Paris boat tour dinners offer a unique and enchanting way to experience the City of Light. These cruises combine gourmet French cuisine with breathtaking views of iconic Parisian landmarks along the Seine River. From the Eiffel Tower to Notre-Dame Cathedral, passengers can enjoy a memorable dining experience while gliding past illuminated monuments. Various cruise companies offer different packages, durations, and amenities to suit diverse preferences and budgets.
What Are the Popular Paris Boat Tour Dinner Options?
Several renowned companies offer Paris boat tour dinners, each with its unique features:
- Bateaux Parisiens:
- Departures at 6:15 PM (1 hour 15 minutes) and 8:30 PM (2 hours 30 minutes)
- Daily cruises with special events on holidays
- Traditional French cuisine prepared onboard
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Live music entertainment
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Maxim’s Dinner Cruises:
- Departures at 6:00 PM (1 hour 15 minutes) and 8:00 PM (2 hours 15 minutes)
- Operates Thursday, Friday, and Saturday (except on select dates)
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Art-Deco themed cruise with refined cuisine
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Paris Seine and Others:
- Various departure times between 6:15 PM and 9:15 PM
- Cruise durations from 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes
- Themed cruises like ‘Nuit étoilée’ and ‘Paris is a party’
What Amenities Can You Expect on a Paris Boat Tour Dinner?
Paris boat tour dinners offer a range of amenities to enhance your experience:
- Panoramic views through large bay windows and glass ceilings
- Seating options, including window tables (often at an additional cost)
- Gourmet French cuisine using seasonal ingredients
- Live music or ambient entertainment
- Climate-controlled interiors for year-round comfort
How Much Does a Paris Boat Tour Dinner Cost?
Pricing for Paris boat tour dinners varies based on the company, package, and duration:
| Company | Starting Price | Duration |
|---|---|---|
| Bateaux Parisiens | €95 | 1h15m – 2h30m |
| Maxim’s Dinner Cruises | €119 – €149 | 1h15m – 2h15m |
| Other Cruises | €49 – €500 | Varies |
Additional costs may include:
– Upgraded menus
– Guaranteed window seating
– Special requests (e.g., cake, printed photo, extra champagne)
Group discounts are often available for parties of 10 or more.
Are Paris Boat Tour Dinners Accessible for All?
Most Paris boat tour dinner companies strive to accommodate passengers with mobility challenges. However, it’s advisable to contact the cruise company directly for specific accessibility information and arrangements.
How Do You Get to the Departure Points?
Departure points for Paris boat tour dinners are typically well-connected:
- Bateaux Parisiens: Board near the Eiffel Tower
- Metro: Bir-Hakeim or Trocadéro
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Accessible by taxi
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Maxim’s Dinner Cruises: Depart from Musée d’Orsay or other designated points
- Accessible by public transport and taxi
Due to limited parking facilities, public transportation is highly recommended for reaching departure points.
What Should You Wear for a Paris Boat Tour Dinner?
While dress codes can vary by cruise and package, it’s generally advisable to dress smart-casual or formal:
- Men: Collared shirt, dress pants, and closed-toe shoes
- Women: Dress, skirt, or nice pants with a blouse
- Avoid sportswear, shorts, and flip-flops
Some high-end cruises may require more formal attire, so check with your specific tour operator.
Can You Customize Your Paris Boat Tour Dinner Experience?
Many Paris boat tour dinner companies offer customization options:
- Menu upgrades for gourmet experiences
- Private dining areas for special occasions
- Champagne and wine pairings
- Special decorations or arrangements for proposals or celebrations
Contact your chosen cruise company to discuss personalization options and any additional costs involved.
What Are the Best Times for a Paris Boat Tour Dinner?
The best time for a Paris boat tour dinner depends on your preferences:
- Early Evening (6:00 PM – 6:30 PM):
- Perfect for families or those who prefer an earlier dinner
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Offers daylight views transitioning to evening illuminations
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Later Evening (8:00 PM – 9:00 PM):
- Ideal for romantic dinners
- Provides stunning views of Paris by night
Summer months offer extended daylight, while winter cruises showcase Paris’s twinkling lights earlier in the evening.
How Far in Advance Should You Book a Paris Boat Tour Dinner?
It’s recommended to book your Paris boat tour dinner in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons:
- High Season (April to October): Book 2-4 weeks in advance
- Low Season (November to March): Book 1-2 weeks in advance
- Special Dates (New Year’s Eve, Valentine’s Day): Book months in advance
Early booking ensures you get your preferred date, time, and seating options.
Remember, a Paris boat tour dinner offers a magical way to experience the city’s beauty while indulging in exquisite French cuisine. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to create unforgettable memories, these cruises provide a perfect blend of sightseeing and gastronomy along the enchanting Seine River.
References:
1. https://www.cometoparis.com/catalog/bateaux-parisiens-203
2. https://parisjetaime.com/eng/article/lunch-and-dinner-cruise-on-the-seine-a949
3. https://www.marina-de-paris.com/en/book-your-cuise/maxims-dinner-cruises/
