Paris: 3-Course Lunch Cruise on the River Seine

Discover Paris from the Seine: A 3-Course Lunch Cruise Experience

Imagine sailing through the heart of Paris during midday, with the sun shining and the city’s most famous sights passing by your window. For just $80 a person, you can spend about 90 minutes aboard a glass-enclosed boat, enjoying a leisurely 3-course lunch while taking in the sights like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre. The cruise departs from Port Solferino, in the 7th arrondissement, and is hosted by ParisCityVision, a trusted name in Paris sightseeing.

What we love about this experience is how it combines two essential Parisian delights: gourmet French cuisine and breathtaking views. Plus, with the boat’s glass walls, you get a 360-degree panorama of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The other thing that stands out is the opportunity to relax and enjoy your meal without the hustle and bustle of crowded streets. It’s a perfect way to recharge after a morning of sightseeing or to indulge in a special occasion.

One possible drawback? Given the popularity, reservations are recommended, and the boat can fill up quickly, especially during peak season. Also, the menu might change, so if you have very particular dietary needs, pre-ordering or checking in advance could be wise. Finally, note that the experience doesn’t include hotel pickup or drop-off—it’s a straightforward boat departure point—so plan your transport accordingly.

This cruise suits travelers looking for a combination of gourmet food and spectacular views in a relaxed setting. It’s especially appealing to those who appreciate authentic Parisian moments, romantic outings, or simply want an easy way to see many highlights without moving from their seat.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning views of Paris’s iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre.
• Gourmet 3-course meal, including starters, mains, and desserts, with vegetarian options available.
• Relaxed, glass-enclosed boat providing panoramic sights and comfort.
• Affordable price point considering the quality of the food and the scenery.
• Ideal for special occasions or those wanting a scenic, leisurely lunch experience.
• No hotel pickup, so plan your transportation to the departure point.

An In-Depth Look at the Paris Lunch Cruise

The Itinerary and Setting

This experience is straightforward but thoughtfully designed. You meet at Port Solferino, at the bottom of the stairs leading to the Seine, a central and easily accessible location. Once aboard the “Paris Seine” boat, you’re greeted with friendly service, and the glass walls immerse you in the beauty of Paris while keeping you comfortable inside.

The boat cruises past famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, which you’ll see up close and possibly from a new angle—an iron lattice structure that seems almost magical from the river below. You also pass the Musée d’Orsay, housed in an ornate railway station, its Beaux-Arts architecture adding to the scenic views. The Notre-Dame Cathedral, with its Gothic grandeur, is a sight that never gets old, especially as you glide beneath the Pont Neuf, the oldest bridge in Paris.

The Food and Menu

The menu is designed to showcase French cuisine with enough variety to cater to different tastes. The starter options include Duck Foie Gras with red fruit chutney or Smoked Salmon paired with lime powder and tomato tartar. Vegetarian options like green gazpacho are also available, highlighting the cruise’s attention to dietary preferences.

Main courses are hearty but refined: Yellow Poultry Supreme with zucchini gratin and lemon basil sauce, Fillet of Sea Bream with shellfish sauce, or a Piece of Beef with seasonal vegetables. The artichoke tartar with split pea velouté offers a vegetarian alternative that many reviews praise for its flavor.

Desserts are a highlight, with selections like Raspberry Chou with lychee and rose, or a Chocolate Puck with wild berry coulis. Coffee or tea caps off the meal, making this a satisfying and well-rounded dining experience.

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The Experience on Board

Guests consistently mention the professional and courteous staff who make everyone feel welcome. Several reviews highlight how smoothly the service runs—”the staff were courteous, polite and very helpful,” says one traveler. Others note the reserved seating, which means you don’t have to scramble for a good spot, and your view is guaranteed.

The boat itself provides comfortable seating and panoramic windows, allowing for photos and sightseeing in all directions. Some reviews mention the lack of air conditioning, so a hand fan or a cool shirt might be helpful during hot days.

The Scenic Highlights

The views are the main draw. As you glide past the Eiffel Tower, you’ll get a fresh perspective that’s hard to match from land. The Notre-Dame appears imposing and Gothic, especially as the boat passes beneath the Pont Neuf. The Louvre and its façade are majestic—ideal for photos. Many travelers express how memorable it is to see Paris’s most famous sights from the water, especially during clear weather.

Authenticity and Value

While the meal isn’t Michelin-star level, the quality is well above standard cruise fare, making it a solid value. Many reviews mention the delicious food and excellent service—”great food, great service, friendly people,” says one Australian visitor. The price reflects this balance, considering the scenic beauty and the tasty meal included.

The Authentic Parisian Feel

What makes this cruise special is the combination of scenery, cuisine, and atmosphere. It’s relaxed yet elegant—an ideal setting for couples, small groups, or solo travelers wanting a peaceful, scenic meal. Several reviews highlight how romantic and enjoyable the cruise is, with some adding extras like champagne or flower petals to elevate their experience.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Reservations are recommended, especially during peak months, to secure a spot.
• The menu may change, so if you have special dietary needs, consider pre-ordering.
• The departure point is easy to find, but arriving early ensures you get a good seat.
• The cruise does not include hotel transfers; plan your transport accordingly.
• Bring a fan or light clothing if you’re sensitive to heat, as there’s no AC.
• For larger groups (over 15 people), a pre-order of main courses is required at least a week in advance.
• If you opt for the add-on with flower petals or champagne, expect a more romantic, festive vibe.

The Review from Travelers

The consistent theme across reviews is satisfaction with the views, food, and staff. Many mention how relaxing and beautiful the experience is—”a very enjoyable outing,” says one. Those celebrating a special occasion found it perfectly suited to creating memorable moments, often citing the delicious desserts and friendly service as highlights.

Some practical advice from reviewers includes arriving early, especially if you’ve booked online using your phone, as lines can be confusing without proper instructions. A few mention that the boat can be cramped when fully booked but note that on less crowded days, it’s very comfortable.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This lunch cruise is perfect for travelers who want a combination of scenic sightseeing and authentic French cuisine in a relaxed setting. It’s especially suited for romantic couples, small groups, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful break from busy sightseeing. If you value spectacular views and good food at a reasonable price, you’ll find this cruise offers excellent value.

It’s less ideal if you’re on a tight schedule or seeking a fancy, Michelin-star experience, but for a comfortable, scenic, and tasty Parisian adventure, it’s hard to beat.

FAQs

Is there a dress code?
No formal dress code is specified, but smart casual is recommended. Most guests dress comfortably but neatly.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, vegetarian options like green gazpacho are available, and the menu can be pre-ordered for larger groups.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the 3-course meal, coffee or tea, and the cruise itself. It does not include hotel pickup or drop-off.

Can I bring my own drinks?
The tour includes wine or other beverages available for purchase on board, but outside drinks are generally not allowed.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the experience suits all ages, especially those who enjoy scenic views and a relaxed meal. Check with the provider for specific policies.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts about 1.5 hours, offering enough time for dining and sightseeing without feeling rushed.

What if I have dietary restrictions?
Vegetarian options are available, but for special dietary needs, pre-ordering ahead of time is advised, especially for larger groups.

Where exactly do I meet?
You meet at Port de Solférino, at the bottom of the stairs leading to the Seine River, in a central location accessible from many parts of Paris.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, the cruise is outdoor but with glass walls. It’s best enjoyed on clear, sunny days; in bad weather, the experience might be less comfortable.

Final Thoughts

A lunch cruise on the Seine offers a relaxed, scenic way to enjoy Paris’s most famous sights while indulging in good French food. The boat’s panoramic windows and well-curated menu make it a memorable experience, especially for those who enjoy combining sightseeing with culinary delights. The friendly staff and great value make it a popular choice among travelers.

While it’s not a high-end dining experience, it strikes a nice balance—providing delicious food, beautiful views, and a peaceful atmosphere—at a price that feels fair. If you’re after a romantic, stress-free afternoon or just want to see Paris from a different perspective, this cruise could be a highlight of your trip.

It’s especially suited for those who value authenticity, comfort, and scenic beauty, and who are ready to sit back and enjoy a true Parisian moment on the water.

You can check availability for your dates here: