Paris: Christmas & New Year Lunch or Dinner Cruise

Imagine cruising along the Seine in Paris during the holidays, surrounded by sparkling lights and iconic landmarks. For about 1.5 to 4.5 hours, with a price tag of roughly $140 per person, you can enjoy a festive meal onboard while taking in some of the city’s most celebrated sights. The experience includes options for Christmas lunch or dinner, complete with drinks, holiday tunes, and a warm, celebratory atmosphere.

What we love about this cruise is how it turns a traditional holiday meal into something extraordinary — an elegant way to soak up the magic of Paris at Christmas or New Year’s. The spectacular views of illuminated monuments, like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, create a backdrop that instantly elevates your celebration. Plus, the included drinks, such as champagne and a choice of wine, mean you can toast the season without extra fuss.

A possible consideration is that the meeting logistics can vary depending on your chosen option, which might require some planning. Also, the menu options are somewhat fixed, and although vegetarian and children’s menus are available on demand, they aren’t part of the standard offering. This cruise is best suited for those looking for a stress-free, romantic, or family-friendly holiday experience that combines good food, great views, and festive cheer.

If you’re someone who appreciates elegant settings, loves seeing Paris lit up at night, and wants a memorable meal with minimal hassle, this cruise is likely to suit you well.

This experience made our article of Paris’s 15 Best Christmas Tours & Experiences.

Key Points

Stunning views of Paris’ most iconic landmarks illuminated at night
Gourmet three-course meal with drinks included, perfect for holiday celebrations
Flexible options for Christmas lunch or dinner in a festive setting
Relaxed, all-in-one experience that combines sightseeing, dining, and holiday ambiance
Limited but attentive meal choices with vegetarian and children’s options available on request
Potential logistical considerations based on meeting points and booking details

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

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What to Expect on the Cruise

Cruising along the Seine during the holiday season is a special way to see Paris. You’ll board a comfortable boat, with the option to choose between lunch or dinner, depending on your schedule. The board is decorated festively, and holiday music sets a cheerful tone from the start. The views are what truly make this experience memorable — from the Eiffel Tower sparkling at the hour, to Notre Dame’s silhouette, to bridges and historic buildings glowing in the night.

The Itinerary and Landmarks

Throughout the cruise, you’ll pass by Paris’s most famous sights — the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and the Grand Palais, among others. The illuminations make these landmarks even more striking, and the boat’s vantage point gives you a sweeping view that’s hard to beat.

While the cruise duration varies from 1.5 to 4.5 hours, most guests find that the more relaxed cruises (closer to 2-3 hours) strike a good balance between sightseeing and savoring the meal. Longer cruises often include more extensive commentary or entertainment, but the core pleasure remains the same: dining with a view.

The Food and Drinks

The meals are carefully curated for the holiday season. For lunch, you get a three-course menu starting with duck foie gras with seasonal chutney — rich, flavorful, and a classic French holiday dish. The main course features veal steak with truffle juice, served alongside vegetable mikado, which adds a touch of elegance. Dessert is a Chocolate Coup de Foudre, with wild berry coulis, providing a decadent finish.

The drinks package includes half a bottle of wine (your choice of rosé, white, or red), mineral water, and coffee. A glass of champagne is also included, making for a festive toast. Many reviews highlight the quality of the wine selection and the attentiveness of the staff, which helps create a relaxed, celebratory atmosphere.

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The Atmosphere and Holiday Spirit

Music plays a big role in setting the tone. Holiday tunes and cheerful ambiance make the experience feel like a special occasion — more than just a meal, it’s a memorable holiday celebration. Families, couples, and friends all seem to find the atmosphere warm and inviting, with some noting how the stress-free environment allows everyone to relax and enjoy the scenery.

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The Logistics and Meeting Points

The meeting point can vary, so it’s essential to check your ticket details. The cruise does not include hotel pickup or drop-off, so you’ll need to plan your transportation to the departure point. Be mindful that certain dress codes apply — shorts or large luggage are not allowed, so plan accordingly for a more refined look.

What the Reviews Say

Reviewers are generally pleased, with a 4.4 out of 5 rating based on 38 reviews. Many praise the spectacular views and quality of the food, especially the wine and champagne. One reviewer from the U.S. shared a somewhat stressful experience with reservation issues but noted that ultimately, everything worked out, and the experience was worth it.

Another reviewer from Sweden called it “wonderful,” emphasizing the special holiday atmosphere. A Canadian traveler described it as “great,” underscoring the overall positive impression.

Who Will Love This Cruise?

This experience appeals most to travelers who want an elegant, hassle-free way to celebrate Christmas or New Year’s in Paris. It’s perfect for romantic couples, families, or groups of friends who enjoy good food, beautiful scenery, and a festive setting. If you’re someone who values authentic views of Paris lights combined with gourmet cuisine, this cruise ticks those boxes.

Potential Drawbacks

While many enjoy the experience, some note that booking and reservation logistics can be tricky, especially during busy holiday periods. Also, the fixed menu might not suit everyone’s tastes, although vegetarian and children’s options are available if requested on the spot.

Is This Experience Worth It?

Considering the price (~$140), it offers good value for a three-course meal with drinks, combined with an unbeatable view of Paris at night. It’s a stress-free way to make your holiday celebration feel extra special without worrying about navigating the city’s busy streets or finding a good restaurant with a view.

Best For

Travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a festive meal in a relaxed, elegant setting. It suits those celebrating a special occasion — Christmas or New Year — or visitors who want to enjoy Paris’s lights and landmarks from a unique vantage point. It’s also a good choice for families or groups seeking a memorable, hassle-free holiday activity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a dress code for the cruise?
Yes, shorts and large luggage are not allowed. It’s best to dress smart casual or slightly festive, especially for dinner cruises.

Can I choose my meal options when booking?
Vegetarian and children’s menus are available on request on the spot, but the standard menu is fixed. If you have specific dietary needs, it’s advisable to notify in advance.

What is included in the price?
The price covers a 3-course meal (lunch or dinner depending on your choice), a glass of champagne, half a bottle of wine (your choice), mineral water, and coffee.

How long is the cruise?
The duration ranges from about 1.5 hours to 4.5 hours, depending on the option you select. Check the availability for specific starting times.

Is hotel pickup included?
No, transportation to and from the meeting point is not included, so plan your own arrival accordingly.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 3 days in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for holiday plans.

Final Thoughts

This Paris Christmas & New Year cruise provides a wonderful combination of spectacular views, quality cuisine, and festive cheer. It’s a surefire way to celebrate the season in style, especially if you want to avoid the stress of restaurant reservations or navigating busy city streets. The inclusion of champagne and quality wine makes it feel truly special, and the illuminated landmarks create unforgettable memories.

While booking logistics require some planning, many travelers find the experience to be well worth the effort — a highlight of their holiday in Paris. Perfect for those seeking a romantic, family-friendly, or simply elegant way to enjoy the holiday lights, this cruise is a festive gem in the City of Light.