Paris Christmas Lunch Cruise by Bateaux Mouches

Thinking about celebrating Christmas in Paris with a unique twist? This Christmas Lunch Cruise by Bateaux Mouches offers a festive way to enjoy the city’s iconic sights from the Seine while indulging in a gourmet meal. With a duration of approximately 2.5 hours, it’s a cozy yet memorable way to spend Christmas Day, especially if you love good food, sparkling wine, and stunning views.

One of the highlights we love is the gourmet 3-course meal, which includes cheese, hors d’oeuvres, and a specially made French Yule log — not to mention the live music that adds a cheerful, seasonal atmosphere. But there’s one thing to keep in mind: some guests have found the boat quite warm, which might be uncomfortable if you prefer cooler dining conditions.

This experience is ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, scenic celebration and don’t mind the price point, which is around $143.30 per person. It’s perfect for couples, small groups, or families seeking a cozy yet elegant way to mark Christmas in the City of Lights, with a dash of luxury and authentic French charm.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: Glide past famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, all beautifully lit for Christmas.
• Gourmet French Cuisine: Enjoy a carefully curated 3-course meal plus cheese, hors d’oeuvres, and a special Yule log.
• Festive Atmosphere: Live music and a cheerful ambiance make this a memorable holiday celebration.
• Quality Drinks: Sparkling wine, wine for two, and tea or coffee are included for a complete experience.
• Comfort Considerations: Some guests noted that the interior can get quite warm, which might impact comfort.
• Limited Group Size: Tours are capped at 100 guests, offering a more intimate setting.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Meeting Point & Timing

You’ll start your holiday journey at Port de la Conférence, near Paris’s public transportation options, making it convenient to reach. The cruise begins promptly at 12:30 pm, so arriving a bit early ensures you’re settled and ready to enjoy the full experience. The tour ends back at the starting point, giving you the flexibility to explore more of Paris afterward or continue your Christmas festivities.

The Itinerary: What to Expect

Gliding along the Seine, you’ll get a fresh perspective on the city’s most beloved landmarks. As the boat moves slowly, the sights—like the Eiffel Tower, illuminated and sparkling, and the Notre Dame Cathedral—appear as if painted onto a Christmas card. Guests describe the views as “spectacular,” and especially magical when Paris is decked out for the holidays.

The live band adds a lively yet cozy touch, with some reviewers mentioning that the music sets a cheerful tone for the meal. The boat’s interior is covered, which is a plus if the weather isn’t perfect, and there’s an upper deck for those who prefer to stand outside and soak in the sights.

The Meal: French Gourmet at its Finest

The highlight for many is the 3-course meal. Reviewers praise the quality of the food, with one describing the French Yule log as “homemade,” adding a special touch to the festive meal. The meal includes cheese, hors d’oeuvres, and a main course that promises a hearty, satisfying experience.

Drinks are plentiful, with bottled water, a bottle of wine for two, and tea or coffee, all included. This makes the meal feel luxurious without the worry of extra costs adding up. Several guests appreciated the selection of wine, citing it as a highlight of their experience.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

Guests often mention the warm ambiance, created by the holiday decorations, festive music, and attentive staff. Many reviews emphasize the professional service and how welcoming the crew was, even during busy holiday periods. The decorations and the special holiday menu give the cruise a genuine Christmas feel, making it more than just a boat ride.

Authentic Experiences & Guest Insights

One reviewer called it “a truly memorable experience,” highlighting how well organised everything was from embarkation to disembarkation. Conversely, a couple of reviews pointed out some drawbacks, notably that the boat can get too hot — with temperatures rising inside to +10°C outside, despite the chilly weather. Several guests had to speak to staff about the heating, but unfortunately, nothing changed during their cruise, which affected their comfort.

Another reviewer found the food good but not exceptional by French standards, indicating that expectations for gourmet cuisine should be realistic given the setting and price. It’s more about the overall experience than a fine dining extravaganza.

Who Would Love This?

This cruise suits travelers seeking a relaxing holiday celebration while enjoying Paris’s most iconic sights from a unique vantage point. It’s well-suited for small groups or couples looking for a special, cozy meal with excellent ambience. Families with older children might also enjoy the festive setting, especially if they’re fans of classical Parisian scenery.

However, if you’re someone sensitive to heat or prefer a cooler dining environment, you might want to arrive prepared or consider the timing. While the experience is quite popular, booking in advance (average booking 68 days ahead) is recommended, especially during the busy Christmas season.

Final Thoughts

This Paris Christmas Lunch Cruise by Bateaux Mouches offers a lovely blend of scenic beauty, gourmet food, and holiday cheer, all set against the backdrop of Paris’s most famous monuments. The value for the price hinges on your love for good food, live music, and stunning views, with many guests describing it as “magical” and “relaxing.” It’s a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas in a style that feels both festive and authentic.

While the interior heating might be a concern for some, the overall experience is charming and memorable, especially if you’re looking for a romantic or family-friendly holiday outing. The combination of beautiful sights and delicious cuisine makes it a standout option for those wanting to mark Christmas with a special touch in Paris.

If you’re after a celebration that balances scenic views, fine food, and a festive atmosphere, this cruise is worth considering — just be sure to dress smart casual, arrive early, and perhaps bring a light layer to combat the heat.

FAQ

Is there free seating on the boat?
Yes, upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by the Maître d’Hôtel who will escort you to your allocated table. Guests with the Excellence menu get priority seating in front of the windows.

Can I be seated with friends who made separate reservations?
Absolutely, but you need to notify the operator at least 24 hours in advance if you want to be seated together, especially if you prefer the same table.

Is the boat covered?
Yes, all main decks are covered, ensuring protection from rain or wind, while the upper deck is open for those who want a more direct view of the sights.

Can I smoke during the cruise?
Smoking is only permitted on the upper deck, giving you a chance to enjoy the views and fresh air.

Are children allowed on the cruise?
It’s designed for most travelers, but special menus for children over 4 are available. Babies can bring their own food, and highchairs are provided free of charge upon request.

What should I wear?
The dress code is smart casual, so think neat but comfortable — perfect for a festive, elegant atmosphere.

Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
Yes, vegetarian options are available if you specify this at the time of booking.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers the Seine River cruise, a 3-course meal, bottled water, one bottle of wine for two, and tea or coffee, plus live music.

Are souvenirs included?
No, souvenir photos are available for purchase but are not included in the standard package.

What happens if I miss the cruise?
Since refunds are not offered for missed departures, make sure to arrive on time to avoid disappointment.

In the end, this Christmas cruise offers a delightful mix of Parisian sights, French cuisine, and holiday spirit wrapped in a conveniently organized package. It’s a special way to celebrate the season, especially for those who prioritize scenic views and good food with a festive twist.