Fêtes des Lumières aperitif cruise

Imagine gliding through Lyon’s illuminated streets aboard a cozy boat, savoring local wines and cheeses while the city’s famous light displays shimmer around you. That’s exactly what the Fêtes des Lumières aperitif cruise offers — a special way to enjoy one of France’s most mesmerizing festivals.

This experience is designed for those who love a relaxed, scenic outing combined with good food and drinks. We particularly appreciate the intimate atmosphere, the chance to see Lyon from a different perspective, and the quality of the offerings. One thing to keep in mind is that the cruise doesn’t include commentary, which might be a missed opportunity for some wanting a deeper understanding of the sights.

Perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a quiet, scenic evening during the festival, this cruise balances elegance with affordability. It’s an experience that’s less about sightseeing talk and more about soaking in the night, the lights, and the flavors.

Good To Know

• Scenic Waterway Views: Offers a unique perspective on Lyon’s Festival of Lights from the river.
• Delicious Aperitif: Includes a generous charcuterie and cheese platter with vegetarian options.
• Relaxed Atmosphere: No commentary, focusing instead on the ambiance and scenery.
• Affordable Luxury: At $48 per person, it provides a memorable experience without breaking the bank.
• Inclusive Drinks: One glass of wine or soft drink complements your aperitif.
• Small Group Feel: Usually accommodates at least 20 people, maintaining an intimate vibe.

You can check if your dates are available here:

What Makes the Fêtes des Lumières Aperitif Cruise Special?

This cruise stands out as a peaceful, visually stunning way to experience Lyon’s famed light festival, especially if you prefer a more intimate setting over crowded events. As you board the Vaporetto at Confluence around 7:20 pm, you’re greeted with a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. The boat departs promptly at 7:30 pm, set to glide through key city sights for about 1.5 hours.

The Itinerary and What You’ll See

The cruise’s route takes you from Confluence, passing by Vieux Lyon, then onward to Fourvière, and finally the Palais de Justice. While the itinerary is straightforward, what makes it appealing is the chance to see Lyon’s lights from the water, which adds a different dimension to the festival experience.

• Vieux Lyon: The historic old town, beautifully lit at night, offers a glimpse of medieval charm against the shimmering river backdrop.
• Fourvière: Known for the Basilica, the illuminated church can be seen from a distance, creating a striking silhouette against the night sky.
• Palais de Justice: The elegant architecture is illuminated, offering a regal view as you cruise past.

The Food and Drinks

The highlight for many is the charcuterie and cheese board, which reviewers find both plentiful and of high quality. Monika from Germany mentioned the “very delicious” selection, praising the Wursts and cheeses along with baguette. Vegetarian options are available, making it suitable for different diets.

A single glass of wine or soft drink accompanies the platter, allowing you to unwind and focus on the views. Several reviews, like Florence’s, mention the warm atmosphere and the feeling of going back to the festival’s roots, enhanced by the relaxed setting with good food.

The Overall Experience

While the cruise does not feature commentary, the tranquility and the light show more than compensate. One guest noted that the “quiet, calm night” felt like a moment suspended in time, away from the hustle and bustle of larger festival events. This calm, intimate experience makes it ideal for those seeking a peaceful evening with authentic local flavor.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Practical Details and Considerations

Duration and Departure Times

At 1.5 hours, the cruise strikes a good balance — long enough to enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. It departs from Confluence Harbour at 7:30 pm, with boarding starting at 7:20 pm. Returning around 9:00 pm, it allows you ample time to continue exploring Lyon after.

Group Size and Accessibility

With a minimum of 20 people, the cruise maintains a cozy, small-group feel, but it’s still large enough for a lively atmosphere. The boat is wheelchair accessible, making it more inclusive for travelers with mobility needs.

Price and Value

At $48 per person, the cost includes the cruise, the food platter, and a drink — a fair deal considering the quality of food and the exclusive waterway views. Reviewers like GetYourGuide travelers have found the platter “copious” and the wine “not excessive,” emphasizing the good value.

Weather and Contingencies

The cruise is vulnerable to flooding or adverse weather, which might lead to cancellations or itinerary changes. It’s wise to check the weather forecast and the provider’s policies before booking.

Language and Narration

The cruise is conducted in French, and there is no commentary during the ride. If you’re not fluent, don’t worry — the experience is more about the visuals and ambiance than guided narration. Some travelers suggested it would be even more engaging if the illuminated sites were explained during the cruise.

Reviews and Real Traveler Insights

Multiple reviews emphasize the stunning views and the quality of the food. Florence described the atmosphere as “warm” and felt like she was transported back to the original spirit of the festival. Eric appreciated the welcome and service, noting the attentiveness of the staff.

One guest from France said, “Très bon accueil, la planche apéritive était très copieuse,” highlighting the generosity and quality of the snacks. Another reviewer appreciated the small size of the boat for creating a more intimate setting, which enhanced their overall enjoyment.

A German traveler pointed out that the wine was sufficient, but wished for more explanation about the illuminated landmarks, indicating that some may prefer a guided experience to fully appreciate the sights.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This cruise is ideal for travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic way to enjoy Lyon’s Festival of Lights without the crowds. It suits those who appreciate good food and wine in a cozy environment and prefer a visual rather than narrated experience.

Couples celebrating a romantic night, small groups of friends, or solo travelers looking for a peaceful evening will find this cruise a lovely choice. It’s also suitable for wheelchair users, thanks to its accessibility.

However, if you’re eager to learn detailed facts about Lyon’s landmarks or want a lively commentary, this might not be the best fit. It’s more about soaking in atmosphere than detailed storytelling.

The Sum Up

The Fêtes des Lumières aperitif cruise offers a charming way to see Lyon’s stunning light displays from the water. Combining a delicious local platter with beautiful views and a relaxed pace, it’s an experience that balances elegance and authenticity.

Priced reasonably, it delivers a memorable evening—especially suited for those who enjoy quiet, scenic, and flavorful outings. If you’re after a peaceful, intimate way to celebrate the Festival of Lights, this cruise could be the highlight of your Lyon trip.

For those who value authentic local experiences with a touch of luxury, this cruise is hard to beat. Just remember to check the weather, arrive early, and prepare for a peaceful night of glowing cityscapes, good wine, and great company.

FAQs

How long does the cruise last?
The cruise is approximately 1.5 hours, departing at 7:30 pm and returning around 9:00 pm.

Is there commentary during the cruise?
No, this particular cruise does not include commentary. It’s focused on the scenery, ambiance, and enjoying your food and drinks.

What food is included?
A charcuterie and cheese platter is provided, with vegetarian options available. It’s described as plentiful and of good quality.

What drinks are included?
One glass of wine or soft drink is included, allowing you to relax and enjoy the evening.

Is the cruise accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the boat is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for guests with mobility needs.

What happens in bad weather or flooding?
In case of flooding or bad weather, the cruise may not take place or the itinerary could be modified. It’s advisable to verify weather conditions before booking.

Can I cancel my booking?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, offering flexibility if your plans change.

Will I see the festival’s entertainment?
The cruise does not guarantee a view of the festival’s entertainment, as this depends on the program and weather conditions.

This elegant Lyon experience combines scenic beauty, local flavors, and a relaxed vibe — perfect for a memorable night during the Festival of Lights.

You can check if your dates are available here: