Which Seine River Cruise Is the Best?

By Robert Palmer

If you’re planning a trip to Paris, a Seine River cruise is a must-do activity. It’s an excellent way to see the city’s famous landmarks and enjoy the beautiful scenery along the river.

But with so many different cruises available, it can be challenging to determine which one is the best fit for your preferences and budget. In this article, we’ll explore some of the top Seine River cruises and help you decide which one is right for you.

Lunch or Dinner Cruise?

One of the first decisions you’ll need to make is whether you want to take a lunch or dinner cruise. A lunch cruise typically lasts around two hours and offers a more casual setting with lighter fare such as salads and sandwiches. On the other hand, dinner cruises are more formal affairs that last around three hours and include multiple courses of gourmet French cuisine.

The Bateaux Parisiens

If you’re looking for a luxurious experience, consider booking a dinner cruise with Bateaux Parisiens. This company offers four-course meals prepared by renowned chefs along with live music entertainment. You’ll also have access to an open bar throughout the duration of your cruise.

Vedettes de Paris

For those on a budget, Vedettes de Paris offers affordable lunch and dinner cruises that still provide stunning views of Paris’s landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame Cathedral. The boats are smaller than some of their competitors, but this makes for a more intimate experience that allows passengers to get up close to the sights.

Daytime or Nighttime Cruise?

Another factor to consider when choosing your Seine River cruise is whether you want to go during the day or at night. Daytime cruises are ideal for families with young children or those who want to see more detail in their surroundings. Nighttime cruises offer a more romantic atmosphere with the city’s lights reflecting off the water.

Bateaux Mouches

Bateaux Mouches is one of the most well-known Seine River cruise companies and offers both daytime and nighttime options. Their boats are designed with large windows that provide excellent views of the city’s landmarks such as the Louvre Museum and the Grand Palais.

Canal Saint-Martin

If you’re looking for a more unique Seine River cruise experience, consider Canal Saint-Martin. This company offers daytime cruises that take you through Paris’s charming canals and under its iconic bridges. At night, they offer “secret” cruises that take you through hidden parts of Paris that are not accessible by foot.

Conclusion

No matter which Seine River cruise you choose, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience. Whether you opt for a luxurious dinner cruise or an affordable daytime tour, all of these companies offer stunning views of Paris’s iconic landmarks and beautiful scenery along the river. So sit back, relax, and enjoy your journey through one of Europe’s most beautiful cities.