Paris: Festive Paris Lunch Cruise on Christmas Day

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

A Festive Experience on the Seine: Paris Christmas Day Lunch Cruise

Imagine spending Christmas Day floating gently on the Seine, surrounded by the twinkling lights of Paris’s most famous sights — the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and Pont Neuf — all while enjoying a gourmet meal and live music. For around $135 per person, this 3-hour cruise offers a blend of elegance, history, and culinary delight that makes for a truly memorable holiday.

What we love about this experience is how seamlessly it combines sightseeing with celebration. The glass canopy boat provides unobstructed views of Paris’s skyline, even if the weather isn’t perfect, and the quality of the cuisine—a carefully curated 5-course menu—is impressive enough to please any foodie. Plus, the live music entertainment adds a lively, festive touch that keeps the atmosphere warm and joyful.

One potential consideration is the noise level from the singers—some reviews mention it’s quite loud, which might make it hard to enjoy the music fully if you’re seeking a more subdued ambiance. Still, most guests find it adds to the lively holiday spirit. This cruise is ideal if you love combining scenic city views with fine dining, live entertainment, and a special holiday atmosphere. It’s well suited for travelers wanting a festive, all-in-one Christmas celebration in Paris.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Exclusive Location: Launches from Pontoon 5 or 7 at Port de la Bourdonnais, right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower.
• Unparalleled Views: Pass by iconic Paris landmarks like Notre-Dame, the Eiffel Tower, and Le Marais.
• Gourmet Cuisine: Enjoy a five-course Christmas menu with paired Champagne and wines.
• Live Entertainment: Experience festive live music that adds a spirited touch to your meal.
• All-Inclusive: Champagne, wine, mineral water, and coffee are included, with a glass of Champagne Jacquart served twice.
• Accessible & Practical: The cruise is wheelchair accessible, with a smart casual dress code, and departs at 12:45 PM.

A Closer Look at the Festive Seine Cruise

Starting Point and Embarkation

The adventure begins at 7 Port de la Bourdonnais, a prime spot just beneath the Eiffel Tower, giving you an immediate sense of being in the heart of Paris. The check-in begins at noon, providing ample time to settle in before the departure at 12:45 PM. The location’s proximity to major attractions makes it convenient for visitors staying nearby or those exploring the city’s Christmas festivities.

The Journey Along the Seine

Once onboard, you’ll glide along the Seine for about two hours, passing by some of Paris’s most celebrated sights. The Pont Neuf, the oldest standing bridge in Paris, offers a striking view as you float underneath, while the Île de la Cité provides a stunning backdrop of Notre-Dame Cathedral. The cruise also takes in the Le Marais district, known for its charming streets and historic ambiance, and culminates with a majestic pass by the Eiffel Tower that’s particularly magical at Christmas when the tower sparkles.

Guests consistently mention the unparalleled views of the city’s landmarks, which come alive from the water in a way that walking tours simply can’t match. As one reviewer expressed, “The city’s landmarks come alive as you drift past Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower,” and this perspective offers a refreshing change from street-level sightseeing.

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Culinary Delights

The highlight for many is the five-course Christmas menu, which features a thoughtful selection of traditional French dishes with a touch of contemporary flair. Expect a delicate appetizer, followed by a savory starter, a main course that highlights seasonal ingredients, and a cheese platter showcasing French culinary traditions. The meal concludes with desserts like macarons and chocolates—a sweet finale that perfectly caps off the experience.

The food is prepared onboard by a talented chef, and reviews consistently praise both the quality and presentation. A traveler from Mexico commented on the “beautiful 5-course lunch,” noting the very good food and festive atmosphere. The inclusion of Champagne Jacquart upon arrival and additional wine options elevates the overall experience, making it feel truly special.

Entertainment and Atmosphere

Live music accompanies your meal, adding a lively, festive vibe. Most guests agree that the music creates a joyful ambiance, perfect for celebrating Christmas. However, some reviews point out that the singers can be quite loud, which might be a downside if you’re seeking a more intimate or quiet setting. If you’re a music lover, this lively atmosphere can be a delightful addition; if you prefer subdued background tunes, it might be worth considering.

Practicalities and Comfort

The cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs, and the smart casual dress code ensures a comfortable, stylish outfit that’s perfect for the occasion. The three-hour duration is just right — enough time to enjoy the sights and your meal without feeling rushed.

The included drinks — Champagne, wine, mineral water, and coffee — are a nice touch, offering good value when you consider the quality and variety. A notable point from reviews is how well-organized the experience feels, with guests praising the smooth process from check-in to disembarkation.

The Experience in Perspective

This Christmas Day cruise is more than a sightseeing tour or a fancy meal — it’s a curated experience that combines the romance of Paris at Christmas with the comforts of good food, music, and stunning views. It’s particularly appealing for those who want to celebrate the holiday with style and elegance but also appreciate the authenticity of French cuisine and the city’s iconic landmarks.

Most reviews are glowing, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 from 37 travelers. Guests rave about the delicious food, friendly service, and breathtaking scenery. A few mention that the live music can be quite loud, but even then, many say it adds to the festive spirit rather than detracting from the experience.

Who Would Love This Tour?

If you’re a traveler who enjoys gourmet food and scenic views and wants to celebrate Christmas in a setting that’s both luxurious and authentically Parisian, this cruise fits the bill. It’s great for couples celebrating a romantic holiday, families looking for a memorable outing, or groups of friends wanting to soak in the city’s splendor while indulging in fine dining.

Final Thoughts: Is This the Right Christmas Experience for You?

This Festive Paris Lunch Cruise offers a unique blend of sightseeing, culinary artistry, and holiday cheer. It’s especially suited for those who cherish special occasions and want to make Christmas in Paris feel all the more memorable. The wine, Champagne, and live music add layers of enjoyment that elevate a regular sightseeing tour into a true celebration.

While it’s a tad pricier than a typical lunch, the value lies in the combination of stunning views, quality cuisine, and the festive ambiance. The organized nature of the cruise, plus the convenient central location beneath the Eiffel Tower, makes it an easy, no-hassle way to mark Christmas Day.

If you’re after a relaxing, scenic, and delicious holiday experience with a touch of Parisian elegance, this cruise could be just what you’re looking for. Just be prepared for the lively music and consider booking early, as this popular experience fills quickly during Christmas.

FAQ

Is this cruise suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s suitable for a wide range of ages, especially since it’s wheelchair accessible and offers a comfortable, enjoyable setting for families, couples, or groups.

What should I wear?
The dress code is smart casual, so think about nice jeans or trousers paired with a stylish top or blazer — enough to stay comfortable but still look festive.

Does the cruise operate rain or shine?
The boat has a glass canopy, which offers protection from rain while still providing clear views. The experience is designed for all weather, but if the weather is very severe, check with the provider beforehand.

Are drinks included?
Yes, Champagne upon arrival, wine during the meal, mineral water, and coffee are included in the ticket price. You’ll also be served a second glass of Champagne with dessert.

How long is the cruise?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, with check-in starting at noon and the cruise departing at 12:45 PM.

Can I join if I have dietary restrictions?
The menu is traditional French Christmas fare; if you have specific dietary needs, it’s best to contact the provider in advance to check if they can accommodate.

This Christmas, give yourself the gift of a scenic, gourmet celebration on the Seine. With breathtaking views, excellent food, and lively entertainment, this cruise offers a memorable way to enjoy Paris during the holidays.

You can check availability for your dates here: