Paris: Dinner Cruise on the Seine and Eiffel Tower 2nd floor

Overview of the Experience

Imagine floating along the River Seine at sunset, a delicious meal in front of you, with Paris’s iconic landmarks passing by in a gentle procession. This tour combines a 1 hour 15 minute dinner cruise with a visit to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, making it a well-rounded way to enjoy some of the city’s most celebrated sights. Priced at around $187 per person and lasting about 5 hours, it appeals to those looking for an elegant, yet relaxed, evening in the City of Light.

What we really appreciate about this experience are the stunning views from the boat and the Eiffel Tower—you’ll get a perspective of Paris that’s hard to match. The multilingual hostess, who can help you navigate the details, adds a friendly touch that keeps things smooth. However, a common concern from past guests is that the dinner quality and service can be hit-or-miss, and some found the overall experience a bit rushed or overpriced.

This tour is best suited for travelers who love scenic cityscapes and are eager for a taste of Paris’s romance but don’t mind a busy schedule. It’s especially good if you want to combine a romantic dinner with iconic panoramic views, though it may not be ideal for those seeking a leisurely, unhurried experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Stunning Views: The boat cruise offers close-up sights of major landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower.
• Authentic Experience: Dinner on the Seine gives a chance to relax and enjoy Paris from a different perspective.
• Visit to Eiffel Tower: End the evening with a memorable view from the second floor, a must-see for first-time visitors.
• Potential Drawbacks: Some guests note that the dinner quality and service can be average, and the cruise may feel rushed.
• Pricing and Value: At $187, it includes a dinner cruise, Eiffel Tower ticket, and multilingual host, but some reviews suggest it’s a bit expensive for what’s offered.
• Accessibility: Not suitable for travelers with large luggage or wheelchairs, and no left-luggage facilities are available at the Eiffel Tower.

In-Depth Review

The Itinerary: What’s Included and What to Expect

Your evening begins at Paris Seine La Marina, where a friendly guide will meet you holding a sign with the local partner’s logo. The group is typically small enough to have a good spot at your private table—a definite plus, as it guarantees a bit of intimacy and comfort. Once aboard the Paris Seine boat, you’ll cruise along the River Seine for about 75 minutes, gliding past Paris’s most famous sights.

During the cruise, you’ll see the Notre-Dame Cathedral, Cité Island, and Saint-Louis Island, all beautifully illuminated in the evening light. You’ll also pass under many of Paris’s notable bridges, such as the Alexandre III, adding to the charm of the experience. The boat’s large windows ensure you won’t miss the views, and the relaxed pace allows ample time to soak in the scenery.

The dinner itself offers an assorted menu, though drinks are not included, which is a consideration if you’re watching your budget. Past guests have noted that the meal’s presentation is nice but flavor can be lackluster—so don’t expect a gourmet feast. The focus tends to be on the experience of dining while floating past Paris’s landmarks, rather than haute cuisine.

The Eiffel Tower Visit: A Highlight

After the cruise, your guide escorts you to the Eiffel Tower. Here, you’ll ascend to the second floor, which offers unparalleled views of Paris—a highlight any first-time visitor will appreciate. From this vantage point, the City of Lights sparkles in a way that’s impossible to replicate from the ground. The tower’s exterior architecture and the panoramic vistas of Paris make for memorable photos and a moment of awe.

It’s worth noting that access to the second floor is included, but no mention is made of access to the summit, so if you’re looking for that extra height, you’ll need a different ticket.

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What Past Guests Say

The reviews highlight a wide range of experiences. Some travelers love the stunning views and the romantic setting. One reviewer shares, “We loved the way the Eiffel Tower view from the second floor made the whole evening special.” However, others have expressed disappointment, especially with service and food quality, as one guest put it: “Very overpriced at $250, with mediocre food and unfriendly service.” There’s also a mention of poor organization, with one traveler recalling they showed up only to find the activity canceled without warning.

Practicalities and Tips

• Timing: Check availability carefully, as the tour lasts about 5 hours, and you’ll need to coordinate your evening accordingly.
• Inclusions/Exclusions: Remember that drinks during the cruise are not included, so consider bringing some or planning to purchase drinks onboard.
• Accessibility: Unfortunately, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or travelers with large luggage, and no luggage storage is available at the Eiffel Tower.
• Booking Tips: To avoid disappointment, book in advance and verify the starting times. Cancelation is free up to 3 days in advance.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If stunning city views and a romantic evening are your priorities, this experience offers a memorable way to see Paris from the water and the tower. It’s ideal for first-time visitors eager to tick off major sights in one evening, or couples seeking a romantic outing.

However, if you’re a foodie looking for gourmet cuisine or a traveler seeking a relaxed pace, you might find this tour a bit hurried or underwhelming in terms of dining quality. The mixed reviews about service and meal presentation mean it’s best for those who value the views and experience over a perfect dinner.

Final Thoughts

This combined dinner cruise and Eiffel Tower visit effectively showcases Paris’s most iconic sights, especially the views from the river and the tower’s second floor. It’s a good-value package considering the inclusion of both experiences, but the price point and variable quality of the meal and service** make it important to manage expectations.

The stunning vistas and romantic atmosphere are what truly stand out—perfect for those wanting an unforgettable evening with Paris as a backdrop. The experience is best suited for travelers who prioritize scenery and ambiance over culinary perfection or a leisurely pace.

If you’re comfortable with a busy schedule and are eager to see Paris from multiple perspectives, this tour can be a highlight of your trip. Just be prepared for some variability in the dining experience and ensure you’re aware of the logistical details.

FAQ

Is the dinner cruise included in the price?
Yes, the price covers the dinner cruise, though drinks are not included, so plan accordingly.

How long is the entire experience?
The tour lasts about 5 hours, including the cruise, dinner, and Eiffel Tower visit.

Can I go to the Eiffel Tower’s summit?
No, this tour only includes access to the second floor of the Eiffel Tower, not the summit.

What are the meeting arrangements?
You meet your guide at Paris Seine La Marina at Port de Solférino, where they will hold a sign with the partner’s logo.

Is this tour suitable for travelers with mobility issues?
No, it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those with large luggage—access is limited.

Are there any restrictions I should know about?
Pets, smoking, large bags, and non-folding strollers are not allowed, and there are no left-luggage facilities.

What language support is available?
Services are provided in English and French, with a multilingual host or greeter.

To sum it up, this tour offers a beautiful blend of scenic water views and a panoramic Eiffel Tower experience—good for romantics and first-time visitors wanting to see Paris’s highlights in one elegant evening. While the dining quality and service may vary, the visual rewards and unique vantage points make it a memorable way to experience the city. Just be sure to read the reviews carefully, manage your expectations, and prepare for a busy but rewarding night in Paris.

You can check availability for your dates here: