Paris: 2-Hour River Seine Lunch Cruise with 3-course-menu

Imagine gliding along the Seine River, with a beautiful Parisian skyline unfolding around you—Eiffel Tower shimmering in the sun, Notre Dame’s gothic spires reaching skyward, and the Louvre’s grand façade just a glance away. For a cost of around $92 per person, you can enjoy a 2-hour luxury cruise aboard a glass-enclosed boat, complete with an all-inclusive 3-course lunch. It’s a chance to combine sightseeing with a relaxing meal—something many travelers consider a highlight of their Paris visit.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the spectacular views from a panoramic glass boat mean no crowded bus or noisy tour group—just you, your companions, and the stunning sights of Paris. Second, the quality of the meal—a thoughtfully prepared three-course menu with beverages included—turns a simple cruise into a proper dining experience. The journey starts at Eiffel Tower, one of the most recognizable monuments, and continues past other icons like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and Musée d’Orsay.

One thing to consider: timing and reservations matter. The cruise runs for only 2 hours, so it’s a nice chunk of time, but not enough to see everything. Also, some reviews mention that on hot days, sitting next to the glass can get warm—so dressing appropriately or asking for a shaded spot could improve your comfort.

This cruise suits travelers who love combining great food with iconic sights without the hassle of navigating Paris on foot or by metro. It’s especially popular for romantic outings, special celebrations, or first-time visitors wanting a memorable overview of the city from the river.

This experience made our article of You’ll Love These 15 2-Hour Tours In Paris.

Key Points

• Stunning Panoramic Views: Enjoy the Seine’s best sights from a glass-enclosed boat, offering 360-degree views of Paris’s most famous landmarks.
• All-Inclusive 3-Course Meal: Savor a thoughtfully prepared menu with beverages—wine, mineral water, coffee or tea—making it a true dining experience.
• Authentic Parisian Atmosphere: Glide past historic sites, bridges, and monuments, capturing perfect photos and experiencing the city’s charm from the water.
• Flexible Experience: Multiple starting points and the option to reserve now and pay later provide convenience and flexibility.
• High Ratings: With over 4,500 reviews averaging 4.7/5, this cruise is widely appreciated for its quality and service.
• Ideal for Various Occasions: Perfect for special celebrations, romantic dates, or just a relaxing way to see Paris with good value.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect When You Board

The experience begins at one of five starting locations, often near the Eiffel Tower, making it easy to incorporate into your day. You’ll meet your crew on a stylish, luxury glass canopy boat—a vessel that combines elegance with ample visibility, so every seat feels like a front-row view. Boarding usually takes place around 12:15 pm, with departure at 12:45 pm, and returning to the quayside by 2:45 pm.

The check-in process is straightforward, but keep in mind that the experience is designed for comfort and efficiency rather than crowds. You might find that arriving a little early gives you more time to settle in and choose your preferred seat.

The Cruise Itinerary: Landmarks You’ll See

The beauty of this cruise is that the itinerary is a visual feast. We loved the way the boat glides past Notre Dame, with its Gothic spires and flying buttresses, offering a different perspective than from land. The Eiffel Tower, of course, is the highlight—its iron latticework looks even more impressive from the water, especially when sunlight hits it just right.

As you continue, you’ll pass The Louvre, whose classical façade and glass pyramid are illuminated from the riverbank, and Musée d’Orsay, housed in a former railway station with art collections that changed the course of Western art. The Les Invalides dome catches the sunlight with its golden hue, a symbol of French history and architecture.

You’ll also see the French Parliament, and many historic bridges—each with its own romantic story—crossing the Seine. The boat cruises at a leisurely pace, giving you ample time to snap photos or simply soak in the views.

The Meal: Quality and Variety

The highlight for many is the meal. The menu, included in the ticket price, features a starter, main dish, and dessert. If you opt for the Service Privilege or Service Premier, you’ll also receive a cheese course. The food is crafted by expert chefs, with ingredients chosen seasonally, and reviews confirm the dishes are both tasty and well-presented.

Reviews mention that the food comes with bottled wine and aperitif, and coffee or tea are available at the end. Many travelers appreciate the generous quality of the food and drinks, which elevates the experience from a typical sightseeing cruise to something more refined. Several reviewers noted that the wait staff are attentive and friendly, aiming to make sure every guest has a pleasant dining experience.

Comfort and Atmosphere

The boat’s glass canopy allows for uninterrupted views while shielding you from the weather. On sunny days, the natural light creates a bright, airy environment; on cloudy or cooler days, the enclosed space keeps it cozy. Some reviews mention that on hot days, sitting next to the glass can be warm—so requesting a shaded area or sitting towards the middle may help.

The ambiance is described as relaxed and elegant, making it suitable for celebrating special moments or simply enjoying a luxurious afternoon. Many reviews emphasize how polite and professional the staff are, which adds to the overall feeling of quality.

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Why Travelers Love It

Reviewers consistently mention stunning views, good value, and excellent food as standout features. For instance, one guest said, “Our River Seine lunch cruise exceeded our expectations…The food and drink were plentiful and of high quality.” Others highlight the romantic atmosphere, perfect for anniversaries or birthdays—some even received special touches like birthday cakes or sparklers.

Plus, many travelers appreciate that the experience doesn’t feel overly touristy. Instead, it offers an authentic glimpse of Paris from the water, with enough comfort and service to make it memorable without being stuffy or pretentious.

Possible Drawbacks

A few reviews note that sitting by the window on hot days can get quite warm, and some wished for more breeze or shade. Also, since the cruise lasts only 2 hours, it’s a relatively short window—if you’re eager to explore every corner of Paris, you might find this is just a taste. Finally, photos taken by the staff are not included, so if you want professional pictures, you’ll need to bring your own camera or smartphone.

This experience is best suited for those seeking a relaxed, upscale way to see Paris. It’s ideal for romantic couples, celebrating a special occasion, or first-time visitors wanting a comprehensive yet comfortable overview of the city’s most photogenic landmarks. If you value good food, wine, and spectacular views, and prefer a less hurried, more elegant setting, this cruise will meet your expectations.

Travelers who enjoy learning about the city’s highlights without the fuss of crowded buses or long tours** will find this a welcome change. It’s also a good choice for those with limited time who want a luxurious, all-in-one experience combining sightseeing and dining.

Starting Point & Accessibility

With five options for departure, this cruise offers flexibility. Most start near the Eiffel Tower—an easy landmark to find and incorporate into your sightseeing plans. The check-in process begins around 12:15 pm, with a departure at 12:45 pm. The boat returns by 2:45 pm, fitting neatly into your afternoon schedule.

For those concerned about logistics, the locations are centrally located, and the cruise provides a convenient way to enjoy a meal without worrying about transportation or reservations elsewhere.

The Boarding Process and Atmosphere

Boarding is straightforward, with friendly staff guiding you to your seat. The vessels are elegant, with a modern glass canopy that both protects from weather and offers amazing views. Many reviewers found the boarding process smooth and the staff welcoming.

Once aboard, you’re greeted with a glass of Kir Royale or aperitif—setting a celebratory tone. The intimate atmosphere makes it easy to relax and chat with fellow travelers or enjoy a peaceful moment alone.

The Route and Landmarks

The cruise is designed to maximize the visual appeal of Paris. As you float past Notre Dame—its flying buttresses and gargoyles visible from below—you get to see details difficult to notice from land. The Eiffel Tower appears majestic and, depending on the time of day, can shimmer with lights or glow in the afternoon sun.

The boat slowly moves past Louvre’s grand façade, Musée d’Orsay’s impressive clock, and the golden dome of Les Invalides. The bridges crossing the Seine—each with its own history and romantic appeal—are a particular favorite of visitors.

The Lunch: What’s on the Plate?

The three-course menu is a key part of this experience, and many reviews praise the quality of the food. Expect a starter, main course, and dessert, with special packages including a cheese course. The dishes are crafted from seasonal ingredients, and the presentation is elegant.

Guests often mention that the food is delicious, and the wine complements the meal perfectly. Reviewers expressed appreciation for the generous pours and variety of beverages, which make the meal feel more indulgent. The staff are attentive, ensuring everyone has what they need without feeling rushed.

Comfort & Practical Tips

The glass canopy creates a bright, airy environment, but on hot days, some passengers found it a bit warm, especially near the windows. Requesting a seat in the middle or towards the shaded side can help. Restrooms are available onboard, and the boat’s design makes moving around easy.

For photographers, sitting by the window is recommended for the best shots. It’s worth arriving early to secure a prime spot and avoid the rush.

Authentic Experience and Value

Given the high ratings and positive reviews, it’s clear many find this cruise good value for money. The combination of sightseeing, excellent food, and professional service appeals to many. The ability to reserve and pay later also adds flexibility, especially for last-minute planners.

The experience also offers a romantic and celebratory ambiance, making it stand out among more casual sightseeing options. Many travelers have described it as a “special occasion” activity that they’ll remember fondly.

This luxury lunch cruise is perfect for those who want to enjoy spectacular views of Paris while dining in style. It’s especially well-suited for romantic couples, travelers celebrating a special occasion, or first-time visitors eager for an overview of the city’s iconic landmarks.

If you’re after a relaxing, high-quality experience with good value, this cruise ticks those boxes. Keep in mind that it’s a short but memorable trip, so if you’re looking for a comprehensive tour or exploring every corner of Paris, this should be part of a broader plan.

For those with limited time or seeking a refined, scenic dining experience, this cruise offers a delightful way to spend part of your day. The combination of stunning views, delightful cuisine, and attentive service makes it stand apart from more generic sightseeing options.

How long is the cruise?
The cruise lasts exactly 2 hours, providing ample time to see key sights along the Seine and enjoy your meal without feeling rushed.

Where does the cruise start?
There are five starting locations, often near the Eiffel Tower or other central points like Port de la Bourdonnais or Ile de la Cité, making it easy to fit into your day.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers a 2-hour cruise on a glass canopy boat, a 3-course lunch (starter, main, dessert), plus beverages including aperitif, wine, mineral water, and coffee or tea.

Are there options for different service levels?
Yes, choosing Service Privilege or Service Premier includes a cheese course and possibly more spacious or decorated seating arrangements.

Can I take photos during the cruise?
Yes, but note that photos taken by staff are not included. For the best shots, sit near the windows and bring your camera or phone.

Is the experience suitable for children?
The data doesn’t specify age restrictions, but given the focus on a refined dining experience, it may be more enjoyable for adults and older children who can appreciate the scenery and meal.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the experience includes aperitif, wine, mineral water, and coffee or tea. Additional drinks are not included but can be purchased onboard if desired.

Is there a dress code?
Casual attire is fine, but avoid sportswear, oversize luggage, or large bags. The experience leans toward a smart-casual vibe, especially if celebrating a special occasion.

This 2-hour Seine River lunch cruise offers a charming way to see Paris from a different perspective. With remarkable views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the Louvre, paired with a well-curated 3-course meal and wine, it provides a memorable experience that feels both luxurious and authentic. The high reviews speak to its consistent quality and friendly service, making it a favorite for many travelers.

It’s particularly suited for those who want a relaxed, upscale activity that blends sightseeing with fine dining. Whether celebrating an anniversary, marking a birthday, or simply wanting a special way to enjoy Paris, this cruise delivers a beautiful, hassle-free afternoon. If you’re after good value, stunning scenery, and excellent food, this experience deserves a place on your itinerary.

You can check availability for your dates here: