New Year’s Eve Seine Cruise and Dinner in Paris

Celebrating New Year’s in Paris takes on a special glow with this Seine River cruise and dinner experience. Priced at $527 per person and lasting 4.5 hours, this tour offers a magical way to ring in the new year amidst the city’s iconic monuments, dazzling lights, and festive decorations. Meeting at the Quai de Bercy, guests board a “La Marina” boat, where they are treated to a luxurious dinner, lively music from a live DJ, and the chance to watch the fireworks or the midnight countdown from a prime river vantage point.

This experience is ideal for those who want a special celebration in the heart of Paris while enjoying a gourmet meal and lively atmosphere. While some reviews mention average food quality or crowded seating, others praise the organized flow and spectacular city views. Note that this cruise does not include hotel transport, so guests should plan to arrive at the meeting point ready for a memorable evening on the water.

Key Points

• Price: $527 per person for a 4.5-hour New Year’s Eve cruise and dinner
• Meeting Point: Quai de Bercy, next to the Tolbiac Bridge
• Includes: Gourmet dinner, drinks, live singer, linen-covered tables, and bay window access (subject to availability)
• Highlights: Cruise past Paris’s most beautiful monuments, enjoy festive Christmas lights, and dance all night with a DJ
• Limitations: No hotel pickup; cancellation policy requires email notification and penalty applies if canceled late

You can check availability for your dates here:

Setting Sail for a Parisian New Year at Quai de Bercy

This tour departs from Quai de Bercy, where guests gather next to the Paris Seine pontoon. The “La Marina” boats set out into the Seine, offering a unique vantage point to take in the city’s famous landmarks. The departure time varies based on availability, so checking in advance ensures a smooth start to the evening.

Arriving at the meeting point, you’ll find a warm, welcoming atmosphere. The crew greets guests and helps settle into individual linen-covered tables, some with bay windows for optimal views. The experience is designed to be intimate yet lively, with dinner served during the cruise and ample opportunity to socialize or dance.

The Festive New Year’s Eve Menu and Drinks

The special menu crafted for this celebration features champagne and appetizers upon boarding, setting a festive tone. The main course includes mi-cuit of foie gras with seasonal chutney, seared scallops with saffron risotto, and beef tenderloin with truffle jus and vegetable mikado, showcasing sophisticated cooking.

For dessert, guests enjoy a midnight chocolate delight. The drink selection includes 1/2 bottle of wine per person, with options such as Chardonnay 2024 or Puisseguin Saint-Emilion 2022, and water and coffee. A child’s menu is also available, offering puff pastry, poultry fillet, potatoes, and vegetable confit with soft drinks.

The Live Entertainment and Dancing Atmosphere

A live singer provides entertainment throughout the cruise, adding a festive, musical backdrop to the evening. As midnight approaches, guests gather to watch the city’s fireworks or celebrate the countdown against the stunning backdrop of illuminated Parisian landmarks.

The DJ then takes over, creating a lively dance environment for guests eager to welcome the new year with music and movement. The combination of live performance and dancing ensures a spirited, celebratory mood that captures the excitement of Paris on New Year’s Eve.

The Scenic Route: Iconic Monuments Facing the Seine

During the cruise, guests pass by Paris’s most beautiful and famous monuments, including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and other notable landmarks. The lighting and festive decorations amplify the romantic and magical ambiance of the river journey.

Some reviews mention fogged windows, which can obstruct views, especially if the windows fog up or the boat is crowded. Despite this, the overall spectacle of Paris lit up at night remains a highlight, offering exceptional photo opportunities from the boat.

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The Practicalities: Group Size, Logistics, and Cancellations

Guests meet at the Cour Saint Emilion area, with the pontoon located right next to the Tolbiac Bridge. The tour avoids hotel pickup and drop-off, so travelers should plan their transportation accordingly.

The activity involves strict cancellation policies: cancellations made 8 calendar days in advance incur a 50% fee, and no refunds are available for cancellations 3 days or fewer before the cruise. The booking communication is handled via email, emphasizing the importance of timely notice.

What the Reviews Say About This Experience

While most praise the well-organized nature of the cruise and the good food, some reviews point out average meal quality and crowded tables. One reviewer mentions foggy windows blocking views and a trip duration shorter than advertised. Still, the overall atmosphere, spectacular views, and festive mood receive positive mentions, especially for those wanting a lively, celebratory night.

In particular, guests appreciate the opportunity to see Paris lit up at midnight and enjoy the music and dancing. The price is considered fair by some, given the overall experience and inclusions.

Who Would Enjoy This Parisian New Year Celebration

This Seine cruise is best suited for those seeking a lively, festive atmosphere with gourmet dining and city views. It appeals to music lovers, dancing enthusiasts, and those wanting to celebrate in a memorable setting. However, caution is advised if window clarity or seating comfort are priorities, as some reviews report fogged windows and crowded tables.

Travelers who value entertainment, stunning scenery, and a special dinner will likely find this experience rewarding. It’s perfect for families, couples, or groups wanting a unique way to welcome the new year in Paris.

Frequently Asked Questions

Does the tour include hotel pickup?
No, the cruise does not include hotel pickup or drop-off. Guests should plan to meet at the Cour Saint Emilion location.

What is the cancellation policy?
Cancellations made 8 days in advance are eligible for a 50% refund. Cancellations 3 days or fewer before the cruise are not refundable.

Is there a dress code?
The data does not specify a dress code; however, given the luxurious setting and special dinner, smart casual attire is recommended.

Can children participate?
Yes, there is a child’s menu available, including puff pastry, poultry fillet, and soft drinks.

What does the dinner include?
Guests enjoy a special New Year’s Eve menu with champagne, appetizers, foie gras, scallops, beef tenderloin, cheeses, and dessert.

Are the best views guaranteed?
Views depend on window clarity and availability of bay windows. Some reviews mention fogged windows, so clear sightlines cannot be guaranteed.

This New Year’s Eve Seine cruise offers a festive and elegant way to celebrate in Paris, blending gourmet dining, stunning scenery, and lively entertainment. While it has some limitations, its unique setting and special menu make it a memorable choice for ringing in the new year in the City of Light.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby