The Canal Saint-Martin cruise offers a unique window into Paris’s captivating history. Traversing this historic waterway, visitors witness the vibrant Bastille neighborhood, navigate the fascinating double locks, and marvel at the seamless lifting of swing bridges revealing the city’s industrial past. Guided by knowledgeable commentators, the 2.5-hour journey provides a charming and relaxing exploration of the city’s enchanting waterways, showcasing the engineering feats and rich heritage that have shaped this enchanting Parisian landscape. For those seeking to uncover the old Paris, this cruise promises a delightful and enlightening experience.
Key Points
- The 2.5-hour cruise along the historic Canal Saint Martin departs from the Port de l’Arsenal – Canauxrama in the 12th arrondissement of Paris.
- The cruise provides a unique glimpse into Paris’s storied past, showcasing the vibrant Bastille neighborhood and Parc de la Villette.
- The route features the passage through four double locks and two swing bridges, offering a captivating perspective on the canal’s engineering feats.
- Live commentary from a knowledgeable guide enhances the experience, providing insights into the rich history and landmarks along the waterway.
- The cruise concludes at the Bassin de la Villette in the 19th arrondissement, with convenient access to public transportation.
Overview of the Cruise
This 2.5-hour cruise along the historic Canal Saint Martin takes passengers through 4 double locks and 2 swing bridges, offering a unique glimpse into Paris’s storied past.
Along the way, you’ll admire the vibrant Bastille neighborhood, the expansive Parc de la Villette, and the serene Bassin de la Villette.
With a choice of morning or afternoon departure, this tour provides a charming and relaxing way to explore the city’s waterways.
The live commentary from the guide enhances the experience, and the onboard bar ensures you can sit back, sip a beverage, and soak in the captivating sights at your own pace.
Highlights Along the Route
As the boat glides along the Canal Saint Martin, passengers are treated to a captivating array of sights.
The vibrant Bastille neighborhood, with its bustling markets and historic architecture, comes into view, setting the stage for the journey ahead.
Passing through the four double locks, the cruise offers a unique perspective on the engineering feats that facilitated the canal’s construction.
The swing bridges seamlessly lift to allow the boat to continue its voyage, revealing the striking Parc de la Villette and the serene Bassin de la Villette.
Throughout the cruise, the guide’s live commentary provides insight into the canal’s rich history and the landmarks that line its banks, making for an engaging and informative experience.
Cruise Departure and Return
The cruise departs from the Port de l’Arsenal – Canauxrama, located at 50 Bd de la Bastille in Paris’s 12th arrondissement. Guests gather at this meeting point, where they board the boat for their 2.5-hour journey along the historic Canal Saint Martin.
Once the cruise concludes, passengers disembark at the Bassin de la Villette, situated at 13 Quai de la Loire in the 19th arrondissement. This end point provides easy access to public transportation, allowing visitors to continue exploring the city after their scenic canal adventure.
The departure and return locations are conveniently situated, making it simple for travelers to join and depart the cruise with ease.
Inclusions and Amenities
A live commentary from a knowledgeable guide accompanies passengers throughout the 2.5-hour cruise, providing insight and context about the sights they encounter.
Plus, a bar on board the vessel offers beverages and refreshments for guests to enjoy during the leisurely journey.
As the boat glides through the historic Canal Saint Martin, guests can sit back and relax while admiring the views of the Bastille neighborhood, Parc de la Villette, and Bassin de la Villette.
The cruise offers a unique opportunity to experience the charming waterways of Paris and learn about the city’s rich history from an expert guide.
Whether seeking a morning or afternoon departure, this cruise provides a delightful way to explore the Old Paris.
Meeting Point and Pickup
Commencing the canal cruise, travelers meet at the Port de l’Arsenal – Canauxrama, located at 50 Bd de la Bastille in the 12th arrondissement of Paris.
From this embarkation point, the tour sets off, eventually concluding at the Bassin de la Villette, found at 13 Quai de la Loire in the 19th arrondissement.
The meeting point is conveniently situated near public transportation, allowing visitors easy access to the starting location.
Upon completing the 2.5-hour cruise, passengers disembark at the Bassin de la Villette, having enjoyed the sights and sounds of the historic Canal Saint Martin along the way.
Additional Important Details
Confirmation of booking is provided at the time of reservation, ensuring travelers have all the necessary details prior to the cruise. The canal tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though it’s situated near public transportation options for easy access.
With a maximum capacity of 149 passengers, the excursion is operated by the France Tourisme company, guaranteeing a professionally-run experience along the historic waterway. Travelers can rest assured that the cruise through the iconic Canal Saint-Martin will be an enjoyable one, with the company’s expertise and attention to detail.
The only limitation is the lack of wheelchair accessibility, but the convenient location makes it accessible for most visitors to central Paris.
Customer Reviews Snapshot
Travelers’ reviews paint an insightful picture of the Canal Saint-Martin cruise experience, with a 3.5-star overall rating across 54 assessments. The feedback highlights both the highlights and areas for improvement. While many praised the scenic views, knowledgeable guide, and relaxed atmosphere, some noted the cruise could use better amenities and more engaging commentary. The breakdown of reviews is as follows:
| Rating | Number of Reviews |
|---|---|
| 5 stars | 22 |
| 4 stars | 12 |
| 3 stars | 10 |
With a solid majority of 5 and 4-star ratings, the Canal Saint-Martin tour provides a generally enjoyable experience for most travelers, though there’s room to enhance certain aspects based on the constructive feedback.
About the Tour Operator
France Tourisme, the operator behind the Canal Saint-Martin cruise, brings a wealth of experience in providing engaging river tours that showcase the historic and scenic wonders of Paris.
As a trusted name in the local tourism industry, the company has earned a reputation for delivering high-quality experiences that immerse visitors in the rich culture and heritage of the city.
With a focus on customer satisfaction, France Tourisme ensures that each cruise along the Canal Saint-Martin is informative, enjoyable, and tailored to the needs of its diverse clientele.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Francophile, you can count on France Tourisme to deliver an unforgettable adventure on the waterways of Paris.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Duration of the Cruise?
The cruise along the historic Canal Saint Martin lasts 2.5 hours. Passengers will pass through 4 double locks and 2 swing bridges during the journey.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Cruise?
Passengers can’t bring their own food and drinks on the cruise. The boat has a bar on board where beverages and snacks can be purchased. Outside food and drinks are not permitted during the 2.5-hour Canal Saint Martin cruise.
Is There an Option to Book a Private Tour?
Yes, there is an option to book a private tour. Canauxrama, the cruise operator, offers private charters for groups of up to 149 passengers. This allows for a more personalized experience along the historic Canal Saint Martin.
Do I Need to Print My Ticket or Can I Show It on My Phone?
You can show your ticket on your phone for this cruise. There’s no need to print it out – just have your mobile device ready to present the confirmation when boarding.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Students or Seniors?
Unfortunately, the cruise provider does not offer any discounted tickets for students or seniors. All passengers pay the standard adult fare, regardless of age or student status. The only exceptions noted are children under 4 who can ride for free.
Recap
The Canal Saint Martin cruise offers a captivating journey through Paris’s storied past. Passengers witness the vibrant Bastille neighborhood, navigate the captivating double locks, and marvel at the seamless lifting of swing bridges.
Guided by knowledgeable commentators, the 2.5-hour cruise provides a charming and relaxing exploration of the city’s waterways, showcasing the engineering feats and rich history that have shaped this enchanting Parisian landscape.
