Hello! It will be my first time visiting Paris and I'd like to know if there are more than one option for a Seine boat tour. If so, is one better than the other? I plan to do one during the day and another in the evening. Thanks so much!
Posted by
New York, NY, USA
11294 posts
I much preferred the Vedettes de Pont Neuf, as they use smaller boats and you can actually hear the commentary. The Bateaux Mouches are very large and have commentary in multiple languages, so when the commentaries are on that people can't understand, they just talk over them - loudly. There is also a third company that another poster here prefers to both of these; I don't have the name handy, but a search on this Helpline should turn it up.
Posted by
victoria, Canada
11507 posts
Vedettes Pont Neuf are pretty good, and they offer a slight discount if you book online. I think Bateaux Mouches are well reviewed too.. I have done both over last 10 years and simply recall both being fine. I hated the Batobus, it is after all not a tour but a bus on the water ,, so I hated the waits for people to load and unload, not really any deck space to walk about, just sit in a chair, and no commentary of course. I might suggest a day tour on the tour boats but for a special night why not a dinner cruise, "La Calife" gets excellant reviews.. its not over the top deluxe, but price reflects that ,, never heard anyone bad mouth it.. Two menu choices , about 40 or 60 euros each as I recall.. ( for three or four course meal)
Posted by
Milwaukee, WI, USA
197 posts
I have always been a fan of the Bateaux Mouches; they are the big spaceship- looking boats you have seen in pictures. Outside, you sit up higher than any of the other boats plying the Seine and I think this gives you the best view (1:10 hrs. long, located at the Pont de l'Alma, Mo.: Alma-Marceau). Harold is right but I find the commentary not to be too intrusive. If you are going soon (Sept-Nov), consider waiting until about 5 pm for your day trip; the setting sun really lights everything up (especially if there are clouds around) and the beauty of the city can be breathtaking. The night ride with all the lights on is really great also. To make it really special, bring a bottle of fine French Champagne on board (people will say you can't do it, but I've never had a problem with that!). Buy some nice champagne flutes for everyone if you are in a group (souvenirs you won't forget!); if it is just yourself, you will be one happy Judie when the cruise ends!