Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Singer by VIP Yacht de Paris

Review of the Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Singer by VIP Yacht de Paris

Imagine floating gently along the Seine River, the Eiffel Tower shimmering above, and the glow of Paris lighting up the night sky. That’s the kind of magic this Seine River dinner cruise promises, and it’s a popular choice among travelers seeking a romantic or memorable evening without the fuss of land-based restaurants.

We love how pre-booking guarantees a seat on the upper deck, offering sweeping views of Paris’s most iconic landmarks. The live singer adds a charming touch, providing a soundtrack to your evening while you dine and enjoy the scenery. Plus, the overall experience offers good value, especially considering the included optional drinks and a three-course meal.

However, it’s worth noting that some reviews mention inconsistencies, such as variable service quality or limitations in the inside seating view. If you’re someone who appreciates attentive service and a well-organized tour, keep that in mind.

This cruise suits those seeking a relaxed, scenic way to see Paris from the water while enjoying decent food and entertainment. It’s ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, first-time visitors wanting a quick overview of the city’s highlights, or anyone who loves a nighttime ambiance with a touch of elegance.

Key Points

• Guaranteed upper deck seating ensures stunning panoramic views of Paris landmarks.
• Live music onboard adds a lively, authentic Parisian vibe to your dinner.
• The three-course meal offers good value, with vegetarian options available.
• The cruise provides an opportunity to see Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Grand Palais, and more from the water.
• Flexible options for drinks—either with or without alcohol—cater to different preferences.
• The overall experience is well-rated for atmosphere and scenery, but some reviews mention inconsistent service.

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting the Scene: The Boarding and Meeting Point

Your evening begins at a conveniently located meeting point on the banks of the Seine, in Port de la Rapee. The meeting spot is accessible by public transit, which makes getting there straightforward. The vessel, operated by Le VIP Paris Yacht Hotel, is described as elegant—though some reviews note that the yacht’s appearance might not match the most luxurious expectations. It’s a plain white boat, rather than a sleek, modern yacht, which is something to keep in mind if you’re expecting high-end luxury.

Once onboard, seating is pre-reserved for those who book ahead, specifically on the upper deck. This is a big plus, as it guarantees you the best vantage point for city views and photos. The boat has a maximum capacity of around 80 guests, which means it’s not overly crowded—a point appreciated by those who prefer a more intimate atmosphere.

The Cruise Itself: Scenery and Landmarks

One of the key appeals of this experience is the chance to see Paris’s most famous sights illuminated at night. The cruise takes you past the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Grand Palais, and the Conciergerie, among others. Several reviews mention how breathtaking the views are—especially from the upper deck—where you can get close enough for some memorable photos.

Travelers often comment on the leisurely pace, which allows plenty of time to admire each landmark and take pictures. Some reviewers note the cruise lasts approximately four hours, with the actual time cruising punctuated by moments of appreciation of Paris’s nighttime ambiance.

A handful of reviews point out that the boat does not include commentary or guided explanation of the landmarks. If you’re craving a narrated experience, you might find this a drawback. However, others find that the stunning visuals speak for themselves, and the atmosphere more than compensates for the lack of a guide.

Dining Experience: Food and Drink

The dinner is a major part of the cruise, with options for a three-course meal, which travelers describe as “good” or “delicious.” The menu features a main dish, such as veal or fish, with a dessert, and vegetarian options are available if requested. Several reviews rave about the quality of the food, with one guest emphatically recommending the veal as “awesome.”

The dining takes place downstairs with panoramic windows, so you can keep your eyes on the city while eating. Some reviews mention that the food is served at a relaxed pace, sometimes leading to long intervals between courses. The overall consensus is that the quality is decent, especially considering the price point.

Live Entertainment and Atmosphere

Adding to the Parisian charm is a live singer performing onboard. The singer belts out tunes in a smoky jazz style, which some guests find delightful and atmospheric, while others find the entertainment a bit underwhelming. As one reviewer put it, “the singer was awful,” but others appreciated the musical backdrop that added to the ambiance.

If you’re a music lover, this element adds a layer of authenticity and fun. If your preference is for a more polished or energetic show, you might be disappointed.

Drinks and Extras

When booking, you have options to include drinks—either with a glass of wine and water or just the meal. Some reviews mention that the drink service is good, and the champagne or wine options add to the celebratory feel. WiFi is available onboard, which is handy if you want to share photos or stay connected.

Note that the tour includes a glass of wine per person and a bottle of water for every two guests if you choose the drinks option. No additional drinks are included unless you opt for that package, so consider whether you want to pay extra for wine and champagne.

The Overall Experience

Many guests find the cruise to be an elegant, enjoyable evening—particularly appreciating the stunning views and ambiance. It’s often described as a “romantic” experience and a great way to see the city at night from a different perspective.

However, some reviews point out inconsistencies: service can be slow or inattentive, and some passengers felt the food or entertainment did not always live up to expectations. A few guests mention issues like poor communication or seating inside that limits the views, especially if you’re dining away from the large windows.

Practical Tips for Booking and Going

• Booking early is recommended to secure upper deck seating.
• If you’re particular about enjoying views while dining, arrive early to get the best seat.
• Consider the drink options when booking, as they add to the overall value and experience.
• Be aware that no guided commentary is provided, so learn about the landmarks beforehand if you want context.
• The cruise departs at 7:00 pm, so plan to arrive a little earlier.
• The tour isn’t suitable for children, so it’s best for adults or older teens.

Who Is This Cruise Best For?

This cruise is ideal for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed, scenic night out. It’s perfect if you want to see Paris’s landmarks from the water without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. The live music makes it more memorable, especially for fans of jazz or vintage tunes.

If you’re craving a luxurious, highly narrated experience, or have specific dietary needs, you might find it lacking. But for those wanting a good balance of scenery, decent food, and a charming atmosphere, it offers solid value.

The Sum Up

The Seine River dinner cruise with live singer by VIP Yacht de Paris offers a charming way to see Paris at night. With guaranteed upper deck seating, you’ll enjoy some of the best views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and other landmarks while indulging in a tasty three-course meal and listening to live jazz. The overall experience is often praised for its relaxed, romantic vibe and good value, especially if you opt for the drinks package.

While service and entertainment quality can vary—some guests find the singer underwhelming or experience delays—the majority leave feeling satisfied with the scenery and ambiance. It’s a fantastic choice for couples celebrating, first-time visitors who want a quick, scenic overview, or anyone looking for a memorable night on the water without breaking the bank.

Keep in mind, if you’re seeking a guided tour with narration, this cruise might fall short, but if you value the views and a lively yet intimate atmosphere, it delivers on those fronts. Just arrive early, choose your seat wisely, and prepare to fall in love with Paris from a different angle.

FAQ

Is the seating on the upper deck guaranteed?
Yes, booking in advance guarantees you a seat on the upper deck, which offers the best panoramic views of Paris.

What landmarks will I see during the cruise?
You’ll pass by major sites like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Grand Palais, and the Conciergerie, among others.

Can I choose to have drinks with my meal?
Yes, there’s an option to include drinks such as a glass of wine per person and water for two guests, which you can select when booking.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
No, this experience is not recommended for children, as it is designed for adults and may involve a romantic or leisurely atmosphere.

What if the weather is bad?
The cruise requires good weather to operate. If canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are guided explanations of the sights provided?
No, the cruise does not include commentary. If you want background information, you might need to research landmarks separately.