Seine River Cruise Timings: Sightseeing, Dinner & Seasonal Schedules

Looking for the perfect way to enjoy Paris? Hop on a Seine River cruise! Whether you’re chasing those sunny daytime views or the magic of Paris lit up at night, we’ve got cruise times that fit your vibe.

Take a peek at the schedule: get to know all about the boarding times and departure hours of Seine River cruises.

  1. Sightseeing cruises timings
  2. Lunch cruises timings
  3. Dinner cruises timings
  4. Batobus hop-on-hop-off cruise timings

Sightseeing cruises timings

A Seine River sightseeing cruise is one of the most famous experiences in Paris, offering a breathtaking journey through the heart of the city. As you glide along the historic waterway, you’ll pass by iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and Musée d’Orsay, all while soaking in the romantic atmosphere. The sightseeing cruises are operated by one of the two below-mentioned operators.

Bateaux Mouches boat cruising on the Seine River in Paris, passing by the Eiffel Tower.

Iconic Seine River cruises offering open-air decks and panoramic views of Paris’s landmarks

April to September (High season)

10am to 10:30pm - Departures are scheduled every 30 minutes.

October to March (Low season)

10:15am to 9:30pm - Departures are scheduled every 45 minutes

Duration of Cruise - Approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes

Know more about the original iconic Seine cruiser
View of the Batauex Pariseines.

Guided commentary on glass-covered boats make for a memorable Parisian experience.

January 6, 2025 - February 14, 2025

  • Mondays to Thursdays: Departures every 40–45 minutes:
    10:30am - 9:20pm (last departure extended to 10:00pm in case of high demand).
  • Fridays: Departures every 30–40 minutes:
    10:30am - 10:00pm (last departure extended to 10:30pm in case of high demand).
  • Saturdays: Departures every 30 minutes:
    10:30am - 10:00pm (last departure extended to 10:30pm in case of high demand).
  • Sundays: Departures every 40 minutes:
    10:30am - 9:20pm (last departure extended to 10:00pm in case of high demand).

Winter Holidays (February 15, 2025 - April 3, 2025)

Departures every 30–40 minutes:
10:00am - 10:30pm (last departure extended to 10:30pm in case of high demand).

Luxury, live music, and more

Lunch cruises timings

Lunch cruises are perfect for a midday break between sightseeing. You can compare popular Seine lunch cruise options by operator, time, and inclusions below.

Dinner cruises timings

Many Seine River dinner cruises are timed to coincide with the Eiffel Tower's nightly light show.

Bateaux Mouches

Experience a classic Parisian evening on the Seine with Bateaux Mouches. This spacious, open-air boat offers sweeping views of illuminated landmarks and a refined French dinner accompanied by live music.
Timings:

  • Boarding: 8pm – 8:30pm
  • Departure: 8:30pm
  • Return: 10:45pm

Duration: ~2h 15m

Highlights:

  • Live music on board
  • Open-air upper deck for skyline views
  • 4-course French menu

Bateaux Mouches dinner cruise options

  • Bateaux Mouches Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music & French Menu
The legacy continues

Bateaux Parisiens

Dine aboard a glass-covered boat with panoramic windows and elegant interiors. Choose between early or late departures to match your evening plans and catch the Eiffel Tower sparkle.

Timings:

  • Departure 1: 6:15pm → Return: 7:30pm
  • Departure 2: 8:30pm → Return: 11pm

Highlights:

  • Premium seating with landmark views
  • Refined dinner with optional upgrades
  • Live music on select cruises

Explore Bateaux Parisiens dinner cruises

  • Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Dinner Cruise with French Premium Menu
Dinner, lunch, sightseeing, and more

Theo’s Boat

A cozy, modern dinner cruise perfect for couples or small groups. Theo’s Boat offers two evening departures for a more intimate and relaxed river experience.

Timings:

  • Early Cruise: Boarding 5:30pm → Return: 8pm
  • Late Cruise: Boarding 9pm → Return: 11:30pm

Duration: 2 hours

Highlights:

  • Smaller boat = more personal atmosphere
  • Locally inspired 3-course menu
  • Great for date nights

Best Theo’s Boat cruise tickets

  • Théo Boat Seine River Dinner Cruise with Italian Menu

Le Diamant Bleu

This stylish floating venue offers a luxury dining experience with floor-to-ceiling windows and an upscale ambiance. Ideal for celebrating something special.

Timings:

  • Boarding: 7:30pm
  • Departure: 8:30pm
  • Return: 11:20pm

Highlights:

  • Sleek modern interiors
  • DJ or live music on select nights
  • Full-service dinner & bar

View Le Diamant Bleu cruise options

  • Le Diamant Bleu Seine River Dinner Cruise with French Premium Menu

Maxim’s Dinner Cruise

Hosted by the legendary Maxim’s of Paris, this elegant dinner cruise blends haute cuisine with a luxurious river setting. A great pick for fans of vintage glam.

Timings:

  • Early Cruise: Boarding 6:15pm → Return: 8pm
  • Late Cruise: Boarding 8:45pm → Return: 11:15pm

Highlights:

  • Gourmet French menu from Maxim’s chefs
  • Stylish Art Deco ambiance
  • Ideal for anniversaries or celebrations

See Maxim’s cruise options

  • Maxim's Seine River Dinner Cruise with Live Music and Bistro Menu

Batobus hop-on-hop-off cruise timings

Batobus river cruise on the Seine with Eiffel Tower in the background, Paris.

Explore Paris at your own pace with the Batobus — a flexible hop-on-hop-off cruise that lets you discover 9 iconic riverbank stops including the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, and the Louvre.

Operating hours:

  • Monday to Thursday: 10am – 5pm
  • Friday to Sunday: 10am – 7pm

Boats run every 25–30 minutes

First and last departures are from the Eiffel Tower stop.

📍 Key stops include: Eiffel Tower, Musée d'Orsay, Louvre, Notre-Dame, Hôtel de Ville, Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Champs-Élysées

Explore Batobus routes & passes

What is the best time to go on a Seine River cruise?

Seine River cruise participant viewing Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Weekday vs weekend

  • Weekday: For a calm and relaxed Seine cruise, weekdays are your best bet. With fewer crowds, you’ll enjoy a peaceful experience, especially if you book just before sunset – the perfect time for stunning views.
  • Weekend: Weekends bring a lively buzz to Paris, and Seine cruises are no exception. Be sure to book ahead, as spots fill quickly. From sightseeing to romantic evening cruises, there’s something for everyone.
Batobus ferry cruising on the Seine River with Eiffel Tower in the background, Paris.

Best time of the year

  • April to October: The warm weather and golden light make these months ideal for cruising. Whether it’s a sunny day or a breezy afternoon, the river’s charm is undeniable.
  • June to August: Summer is quieter than spring, as many Parisians head off on vacation. Enjoy sunny days with the occasional rain – just keep an umbrella handy!
Notre Dame de Paris with cruise ship on Seine river at night in Paris

Best time of the day

At night: Paris at night is pure magic. As the city lights up, it shimmers in gold, creating a romantic and unforgettable backdrop for your Seine cruise. If you’re visiting during the busy tourist season, try to catch the first or last departure of the day—they’re usually quieter and feel extra special.

Frequently asked questions about Seine River cruise timings

Are there specific timings for sunset or dinner cruises?

Yes, sunset cruises usually begin an hour before sunset to offer the best views. Dinner cruises typically start between 7:30 PM and 8:30 PM, depending on the season and operator.

Does the timing of the cruise change with seasons?

Yes, timings may vary seasonally. In summer, more departures are scheduled due to extended daylight hours. Check with your specific operator for accurate schedules.

How far in advance should I arrive for boarding?

Arriving 15-30 minutes before your cruise time is generally recommended to ensure smooth boarding.

Are morning cruises better for sightseeing?

Morning cruises are perfect for sightseeing as the light is softer, and landmarks are less crowded. It's a serene way to start the day in Paris.

Do Seine River cruise timings align with the Eiffel Tower light show?

Many dinner and evening cruises are timed to pass by the Eiffel Tower when it sparkles, usually at the top of every hour after dusk.

Can I take a Seine River cruise in winter?

Absolutely! Winter cruises often have heated interiors, and the twinkling lights of Paris landmarks create a cozy and enchanting atmosphere.

Are Seine River cruises available on Sundays?

Yes, Seine River cruises operate seven days a week, including Sundays.

Is there a time limit for staying on the cruise?

Cruises have set durations, and guests disembark at the end of the tour, which is generally around 2 hours. Hop-on-hop-off cruises offer flexible boarding from any of the stops.

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