Which is the Best Seine River Cruise in Paris?

Imagine gliding gently over the water as you are enveloped in the magical atmosphere of Paris, surrounded by its iconic monuments and spectacular illuminations. With your gaze embracing the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and the majestic Louvre, you’ll feel part of the timeless beauty of the French capital.

The options are many: a scenic tour for those with limited time, a romantic sunset dinner for a special evening, or an occasion with live music to make your visit unforgettable. Every type of traveler will find his or her perfect cruise.

Follow this guide to discover the many facets of the best Seine cruise offerings, explore the must-see points of interest, and get practical advice on choosing the experience that will enhance your Parisian stay.

Types of cruises available

Below you will find a table with all the best Seine cruises, prices, and links to buy your ticket online (scroll to the right to view all columns).

Cruise Name	Duration	Departure/Arrival	Type	Price	Services included	Recommended for	Buy online
Bateaux Mouches Tourist Cruise	~1h/1h10	Port de la Conférence (Pont de l’Alma)	Tourist cruise	from 17€	Multilingual commentaries broadcast on board, panoramic deck	Families, those visiting Paris for the first time	Buy Now
Bateaux Parisiens sightseeing cruise	~1h	Port de la Bourdonnais (Eiffel Tower)	Tourist cruise	from 19€	Audio guide in several languages, bar on board	Everyone, those who like flexibility	Buy now
Vedettes de Paris sightseeing cruise	~1h	Port de Suffren (near Eiffel Tower)	Tourist cruise	from 20€	Multilingual commentary, bar on board	Couples, small groups	Buy now
Paris Canal Tourist Cruise (Orsay → Villette)	~2h30	Musée d’Orsay → Bassin de la Villette	Tourist on Seine + Canal St-Martin	from 23€	Passage locks, guide on board	Explorers, out-of-the-ordinary itinerary	Buy now
Paris Canal sightseeing cruise (Villette → Orsay)	~2h30	Bassin de la Villette → Musée d’Orsay	Tourist on Seine + Canal St-Martin	from 23€	Passage locks, guide on board	Explorers, out-of-the-ordinary itinerary	Buy now
Evening cruise with music on board	~1h (variable)	Various embarkation points (depending on operator)	Evening cruise	from 22€	Musical entertainment, panoramic night view	Couples, groups of friends	Buy now
Bateaux Parisiens Lunch Cruise	~2h/2h30	Port de la Bourdonnais (Eiffel Tower)	Lunch Cruise	from 75€	Multi-course menu, background music	Couples, adults, special occasions	Buy now
“Douce France” lunch cruise	~2h/2h30	Variable info (same area Eiffel Tower)	Cruise with lunch	from 85€	Gourmet menu, relaxed atmosphere	Couples, adults, celebrations	Buy now
Cruise + lunch on the pier (Bistrot Parisien)	~1h cruise	Port de la Bourdonnais + Bistrot Parisien ashore	Cruise + meal on the pier	from 58€	Meal at the Bistrot, sailing on the river	Families, mixed groups	Buy now
Bateaux Mouches Dinner Cruise	~2h30	Port de la Conférence (Pont de l’Alma)	Dinner Cruise	from 120€	Multi-course dinner, live music	Couples, special occasions	Buy now
Bateaux Parisiens Dinner Cruise	~2h30	Port de la Bourdonnais (Eiffel Tower)	Dinner Cruise	from 95€	Gourmet menu, romantic atmosphere, live music	Couples, anniversaries	Buy now
Italian dinner cruise (3 courses)	~2h (variable)	Depends on the operator	Dinner Cruise	from 65€	3-course Italian menu, night view	Italian cuisine lovers, groups	Buy now
Cruise + dinner on the pier (Bistrot Parisien)	~1h cruise	Eiffel Tower area (cruise + dinner ashore)	Cruise + dinner on the pier	from 64€	Meal at Bistrot, river view	Families, average budget travelers	Buy Now
Paris City Map (with Cruise included)	Variable	Various attractions/departures included in the pass	City pass + cruise	from 58€	Access to several attractions + single cruise	Tourists visiting multiple sites	Buy now
Paris and Versailles Package (with Cruise)	Variable	Downtown Paris + Palace of Versailles	Combined Tour + Cruise	from 60€	Transportation to Versailles + cruise on the Seine River	Those who want to visit Versailles and take the cruise	Buy now
Seine River Cruise + Louvre Museum	~1h cruise	Standard boarding areas + admission to the Louvre	Cultural Combo	from 39€	Louvre ticket + basic cruise	Art lovers, those with limited time	Buy Now
Seine River Cruise + Montparnasse Tower	~1h cruise	Standard boarding areas + Montparnasse Tower entrance	Panoramic Combo	from €28	Panoramic view from the Tower + cruise on the Seine	Tourists who want to see Paris from above	Buy now

If you dream of a Seine River cruise in Paris, get ready for a wide range of experiences! Travelers can choose from simple sightseeing excursions to elegant on-board dining. Let’s explore the most popular options together to help you choose your perfect adventure.

• Panoramic sightseeing cruises: A relaxing and magical way to explore Paris, these hour-long cruises offer spectacular views of iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay and Notre Dame Cathedral. With multilingual audio guides, you can learn the stories of these wonderful places as the city flows around you. Le Bateaux Parisiens, for example, offers frequent cruises from 10:00 to 22:30, perfect for enjoying the city at your own pace.
• Dinner Cruises: If you want a more sophisticated experience, these cruises are an ideal choice. They last two to three hours and include delicious multi-course menus accompanied by live music. Bateaux Mouches, one of the most popular options, offers a spectacular dinner every night at 20:30. Piano and violin provide the backdrop as you enjoy fine French cuisine on the illuminated Seine
• Sunset or nighttime cruises: Perfect for a romantic experience. The magic of Paris at sunset or under the stars will enchant you. Le Vedettes de Paris offer evening cruises that depart from 20:00 until 21:00, ideal for appreciating the city in a beautiful atmosphere without returning too late.
• Aperitif or Tasting Cruises: Choose a convivial experience with a tasteful twist. These cruises usually last about an hour and allow you to sip fine wine or champagne surrounded by the magnificent river view. The Champagne Tasting Cruise aboard Maxim’s Bateau Ivre is an enticing choice; it combines a 90-minute tour with the tasting of three champagnes selected by an expert sommelier.
• Hop-On Hop-Off Cruises: Perfect if you want to explore Paris at your leisure. Hop on and hop off at various points along the Seine, such as the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre. Batobus, the best-known service in this field, offers strategic stops at nine key points in the city, with tickets valid for one or two days making the cruise a convenient means of transportation.

Each cruise offers you a unique way to experience Paris. Whether you prefer a quick and efficient trip or want moments of relaxation and luxury, you are sure to find an option that suits you.

Bateaux Mouches and Bateaux Parisiens compared

Bateaux Parisiens

A cruise with Bateaux Parisiens is the perfect way to experience Paris from a new perspective, sailing on the magical Seine River. Located in the heart of Paris, this experience offers spectacular views of the most iconic monuments from the comfort of the deck of their modern ships.

Bateaux Parisiens is a guarantee of quality, with its fleet of state-of-the-art ships, ideal for you to take in the city in the style you deserve. From the starting point, right at the foot of the world-famous Eiffel Tower, you can enjoy breathtaking views from the first moment.

There is a wide variety on offer: you can choose between a scenic cruise to enjoy a relaxing tour or aim for a gourmet dinner for an unforgettable evening. As you savor fine cuisine, the sights of Paris unfold before your eyes, giving you an enchanted night in the city of lights.

With Bateaux Parisiens, the waters of the Seine become the catwalk on which the beauty of the French capital parades, giving you a new vantage point from which to admire this extraordinary city.

Bateaux Parisiens Cruise Details

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• Panoramic sightseeing cruises. These cruises last about an hour and offer breathtaking views of major Paris landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Musée d’Orsay. Audio guides in several languages are available to accompany the tour with detailed information about the monuments.
• Dinner Cruises: If you want a more refined experience, Bateaux Parisiens‘ dinner cruises are an ideal choice. The evening cruise, which lasts about 2 hours and 30 minutes, offers a multi-course gourmet menu, with vegetarian options available, accompanied by a romantic atmosphere and live music.
• Sunset or night cruises: For those who prefer to enjoy Paris lit up at night, night cruises offer an unforgettable view of the city. The lights of the Eiffel Tower and other monuments reflect on the water, creating a fascinating spectacle.

Embarkation area

Bateaux Parisiens cruises depart from the pier located at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, along the Port de la Bourdonnais. This embarkation point is easily accessible by metro (Bir-Hakeim or Trocadéro stop) and offers spectacular views of the river and the famous monument. The central location makes the embarkation convenient for visitors who wish to combine the cruise with other nearby attractions.

Accessibility

Bateaux Parisiens boats are equipped to accommodate people with reduced mobility, including wheelchair access and on-board facilities to facilitate movement.

Pro

• Modern and comfortable ships: Boats are equipped with spacious viewing decks and comfortable seating, allowing you to enjoy the tour in total relaxation.
• Wide range of cruises: From inexpensive sightseeing cruises to gourmet dinner cruises, there is an option for every budget and preference.
• Multilingual audio commentary: Sightseeing cruises are accompanied by audio guides in 14 languages, making the experience accessible to an international audience.
• Convenient location: The embarkation point is located right at the foot of the Eiffel Tower, making it easy to combine a visit to the famous monument with the cruise.
• Romantic and immersive experience: Dinner cruises are accompanied by live music, creating an intimate and special atmosphere.

Cons

• Crowding during peak season: Especially in the summer months, cruises can be quite crowded, both on the ship and during embarkation.
• Seating Placement: On the sightseeing cruise, the seats on the upper deck are arranged sideways, requiring you to turn your neck to see the sights optimally.
• Cost of dinner cruises: Although the experience is of high quality, dinner cruises can be expensive, especially for tables near the windows, which offer the best view.
• Audio guides not always excellent: Some people report that the built-in audio guides, available through an onboard system, have less than optimal sound quality and can be unhygienic.

Bateaux Mouches

Bateaux Mouches cruises are the epitome of an iconic Paris seen from the river. Founded in 1949, this company embodies tourist cruises of excellence. It offers both scenic and dinner cruises, perfect for enjoying the French capital from a unique vantage point.

With ships that can accommodate up to 1,000 passengers, Bateaux Mouches guarantees a comfortable and unforgettable experience. It is the ideal choice for tourists and locals who want a special evening on the Seine.

Details of Bateaux Mouches cruises

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• Panoramic sightseeing cruises. Bateaux Mouches sightseeing cruises last about 1 hour and 10 minutes, covering major attractions along the Seine such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, Musée d’Orsay, and the Louvre. On board, passengers can listen to commentaries in several languages, broadcast through loudspeakers, explaining the history and importance of the monuments.
• Dinner Cruises. Bateaux Mouches dinner cruises offer a unique dining experience accompanied by live music played by a pianist or violinist. During the two-and-a-half-hour cruise, guests can enjoy a three-course meal that includes traditional French dishes, all surrounded by the panorama of illuminated nighttime Paris.
• Night Cruises. For those who want a romantic and atmospheric experience, night cruises offer views of illuminated Paris. These cruises are an excellent opportunity to admire the city’s major monuments, such as the Eiffel Tower, in a breathtaking setting.

Embarkation area

Bateaux Mouches cruises depart from the Port de la Conférence, located near the Alma Bridge on the right bank of the Seine. The location is easily accessible by public transportation, with Alma-Marceau station as the nearest metro stop. This boarding point offers a panoramic view of the Seine and allows you to start your tour in one of the most central areas of Paris.

Accessibility

Bateaux Mouches boats are equipped with ramps for wheelchair access and offer amenities designed for people with reduced mobility, ensuring a comfortable experience for all passengers.

Pro

• Large capacity: Bateaux Mouches ships can accommodate up to 1,000 passengers, providing enough space to enjoy the tour in comfort, even during busy periods.
• Multilingual commentary: During sightseeing cruises, information is conveyed in several languages, making the experience accessible to an international audience.
• 360-degree panoramic views: The ships’ design provides panoramic views from both inside and from the open-air upper deck, ideal for those who want to take photos or enjoy the atmosphere.
• Live music: Dinner cruises are enhanced by live music, which adds a romantic touch to the experience, perfect for couples and special occasions.

Cons

• Crowding in peak season: While the ships are very roomy, they can be crowded in the summer months, which may reduce comfort for those who prefer a more intimate cruise.
• Lack of personalized commentary: Compared to other cruise lines, Bateaux Mouches uses a commentary system transmitted through speakers, which may be less personalized than individual audio guides.
• Pricing of dinner cruises: Dinner cruises, while offering a high-quality experience, can be quite expensive, especially for those who want a table in a prime location, such as near picture windows.

More mini cruises on the Seine

Vedettes de Paris

Vedettes de Paris cruises offer a more intimate experience perfect for those who want a cozy and relaxed atmosphere. Ideally designed for tourists, families and couples who want to explore Paris from the river, these cruises frequently depart in the vicinity of the famous Eiffel Tower.

Imagine taking in the sights of Paris while cruising in comfort on a more human-scale boat, away from the crowds of the busier rides.

Details of Vedettes de Paris cruises

• Sightseeing Cruises. The classic sightseeing cruise lasts about 1 hour and provides an overview of the main sights of Paris. Departing from Pont Neuf, this cruise is accompanied by multilingual commentaries explaining points of interest along the way, including the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Louvre, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
• Aperitif Cruises. Aperitif cruises are a perfect choice for those seeking a more relaxed experience. They offer a selection of drinks, including wine and champagne, to enjoy while admiring the view at sunset or in the early evening hours.
• Family cruises. Vedettes de Paris also offers cruises tailored for families, with interactive commentary suitable for children and fun activities on board, ideal for engaging the little ones during the tour.

Embarkation area

Vedettes de Paris cruises depart from the pier located near the Eiffel Tower, specifically at Port de Suffren. This central location makes it easy to reach the embarkation point, which is a short distance from the Trocadéro and Bir-Hakeim metro stations.

Accessibility

Vedettes de Paris vessels are designed to be accessible to people with reduced mobility. The ships have wheelchair access ramps, and interior spaces are organized to provide a comfortable experience for all passengers.

Pro

• Intimate atmosphere: Smaller boats create a less crowded environment, providing a quieter, more relaxing experience.
• Frequent departures: Cruises have flexible schedules and frequent departures, making it easy to plan the tour without rigid constraints.
• Themed experiences: The ability to choose aperitif or family-specific cruises makes the experience more customizable.

Cons

• Fewer luxury amenities: Compared to other companies, Vedettes de Paris cruises offer fewer luxury options such as gourmet dinners or live musical entertainment.
• Limited space: Although the atmosphere is more intimate, the limited capacity of the boats may not be suitable for large groups or those seeking a more spacious experience.
• Less detailed commentaries: On-board commentaries, while available in multiple languages, may be less in-depth than those offered by other companies that use customized audio guides.

Paris Canal

Paris Canal cruises offer a truly unique adventure compared to classic Seine River tours. If you want to explore the lesser-known part of Paris, these cruises are perfect for you. Cruising on the famous river and crossing the scenic Canal Saint-Martin, you will have the opportunity to see picturesque corners and historic locks that are otherwise little visited.

Imagine discovering the city in an alternative way, away from the busy tourist routes. This trip allows you to immerse yourself in charming neighborhoods and experience an often overlooked side of Paris, adding a touch of wonder and surprises to your itinerary. In short, a different and fascinating perspective for those who like the idea of exploring, adventuring, and most importantly, being surprised.

Details of Paris Canal cruises

This cruise lasts about 2 1/2 hours and starts from the Seine near the Musée d’Orsay or the Bassin de la Villette, depending on the itinerary. The experience includes passing under the romantic locks and bridges of the Canal Saint-Martin, as well as passing through the underground tunnel under Place de la Bastille. On the way, you can see lesser-known places in Paris, such as the Parc de la Villette and the Hôtel du Nord.

This cruise focuses more on the Canal Saint-Martin and its locks, offering a different experience from classic Seine cruises. It is an opportunity to discover authentic Paris, made up of small stores, bohemian cafes, and typically French atmospheres.

Embarkation area

Paris Canal cruises depart from two main points depending on the itinerary chosen. If you go on a cruise that starts along the Seine, embarkation is near the Musée d’Orsay. Alternatively, some cruises depart from the Bassin de la Villette, in the northern part of Paris, near the Parc de la Villette. Both embarkation points are easily accessible by public transportation, being close to metro stations and bus stops. This makes access easy for both tourists and residents.

Accessibility

Paris Canal cruises are generally accessible, but there are some limitations for people with reduced mobility. Access to the boats may not be completely obstacle-free, particularly in areas along the Canal Saint-Martin, where it is necessary to cross locks and narrow bridges. Also, some boarding points, such as the one at Bassin de la Villette, may not be fully equipped for people in wheelchairs. We recommend contacting the operator in advance to check specific accessibility needs and receive detailed information.

Pro

• Authentic experience: Far from the most common tourist routes, this cruise offers a more authentic and picturesque perspective of Paris.
• Varied route: The combination of the Canal Saint-Martin and the Seine allows you to see a wide variety of neighborhoods and monuments, offering a more complete experience of the city.
• Relaxed atmosphere: The passage along the Canal Saint-Martin, with its bridges and locks, creates a romantic and peaceful atmosphere, perfect for those seeking an out-of-the-ordinary cruise.

Cons

• Long duration: The 2 1/2-hour cruise may be too long for those who prefer a faster tour focused on the main monuments.
• Fewer famous monuments: Compared to cruises exclusively on the Seine, fewer iconic monuments such as the Eiffel Tower or the Louvre are seen, as the itinerary focuses more on lesser-known areas.
• Less luxurious style: These cruises tend to be more informal and simple than other offerings, such as dinner cruises, which may not be ideal for those seeking a more luxurious or gastronomic experience.

Batobus

The Batobus is a practical and flexible choice for getting around along the Seine. Imagine a bus on water! This service is not the usual tourist cruise. Here you can hop on and off at different stops, enjoying the city in a relaxed way. Ideal if you are looking for a quiet alternative to traditional transportation.

Details of Batobus Cruises

• Itinerary and stops. The Batobus runs a circular route along the Seine River, with 9 strategic stops near major Paris attractions, including the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, Notre-Dame, and the Musée d’Orsay. Passengers can freely hop on and off at any of the stops, using the ticket for the entire day or for several consecutive days.
• Frequency and Duration. Batobus boats operate year-round, with a frequency of about 20-25 minutes between departures. The full Batobus tour takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes, but passengers can choose to break the trip at any time to visit attractions along the way.
• Types of tickets. Batobus offers different types of tickets: daily, two-day consecutive, and season passes. It is a convenient option for those who want to explore the city without worrying about traffic and public transportation on the road.

Boarding area

Batobus cruises have 9 embarkation points located along the Seine, each positioned near a major tourist attraction. Stops include the Eiffel Tower, Musée d’Orsay, Louvre, Notre-Dame, Jardin des Plantes , and other iconic spots. Each stop is easily accessible and clearly marked, and passengers can board or disembark at any of these stations, making the Batobus very convenient for exploring Paris without stress. The main stops are located near metro stations and bus stops, facilitating connections.

Accessibility

Batobus boats are designed to be accessible to everyone. They are equipped with ramps and wheelchair spaces, making boarding easy for people with reduced mobility. In addition, all stops along the route are accessible, with adequate facilities to ensure a comfortable experience for all passengers, including those with special needs.

Pro

• Flexibility: With the Batobus, you can hop on and off whenever you want, visiting the main attractions without rushing.
• Affordable price: Compared to standard sightseeing cruises, the Batobus is cheaper, with daily tickets or multi-day passes allowing unlimited use.
• Panoramic view: Although it is a means of transportation, the Batobus still offers a pleasant view of Paris’s major monuments along the Seine River.
• Environmentally sustainable: The Batobus is powered by electricity, making it an environmentally friendly choice for getting around the city.

Cons

• Less touristy experience: Compared to other cruises, the Batobus does not offer commentary or tour guides on board, making it less suitable for those who want an informative tour.
• Limited stops: Although it covers major attractions, some areas of the city are not served by the Batobus, which may require combining transportation with other means.
• Less comfort: Because the Batobus is designed for public transportation, it lacks the elegance and comfort that dinner cruises or more luxurious cruises offer.

What you will see along the way

On a cruise on the Seine you will experience a unique journey through the treasures of Paris. As you cruise peacefully, you will have a privileged view of the city’s iconic monuments, a true spectacle for the eyes that combines history and architecture.

You cannot miss the iconic Eiffel Tower. This undisputed symbol of Paris is an essential sight, especially if you choose an evening cruise: the allure of its twinkling lights provides a magical touch to your trip.

Passing along the left bank, you will encounter the majestic Musée d’Orsay. Once a train station, it now houses a renowned collection of impressionists. The cruise allows you to enjoy its elegant neoclassical facade.

Then, there is the legendary Notre Dame Cathedral, to be admired with respect for its unmistakable Gothic profile. Even under restoration, its majesty continues to enchant.

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Of course, the famous Louvre is revealed in all its grandeur. Viewing the museum from the reflections of the river is like entering the heart of French history.

The Pont Alexandre III, often called one of the most elegant bridges in the world, is another highlight of the cruise. The art that decorates this bridge will not fail to capture your attention.

Not to be outdone, the Grand Palais and Petit Palais, masterpieces of Beaux-Arts architecture, offer spectacular views, especially at sunset.

Finally, be surprised by the small Statue of Liberty that graces a small island in the river, a fascinating reminder of the historical and cultural brotherhood with the United States.

Each cruise will give you unique perspectives on the many other hidden gems of Paris, such as the Hôtel de Ville or the Institut de France. No matter which cruise you choose, day or night, the beauty of Paris will be your traveling companion, a continuous celebration of art and culture.

Which cruise to choose in brief

If you dream of a cruise on the Seine, choosing the right one can really make a difference! Here are some options to help you decide based on your needs.

For those looking for a classic sightseeing cruise

Bateaux Parisiens and Bateaux Mouches offer a relaxing journey between major monuments. These cruises are perfect for all ages, offering audio guides in several languages and accessibility for those with reduced mobility. Prices are moderate for adults, with discounts for children and families. An easy and timeless choice!

Romantic or culinary experience

Choose dinner cruises from Bateaux Parisiens. Intimate atmosphere with gourmet menus and live music, ideal for special moments! Prices vary and the setting is more suitable for adults for an unforgettable evening.

An environmentally sustainable, flexible choice at a reduced cost

With Batobus you can hop on and off from nine points along the Seine, visiting monuments at your own pace. With an affordable cost for a day ticket and discounts for children, the Batobus is perfect for families. Remember, this is not a guided cruise, but a practical means of transportation. No less important is the fact that you will also be environmentally friendly by choosing Batobus as they are powered by electricity.

For those seeking authenticity and discovery

Paris Canal or Vedettes de Paris cruises also lead to the picturesque Canal Saint-Martin. Ideal for curious adults and adventurous families, they offer a different experience. Remember, however, to check in advance for accessibility in case you need it.

If you have limited time

Choose the Paris en Scène cruises. They offer quick dining and amazing views at an affordable cost and are perfect for those with limited time by lasting about 75 minutes. They are suitable for groups, families and couples.

Practical tips for choosing a Seine cruise

1. Book in advance: It is advisable to book online, especially for evening or dinner cruises, as they tend to sell out quickly.
2. Choose the right time: Daytime cruises offer crisp views of the monuments, while night cruises give you the enchantment of Parisian lights.
3. Flexible tickets: If you want to stop along the way, consider options such as the Batobus, which allows you to hop on and off freely.
4. Accessibility: Check options for reduced mobility and make sure the cruise you choose has adequate facilities.
5. Dress appropriately: Even in summer it can be cool on the Seine in the evening, so bring a light jacket.
6. Photographs: Sit outdoors or near a window to get the best panoramic photos without reflections.

Which Seine cruise to choose: frequently asked questions

Conclusions

Cruises on the Seine are a unique and unforgettable experience for those who want to discover Paris from a different perspective. Whether you are looking for a romantic sunset cruise, an elegant dinner on board, or a sightseeing tour during the day, there are plenty of options to suit every type of traveler. Choosing the right cruise depends on your personal preferences and the type of experience you want to have. In any case, a cruise on the Seine is a perfect way to admire the city’s iconic monuments and create precious memories.