Category: our Paris recommendations
LUNCH WITH GUESTS: RIVER SEINE CRUISE
Article by — Helene, Paris elopement planner, exploring tourist experiences for the past 12 years
Disclaimer: As wedding planners at Do it Paris Way, we are regularly asked for recommendations for restaurants in Paris. The recommendations we make are based solely on our personal experiences and opinions. We do not receive any commissions or benefits from any restaurants we recommend, and we do not work with or have any business relationship with the restaurant being recommended. If you choose to visit this restaurant, please understand that you would need to book your reservation independently, as we do not assist with restaurant reservations or bookings.
CELEBRATION WITH GUESTS
What is our recommendation for a lovely dinner with 5-10 guests? A romantic River Seine cruise! If you are looking for a unique and unforgettable way to experience the beautiful city of Paris, then we recommend a River Seine boat cruise with lunch. This river cruise is an ideal way to enjoy the stunning sights and sounds of Paris while indulging in a delightful lunch menu. The boat cruise also offers a unique opportunity for photo opportunities on the deck of the boat with some of Paris' most famous landmarks as your backdrop.
HOW DOES IT WORK
We booked the company called Bateaux Mouches and the departure was just next to the Eiffel Tower
A line to get inside
When you get inside, the views are so gorgeous
The boat has a panoramic roof. If you are afraid of sea sickness, no worries, it’s super smooth and calm
Booking a River Seine boat cruise with lunch in Paris is easy and can be done online through a company website. Just Google “River Seine lunch cruise” and choose the one you like. When booking, choose the desired date and time, select the number of guests, and complete the payment process with your credit card. But the dates are reserved very quick, so do this in advance. Most cruises depart from the Eiffel Tower, though other departure points may be available. It is essential to ensure you arrive punctually at the departure point to avoid missing your boat. When boarding, it's necessary to have a printed or digital ticket as well as a valid ID for the lead guest.
COST OF THE CRUISE WITH LUNCH
The cost of the River Seine boat cruise with lunch varies depending on the company, duration of the cruise, and time of the day. The average cost ranges from €65 to €100 per person. We booked the one that was €60 per person, with wine and champagne pairing. Prices include a two or three-course meal, beverages, and a boat tour guide. We recommend booking your cruise in advance to ensure availability, especially during peak tourist season.
PLACES YOU WILL VISIT
The Louvre and its bridges
When the sun is shining, the views are breathtaking!
Helene is enjoying her champagne and Île Cite magic
Late November weather
Famous Paris buildings of central area
Conciergerie, the medieval royal palace that became a revolutionary court and Marie-Antoinette's prison
As you embark on your River Seine cruise, you will pass by some of the most iconic landmarks in Paris, including Notre Dame Cathedral, the Eiffel Tower, and the Louvre Museum. You will also have the opportunity to admire the charming architecture of the city's magnificent buildings and bridges. The cruise runs from the Eiffel Tower to the Île Saint-Louis Island and back.
FOOD YOU WILL TRY
When you arrive, they serve the whole table with champagne and wines. Tim is patient to try some of their finest champagne
Starter: foie gras and jams
Starter: eggs and mushroom mousse
A vegan quinoa starter
French champagne, yum!
Chicken main course
Beetroot cured salmon fillet
For 4 people we picked different desserts to try and share
We are pretty drunk and happy here haha
A River Seine cruise lunch in Paris usually includes a great selection of tasty French dishes. You can expect to enjoy a three-course meal that typically starts with an aperitif, followed by a starter, a main course, and, of course, dessert. The menu usually features classic French dishes such as escargots, foie gras, smoked salmon, beef, and other delicacies. Vegetarian options are often available as well. In terms of drinks, you can enjoy a glass or two of wine, beer, or a soft drink, depending on the package you choose. The menu may vary based on the season, but you can always expect a delicious meal while enjoying breathtaking views of Paris from the River Seine.
OVERALL EXPERIENCE
The boat cruise is very relaxing, and the soft breeze from the river and the gentle movement of the boat provide a perfect romantic atmosphere.
The River Seine boat cruise with lunch offers an excellent opportunity to experience the beauty and romance of Paris while enjoying a delicious meal. The sightseeing portion of the cruise lasts for approximately two hours. The onboard atmosphere is typically lively and vibrant, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the unique experience. If you're looking for an intimate and romantic way to celebrate your wedding, a River Seine boat cruise with lunch is the perfect choice. With space for up to 10 guests, you can enjoy a delicious meal and take in the stunning views of Paris as you sail along the river.
QUESTIONS YOU MIGHT HAVE:
1. We want this cruise for our elopement, what’s next?
You’ll have to book it yourself via the company website and pay with your credit card.
2. What time to plan the lunch? Ideally, not the same day as elopement. We can be late because of the traffic photoshoot etc. We recommend booking the next day to fully enjoy it.
3. Dress code? Nope.
4. What if we want to make sure that we book a window table? I don’t know how that works, please contact them directly. We do not help with such bookings.
5. What if we want to have a special table for our wedding with decorations and stuff? Same. We do not help with that, please contact them directly.
6. And what about photography, do you take photos during this cruise? No, we do not take any photos. They have their own onboard photographer to help.
We really loved this experience and hope you’ll love it too!
Here are some of the companies that offer river Seine cruises:
3. Les Bateaux-Mouches (that was the one we booked)