Paris Seine River Dinner Cruise by Maxim’s with Champagne & Music

The Paris Seine River Dinner Cruise by Maxim’s offers a refined way to enjoy Paris from the water, priced at $195.10 per person. This evening experience lasts approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours, departing from Promenade Édouard Glissant in the heart of central Paris. It combines a gourmet 3-course dinner, a glass of Champagne, live music, and spectacular views of Paris’ most famous landmarks. This tour is well-suited for those seeking a romantic or cultural outing, with most bookings made about 37 days in advance.

While the cruise provides a memorable way to see the city’s illuminated sights, it also emphasizes comfort and elegance, making it ideal for celebrating special occasions or simply enjoying an upscale evening on the Seine. The experience is designed for most travelers, with seated at window tables and elegant attire recommended. However, it’s worth noting that the food quality varies, and the group size is limited to 12, ensuring attentive service.

Key Points

• Price and Duration: The cruise costs $195.10 per person, lasting about 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours.
• Includes Gourmet Dining and Champagne: A 3-course meal with Champagne aperitif, wine, coffee or tea, and alcoholic beverages are included.
• Live Entertainment: A musical performer, often a singer, creates a lively, Parisian atmosphere.
• Iconic Landmarks: The cruise passes notable sights including Musée d’Orsay, Place de la Concorde, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre.
• Seating and Dress Code: All guests sit at window tables, with elegant attire suggested, but tie and jacket are not mandatory.
• Booking and Cancellation: Most bookings are made about a month in advance, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before.

Starting Point and Meeting Logistics in Paris

This experience begins at Promenade Édouard Glissant in the 75007 Paris district. The meeting point is near public transportation, simplifying access for most visitors. The tour ends back at the same meeting location, with no hotel pick-up included, so travelers should plan accordingly to arrive on time. It’s recommended to allow extra time due to the potentially confusing directions, particularly around the boat departure area.

The Route and Key Landmarks Visible from the Seine

As the vessel glides along the Seine, passengers enjoy close-up views of Paris’ most famous landmarks. The cruise passes assemblée nationale, where the French parliament resides, and Musée d’Orsay, the impressionist art museum housed in a former train station. The Cathedral Notre-Dame de Paris, a symbol of the city, features prominently, along with Place de la Concorde, the largest square in Paris.

The Île de la Cité, the historic heart of Paris, is a major highlight, providing picturesque scenes of the city’s early settlements. The cruise also features views of the Louvre Museum, one of the world’s largest art collections, and Les Invalides, where Napoleon’s tomb rests. The Conciergerie, one of the oldest medieval buildings and UNESCO World Heritage site, is also part of the route. The Replica of the Statue de la Liberte in Paris is included, commemorating the centenary of the French Revolution.

The Dining Experience on the Seine

The 3-course gourmet meal is the centerpiece of this cruise, with menus offering both meat and vegetarian options. The main courses include lacquered duck breast, Tournedos de boeuf, or roasted sea bass, accompanied by seasonal vegetables or risotto. The cheese plate features Brie de Meaux, Comté, and sainte Maure.

Vegetarian options are available, such as Asian vegetable gyoza and creamy quinoa with curry, catering to different dietary preferences. The desserts include chocolate tartlet, revisited apple tartin, and lemon meringue. The meal is served with red or white wine (37.5 cl per person), mineral water, and coffee or tea.

While the food generally receives mixed reviews, with some describing it as decent and others noting it as not gourmet, the overall dining atmosphere is enhanced by live music. The musician, often a singer, contributes to a romantic Parisian ambiance that many find memorable.

Live Entertainment and Musical Atmosphere

A key feature of this cruise is live music, typically provided by a pianist or singer. Named performers, sometimes a talented vocalist, sing in English and French, adding a romantic and festive tone to the evening. Review notes highlight the quality of the music, describing it as beautiful and delightful, with some appreciating the musician’s skill and voice.

This entertainment brings a personal touch to the experience, elevating what might otherwise be a simple dinner into a celebratory or romantic occasion. The music is praised for creating a lively, Parisian vibe that complements the illuminated cityscape.

The Overall Atmosphere and Viewer Experience

The ambiance aboard the vessel is described as romantic and elegant, with window seating providing unobstructed views of the Eiffel Tower’s twinkle, the Louvre, and other landmarks. The timing of the cruise allows guests to see the city’s lights at their most stunning, making it particularly suitable for evening outings.

Some reviews mention a more intimate setting due to limited group size (maximum 12 guests), creating a personal and attentive service experience. The dress code is elegant casual, with no strict requirement for tie or jacket, but shorts are discouraged.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Since the cruise leaves on the hour, arriving early is advisable. The directions can be confusing, so giving yourself enough time to locate the boat is recommended. The experience is suitable for most travelers, with most people able to participate; however, those with mobility issues should inquire further, as specific accessibility details are not provided.

The cancellation policy offers full refund if canceled more than 24 hours in advance. Inclement weather may lead to cancellation or rescheduling, with options for a full refund or alternative date.

Who Will Truly Appreciate This Seine Dinner Cruise

This tour is ideal for couples celebrating a romantic occasion, such as anniversaries or birthdays. It also suits first-time visitors wanting a classic Parisian experience with gourmet food and live music. The scenic nighttime views of iconic landmarks make it a memorable way to see the city from the Seine.

While the food quality may vary, the overall atmosphere, views, and entertainment often compensate, making it a good value for those seeking a special evening. However, larger groups or those looking for gourmet cuisine might prefer other options.

This cruise offers a balanced combination of scenic sightseeing, gourmet dining, and live entertainment in a romantic setting. Its limited group size and spectacular views deliver an intimate atmosphere perfect for celebrations or special dates. The passage past landmarks like Notre-Dame and the Eiffel Tower at night creates memorable visuals, while the music and Champagne enhance the experience.

The main limitations concern food quality, which isn’t universally praised, and navigation to the meeting point, which can be confusing. Nonetheless, its value as a classy, scenic night out in Paris remains strong. Travelers seeking a relaxing, elegant cruise with memorable views are likely to find this experience well worth the $195.10 investment.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the price of the tour?
The $195.10 fee covers a 3-course gourmet dinner, Champagne, wine, coffee or tea, alcoholic beverages, and live music.

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise duration ranges from about 1 hour 15 minutes to 2 hours, depending on the schedule.

Is dress code enforced?
While tie and jacket are not mandatory, elegant attire is recommended. Shorts and short pants are not allowed.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled more than 24 hours in advance. Cancellations within 24 hours are not refundable.

Are vegetarian options available?
Yes, the menu offers vegetarian options, including Asian vegetable gyoza and creamy quinoa with curry.

Does the tour go past the Eiffel Tower?
Yes, the Eiffel Tower is visible and often highlighted during the night cruise, especially when it twinkles at the top.

Is there a group size limit?
Yes, the tour maxes out at 12 guests, ensuring a more intimate and attentive experience.

Where does the cruise depart from?
The departure point is Promenade Édouard Glissant in Paris’ 7th arrondissement; precise directions help ensure timely arrival.

Is this suitable for children or those with mobility issues?
Most travelers can participate, but specific accessibility details are not provided, so travelers with mobility requirements should inquire beforehand.

What sets this tour apart from other Seine dinner cruises?
The combination of gourmet food, Champagne, live music, and intimate group size offers a more personal and elegant experience, often praised for its romantic ambiance.