Paris Christmas Lunch Cruise by Bateaux Mouches

If you’re dreaming of celebrating Christmas in Paris with a mix of fine food, sparkling sights, and a touch of holiday magic, the Paris Christmas Lunch Cruise by Bateaux Mouches offers a memorable way to do so. This experience typically lasts about two and a half hours, with a gourmet three-course meal served aboard one of the city’s classic boats, floating along the Seine. Priced at around $143.30 per person, it’s a well-organized event that draws visitors eager to combine sightseeing with celebrating the holiday.

What I really appreciate about this cruise is the focus on creating a festive atmosphere—live music adds a joyful touch, and the views of famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame from the river give you a unique perspective of Paris. Another highlight is the thoughtfully curated menu, with delicious French dishes, cheese, a homemade Yule log, and a good selection of wine and bubbly. Many guests find the food exceeds expectations for a boat meal, and the friendly staff makes the whole experience feel special. That said, some travelers have noted issues with the boat’s heating, so dressing comfortably for the weather is advisable.

One thing to keep in mind is that this cruise doesn’t include hotel transfers or souvenir photos—although you can purchase photos if you want a keepsake. The organized seating and capacity of around 100 people help keep the experience intimate, and reservations well in advance (about 68 days) are recommended to secure your spot. Overall, it’s a solid choice if you’re looking to combine Parisian landmarks with fine dining on the water during the Christmas season.

Key Points

• Gourmet 3-course meal featuring French classics and a homemade Yule log
• Beautiful views of Paris’s most iconic monuments like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame
• Live music enhances the festive atmosphere
• Well-organized experience with friendly staff and clear seating arrangements
• Value for the price considering the food, drinks, and unforgettable scenery
• Limited flexibility as it’s a set menu with no options for large group seating or immediate photo souvenirs

The Experience at a Glance: A Practical Breakdown

Starting at Port de la Conférence at 12:30 pm, this lunch cruise unfolds along the Seine River, giving you a different angle on Paris’s most celebrated sights. The meeting point is conveniently near public transportation, which helps if you’re staying in the city. The boat itself is covered, ensuring comfort even if the weather turns sour, with an upper deck available for fresh air and better views.

The itinerary is straightforward—glide along the river while you indulge in your meal, with landmarks passing by just outside the windows. The highlights include gorgeous panoramic views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and other historic bridges and buildings. Guests report that the views are often truly spectacular, especially with the city dressed up for Christmas.

In terms of dining, you’ll enjoy three courses, including French favorites and a homemade Yule log, along with bottled water, wine, and coffee or tea. Many reviews mention that the food quality exceeds expectations, with some guests calling it “superb,” especially considering it’s served on a boat. The live music, often a solo pianist or small band, adds a cheerful, holiday ambiance, making the atmosphere feel warm and celebratory. One guest fondly described it as “beautiful, magical, and relaxing,” perfect for a holiday outing.

Group size is capped at about 100 travelers, which means the experience feels intimate enough to enjoy conversation yet lively enough to feel festive. You’ll be greeted by the crew and led to your table, with priority seating for those who booked premium options. If you’re traveling with friends or family and want everyone to sit together, it’s a good idea to reserve several seats at once and inform the staff ahead of time.

The Pros and Cons

What travelers love most is the combination of stunning Parisian scenery, excellent wine, and delicious French cuisine. Many reviewers specifically mention how memorable and relaxing the cruise was—one even called it “the most wonderful way to spend Christmas Day.” The live music is often praised as enhancing the festive spirit, and the souvenir card provided adds a personal touch to commemorate the day.

On the flip side, some guests have expressed frustrations about the boat’s heating system. Despite outside temperatures being just above freezing, the boat’s heater was kept on full blast, making some interior areas uncomfortably hot during the meal. Several reviews mention that nothing was done to resolve this issue, which could detract from your comfort if you’re particularly sensitive to heat.

Another consideration is that the experience is non-refundable, and missing the cruise due to late arrival or other issues will mean forfeit of your booking. Also, the set menu means no customization, so if you have dietary restrictions, you should specify these when booking—vegetarian options are available.

Who Will Love This Cruise

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or families seeking a special Christmas outing that combines iconic sights with a classic French meal. It’s suited for travelers who want a relaxed yet festive atmosphere and don’t mind a fixed menu. Please note that the dress code is smart casual, making it a bit more polished than your usual river cruise.

If you’re after a lively celebration with lots of interaction, this cruise’s relaxed style may be perfect. However, if you prefer a more personalized dining experience or are sensitive to room temperature, you might want to explore other options or prepare accordingly. It’s also worth noting that the cruise is particularly popular, so booking well in advance ensures you secure a spot.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

The Paris Christmas Lunch Cruise by Bateaux Mouche offers a well-rounded, enjoyable way to spend part of your holiday. The price reflects not just the meal but the experience of gliding along the Seine with such stunning views and festive music. The food tends to impress, and the atmosphere is warm and celebratory, making it a strong contender for a holiday splurge in the City of Light.

It’s best suited for those who appreciate good food, scenic views, and a relaxed ambiance. If you’re looking for a way to add a touch of elegance and magic to your Christmas in Paris, this cruise fits the bill—just watch out for the heat and ensure your booking is confirmed well in advance.

FAQ

Is there free seating on the boat?
No, guests are greeted by the Maître d’Hôtel and escorted to their assigned table. Those with premium tickets get priority seating near the windows.

Can I be seated with friends if we make separate reservations?
Yes, but you need to inform the cruise provider at least 24 hours in advance to be seated at the same table, especially if you want to sit with guests from other reservations.

Is the boat covered?
Yes, the main deck is covered, offering protection from rain or cold, while the upper deck is open for those who prefer fresh air and unobstructed views.

Can I smoke on the boat?
Smoking is only permitted on the upper deck, so plan accordingly.

Are there options for children?
Babies are not served special menus, but highchairs are available. Children aged 4 and over can request a special menu if needed.

What if I miss the cruise?
This experience is non-refundable, so aim to arrive on time. Missing the cruise means losing your booking without a refund.

Choosing a Christmas river cruise in Paris brings a certain enchantment—glimpsing the city’s brightest monuments from the water, enjoying good company, and savoring authentic French food. With some advance planning and the right expectations, this Bateaux Mouche cruise can be a highlight of your holiday trip—worthy of the magical backdrop that Paris offers during the festive season.