Paris Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise by Bateaux-Mouches

Paris Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise by Bateaux-Mouches

This Valentine’s Day dinner cruise in Paris, offered by Compagnie des Bateaux-Mouches, provides a romantic way to celebrate in the City of Light. For $266.25 per person, guests enjoy nearly three hours of elegant dining aboard a luxurious vessel, departing from Port de la Conférence at 8:30 pm. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes and features a multi-course French meal, Champagne, and spectacular nighttime views of iconic sights such as the Eiffel Tower and the Banks of the Seine.

Designed primarily for couples seeking a memorable romantic experience, this cruise offers luxury, fine dining, and scenic beauty. While most guests find the experience charming and special, some reviews highlight issues with seating arrangements and overbooking, so planning ahead is advisable. This tour suits those who want a formal, intimate celebration in the heart of Paris, along with a taste of classic French cuisine and unforgettable views.

Key Points

• Romantic dinner cruise perfect for Valentine’s Day celebrations in Paris
• Price of $266.25 per person with a nearly 3-hour duration
• Includes a 4-course gourmet French meal with Champagne and wine
• Admire Paris landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Seine Banks after dark
• Departure from Port de la Conférence, starting at 8:30 pm
• Group size limited to 14, ensuring a cozy, intimate setting, but with some reports of overbooking issues

Departure and Meeting Details at Port de la Conférence

The cruise begins at Port de la Conférence in 75008 Paris, with the vessel ready to set sail at 8:30 pm. Guests are expected to make their own way to the port, as hotel pickup and drop-off are not included. The location is accessible via public transportation, making it convenient to reach the departure point in central Paris.

Once aboard, guests are greeted by an Maître d’Hôtel, who escorts them to their allocated table. Most tables are assigned upon arrival, with priority seating given to those who book the Excellence menu. The group size is limited to 14 passengers, allowing for a more intimate ambiance despite some complaints about seating arrangements.

The Seine River and Parisian Landmarks at Night

As the cruise departs, the vessel glides along the Seine, offering views of famous Paris sights illuminated after dark. Guests see the Eiffel Tower lit up in all its glory and pass under the city’s beautifully lit bridges. The Banks of the Seine, which are UNESCO-listed, provide a particularly picturesque backdrop, enhancing the romance of this experience.

The nighttime scenery is a major highlight, with the twinkling lights of Paris creating a magical atmosphere. The cruise’s route emphasizes the most photogenic sights, making it an ideal opportunity for photos during the evening.

Gourmet French Cuisine: Multi-Course Meal and Champagne

The 4-course dinner features classic French dishes, such as lobster ravioli and beef filet, prepared to a gourmet standard. The meal is served with a glass of Champagne and one bottle of wine per couple, adding to the celebratory feel of the evening.

The dessert course offers a decadent treat to conclude the meal, complementing the romantic setting. The quality of the food receives positive remarks, with most guests appreciating the delicious dishes and elegant presentation.

The Atmosphere and Formal Dress Code

Guests are encouraged to adhere to a formal dress code, aligning with the luxurious environment of the cruise. The interior deck is covered, providing shelter from any weather concerns, while the upper deck remains open for those wishing to enjoy fresh air and better views.

The ambiance is described as romantic and refined, suitable for celebrating special occasions like Valentine’s Day or anniversaries. However, some reviews note disappointments with seating arrangements, such as being unable to sit near the windows despite requests, which can detract from the experience.

Seating Arrangements and Service Quality

Upon arrival, guests are escorted to their tables; those who have booked the Excellence menu generally receive priority seating by the windows. Despite this, some guests report being placed away from the glass, even with available empty tables along the sides, which can limit viewing opportunities.

The staff providing service are praised for their friendly and helpful attitude, contributing positively to the overall experience. However, management of seating and overbooking issues have been noted, with at least one case where a reservation was refused due to overbooking.

Duration and Pacing of the Cruise

The cruise lasts just over three hours, giving ample time to enjoy the meal and sights without feeling rushed. The pacing allows guests to savor each course and admire the scenic views at a relaxed pace. The return to the port marks the end of the experience, with most guests satisfied with the length and flow of the cruise.

Cost and Booking Considerations

At $266.25 per person, this cruise offers a luxurious dining experience combined with spectacular views, making it a fairly high-end option. The tour is typically booked 55 days in advance, reflecting its popularity for Valentine’s Day.

Guests should be aware that cancellations are non-refundable, so any change of plans requires careful consideration before booking. Booking early is recommended to secure preferred seating, especially for those seeking window tables.

Accessibility and Additional Information

The cruise features a covered main deck suitable for most guests, and the upper deck can be accessed at any time. Smoking is only permitted on the upper deck, and the ship provides highchairs for children over 4, but babies are not catered for with special menus.

Travelers should note that hotel pick-up and drop-off are not included, so transportation to and from the port must be arranged independently. The group size is limited to 14 travelers, creating an intimate feeling but also highlighting the importance of early booking.

Practical Tips and Possible Drawbacks

While most guests find the setting romantic and the food delicious, some reviews mention seating disputes and overbooking problems. It’s advisable to request window seating in advance and arrive early for check-in. Dress formally to match the elegant ambiance, and plan transportation accordingly, as no shuttle service is provided.

The non-refundable cancellation policy means it’s best to confirm plans well in advance, especially for a special occasion like Valentine’s Day.

Is the Paris Valentine’s Day Dinner Cruise Worth It?

This dinner cruise provides a refined and romantic way to celebrate Valentine’s Day in Paris. The combination of gourmet French cuisine, Champagne, and spectacular night views of the Eiffel Tower and Seine makes for a memorable evening. The intimate group size adds a touch of exclusivity, though seating arrangements can sometimes be unpredictable.

For those seeking a luxurious, scenic experience with a focus on French cuisine and romantic ambiance, this cruise is worth considering. However, be aware of potential issues with overbooking and seating if you’re aiming for the best views.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there free seating on the boat?
No. Guests are greeted by the Maître d’Hôtel, who escorts them to their allocated table. Those who book the Excellence menu have priority seating near the windows.

Can I be seated with other reservations?
Yes, but it requires advance notice of at least 24 hours. This ensures the staff can accommodate requests to sit together.

Is the boat covered?
Yes, the main deck is covered, providing protection from the elements, while the upper deck is open for better views.

Can babies be catered for?
Babies do not have special menus, but highchairs are available upon request. Children over 4 can order the special menus.

What should I wear?
A formal dress code is recommended to match the elegant atmosphere of the cruise.