Paris: Dinner Cruise on the Seine and Eiffel Tower 2nd floor

A Detailed Look at the Paris Dinner Cruise and Eiffel Tower Experience

If you’re dreaming of seeing Paris from its most iconic vantage points, this combined dinner cruise on the Seine followed by a visit to the Eiffel Tower’s second floor offers a snapshot of the City of Light that’s hard to beat. While it’s not a perfect experience — some reviews point to hiccups — it does have plenty of memorable moments, especially for those who love breathtaking views and a touch of romance.

What we like most about this tour is how it blends two of Paris’s most famous sights into one evening. You start with a relaxing cruise on the Seine, where you can soak in Paris’s stunning architecture without having to navigate the busy streets. Then, you climb up to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower for a view that will stay with you long after the trip ends.

A potential drawback? Some past guests mention issues with organization — from difficulty finding the boat to inconsistencies with drinks and service. It’s important to approach this experience with flexible expectations and a sense of adventure.

This tour is ideal for couples, first-time visitors, or anyone wanting a romantic night with classic Parisian sights. If you’re after a seamless, high-end experience, this might not be the best fit. But if you’re eager to combine a scenic cruise with a spectacular view, it’s worth considering.

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The cruise offers panoramic sights of Paris’s most famous landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower.
• Two-in-One Experience: Combine a Seine river cruise with Eiffel Tower access for a memorable evening.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Enjoy a private table and the chance to relax without the hassle of navigating Paris’s busy streets.
• Mixed Reviews on Service: Some guests found the check-in process confusing and service curt, so manage expectations.
• Cost vs. Value: At $187 per person, it’s somewhat pricier than some other options, but the inclusion of Eiffel Tower access adds value.
• Limited Flexibility: No drinks are included during the cruise, and there’s no hotel transportation, so plan accordingly.

An In-Depth Review of the Experience

The Itinerary and Its Charm

This tour begins at Paris Seine La Marina, with a guide waiting at the bottom of the stairs leading to the Seine River. The group is usually guided by a multilingual host or greeter who provides some context and ensures everyone finds the right boat. From the start, the focus is on delivering a seamless experience, but reviews suggest that some guests struggled with the check-in process — one traveler mentioned that the activity was canceled without warning, highlighting the importance of confirming arrangements beforehand.

Once aboard the Paris Seine boat, you’ll settle into a private table (a highlight for many, as it guarantees a personal space to enjoy the scenery). The cruise lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes, during which you’ll glide past some of Paris’s most recognizable monuments.

Sights along the way include:

• Notre-Dame Cathedral and Île de la Cité — the heart of Paris’s medieval history
• Saint-Louis Island — a charming, historical neighborhood
• The Eiffel Tower — the moment you’ve likely been waiting for
• The Louvre Museum — with its iconic glass pyramid
• A multitude of Paris bridges, particularly the Alexandre III Bridge, which is often praised for its grandeur

The cruise is a chance to relax and take in views that are often difficult to appreciate while navigating the streets. However, some reviews note that the dinner service can feel hurried — guests have reported around 1.5 hours of dining from dock to dock, which isn’t a lot of time for a multi-course meal.

The Food and Drinks

The included dinner is described as an assorted menu, but reviews indicate that the presentation is nice, yet flavors may be lackluster. Some guests found the food to be mediocre, especially considering the price point. An important note is that drinks are not included during the cruise, and guests should be prepared to pay extra for alcohol or soft drinks.

One reviewer mentioned that there was some confusion about what was included — for example, while they paid for a package that should have included drinks, staff curtly informed them that only a soft drink or wine was included, and the offer was “last year’s.” This highlights the importance of clarifying inclusions ahead of time.

Visiting the Eiffel Tower’s Second Floor

After the cruise, your ParisCityVision assistant will escort you to the Eiffel Tower. You’ll ascend to the second floor, where the views of Paris are simply unforgettable. The vantage point is high enough to see the city’s skyline, illuminated at night, stretching out in all directions.

Guests often remark on how spectacular the panorama is from this height, especially in the evening when Paris lights up. The second floor is less crowded than the summit, allowing for a more relaxed experience, and the views are still impressive.

Note: There are limitations — this tour does not include access to the third floor or the summit, which some travelers might prefer. Also, wheelchair users are not permitted on this tour, and there is no luggage storage or large bags allowed at the Eiffel Tower, so pack accordingly.

Practicalities and Considerations

• Duration: The entire experience lasts around 5 hours, including meeting, cruise, and Eiffel Tower visit.
• Meeting Point: Must be at Paris Seine La Marina, with clear instructions to find the guide holding a sign.
• No hotel transfers: Guests are responsible for getting to the meeting point, so consider transportation arrangements.
• Age and mobility: Not suitable for wheelchair users or those with large luggage or non-folding strollers.
• Language: The tour is offered in English and French, with a host available to help with questions.
• Cancellation: Flexible up to 3 days in advance for a full refund, making it easier to adapt plans if needed.

The Real Guest Experience

From reviews, it’s clear that the views are the main selling point. Many guests emphasize how beautiful the city looks from the Seine and the Eiffel Tower. One reviewer from Italy mentioned that they arrived to find activity canceled unexpectedly, which underscores the importance of confirming bookings. Conversely, others appreciated the private table and the chance to relax while seeing Paris’s landmarks.

Some found the service to be uneven — with curt staff and confusion over inclusions, but the presentation of the food was generally appreciated, even if the flavors didn’t always impress. The short cruise duration was a common point, with some wishing for more time on the water or at the tower.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for romantic couples looking for an enchanting evening with spectacular views. It’s ideal if you value a relaxed atmosphere and want to combine a scenic cruise with a visit to one of the world’s most famous monuments without the hassle of navigating the city on your own.

However, if you prioritize gourmet dining or a seamless experience, you might find this tour somewhat lacking. It’s also not suitable for travelers with mobility issues or large luggage, so plan logistics accordingly.

Final Thoughts

This combined dinner cruise and Eiffel Tower visit offers a compelling way to see Paris from two of its most iconic vantage points. While some operational hiccups have been reported, the stunning views from the Seine and the tower are undeniable highlights. It’s a romantic, memorable option for those eager to experience Paris’s beauty with minimal effort.

The value depends heavily on your expectations. If you’re after a scenic, relaxed evening with memorable vistas, this tour will deliver. But if you’re looking for a high-end dining experience or perfectly organized logistics, it’s worth exploring other options.

This tour brings together the magic of Paris’s scenery with the thrill of standing atop the Eiffel Tower, making it a popular choice for first-time visitors or couples celebrating a special occasion. Just be prepared for some variability in service and plan ahead to maximize your visit.

FAQ

Is drinks included during the cruise?
No, drinks are not included during the dinner cruise. Guests should expect to pay extra for beverages, including alcohol and soft drinks.

What is the duration of the entire experience?
The total experience lasts about 5 hours, including meeting, cruising, and visiting the Eiffel Tower.

Where do I meet the guide?
At Paris Seine La Marina, Port de Solférino. Look for a guide holding a sign with the local partner’s logo near the bottom of the stairs leading to the Seine.

Can I go to the third floor of the Eiffel Tower?
No, this tour only includes access to the second floor. The third-floor or summit is not part of this experience.

Is this tour suitable for wheelchair users?
No, wheelchair access is not provided for this experience.

Are large bags or luggage allowed?
Large luggage or non-folding strollers are not permitted at the Eiffel Tower, and there is no luggage storage on-site.

Can I cancel this tour?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 3 days in advance for a full refund.

How much does it cost?
The tour costs $187 per person, which includes the dinner cruise and Eiffel Tower second-floor ticket.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While suitable for most, it’s not recommended for those with mobility issues or large luggage. The experience is best suited for couples or adults interested in scenic views.

To sum it up, this Paris dinner cruise coupled with a visit to the Eiffel Tower’s second floor offers a blend of relaxation and awe-inspiring vistas. If panoramic views, romantic ambiance, and a touch of Parisian glamour appeal to you, it’s worth considering — just keep in mind the reviews’ insights about organization and value.