Best of Both Worlds Cruise from the Canal St-Martin to the Seine

The Best of Both Worlds Cruise from the Canal St-Martin to the Seine offers an engaging 2-hour journey through some of Paris’s most iconic sights and lesser-known waterways. Priced at just $40.48 per person, this tour provides a unique perspective on the city’s architecture, history, and engineering, making it ideal for those who want a relaxed yet informative experience. The tour departs from 73 Quai de Valmy at 3:00 pm and ends at 19 Quai de l’Horloge, conveniently located near public transportation in the heart of Paris.

What makes this cruise stand out is the combination of a peaceful canal ride with a scenic Seine river cruise. Visitors get to explore two locks, a swinging bridge, and the Bastille Tunnel, adding an extra layer of interest beyond standard river tours. The inclusion of live commentary enhances the experience, helping guests understand Paris’s landmarks and history as they flow past. It’s suitable for most travelers and perfect for families, thanks to its leisurely pace and engaging features, although the maximum reservation size is 20 people, which helps maintain an intimate atmosphere.

While reviews highlight the underground canal section, the locks dropping 6 meters as the boat transitions from canal to river are a particular highlight. A few reviews mention that the boat can get crowded—especially if more than 20 people are on board—so arriving 30 minutes early to secure a good spot is advised. The tour also offers refreshments on board—including snacks like crepes—and a friendly guide provides insightful commentary in multiple languages.

Key Points

• Two-hour cruise starting at 3:00 pm from 73 Quai de Valmy in Paris
• Combines a peaceful Canal Saint-Martin ride with a scenic Seine River cruise
• Includes two locks, a swinging bridge, and the Bastille Tunnel
• Enjoy live commentary on Paris landmarks and history
• Refreshments and snacks such as crepes are available on board
• Suitable for families and most travelers, with a maximum of 20 people per reservation

The Unique Experience of the Canal Saint-Martin

This tour starts by sailing along the tree-lined Canal Saint-Martin, a peaceful waterway that offers a different view of Paris compared to the busy Seine. Passengers are treated to sights of a swinging bridge, two locks, and the Bastille Tunnel, which adds a touch of historic intrigue. The canal’s slow pace and lush surroundings create a calm atmosphere, perfect for photos and relaxing conversations.

The boat then crosses into the marina area of Paris before entering the Seine River. This transition involves passing through the locks, where the boat drops 6 meters—a highlight praised in reviews for its engineering marvel and the excitement it generates. The entire canal segment offers a fresh perspective on Paris’s industrial past and waterways.

Marvel at Paris Landmarks from the Water

Once on the Seine, the boat glides past some of Paris’s most celebrated sights. The Notre-Dame Cathedral provides a stunning backdrop, while the Louvre Museum, Musée d’Orsay, and Assemblée Nationale are also easily visible from the water. The Eiffel Tower presents itself gracefully in the distance, with unobstructed views that are perfect for photos.

The live commentary enhances this sightseeing, delivering engaging stories about each landmark. The guides are praised for their knowledge and ability to present in multiple languages, making this tour accessible to a diverse group of visitors. The views of Paris from the boat are described as both magnificent and unique, especially since some sights are difficult to see from land.

The Locks and Tunnel: Engineering Marvels

A notable aspect of this tour is the experience of passing through locks and the long Bastille Tunnel. The locks involve the boat descending 6 meters, which visitors find both fascinating and exciting. This process demonstrates Paris’s historic water management systems and adds a layer of adventure to the cruise.

The Bastille Tunnel is another highlight, offering a mysterious and atmospheric passage beneath historic Paris. Reviews describe the entire canal section as amazing and unexpected, with some mentioning it as a special highlight of the tour. The engineering behind the locks and tunnel impresses guests and provides a tangible link to Paris’s past.

Onboard Comfort and Refreshments

The boat offers a bar on board where guests can purchase refreshments and snacks, including crepes. This provides a relaxed atmosphere, allowing travelers to enjoy their drinks while taking in the views. Guests appreciate the friendly crew and the opportunity to sit outside for unobstructed photos and fresh air.

The boat’s sound system and commentary receive mixed reviews, with some mentioning difficulty hearing due to crowding or sound system quality. To optimize the experience, arriving early to secure a good spot is recommended, especially for those wanting outdoor seating.

Group Size and Practical Details

This tour is designed for small groups, with a maximum of 20 people per reservation. However, some reviews mention that larger groups sometimes onboard, which can lead to crowding—particularly on the upper deck. Travelers are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes early to find a preferred spot and avoid disappointment.

The tour departs from face face au 19 quai de l’horloge, on Île de la Cité, near Pont Neuf metro station. The location is easily accessible via public transportation, making planning straightforward.

Booking and Cancellation Flexibility

Booking in advance is recommended, with an average of 25 days ahead. The tour operates in favorable weather conditions and offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the scheduled start. If canceled due to poor weather, a different date or full refund is offered, providing peace of mind.

Overall Value and Suitability

At $40.48, this cruise offers remarkable value for a combination of canal and Seine experiences, especially with the inclusion of engineering marvels like the locks and tunnel. The live commentary, refreshments, and scenic views make it a compelling choice for those wanting a relaxed yet comprehensive Paris water tour.

The positive reviews praise the knowledgeable guides, stunning sights, and good value for money. Some criticisms relate to crowding and difficulty hearing, which can be mitigated by arriving early and choosing outdoor seating.

This tour is most suitable for families, first-time visitors, and anyone interested in a less touristy, more intimate experience of Paris’s waterways. It provides both relaxation and informative storytelling—a dependable way to see many landmarks from a different angle.

Is this tour suitable for young children?
Yes, the tour’s leisurely pace and engaging features make it appropriate for most ages, though parents should supervise children to prevent climbing on railings.

Can I purchase drinks and snacks on the boat?
Yes, there is a bar on board where refreshments such as crepes and drinks are available for purchase.

What should I do to ensure a good experience?
Arrive 30 minutes early to secure a good spot, especially on the upper deck. Be prepared for potential crowding if the reservation exceeds 20 people.

Is booking in advance necessary?
Booking about 25 days in advance is recommended to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons. The tour is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours before departure.