Paris: Seine Cruise in Paris with 5-Course Christmas Dinner

Imagine gliding along the Seine on a sleek, glass-canopy boat, with Paris’s most iconic sights glowing in festive lights, all while savoring gourmet French cuisine. For about four hours, this Christmas dinner cruise offers a blend of breathtaking views, delicious food, and joyous atmosphere right in the heart of the City of Light. At $193 per person, it’s a meal and sightseeing experience that aims to combine elegance with holiday warmth.

What we love about this experience are two things in particular. First, the stunning views of Paris’s illuminated landmarks—from the Eiffel Tower to Notre Dame—are truly exceptional at night, creating a magical backdrop for any celebration. Second, the authentic French 5-course menu, cooked aboard by a dedicated chef, elevates the meal beyond typical dinner cruise fare, especially when paired with carefully selected wines and Champagne.

A possible consideration is that the price point might be on the higher side for some travelers, especially given that souvenirs are not included and the meal is part of an all-inclusive package. However, for those who value a special holiday experience, the combination of scenery, cuisine, and live music makes it worthwhile.

This tour suits travelers looking for a romantic, memorable Christmas celebration or a unique way to see Paris’s famous sights while indulging in fine food and drink. It’s especially ideal for those who appreciate good entertainment and want to avoid the typical crowded holiday tourist spots.

Key Points

• Stunning Nighttime Views: The illuminated Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and grand bridges create an enchanting setting.
• Gourmet French Cuisine: A carefully crafted 5-course Christmas menu, paired with wines and Champagne, offers a true taste of France.
• Festive Atmosphere: Live music and holiday lights add warmth and cheer, making it a perfect seasonal celebration.
• Comfortable Setting: The glass canopy boat provides shelter and unobstructed views, even in winter weather.
• Authentic Experience: The dinner is cooked aboard by the chef, ensuring freshness and a true culinary experience.
• Value for Special Occasions: For $193, you’re combining sightseeing, fine dining, and entertainment—all in one memorable package.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

The cruise departs from 7 Port de la Bourdonnais, right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, making it incredibly convenient for visitors. You’ll begin with check-in at 8 p.m., with the boat leaving around 8:30 p.m. and returning at midnight. The duration of roughly four hours allows ample time to enjoy your meal, take in the sights, and soak up the holiday spirit without feeling rushed.

The Itinerary and Sights

As you settle into your seat, the boat gently glides along the Seine for about 2.5 hours, passing by some of Paris’s most recognizable landmarks. The cruise includes approximately ten-minute views of Pont Alexandre III and Pont Neuf, two of the city’s most beautiful bridges, each shimmering with holiday lights.

One of the highlights is a 30-minute close-up of the Eiffel Tower, which is particularly impressive at night when it sparkles with thousands of lights. Other notable sights include Ile de la Cite and Notre Dame Cathedral, both casting majestic reflections on the water. Passing through Le Marais, you’ll see one of Paris’s most historic neighborhoods, beautifully decorated for Christmas.

The Meal

The star of the evening is the 5-course Christmas menu. You can expect a thoughtfully curated meal that begins with a delicate appetizer, followed by an elegant starter, and culminates in a main dish that captures the spirit of French holiday flavors. Afterward, a cheese course provides that quintessential French touch, before finishing with a decadent dessert paired with macarons and chocolates.

Throughout the meal, your glasses will be filled with a selection of French wines, expertly paired to complement each course, plus Champagne Jacquart to start and again at dessert. According to one traveler, the food was awesome, and the wines and Champagne added a festive sparkle to the evening.

Live Music and Atmosphere

Adding to the ambiance, a talented singer performs live, filling the boat with holiday melodies that enhance the warm, celebratory mood. Reviewers describe the music duo as “amazing,” and highlight how relaxing and fitting the live entertainment is for a Christmas cruise.

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The Views and Photography

The reflections of the city’s lights on the Seine coupled with the illuminated landmarks make for spectacular photo opportunities. While souvenir photos are not included, many guests find the views alone worth the ticket price. Several reviews mention how beautiful Paris looks at night during the holiday season, making it a perfect moment to create lasting memories.

The Experience’s Value

At $193, this cruise isn’t cheap, but it bundles multiple memorable elements — scenic beauty, gourmet dining, festive music, and a relaxed ambiance. Compared to other options, many travelers say this provides good value, especially for a special holiday occasion.

Who Would Enjoy This?

This cruise appeals most to couples, families, or groups of friends looking for a romantic or festive way to celebrate Christmas. It’s ideal if you appreciate quality food and wine paired with iconic views and live entertainment. If you’re someone who loves holiday lights and wants to avoid the hassle of city streets on a busy night, this cruise offers a cozy, elegant alternative.

If you’re traveling with a larger group, this experience can turn a holiday in Paris into a truly shared moment of wonder. It’s also perfect for visitors who want a stress-free evening with no need to plan multiple activities — everything is included in the ticket price.

Final Thoughts

The Paris Seine Dinner Cruise with a 5-course Christmas meal is a delightful way to celebrate the holiday season. It combines the magic of Paris at night with the warmth of authentic French cuisine, topped off with festive music and spectacular views. The experience strikes a good balance between luxury and authenticity, making it a worthwhile splurge for those wanting to make Christmas in Paris truly special.

While it’s on the pricier side, the combination of scenery, food, and atmosphere offers a solid value for travelers seeking a memorable holiday experience. It’s best suited for those who love fine dining, enjoy scenic vistas, and want to celebrate Christmas in a distinctly Parisian style.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the cruise?
The ticket includes a 2.5-hour cruise on a glass canopy boat, a 5-course Christmas menu, Champagne, wines, mineral water, coffee, and live music entertainment.

Are souvenirs included?
No, souvenir photos taken by the onboard photographer are not included in the price.

Where does the cruise depart from?
It departs from Port de la Bourdonnais, at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, Pier 5 or 7, 75007 Paris.

What is the dress code?
The recommended dress code is smart casual — think neat and comfortable, suitable for a festive evening.

What times does the cruise run?
Check availability for specific starting times, but generally, check-in starts at 8 p.m., with departure at 8:30 p.m., ending around midnight.

Is this experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the relaxed nature and festive setting suggest it’s suitable for families, but it’s best to consider the age of children and their comfort with boat rides and dining.

How long does the cruise last?
Approximately four hours, providing enough time to enjoy the scenery, meals, and music.

Is the experience available on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day?
Yes, it is offered on December 24 and 25, making it a perfect holiday celebration.

What language is the commentary and service in?
The experience is offered in French and English, ensuring clear communication for most travelers.

In summary, this Christmas Seine cruise offers a delightful mix of scenic splendor, gourmet cuisine, and festive entertainment. It’s a great choice for travelers who want a special holiday memory and are willing to indulge a bit for a truly memorable evening in Paris.

You can check availability for your dates here: