Paris: Seine River Cruise with Meringue or Hot Chocolate

If you’re looking to see Paris from a different angle, this combined experience of a Seine River cruise with a sweet treat is hard to beat. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, reviews and details paint a compelling picture of what awaits.

What we love about this experience is how it balances stunning panoramic views, cozy indulgence, and flexible timing. The chance to float past iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre makes it a memorable photo-op. Plus, enjoying a warm hot chocolate on a chilly day or a delicate pack of meringues any time of year adds a uniquely Parisian touch.

A possible consideration is the limited duration — just one hour — which may leave some craving a more extensive exploration of the city’s waterways. Still, for a quick, affordable taste of Paris from the river, it’s a lovely choice.

This experience is ideal for travelers who appreciate beautiful scenery, enjoy trying local flavors, and prefer a relaxed, low-key outing that fits into a busy sightseeing schedule.

Good To Know

Stunning Views: The cruise offers memorable perspectives of Paris’s most famous landmarks.
Affordable Price: At $29, this experience provides good value for a scenic, food-inclusive activity.
Flexible Indulgence: Hot chocolate is available on cooler days, while meringues are perfect year-round.
Short & Sweet: An hour-long cruise makes it easy to fit into any Paris itinerary.
Authentic Flavors: The treats are curated to give a genuine taste of Parisian sweets.
No Included Transport: Visitors need to arrange their own way to the meeting points.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Experience

What’s Included and What’s Not

For just $29 per person, you get a 1-hour Seine River cruise plus the choice of a hot chocolate (during winter) or a pack of meringues available all year. This straightforward setup keeps things simple but memorable.

No extra food or drinks are included beyond your treat, and transportation to the departure point isn’t provided, so you’ll need to plan your own way there. The cruise departs from Port de la Bourdonnais, Pier Number 3, near the Eiffel Tower, a central spot that’s easy to reach.

The Scenic Cruise

The boat, operated by Bateaux Parisiens, offers a comfortable and stable platform for sightseeing. The boat size can accommodate up to 300 people in good weather, though capacity reduces in rain to 120, which might mean longer wait times during busy seasons.

Travelers describe the cruise as “a picturesque hour” that provides a great overview of Paris’s most famous sights. Gliding past the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, and the Louvre, you’ll see these landmarks from a perspective that’s often more relaxed and less crowded than on land.

The Treats: Meringues and Hot Chocolate

The meringue tasting takes place at Makdamia, located at 13 Rue de Monttessuy. Reviewers mention that these are delicate, sweet treats that pair perfectly with the scenic views. Makdamia operates daily from 10 AM to 7 PM, giving you flexibility to visit before or after your cruise.

In colder weather, a rich hot chocolate is a cozy way to warm up while taking in the sights. The fact that hot chocolate is only available during winter might be a limitation if you’re visiting during other seasons, but the year-round meringues are a nice alternative.

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Authenticity and Quality

From reviews, we see that the flavor of the meringues is delightful, with some saying they make for a great snack to enjoy on your stroll or sightseeing. The hot chocolate, described as “rich and comforting,” adds to the cozy Parisian experience.

Travelers reported that the tasting voucher is valid only on the day of the cruise but can be used at any time during shop hours, which adds a bit of flexibility.

Practicalities and Tips

• Timing: Cruises run every 30-60 minutes, with specific departure times on your ticket. Check in advance to avoid missing your slot.
• Weather considerations: In rainy or cold weather, the boat can host fewer people, so arrive early to secure a good spot.
• What to bring: Warm clothing and a camera are recommended, especially if you want to snap photos of landmarks.
• Accessibility: Unfortunately, the cruise isn’t suitable for wheelchair users, so plan accordingly.

Review Highlights from Travelers

One reviewer mentioned that the views of the Eiffel Tower, especially at sunset, are breathtaking, and the meringues are “light and crispy, perfect for snacking”. Others appreciated the simplicity and affordability — it’s a straightforward activity that doesn’t break the bank but still delivers a memorable experience.

Some noted that waiting in peak season can be longer, but overall, the cruise offers a “beautiful, peaceful hour” with “delicious treats that make the experience special.”

Why This Tour Works

This experience offers a perfect blend of sightseeing and indulgence. The one-hour cruise provides enough time to see the major sights from a relaxed vantage point, while the treats add a sweet touch of Parisian charm. The cost is reasonable, especially considering the central location and quality of the treats.

It’s especially appealing for travelers seeking a quick, scenic break without committing to longer or more expensive boat tours. The flexibility of enjoying meringues any time of year, paired with the seasonal hot chocolate, makes it adaptable to various travel plans and weather conditions.

Who Will Love It?

If you’re a solo traveler, couple, or small group looking for a relaxed activity that combines sightseeing and local flavors, this tour fits well. It’s also a good choice for families or those with limited time but wanting to capture the essence of Paris from the water.

Who Might Not Enjoy It?

Due to the boat’s limited capacity in bad weather and the lack of wheelchair access, people with mobility issues or those traveling during peak seasons might find the experience a little less seamless.

Final Thoughts

This Seine River cruise paired with a sweet treat offers a simple yet delightful way to experience Paris. The combination of iconic views and delicious, authentic flavors makes it a charming addition to any itinerary.

While it’s not a lengthy or exhaustive tour, its affordability, central location, and cozy treats make it a worthwhile stop, especially for those wanting a relaxed, picture-perfect moment by the water.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Parisian, this experience guarantees a few memorable snapshots and a taste of Parisian sweetness that you won’t forget.

FAQs

Can I choose between hot chocolate and meringues?
Yes, hot chocolate is available during winter, while meringues are offered year-round, so you can enjoy whichever you prefer before or after your cruise.

Do I need to pre-book?
Yes, booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons. You can reserve today and pay later.

Where exactly do I meet for the cruise?
The departure point is Port de la Bourdonnais, Pier Number 3, a central location near the Eiffel Tower. There’s no formal meeting point, so check your ticket for details.

Is the cruise suitable for children?
While many reviews highlight its family-friendly appeal, note that the boat isn’t wheelchair accessible and may not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues.

How long in advance should I arrive?
Arrive 15-30 minutes before departure, especially during busy seasons, to avoid missing your boat due to wait times.

Can I bring my own food or drinks?
Outside food and beverages aren’t permitted on the boat, so it’s best to enjoy your treats purchased at Makdamia before or after your cruise.

This charming pairing of scenic views and sweet bites offers a taste of the Parisian lifestyle that’s affordable, accessible, and undeniably delightful.

You can check if your dates are available here: