Top 4 Seine River Lunch Cruises to Book in 2025 – Expert Picks
Reviewed & compared for your ease!
Over 2 million visitors enjoy the Seine River each year, and lunch cruises are fast becoming the most relaxing way to explore Paris.
But with different boats, menus, timings, and seating classes, picking the right lunch cruise can feel overwhelming.
This guide solves that.
We’ve handpicked and compared 4 top-rated Seine River lunch cruises, so you can easily choose the one that matches your timing, appetite, and budget.
Why do locals recommend a Seine Lunch Cruise over everything else?
A lunch cruise on the Seine blends three things every traveler wants: iconic views, delicious French cuisine, and a chance to rest while still sightseeing.
It’s the ideal midday break! No crowds, no queues, just calm waters and camera-ready landmarks.
Here’s what makes it so popular:
🍽️ 3-course meals or brunch menus, often with Champagne or wine options
🛥️ Glass-roof boats for panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and more
🎧 Audio commentary available in multiple languages on select cruises
🗺️ Central departures from locations like the Eiffel Tower and Port de Solférino
😌 Relaxed midday vibe, perfect for sightseeing without crowds or queues
Whether you’re traveling solo, with your partner, or in a group, a Seine lunch cruise offers a calm, elegant, and satisfying way to see Paris.
4 Seine lunch cruises worth considering in 2025
Here are the top-rated lunch cruises that stand out for their food, views, and overall experience, each suited to different tastes and travel styles.
All cruises listed have 4.5+ star ratings from thousands of global travelers on trusted booking platforms.
| Cruise Name | Duration | Best For |
| Bateaux Parisiens 3-course Lunch Cruise | 2 hrs | Full gourmet experience & seat choice |
| Paris Seine Lunch Cruise | 1.5 hrs | Shorter cruise with fine dining |
| Bateaux Mouches Lunch Cruise | 1 hr 45 min | Weekend-only classic with free parking |
| Capitaine Fracasse Brunch | 1.5 hrs | Relaxed Sunday brunch & outdoor deck |
⭐ If you’re interested in seeing Paris from a different perspective without dining, consider a sightseeing cruise alongside your lunch journey.
Which Seine River lunch cruise is right for you? Compare and book!
Choosing the right Seine River lunch cruise depends on your mood, budget, and purpose.
Choose your preference from here:
Bateaux Parisiens Lunch Cruise – Glass Canopy Boat with Gourmet Menu
From: €79 to €134 (based on service tier)
Duration: 2 hours
Departure: Port de la Bourdonnais (base of the Eiffel Tower). Get directions.
Meal: 3-course à-la-carte lunch with wine, coffee/tea. Higher tiers include cheese and Champagne.
This is the most premium and flexible lunch cruise on the Seine, offering five seating categories from standard central tables to exclusive front-bow window seats with Champagne. Sail in a sleek, glass-roofed boat and enjoy uninterrupted views of Paris’s landmarks while savoring a gourmet French meal, with wine already included.
What makes it different:
- Most comprehensive lunch cruise package available today
- Offers multiple seating upgrades, including private window and Champagne service
- Beverages like wine, aperitif, water, and tea/coffee are included by default
- Departs directly from the Eiffel Tower, making it easy to plan around
Best for:
Couples, families, or anyone seeking a refined and fully customizable lunch cruise that balances luxury and location.
Planning tip: Be sure to dress in smart-casual attire for this elegant cruise, as the ambiance is upscale. Get tips for the dress code!
Paris Seine Lunch Cruise – Contemporary Dining with Romantic Add-On
From: €68 (Standard) to €85 (Romantic upgrade)
Duration: 1.5 hours
Departure: Port de Solférino (near Musée d’Orsay and Orangerie). Get directions.
Meal: Contemporary 3-course French menu with coffee or tea. Alcohol not included in the standard option.
This stylish and centrally located lunch cruise is perfect for those who want to enjoy Paris from the water without committing to a long experience. The Romantic Package includes Champagne, flowers, chocolates, and better seats, making it a memorable choice for proposals, anniversaries, or just a special day in the city.
What makes it different:
- A modern and relaxed alternative to traditional lunch cruises
- Optional romantic add-on with Champagne, flowers, and gifts
- Departing from a central location, ideal for combining with museum visits
Best for:
Couples, solo travelers, or anyone looking for a compact yet elegant cruise experience in between exploring Paris.
Make sure to check the cruise timings to plan your trip efficiently, as Bateaux Mouches runs only on weekends.
Bateaux Mouches Lunch Cruise – Formal Weekend Experience
From: €85 (Adults) | €45 (Children)
Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes
Departure: Port de la Conférence (right bank, near Pont de l’Alma). Get directions.
Meal: Refined French lunch with full table service. Vegetarian options available.
This classic lunch cruise, operated by the iconic Bateaux Mouches, runs exclusively on weekends and offers a more traditional, upscale ambiance. Guests enjoy panoramic views of Paris while savoring a full-course meal aboard one of the city’s most storied riverboats. With free parking and wheelchair access, it’s one of the most convenient options for relaxed, elegant dining on the water.
What makes it different:
- A more formal cruise atmosphere (dress code applies)
- Includes free parking — rare in central Paris
- One of the few cruises offering wheelchair accessibility
Best for:
Couples, small groups, or Paris locals seeking a leisurely and refined weekend lunch with timeless views and a quiet atmosphere.
Don’t miss: If you prefer a more vibrant experience, the evening cruise offers a memorable Paris sunset with a lively atmosphere.
Capitaine Fracasse Brunch Cruise – Laid-Back Sunday Brunch on the Seine
From: €57 (Adults) | €39 (Children)
Duration: 1.5 hours
Departure: Île aux Cygnes (under Bir-Hakeim Bridge). Get directions.
Meal: Casual brunch buffet with sweet and savory items, juice, and hot drinks (no formal table service)
This Sunday-only cruise is a laid-back alternative to formal lunch cruises. Departing from the peaceful Swan Island, it offers a breezy 90-minute journey past Paris’s landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and Louvre, with access to the open deck throughout. The brunch is served buffet-style, making it ideal for those who prefer a lighter, more flexible midday meal.
What makes it different:
- The only brunch cruise on the Seine
- Prioritizes comfort and sightseeing over formal dining
- Relaxed buffet format with stunning views and outdoor access
Best for:
Families, locals, and casual travelers seeking a cozy and informal cruise to ease into their Sunday in Paris.
For a quieter, more intimate experience, the best time to visit is during the early afternoon when fewer crowds are around.
What do tourists say about the Seine River lunch cruise experience?
Related read: Before you head out for your cruise, review how to reach the departure point to ensure a hassle-free journey.
Read this before you board: What to know, pack & expect
Here are some smart, traveler-tested tips to help you make the most of your midday meal on the Seine.
✅ What to do:
- Arrive 20–30 minutes early to check in and settle comfortably.
- Dress smart-casual, especially for Bateaux Mouches or premium cruises.
- Take the Metro or public transport to avoid traffic delays.
- Bring sunglasses or a scarf for glass-roof boats on sunny days.
- Take photos early while the boat is docked or moving slowly.
❌ What to avoid:
- Don’t arrive late! Boarding closes 5–10 minutes before departure.
- Don’t assume drinks are included; always check what’s covered.
- Avoid casual wear like flip-flops or sportswear if a dress code applies.
Get more amazing tips for planning and visiting the cruise.
What tourists often ask about Seine River lunch cruises
Here are the most frequently asked questions about Seine River lunch cruises to help you plan your experience with confidence.
Can I choose my seat on a Seine River lunch cruise?
Yes, seat selection on Seine River lunch cruises depends on the ticket type. Standard tickets often offer shared or central seating. For window seats or private tables, you’ll need to book a premium or upgraded ticket in advance.
Do Seine River lunch cruises operate during winter?
Seine lunch cruises operate year-round, with enclosed, heated boats for comfort in winter. Enjoy remarkable sunset views over Paris. In winter, consider combining your cruise with indoor attractions like the Louvre or Musée d’Orsay for a truly perfect experience.
Can I book a Seine River lunch cruise for a group or private event?
Yes, many cruise companies offer group lunch cruises or private cruises for events like corporate outings, school tours, or family celebrations. Contact the cruise provider early for custom packages and meal arrangements.
Is smoking allowed on board during a lunch cruise on the Seine?
Smoking is not permitted inside cruise boats. Some cruises may allow smoking on the open upper deck, depending on the boat and weather. Always follow the cruise operator’s smoking policy.
Can I bring a suitcase or large backpack on a Seine lunch cruise?
Large luggage and backpacks are typically not allowed on lunch cruises due to space and safety concerns. Bring only essentials like a purse, small bag, or camera. Ask your tour operator for any other restrictions or rules before boarding!
Are Seine lunch cruises stroller-friendly for babies or toddlers?
Yes, most Seine River lunch boats allow strollers, especially foldable ones. However, space is limited, and you may need to store them at the boarding area. Always confirm with the operator before your visit. Also, check if it’s worth your family visit or not!
Got more questions about the Seine River cruise? Check FAQs
Can’t decide? Here’s the cruise travel experts recommend for you
- Bateaux Parisiens 3-course Lunch Cruise: Elegant, flexible, wine included
- Paris Seine Lunch Cruise: Romantic, shorter, stylish
- Bateaux Mouches Lunch Cruise: Weekend-only, formal ambiance
- Capitaine Fracasse Brunch Cruise: Sunday brunch, casual and scenic
Every cruise listed here is reputable, well-reviewed, and carefully chosen based on real traveler needs, so you really can’t go wrong. It just comes down to what suits your day and your style.
