Paris: Christmas Lunch Cruise

Imagine celebrating Christmas in Paris, cruising along the Seine with iconic landmarks shimmering around you and a thoughtfully prepared seasonal meal in hand. That’s exactly what the Paris Christmas Lunch Cruise on Le Diamant Bleu promises. This two-hour voyage combines the magic of holiday sights with the comfort of a gourmet meal, making it a lovely way to spend a festive afternoon.

What truly stands out is the careful attention to seasonal ingredients—the menu highlights fresh, local produce like foie gras and Armagnac-stuffed capon, paired with a glass of wine or a cocktail. It’s a relaxed, convivial experience that feels both luxurious and authentically Parisian.

That said, a potential consideration is the seating arrangement: unless you opt for the VIP window or front seats, you might find your view slightly obstructed by other guests or the boat’s structure. Still, the opportunity to see Paris’s famed monuments lit up at Christmas from the water is genuinely special.

This cruise suits travelers wanting a cozy, festive meal combined with spectacular views, especially those who appreciate good food and a relaxed atmosphere amid Paris’s holiday sparkle.

Key Points

• Seasonal cuisine using fresh ingredients enhances the holiday experience.
• Iconic sights like Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower, and Louvre are part of the cruise’s scenic backdrop.
• Two-hour duration offers a leisurely, manageable way to enjoy Paris without overstaying.
• Flexible booking options with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
• Limited window seats are available for a better view, but standard seats still offer a great experience.
• Accessible for wheelchairs, making it inclusive for a variety of travelers.

A Festive Cruise Through Paris: An In-Depth Review

Setting the Scene: A Unique Way to Celebrate Christmas

If you’re visiting Paris during the holiday season, it’s easy to get caught up in the hustle of markets, lights, and festive events. However, for a quieter, more intimate experience, a Christmas lunch cruise on the Seine can be a highlight. Operating from a central departure point near Gare d’Austerlitz, the boat, Le Diamant Bleu, offers a cozy two-hour journey through the heart of Paris, with the city’s famous monuments twinkling in the winter light.

The departure time at 12:30 pm fits perfectly into a Christmas-day schedule or a holiday afternoon plan. Boarding begins at noon, giving you a chance to settle in and enjoy the pre-lunch anticipation. The cruise’s duration keeps it manageable—you get a lovely scenic tour without feeling rushed or overly committed.

The Embarkation and Location

The meeting point underneath the Cité de la Mode et du Design is highly accessible. Being close to Gare d’Austerlitz makes public transport a breeze, while plenty of parking options are available if you’re driving—there’s a Vinci lot just across the street.

Once onboard, the boat’s interior offers a warm, inviting space, and the staff is praised for their welcoming attitude. The random seating policy means you could find yourself at a window seat or further back, but the overall experience remains enjoyable regardless of your spot.

The Scenic Journey – Monument Views and Holiday Spirit

This cruise is about more than just a meal; it’s a visual feast. Over the two hours, you’ll glide past historic landmarks like Notre Dame, the Conciergerie, the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, Grand Palais, and the Eiffel Tower. The sight of these illuminated monuments reflecting on the water adds a magical touch, especially at Christmas when the city sparkles with lights.

Guests have emphasized that the views from the boat are impressive, particularly from those with VIP seats near the windows or at the front of the vessel. One review highlights that “the views of the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame at sunset were unforgettable,” reinforcing how special this route can be during the festive season.

While some mention that the seating allocation can sometimes be a bit unpredictable, the overall visibility and ambiance make up for it. The limited number of seats ensures a cozy, less crowded atmosphere—ideal for small groups or intimate celebrations.

The Christmas Feast – A Thoughtfully Curated Menu

The meal onboard is a key highlight, especially for food lovers. Prepared on the boat by the kitchen team, the menu showcases seasonal ingredients that evoke holiday warmth.

The starter features whole foie gras peppered with Southwestern peppercorns, served with fresh figs, endives, walnuts, and homemade sesame hallot. Guests describe it as “rich and flavorful without being overwhelming,” perfect for kicking off the meal.

The main course is a capon stuffed with Armagnac, accompanied by sweet potato purée, grilled green asparagus, and an herb salad. Reviewers have noted that the turkey-like bird is cooked to tender perfection, with the alcohol-infused stuffing adding a festive touch.

For dessert, the Yule log-inspired treat rounds out the meal, offering a classic Christmas flavor. Guests appreciated the attention to detail in the presentation and taste, making this more than just a casual cruise meal.

Drinks and Additional Options

Drinks are included in the ticket price, with a cocktail for the aperitif, half a bottle of wine per person, and half a liter of water. This setup allows guests to toast the season without additional charges. However, the absence of extra drinks as part of the package might be a drawback for those wanting more variety or specific beverages—though it’s easy to purchase extra drinks if desired.

For those seeking a more exclusive experience, the VIP option offers seats by the windows or at the front, promising better views and a touch of luxury. Some guests found that these seats are worth the extra, especially if you want that picture-perfect shot of the Eiffel Tower glowing at night.

The Overall Experience – Pros and Cons

The 4.5-star rating reflects the overall positive feedback, with many guests praising the combination of scenic views, festive atmosphere, and quality meal. Review snippets include comments like “the perfect way to enjoy Paris at Christmas” and “an intimate, memorable experience with great food and views.”

A few minor downsides include seating unpredictability and the limited duration—two hours is just enough to enjoy the sights and meal without feeling rushed. Also, the location means you’ll need to be punctual, as boarding ends at 12:25 pm and the cruise departs promptly.

Pricing and Value

At $128 per person, the cruise offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, festive ambiance, and culinary delight. Considering the included three-course meal and drinks, it provides good value, especially as an alternative to crowded Christmas markets or busy city tours. For those wanting a memorable, relaxed holiday celebration in Paris, this cruise is a worthwhile investment.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This Christmas Lunch Cruise is ideal for couples, small groups, or families looking for a charming way to celebrate. It’s perfect if you want to combine sightseeing with a special meal, especially if you enjoy relaxed, scenic dining rather than high-energy events. It suits travelers seeking authentic, intimate experiences rather than large, commercialized tours.

It’s also a good fit for those who appreciate seasonal cuisine and want a cozy, festive atmosphere with stunning views of Paris’s holiday-lit landmarks.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for guests with mobility needs.

What is the timing of the cruise?
Boarding begins at 12:00 pm, and the cruise departs at 12:30 pm. The experience lasts for two hours and ends by 2:30 pm.

Are additional drinks available beyond what’s included?
Additional drinks are not included in the package, but you can purchase extra beverages separately if you wish.

Can I choose a seat by the window or at the front?
Yes, VIP seats by the windows or at the front are available at an extra cost, offering better views of the monuments.

What food options are served during the cruise?
You’ll enjoy a three-course meal starting with foie gras, followed by a stuffed capon with seasonal sides, and finished with a Yule log dessert.

Is there a possibility to cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and reserve now with the option to pay later.

Final Thoughts

The Paris Christmas Lunch Cruise on Le Diamant Bleu offers a delightful blend of scenic beauty, festive spirit, and culinary craftsmanship. It’s a wonderful way to mark the holiday in the City of Light, especially if you value intimate, authentic experiences that showcase Paris’s iconic sights. While the seating arrangements and limited duration might not suit everyone, the overall package stands out as a charming, memorable holiday option.

For travelers seeking a cozy, picturesque way to enjoy Christmas in Paris with good food, friendly service, and stunning views, this cruise hits the mark. It’s well-suited for those wanting a relaxed celebration that combines the best of food, scenery, and holiday cheer.