“The Old Paris” on the Canal Saint Martin : Port de l’Arsenal

Exploring Paris often means wandering along the Seine or visiting iconic landmarks. But for a quieter, more authentic side of the city, the “Old Paris” cruise on the Canal Saint Martin offers a unique perspective. Priced at $37.95 per person and lasting approximately 2 hours 30 minutes, this boat trip takes guests through the historic Saint Martin Canal, a peaceful waterway that reveals a different face of eastern Paris.

Set aboard a traditional barge, this cruise stands out by crossing four double locks and two swing bridges, making for a fascinating journey through swirling waters and changing elevations. The tour departs from Canauxrama, 50 Bd de la Bastille, and concludes at Bassin de la Villette, 13 Quai de la Loire. Its intimate group size—maximum 149 travelers—ensures a laid-back experience, complemented by live commentary provided in both French and English.

While the cruise is praised for its relaxed atmosphere and educational commentary, it is important to note that it may not be suitable for those seeking fast-paced sightseeing or vibrant city views. The cruise’s tranquil setting emphasizes historic canals, locks, and local neighborhoods, making it an excellent choice for those wanting to escape the crowds and explore a lesser-known side of Paris.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The tour costs $37.95 per person and lasts about 2 hours 30 minutes.
• Unique Route: It travels along the Saint Martin Canal, crossing double locks and swing bridges.
• Scenic Highlights: Admire views of Bastille, Parc de la Villette, and Bassin de la Villette.
• Bilingual Commentary: Live narration in French and English enhances the experience.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 149 travelers, offering an intimate setting.
• Accessible and Convenient: Close to public transportation at both starting and ending points.
• Highly Rated for Relaxation and Authenticity: Many reviews praise the calm, non-touristy atmosphere and friendly staff.

Start of the Journey at Canauxrama in Bastille

The cruise begins at Canauxrama, 50 Bd de la Bastille, a location easily reachable by public transport. The meeting point is straightforward, though some reviews mention it lacks signage, so arriving a bit early helps. The initial stretch takes you under the mystical vault of the Bastille, a highlight where natural light creates a special ambiance.

Once aboard, the boat gently glides onto the canal, and the pace remains relaxed throughout. The setting feels more like a peaceful escape than a busy sightseeing tour, making it ideal for those tired of crowds or seeking a different narrative of Paris.

Crossing the Famous Double Locks of the Canal Saint Martin

The most distinctive feature of this cruise is passing through four double locks, which raise and lower the boat between different canal levels. These locks are a major attraction, providing a fascinating look at traditional waterway engineering. The swirling waters during lock operation create a lively, dynamic scene that excites children and adults alike.

Guests should be prepared for a bit of water spray at the front of the boat when passing through the locks, as noted by some reviews. The locks also serve as a visual reminder of the canal’s historical role in connecting Paris to its suburbs.

Crossing the Two Swing Bridges – A Mechanical Marvel

As the boat navigates through the canal, it passes under two swing bridges that open and close to allow vessels to pass. Watching these historic bridges operate provides insight into Paris’s hydraulic and mechanical heritage. This part of the journey offers a slow, scenic passage through quaint neighborhoods lined with boutiques and retro cafés.

The swing bridges add a sense of timing and engineering precision to the cruise, making each passage a small event that viewers find engaging. It’s a peaceful moment to appreciate the quiet charm of suburban Paris.

Views of the Bastille Neighborhood and Parc de la Villette

One of the cruise’s main visual highlights is the view of the Bastille area, especially when sliding under the vault of the former fortress. The light and atmosphere here are described as almost magical, thanks to the natural illumination that occurs during the passage.

Moving further, guests enjoy vistas of Parc de la Villette and the Bassin de la Villette, areas that contrast with the historic core of Paris. These modern parks and waterways reflect the city’s blend of history and contemporary life, offering a different perspective from typical sightseeing routes.

The Atmosphere and Commentary During the Cruise

The bilingual narration enriches the experience, sharing stories and historical facts about the canal, its construction, and the neighborhoods along the route. Reviewers frequently mention the knowledgeable guides and friendly staff as key to a positive experience.

Some guests note that sitting at the front of the boat can sometimes make it difficult to hear the commentary, especially if the PA system is fuzzy. However, overall, the informative narration adds depth and context to the scenic views.

Practicalities: Meeting Point and Accessibility

The meeting point at Canauxrama is centrally located near public transportation, making it easy to access. The tour ends at Bassin de la Villette, also well connected via metro at Jaurès station. Some reviews mention the difficulty in finding the exact location due to lack of signage and address clarity, so arriving early is recommended.

The tour is designed to be accessible for most travelers, with most people able to participate comfortably. The small group size and mobile ticket option make for a convenient and flexible experience.

Pacing, Crowd Levels, and Overall Experience

The tour maintains a relaxed pace throughout, focusing on the calm waters of the canal rather than rapid sightseeing. The crowd levels tend to be moderate, often with boats only half-full, contributing to the laid-back atmosphere.

While the cruise is praised for educational commentary and authentic charm, some reviews mention that time in the locks can feel lengthy or that water splashes at the front can be disruptive. Overall, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting a tranquil, off-the-beaten-path experience in Paris.

Suitable for Different Types of Visitors

This cruise is especially good for history buffs, those interested in engineering, or anyone seeking a less touristy side of Paris. It offers good value for the price of $37.95, given its unique route and informative guides.

It might not satisfy visitors looking for fast-paced sightseeing or panoramic city views, but its relaxed pace and authentic atmosphere appeal to travelers who enjoy a slow, scenic exploration of suburban Paris.

“Old Paris” on the Canal Saint Martin: A Quiet Waterway Adventure

In sum, the “Old Paris” cruise provides a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of central Paris. Its scenic route, crossing double locks and swing bridges, offers a glimpse into historical and modern Paris side by side. The bilingual commentary and friendly staff earn high marks for informative and approachable service.

While it may not be the most vibrant sightseeing tour, it excels in offering an educational, tranquil journey through a less explored waterway. This experience suits visitors who appreciate history, local neighborhoods, and peaceful waterways over bustling tourist spots.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cruise suitable for children?
Yes, the relaxed pace and visual interest of the locks and bridges make it enjoyable for children. The splash from the locks can be fun for kids sitting at the front.

How accessible is the tour?
The tour is designed for most travelers and departs from a location accessible by public transportation. However, arriving early is recommended due to potential signage issues.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothing suitable for the weather is best. Be prepared for possible water splashes if sitting at the front during lock passages.

Can I bring food or drinks onboard?
The reviews mention nice refreshments on board, indicating that some snacks or drinks might be available, but specific policies are not detailed.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The experience requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, a different date or a full refund is offered.

This “Old Paris” cruise offers a unique, peaceful journey into the suburban waterways of Paris, blending history, engineering, and scenic views into a memorable 2.5-hour experience.