Paris: New Year’s Eve Diamant Bleu Special Dinner Cruise

Planning a memorable way to ring in the New Year in Paris? This Diamant Bleu dinner cruise offers a blend of fine dining, spectacular views, and a festive atmosphere that promises a truly special night. While it’s not a cheap experience at $549 per person, the combination of gourmet food, panoramic scenery, and the chance to celebrate on the water makes it worth considering—especially if you’re after a sophisticated, yet fun, way to welcome 2024.

What we really love about this cruise is how it balances luxury and comfort with the vibrant energy of Paris at night. The delicious 4-course tasting menu is a definite highlight, showing off French cuisine at its best. The stunning views of illuminated landmarks create an unforgettable backdrop, and the celebratory atmosphere—especially if you opt for the longer version with music and dancing—can truly make your New Year’s Eve stand out.

The one potential drawback? The experience isn’t exactly budget-friendly, and the menu sometimes varies from what’s advertised, including fewer courses or missing the champagne toast. Plus, the boarding time is quite specific (from 9.10pm), so punctuality is key.

This cruise suits travelers looking for a romantic, elegant, and lively celebration that combines good food, beautiful scenery, and a chance to dance into 2024 in style. If you’re after a more casual or budget-friendly option, you might want to explore other alternatives. But if splurging on a memorable night on the Seine sounds appealing, this experience could be perfect.

Good To Know

• Luxurious setting with panoramic views of illuminated Paris landmarks
• Gourmet 4-course meal with wine, champagne, and cocktails included
• Ideal for celebrating New Year’s Eve in style on the water
• Entertainment options available during the longer cruise, including a DJ and dancing
• Easy access from Gare d’Austerlitz with parking available
• Punctual boarding at 9.10pm, with the cruise departing at 9:35pm

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

Setting Sail on New Year’s Eve

The board at 36, quai d’Austerlitz, a convenient location in the 13th district near Gare d’Austerlitz, is straightforward for those traveling by public transit or car. The modern Diamant Bleu boat is equipped with a panoramic ballroom and a huge rooftop deck—perfect for soaking up the city’s illuminated skyline. The boat’s design ensures you won’t miss a view, whether you’re inside enjoying the meal or outside on the deck, feeling the cool air and hearing the gentle lapping of the Seine.

The Dining Experience

The 4-course tasting menu is a central draw. While the specifics can vary, reviews mention a delicious selection of dishes that showcase French culinary craftsmanship. Expect a mix of appetizers, mains, and a surprise dessert, with three aperitifs to start and a beverage pack including a welcome cocktail, water, wine, and a champagne glass to toast at midnight.

One guest noted, “The meal was enjoyable, and the staff was very accommodating,” highlighting the attentive service. The waiters are described as professional and friendly, making the entire dining experience smooth and relaxed.

Views and Atmosphere

As the boat glides along the Seine, guests are treated to timeless sights—the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Louvre, and other iconic landmarks—all lit up for the night. The large rooftop deck is a major plus, providing an unobstructed view of the fireworks and city lights, making it a perfect spot for photos and soaking in the atmosphere.

The reviews emphasize the stunning scenery: “We loved the way the city lit up at night, it’s even better from the water,” says a traveler from the US.

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Entertainment and Festivities

For those booking the longer cruise, entertainment is a key part of the evening. A live DJ keeps the mood lively, and after the meal, guests can dance into the small hours. This feature turns the cruise into more than just a dinner—it’s a full-blown celebration.

Guests also mention the atmosphere being good overall, with some noting the friendly staff and enjoyable music. One reviewer appreciated the move to a water-facing table, which made their experience more pleasurable.

Practical Details

The cruise runs from 9:35 pm to approximately 12:30 am, with dancing continuing until 2 am. Boarding begins at 9:10 pm, so punctuality is essential. Keep in mind, no child menu is provided, so families with young children might want to consider other options.

Included in the price are the cruise, dinner, welcome drink, water, wine, and champagne. However, additional drinks can be purchased onboard, and there is no hotel pickup or drop-off.

Pricing and Value

At $549 per person, this experience is clearly a premium offering. It’s a suitable choice for travelers who value comfort, gourmet food, and spectacular views over budget constraints. Reviewers note that the menu sometimes doesn’t exactly match the advertised—for example, missing the champagne toast or having fewer courses—so it’s worth being aware that the experience may vary slightly.

What Reviewers Say

Multiple guests highlight the professionalism of the staff and the overall magical atmosphere. One reviewer from Germany called it “a great evening,” while a guest from Canada mentioned that the atmosphere was good and appreciated being able to find a water-facing table. Another US traveler noted the friendly service and also the entertainment, describing the experience as “truly magical.”

Who Should Book This Cruise?

This experience is best suited for couples, groups of friends, or families seeking a special, festive night. It’s perfect if you want to combine fine dining with sightseeing and enjoy a lively, elegant way to start the new year.

If you’re after a romantic dinner with fewer crowds or a more casual celebration, other options might be more fitting. Likewise, if budget is a concern, keep in mind this is a luxury experience, but one that offers memorable value in stunning scenery and gourmet food.

The Sum Up

The Paris New Year’s Eve Diamant Bleu Dinner Cruise offers a sophisticated way to welcome 2024, blending delicious French cuisine, breathtaking city views, and festive entertainment. The experience’s key strength lies in its stunning scenery and attentive service, making it an unforgettable night for those seeking a special celebration.

While the price point might be steep for some, many guests find the quality of food, views, and atmosphere justifies the cost. It’s ideal for travelers who want an elegant, lively, and memorable way to toast the new year on the Seine, soaking up Paris’s magic from the comfort of a modern boat.

For a truly memorable New Year’s Eve in the City of Light—complete with twinkling sights, fine wine, and a joyful celebration—this cruise ticks many boxes, provided you’re comfortable with the investment. Just remember to arrive on time, prepare for some lively music, and enjoy the spectacle of Paris lighting up the night sky.

FAQ

What time should I arrive for boarding?
Guests should arrive from 9:10 pm, with the cruise departing promptly at 9:35 pm. Arriving late may mean missing the start.

Does the cruise include hotel pickup and drop-off?
No, the experience does not include transportation to or from your hotel. You’ll need to make your way to the boarding point at 36, quai d’Austerlitz.

What is included in the price?
The ticket covers the cruise, a 4-course dinner, a welcome drink, water, wine, and a glass of champagne for the toast.

Can I buy extra drinks onboard?
Yes, additional drinks are available for purchase during the cruise.

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

Is there a dress code?
While not explicitly stated, given the nature of the experience, smart casual or elegant attire is recommended.

Is this experience suitable for children?
There is no child menu provided, so families should consider if the style and timing suit their children’s needs.

What if I want a window seat or VIP treatment?
Window seats are not included unless you choose the VIP option, which allows booking for up to five passengers—perfect for a more exclusive experience.

Enjoy a festive, scenic, and delicious start to 2024 with this special dinner cruise on the Seine—an event that promises to add a touch of magic to your Parisian New Year.

You can check if your dates are available here: