Le Havre isn’t just a port for cruise ships; it’s also a gateway for exploring some of France’s most iconic waterways and destinations. While many travelers focus on Le Havre’s maritime charm, it’s also a fantastic base for boat tours and cruises that reveal the beauty of Paris, Normandy, and beyond. We particularly like the From Le Havre: Paris with River Cruise Shore Excursion (see details here) for its seamless combination of transportation, sightseeing, and comfort—perfect for those with limited time but big ambitions. For an experience that combines the scenic Normandy landscape with a luxurious Champagne cruise, the Le Havre: Sailing and Champagne Cruise (more info) offers a true indulgence.
Whether you want a quick scenic overview or a full-day adventure, Le Havre’s boat tours provide options suited for all travelers. Some tours focus on city highlights like Paris’ Eiffel Tower and Notre-Dame, while others take you to historic sites like Mont Saint Michel. Below, we’ve compiled the top picks, each with its own unique appeal.
1. From Le Havre: Paris with River Cruise Shore Excursion
At number 1, this guided trip to Paris from Le Havre combines a 3-hour coach ride with a 1-hour Seine river cruise. The tour takes you past major sights like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, Notre Dame, and Arc de Triomphe, all with a passionate local guide. It’s a well-balanced itinerary suited for travelers who want to see Paris efficiently without sacrificing depth. The highlight is the cruise on the Seine, which offers a relaxing way to view the city’s landmarks without battling traffic. The tour includes pickup and drop-off directly at the cruise ship, making it ultra-convenient. With a rating of 4.7/5 from 95 reviews and costing about $197, this tour offers great value for a comprehensive day in Paris.
Bottom line: Perfect for first-timers who want an overview of Paris, especially those short on time but eager to see the city’s essentials from water and land.
2. Le Havre to Paris: Eiffel, Champs-Elysees, River Cruise & Extras
Number 2 on our list is a full-day shore excursion that maximizes your time in Paris with a 3-hour coach ride and several key stops. The tour starts at the cruise terminal, with a scenic drive through Normandy, avoiding city traffic. You’ll enjoy photo stops at the Eiffel Tower and Arc de Triomphe, plus free time to explore the Champs-Élysées or grab a snack. The one-hour Seine cruise provides a relaxing perspective on Paris, and there’s time for shopping and sightseeing. Priced at just over $103, it’s an affordable way to get a taste of the French capital without missing your cruise’s schedule. Reviewers love the attentive guides and hassle-free logistics.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a detailed look at Paris’s highlights in one day, with free time for shopping or extra sightseeing.
3. From Le Havre: Deluxe Paris Tour with Seine River Cruise
Number 3 offers a luxurious and tranquil experience, with a seine river cruise included and multiple scenic stops. Starting from Le Havre, the tour features a 3-hour bus ride through Normandy, followed by a 1-hour cruise past the Louvre, Notre Dame, and other major landmarks. The guide shares insights into Paris’s history as you enjoy the views. You’ll also get some free time at Champs-Élysées. Costs about $197 and has a high rating of 4.8/5 from 20 reviews, making it a popular choice for those seeking comfort and depth. It’s excellent for travelers who prefer a more relaxed pace and personalized storytelling.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a premium experience with scenic water views and expert commentary.
4. Deluxe Paris Shore Excursion from Le Havre with Seine Cruise
Number 4 emphasizes comfort and efficiency, starting directly from the cruise port with air-conditioned transportation. The itinerary includes a 1-hour Seine cruise, a photo stop at the Eiffel Tower, and visits beside the Louvre and Notre Dame. The tour features a scenic drive and free time at Champs-Élysées, all within 10 hours. At $102 per person, it’s a budget-friendly option with a 4.5/5 rating. Reviewers appreciate the seamless return and the compact itinerary, which hits many Paris highlights without feeling rushed.
Bottom line: Great for those wanting a straightforward, comfortable day trip with a focus on Paris’s waterfront and iconic sights.
5. Mont Saint Michel Shore Excursion from Le Havre Cruise Ship Port
Number 5 takes you away from the city to explore one of France’s most famous landmarks, Mont Saint Michel. This full-day tour covers Normandy’s scenic landscape aboard a comfortable coach, arriving at the UNESCO site famous for its dramatic tide-island setting. The highlight is the guided tour of the abbey, plus free time to explore the quaint streets and shops. With a perfect 5-star rating from 2 reviews and costing $207.90, it’s an excellent choice for history buffs or those wanting to see an iconic Romanesque monastery.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a full day of history and stunning scenery, with a hassle-free roundtrip from Le Havre.
6. Parisian Tale for Cruise Passengers from Le Havre & River Cruise
Number 6 is a small-group tour designed for first-time visitors, with a 10-hour itinerary. It includes stops at the Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and a Seine river cruise. The tour emphasizes personal attention and deep stories about each site. At $94.50 and rated 4.5/5 from 9 reviews, it’s a more intimate experience, perfect for travelers who want a detailed and engaging guide.
Bottom line: Best suited for those wanting a personalized, story-rich exploration of Paris’s highlights in one day.
7. Paris Deluxe Tour from Le Havre with Notre-Dame and River Cruise
Number 7 offers a well-rounded, deluxe experience with a scenic drive, visits to the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and a Seine river cruise. Starting from Le Havre, it features 3 hours of travel plus sightseeing, with free time at the Champs-Élysées. Costing about $82.13 and rated 4.5/5, it’s a solid choice for travelers who want a balance of comfort and sightseeing without overloading the day.
Bottom line: Suitable for those who want a classic Paris tour with a comfortable pace and water views.
8. The Best Private Paris Tours from Le Havre Cruise Ship Port
Number 8 is a fully customizable private experience, starting with a luxury vehicle and options for guided or self-led exploration. The 11-hour tour can focus on your personal interests, whether that’s visiting specific sites or enjoying a luxury lunch atop the Eiffel Tower. Cost is $255, and with a perfect rating of 5.0/5, it’s ideal for travelers who want full control over their Paris experience.
Bottom line: Best for those wanting a bespoke, flexible day in Paris with personalized service.
$255
9. Paris Tour from Le Havre with Notre-Dame and Seine River Cruise
Number 9 features an all-in-one day, including stops at Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, and Notre-Dame, plus a deluxe Seine cruise. With a 6-review rating and costing $88.27, it’s a more modestly priced option that still hits key highlights. Reviewers mention the friendly guide and timely schedule, making it suitable for first-timers.
Bottom line: A budget-conscious way to see many of Paris’s top sights with water views, perfect for those looking for good value.
10. Paris Must Sees from Le Havre including River Cruise & Notre-Dame
Number 10 offers a comprehensive, 10-hour itinerary focusing on must-see sights like the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Notre-Dame. It includes a river cruise and time for exploring. The cost is about $96, with positive reviews highlighting the well-organized schedule and beautiful scenery.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a thorough, sightseeing-focused tour with some free time at the end.
11. Paris Mosaic Tour from Le Havre with Notre-Dame and River Cruise
Number 11 is a 7-review rated (4.0/5) smaller tour, offering a 10-hour experience with stops at Arc de Triomphe, Eiffel Tower, Champs-Élysées, and a luxury river cruise. It’s designed for adventurous travelers wanting to see iconic spots without the crowd, and it costs $72, making it a budget-friendly option.
Bottom line: A good fit for those seeking a classic Paris experience with a bit of exclusivity.
12. Paris Shore Excursion from Le Havre Cruise port
Number 12 is a basic 10-hour tour rated 2/5 from 5 reviews. It covers Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, and Place de l’Opéra, with a guided city tour. It’s more straightforward but less reviewed, so consider it if your priority is a simple overview.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers on a budget who just want the essentials.
$216 per person
13. Le Havre: Sailing and Champagne Cruise
Number 13 offers an extraordinary experience—a luxury, 5-day Champagne-themed sailing cruise along the English Channel. This is an ultimate indulgence for wine lovers, with guided sailing and champagne tastings each evening. Price is high at $1,861 but reflects the exclusivity and length.
Bottom line: Best for travelers seeking a luxury, multi-day sailing adventure combining sailing with champagne tastings.
$1,861 per person
14. Normandy: Sailing and Wine Weekend
Number 14 combines a 3-day sailing voyage with evening wine tastings and stopping in Normandy towns like Deauville and Honfleur. It’s a relaxing weekend for wine and sailing enthusiasts, costing $515 per person.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for those wanting a sailing and wine experience over several days, blending leisure and scenery.
$515 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Boat Tour or Cruise
When deciding which tour suits you best, consider your budget, available time, and interests. Want a quick overview of Paris’s top sights from water and land? The From Le Havre: Paris with River Cruise Shore Excursion offers a great balance. Looking for luxury and customization? The Private Paris Tours are unbeatable. For those craving history and scenery beyond the city, the Mont Saint Michel tour (see more) is a winner.
Book early, especially for the most popular options like Mont Saint Michel or luxury sailing cruises, to secure availability. Consider your fitness level, as some tours involve walking and standing, while others are more relaxed. And if your cruise schedule is tight, opt for tours that align closely with your arrival time, like the Deluxe Paris Shore Excursion.
Le Havre offers a surprisingly wide array of boat trips and cruises that match different interests and budgets. Whether you’re looking for a quick city view from the Seine or a luxurious multi-day sailing experience, you’ll find options that bring France’s stunning waterways and scenery right to your doorstep. Planning ahead and choosing the right tour can turn your port stop into a memorable adventure—so don’t wait too long to book your perfect experience.