Boat Cruises in Paris
Here are five amazing things you can do around the River Seine
1.) The Vedettes Du Pont Neuf
In a friendly atmosphere on quite a large boat, you will discover Paris and its mysteries by listening to the story of most of the 37 bridges of the city. It is the perfect foretaste and first contact with Paris and you will immediately fall under its spell. The boarding is on the City Island (Île de la Cité) in the heart of Paris (metro line 4, station Cité).
2.) The Bateaux-Mouches
The bateaux-mouches, which used to transport goods, have become quite popular amongst tourists and thus have been adapted to suit their comfort. You will not miss any of the greatness of Paris and its majesty with the complete itinerary through the “unusual Paris” and the welcoming staff. There are 9 boats which offer tours throughout the day and they are easily recognizable by their orange seats. Don’t forget to wave at the riverside residents! It’s a tradition. The boarding is under the Pont de l’Alma (RER C, Station Pont de l’Alma or metro line 9, station Alma Marceau). It is ideal if you want to spend a short holiday or a weekend in Paris.
3.) Lunch or dinner cruises
After a magic evening river walking tour, nothing is more romantic than a dinner on a boat. Although the Bateaux-mouches company offers you this possibility, you’d better look for the companies that specialize in the business, which have great chefs. A cruise on the river shouldn’t make you forget about French Cuisine! It just depends on how much you are willing to spend. The offer is varied, from the very fancy gourmet cruise in Paris on Capitaine Fracasse’s boat to a simple snack with your family on either the Vedettes du Pont Neuf or the Bateaux-Mouches.
4.) Enjoy the riverside night life
Paris nightlife also makes the most of the Seine and the magnificent landscape it offers. Although they are often booked for private events, the River’s king or the Concorde Atlantique are the perfect places for an unforgettable party. The boats make four stops, and you can pay for a one hour cruise in the River Seine while you are enjoying your champagne or setting fire to the dance floor.
5.) Go to a concert
Enjoy music as rough as the stream. The city of Paris does not lack concert halls in shape of yachts or steamships, which will navigate along to the rhythm of drums. Discover this wonderful musical experience in Paris. Some of the most famous ones are: The Batofar (rock, electro and soul) the Dame de Canton (jazz, World music and French popular music, the Melody Blues (Jazz) or the Petit Bain which can be booked for private concerts).
Facts about Boat Cruises in Paris
There are 37 bridges in Paris! This high number is due to the economic purpose: In the Middle Ages, you had to pay a tax each time you crossed a bridge!
The oldest bridge in Paris is actually called the “(Brand) New Bridge” (Pont-Neuf)!
The Seine River is getting cleaner and cleaner each year, the salmons are now back proving the big effort s Paris has made to reduce industrial releases in the River. Hopefully, in few years you’ll see some of us swimming happily in clear blue water… or not.
Pont Neuf
If you wander through the streets of Paris, you are likely to notice the difference between the Right bank and the Left bank: On each side of the River Seine, there is a different history, spirit and state of mind. Only a boat cruise will offer you the best of both worlds for an affordable price, while listening to music, having a romantic dinner on the Seine or dancing to a French DJ’s mix.
GeorgesHow to get there
Brunch on a Boat:
Metro: Line 12, Station Assemblée Nationale
Rer C: Station Musée d’Orsay
La Plage cote sud:
Metro: Line 10
Rer C: Station Javel
- 13 million visitors a year 99%
- Incredibly detailed 80%
- Contains hidden mysteries 70%
Other Highlights if you Get Sea Sick
Brunch on a Boat
Don’t worry, this one won’t cast off! It is called Le Quai and if it’s a sunny day, you will enjoy the sun while having your brunch on the deck.
A dreamy setting and an affordable meal at La Plage cote sud.
Insider’s tips:
- You can receive up to 60% off discounts on diverse boat cruises after taking a Discover Walks Walking Tour in Paris.
- Tourists usually (aimlessly but joyfully) wave at Parisians when they see them on bridges and usually, Parisians wave back. Perpetuate the tradition!
- Riverside residents and many Parisians like to hang out on the “quais de Seine” (the riverside), making the most of the amazing views. Don’t hesitate to join them!
Why it’s worth doing
- It is affordable for a complete overview of Paris through history: Each bridge tells a different story.
- Children are going to love it and couples will never find anything more romantic.
