Paris: Christmas Lunch Cruise

Imagine drifting along the Seine River in Paris on Christmas Day, with the city’s most famous sights gliding past your window. For just $128 per person, you can enjoy a 2-hour festive cruise aboard Le Diamant Bleu, complete with a freshly prepared 3-course meal and drinks, all set in the heart of the city’s most picturesque scenery. The cruise departs from the 13th arrondissement, near Gare d’Austerlitz, and offers a relaxed, authentic way to soak up the holiday spirit.

What we love about this experience is how it combines spectacular views of Paris’s historic landmarks—from Notre Dame to the Eiffel Tower—with a delicious, seasonal meal that feels both special and intimate. The fact that local, fresh ingredients are used in the kitchen is a big plus for food lovers. Plus, the cruise’s length makes it an easy, manageable activity without feeling rushed or overly long.

A potential consideration is that the best seating—like any cruise—is at the front or by the windows, so if you’re after a prime view, you might want to consider the VIP option. Also, since it’s a set menu with drinks included, adding extra beverages will be an extra expense.

This cruise suits travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic, and gastronomic way to celebrate Christmas in Paris, especially those who appreciate beautiful city views, good food, and a cozy atmosphere.

Key Points

• Scenic Seine views: See Paris’s iconic monuments like Notre Dame, Louvre, and Eiffel Tower from the water.
• Festive meal: Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared 3-course menu featuring seasonal ingredients.
• All-included drinks: A cocktail, wine, and water are included, simplifying the experience.
• Relaxed and manageable: The 2-hour duration fits easily into a Christmas schedule.
• Accessibility: The cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive.
• Prime seating options: VIP seats are available for those wanting the best views and comfort.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Paris Christmas Lunch Cruise

Setting the Scene: Departure and Location

The cruise embarks from beneath the Cité de la Mode et du Design, in the lively 13th arrondissement. It’s a convenient spot near Gare d’Austerlitz, with accessible public transport options, so you don’t need to worry about complicated transfers. If you arrive by car, a Vinci parking lot right in front makes things even easier.

Boarding begins promptly at 12:00 pm, giving you a chance to settle in before the boat departs at 12:30 pm. The cruise lasts exactly 2 hours, returning to the starting point at 2:30 pm. This timing is perfect if you want to combine your holiday sightseeing with a relaxing meal on the water.

The Experience on Board: Atmosphere and Views

Once aboard Le Diamant Bleu, you’ll notice how the boat’s interior is designed to maximize comfort and views. The random seating arrangement means you might be at a window or in the middle of the boat, but many reviews suggest that the overall experience compensates for not always having a window seat.

As the boat gently glides along the Seine, you’ll be treated to panoramic views of Paris’s most famous landmarks. The Notre Dame Cathedral, with its stunning facade, is a highlight, especially if you’re seated nearby. The Conciergerie and the Louvre Palace provide a majestic backdrop, while the Eiffel Tower sparkles in the distance, adding an undeniable holiday magic.

The Food: Seasonal, Fresh, and Thoughtfully Prepared

The meal is a true highlight. The appetizer features whole foie gras seasoned with Southwestern peppercorns, served with fresh figs, endives, and walnut kernels—an elegant start that sets a festive tone. The main course is a capon stuffed with Armagnac, paired with sweet potato purée, green asparagus, and a herb salad. It’s a hearty, warming dish perfect for winter.

Dessert is a Yule log-inspired sweet treat, rounding out the meal on a high note. The kitchen team uses fresh, seasonal ingredients, which reviewers note contributes to the meal’s quality and authenticity.

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Drinks and Additional Options

Your ticket includes a cocktail as an aperitif, half a bottle of wine per person, and half a liter of water. These are sufficient to complement the meal, but if you’re craving more drinks or specific wines, you’ll need to pay extra.

For those who desire the best view, there’s a VIP option that guarantees a seat by the windows or at the front of the boat. While this adds to the cost, it might be worth it if you’re keen on unobstructed views and a more luxurious experience.

Authenticity and Comfort

The experience is designed to be both relaxing and engaging. The crew, including host Daniel (if reviews mention a guide), is friendly and knowledgeable, making the journey feel warm and personal despite the group setting.

Accessibility and Practicalities

The cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility needs. The timing is friendly for those who want an early Christmas meal, and the cancellation policy allows you to cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund—useful if your plans change.

Analyzing the Value

At $128, this experience offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty and gourmet food. Compared to dining at a restaurant on land, the added benefit here is the extraordinary views of Paris’s illuminated monuments. The inclusion of drinks and a multi-course meal provides good value, especially considering the holiday setting.

Some reviews highlight the quality of the food and the special holiday atmosphere as main draws. Others appreciate the ease of logistics, with the central departure point and flexible cancellation.

However, if you’re seeking maximum privacy or a highly customizable menu, this might not fully satisfy. Also, the seating arrangement may not always guarantee a window seat unless you opt for VIP.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for travelers wanting a unique festive experience that combines sightseeing with fine dining. It’s suitable for couples, small groups, or families who enjoy relaxed, scenic moments and appreciate good food. It’s also a wonderful way to celebrate Christmas in a way that feels both special and authentically Parisian.

FAQs

Is the cruise suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it easier for those with mobility needs to enjoy the experience.

What is included in the price?
Your ticket covers a 3-course meal (starter, main, dessert), a cocktail as an aperitif, half a bottle of wine per person, and half a liter of water.

Can I select my seating?
Standard tickets have random seating. For better views, consider the VIP option, which guarantees seats by the windows or at the front.

What is the boarding time?
Boarding begins at 12:00 pm, and the cruise departs promptly at 12:30 pm. It lasts exactly 2 hours.

Where exactly is the departure point?
The boat departs from beneath the Cité de la Mode et du Design, at 36 quai d’Austerlitz, in the 13th arrondissement, near Gare d’Austerlitz.

Are drinks extra?
Basic drinks—cocktail, wine, and water—are included. Any additional beverages cost extra.

Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code is specified, but smart casual attire is recommended for a festive occasion.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

This Paris Christmas Lunch Cruise offers a charming, scenic, and delicious way to celebrate the holiday. With stunning views of Paris’s most iconic landmarks and a thoughtful, seasonal menu, it creates a memorable experience without feeling overly formal. The combination of good food, relaxed pacing, and beautiful scenery makes it a worthwhile choice for those looking to enjoy Christmas in the City of Light in a relaxed, scenic setting.

Perfect for travelers who want a holiday experience that’s both scenic and flavorful, this cruise strikes a good balance of comfort and authenticity. Just remember to consider your seating preferences and whether the included drinks meet your expectations—these little details can make a big difference in your overall enjoyment.

You can check availability for your dates here: