water, coffee, and tea, served at your private table.
• Smooth and relaxing experience on a glass-enclosed boat, perfect for avoiding crowds and walking fatigue.
• Short and sweet—lasting just 1 hour 15 minutes, ideal if you want a memorable experience without dedicating hours.
• Good value for money with a combination of scenic sights, quality food, and attentive service.
• Potential downsides include small portion sizes according to some reviews and occasional rushed service.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Starting at Port de la Bourdonnais, right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, this cruise begins at 6:15 pm—an excellent time to catch Paris as it transitions from late afternoon to evening. The journey lasts about 1 hour 15 minutes, during which you’ll glide along the Seine, passing many of the city’s most celebrated monuments.

Embarking from the Eiffel Tower

The cruise kicks off with a beautiful view of the Eiffel Tower itself, which makes for a perfect photo backdrop before the boat departs. The location is easily accessible and perfect for photo ops, especially as the tower is lit up at night.

Passing Under Pont Alexandre III and Les Invalides

Next, you’ll cruise under this ornate bridge, which was a gift from Tsar Alexander III. The Dome des Invalides, housing Napoleon’s tomb, is visible on the right—adding a touch of history to your scenic ride.

Key Landmarks Along the Seine

As you proceed, you’ll see the French Parliament building, the Musée d’Orsay—a former railway station now transformed into a world-famous art museum—and the Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris. Reviewing the sights with a glass of wine in hand, you’ll be surprised how well the boat’s panoramic glass roof frames each view.

Notre-Dame and Île Saint Louis

Passing by the Notre-Dame Cathedral offers a magnificent perspective—especially when it’s illuminated. The Île Saint Louis provides a picturesque glimpse of a quintessential Parisian neighborhood, with its charming architecture.

Crossing Pont Marie and the Conciergerie

Cruising under Pont Marie, you might want to make a wish—local legend says your wish could come true before next year! Meanwhile, the Conciergerie, former royal palace and revolutionary prison, adds a touch of history to the scenic route.

Approaching the Louvre and Place de la Concorde

One of the highlights is seeing the Louvre Palace—which used to be the residence of French kings—and its impressive 700-meter façade. Nearby, the Egyptian obelisk in Place de la Concorde and the guillotine site add a historical edge to the sightseeing.

Final Views and Return

As the cruise nears its end, you’ll enjoy the views of the Grand Palais, the Place de la Concorde, and the surrounding areas lit up at night. The boat returns to the port after roughly 75 minutes, leaving plenty of time for you to explore further or enjoy the evening.

The Dining Experience: Food, Drinks, and Atmosphere

The three-course dinner is a notable aspect of this cruise. The menu offers a variety of options, including vegetarian dishes, and is prepared on board, ensuring freshness. Many reviewers mention the quality of the food as being “very good,” with some describing the presentation as “eloquent.” The wine options—either a glass of kir or champagne, depending on your choice—and bottled water, complement the meal perfectly.

Reviewers like Rebecca_H have shared that the service is top-notch, with attentive staff who handle the flow smoothly despite the limited duration. The atmosphere is described as romantic and elegant, perfect for couples or special celebrations. Some reviews note that the service can feel slightly rushed, with some courses arriving before you finish the previous one, which might be a consideration if you’re looking for a leisurely pace.

The Viewing and Photo Opportunities

One of the biggest perks is the panoramic view from the fully glass-enclosed boat. Several reviewers recommend charging your camera beforehand, especially to capture the illuminated Eiffel Tower or Notre-Dame. The boat’s design ensures you won’t miss a detail, even with windows up, but the best photos are often during the golden hour or at night when the city shines.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

• Departure Point: Port de la Bourdonnais, at the foot of the Eiffel Tower—easy to reach via public transport or walking.
• Start Time: 6:15 pm, ideal for catching sunset views and the city lights.
• Duration: About 1 hour 15 minutes, making it a manageable activity without feeling rushed.
• Price: $130.80 per person, which covers the cruise, three-course meal, wine, coffee/tea, and bottled water.
• Booking in Advance: Most travelers book about 7 weeks ahead, which suggests strong interest and popularity.
• Group Size: Limited to 100 travelers, ensuring a relatively intimate environment but still lively enough for groups.
• Accessibility: The boat is air-conditioned, and service animals are allowed.
• Additional Costs: Souvenir photos are available but not included; extra drinks or food outside the set menu are also extra.

What Reviewers Are Saying

Positive Insights: Many reviewers highlight the stunning views, especially the Eiffel Tower lit up at night, and the excellent service from attentive staff. The quality of the meal and the wine selection receive praise, with some describing their experience as “fabulous” or “exquisite.” Several mention that it’s a great way to see Paris without walking—a bonus after a long travel day or for those with mobility considerations.

Constructive Criticism: Some mention that the portion sizes are small, which might leave you wanting more, especially if you’re used to hearty meals. Others note that the service can feel a bit hurried—probably due to the tight schedule of courses. A few feel that the lack of live commentary means you need to rely on a QR code or guidebook to identify landmarks, which may not be as engaging as a live guide.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is perfect for romantic couples, first-time visitors wanting a scenic overview, or anyone seeking a relaxed, upscale evening in Paris. It’s also suitable for special occasions like anniversaries or celebrations. If you’re someone who enjoys good wine, beautiful views, and a touch of elegance without spending hours, this is a smart choice.

However, if you prefer a more comprehensive sightseeing tour with detailed commentary or prefer larger portions, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The Bateaux Parisiens dinner cruise offers a beautiful, intimate way to enjoy Paris’s most iconic sights from the water. The combination of stunning views, delicious French cuisine, and attentive service makes it a memorable experience, especially if you’re looking to avoid the hustle and bustle of city streets. The short duration means it fits well into a busy itinerary, while the upscale atmosphere makes it suitable for romantic evenings or special celebrations.

While portions might be smaller than some expect and service can occasionally feel rushed, these minor flaws are balanced by the breathtaking scenery and overall quality of the experience. If your goal is a romantic, scenic, and delicious night in the heart of Paris, this cruise will surely leave a lasting impression.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, the menu offers vegetarian options, making it accessible for non-meat eaters.

What’s included in the price?
Your ticket covers the 1 hour 15-minute cruise, three-course meal, wine, mineral water, coffee/tea, and a private table.

Can I take photos during the cruise?
Absolutely. The boat’s glass canopy offers great photo opportunities, especially of the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame at night.

Are drinks extra?
No, wine, champagne or kir, along with water and coffee, are included in the price.

How early should I arrive?
It’s best to arrive a few minutes before 6:15 pm to find your spot and settle in comfortably.

Is this experience accessible?
The boat has air conditioning, and service animals are permitted. However, check with the provider if you have specific accessibility needs.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel for free up to 24 hours before the departure time for a full refund.

How crowded does it get?
Limited to 100 travelers, the cruise tends to be comfortably sized—offering an intimate yet lively atmosphere.

Can I extend my evening after the cruise?
Yes, the cruise’s short duration means you’ll have plenty of time afterward to explore more of Paris or enjoy an additional dinner elsewhere.

To sum it up, this dinner cruise provides a wonderful balance of scenic beauty, culinary delight, and relaxed elegance. It’s ideal for those who want a taste of Paris’s magic without spending an entire day on sightseeing. Whether celebrating a special event or simply seeking a memorable night, it’s a compelling choice that captures the essence of Paris from its most picturesque angle.