Paris: Christmas Lunch Cruise

A Gourmet Christmas on the Seine: Reviewing the Paris Christmas Lunch Cruise

Thinking about celebrating Christmas in Paris? A lunch cruise on the Seine offers a charming way to combine festive cheer, stunning city views, and a delicious meal—all in one memorable experience. While we haven’t personally sailed aboard, detailed reviews and descriptions paint a picture of a truly special holiday outing.

What draws us to this experience are the cozy onboard atmosphere, the curated seasonal menu, and the chance to see Paris’s historic monuments from a unique vantage point. The 2-hour cruise feels like a leisurely, intimate escape through the heart of the city, with festive decor adding to the ambiance. One potential consideration is the seating arrangement—if you prefer panoramic window views, opting for the VIP option might be worth the extra cost.

This tour seems especially suited for those seeking a relaxed, gourmet holiday experience, couples celebrating their first Christmas abroad, or families wanting a scenic, festive dining outing.

Good To Know

• Scenic Views: Cruise past iconic Parisian landmarks like Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower.
• Festive Menu: Enjoy a thoughtfully prepared 3-course meal using fresh, seasonal ingredients.
• All-Inclusive Drinks: Includes a cocktail, half a bottle of wine per person, and water, making it a hassle-free experience.
• Flexible Booking: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance allows for some travel flexibility.
• Accessibility: The cruise welcomes wheelchairs, making it suitable for a variety of guests.
• Prime Location: Easy access from Gare d’Austerlitz and nearby parking options.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

The Setting and Meeting Point

The cruise departs from a conveniently central location beneath the Cité de la Mode et du Design in the 13th arrondissement, close to Gare d’Austerlitz. The proximity to public transit makes it a straightforward option for most travelers, and a nearby Vinci parking lot ensures easy car access. Boarding begins at 12:00 pm and closes by 12:25 pm, with the boat set to leave at 12:30 pm sharp. This timing aligns perfectly with a midday holiday outing, leaving ample time to enjoy the city afterward.

The boat itself, Le Diamant Bleu, is reported to be a comfortable vessel suited for small groups, with a focus on creating an intimate dining experience. The location on the boat is randomly assigned, but the option to upgrade to a VIP seat (closer to the windows or at the front) is available for a more premium view.

The Journey and Views

Once onboard, you’ll immediately start to appreciate the scenery. As the boat gently glides along the Seine, you’ll pass some of Paris’s most recognizable landmarks. The panoramic windows offer views of Notre Dame, the Conciergerie, the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, the Grand Palais, and the Eiffel Tower—all beautifully illuminated, especially if you’re lucky enough to catch the city’s holiday lights.

One reviewer noted the “stunning views of the Eiffel Tower and the Notre Dame at sunset,” which adds a romantic glow to the experience. The route is designed to showcase Paris’s architectural treasures, giving you a fresh perspective that’s different from walking tours or city buses.

The Festive Meal

The highlight for many is the gourmet Christmas meal prepared on board. The menu is thoughtfully curated to reflect seasonal flavors, with a focus on quality ingredients.

• First Course: Whole foie gras peppered with Southwestern peppercorns, served with fresh figs, endives, walnuts, and a walnut oil vinaigrette, accompanied by homemade sesame hallot. This dish offers a rich start, perfect for those who enjoy decadent flavors.
• Main Course: Capon stuffed with Armagnac, paired with sweet potato purée, grilled green asparagus, and an herb salad. The capon promises a tender, flavorful experience, and the use of seasonal produce keeps the dish fresh.
• Dessert: A Yule log-like treat, which adds a festive touch and rounds out the meal on a sweet note.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Drinks and Hospitality

Included in the experience are a cocktail for aperitif, half a bottle of wine per person, and water, making it a well-rounded, all-in-one package. This ensures you won’t need to worry about extra costs unless you wish to purchase additional drinks. The staff on board is known for being friendly and attentive, enhancing the overall enjoyment.

What About the Cost?

At $128 per person, this experience offers good value when considering the combination of a scenic cruise, a three-course gourmet meal, and drinks. The inclusion of a cocktail, wine, and water means you won’t need to overspend on beverages elsewhere, and the convenience of a set meal saves time and stress during the busy holiday season.

Additional Options and Upgrades

While the standard experience already provides a lot, the VIP option allows for seating closer to the windows or at the front of the vessel, offering more unobstructed views. This might be worthwhile if you’re looking to capture photos or simply enjoy a more immersive experience.

Practical Tips for Your Christmas Lunch Cruise

• Book early: The holiday season is busy, and the cruise’s limited capacity means spots fill quickly.
• Arrive on time: Boarding starts at noon, and late arrivals might miss out or be seated in less desirable spots.
• Consider the VIP upgrade: If panoramic views are a priority, it’s worth the extra expense.
• Dress warmly: Even in winter, the deck can be chilly, especially if you opt for outdoor or front-row seats.
• Allocate extra time: The cruise lasts exactly 2 hours, so plan to explore nearby areas afterward or incorporate it into a larger day of sightseeing.

Who Should Consider This Experience?

This cruise suits travelers who love combining sightseeing with gourmet dining, especially during the festive season. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic holiday outing, families wanting an easy, scenic meal, or friends celebrating Christmas together. If you enjoy elegant settings with spectacular views and good food, this cruise could be a highlight of your Paris visit.

It’s also a great choice for those who prefer an organized, all-inclusive experience rather than navigating city attractions on their own.

The Sum Up

The Paris Christmas Lunch Cruise on Le Diamant Bleu offers a charming way to celebrate the holiday amid Paris’s iconic scenery. The combination of a well-crafted seasonal menu, scenic views of historic landmarks, and inclusive drinks makes it a solid choice for a relaxed, festive midday outing.

For about $128, you’re getting a smooth blend of sightseeing, gourmet food, and holiday ambiance—perfect for travelers who want to enjoy Christmas in Paris without the hustle. Though it’s best suited for those who enjoy a sit-down meal and scenic tranquility, the experience’s intimate feel and beautiful vistas make it a memorable holiday treat.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a cozy way to see Paris during the holidays, this cruise offers both style and substance wrapped into a two-hour window of holiday magic.

FAQ

Is the cruise suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the experience provider states that the cruise is wheelchair accessible, making it welcoming for guests with mobility needs.

What is included in the price?
The price covers an appetizer, a three-course meal (starter, main, and dessert), plus drinks—including a cocktail, half a bottle of wine, and water.

Can I choose my seating location?
Standard tickets assign a random seat, but upgrades are available for those who want seats near the windows or at the front of the boat.

What are the start and end times?
Boarding begins at 12:00 pm, and the boat departs at 12:30 pm. The cruise lasts exactly 2 hours, returning by 2:30 pm.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility for planning.

Is the experience suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, children who enjoy scenic views and a festive atmosphere will likely appreciate the cruise, especially during the holiday season.

Do I need to bring anything special?
Comfortable, warm clothing is advisable, especially for outdoor viewing, and a camera to capture the iconic Parisian sights.

What if I want more than just the included drinks?
Additional drinks are not included in the package, so you’re free to purchase extra beverages on board if desired.

Is the experience available in multiple languages?
The experience provider mentions some content shown in the original language, but it doesn’t specify additional language options. It’s worth checking in advance if language support is needed.

This Christmas lunch cruise delivers a blend of scenic beauty, festive flavors, and relaxed elegance—an ideal way to celebrate the holidays in Paris.

You can check if your dates are available here: