The Seine River Cruise and Paris Canals Tour offers visitors a chance to explore the city’s iconic waterways. Whether you’re a first-time tourist or a seasoned Parisian, this tour provides a unique perspective on the French capital’s rich history and stunning architecture. From the serene Seine to the charming Canal Saint-Martin, you’ll discover hidden gems and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s vibrant culture. With flexible scheduling and an affordable price point, this tour is an excellent addition to any Paris itinerary. But the real question is, what hidden treasures might you uncover during your journey?
Key Points

- This tour combines a Seine River cruise and a Canal Saint-Martin cruise, providing a unique perspective on Paris’ historic waterways.
- The tour lasts for the duration of both cruises and includes live onboard commentary.
- Key sights along the route include Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the neighborhoods of Canal Saint-Martin.
- The tour has an overall rating of 3.5/5 based on 1,128 reviews, with positive remarks on the scenic views and engaging guides.
- Recommendations include arriving early, dressing in layers, and considering the tour length based on individual preferences and travel companions.
Overview and Highlights

The Seine River Cruise and Paris Canals Tour offers visitors a unique opportunity to explore the iconic landmarks and lesser-known waterways of the French capital.
With a total of 1,128 reviews and a 3.5/5 rating, this combination tour provides an immersive experience for those seeking to discover Paris from a different perspective.
Priced from $24.59 per person, the tour lasts for the duration of a Seine River cruise and a Canal Saint-Martin cruise, allowing participants to marvel at sites like the Notre-Dame Cathedral and the Louvre while also exploring the hidden tunnels and locks of the city’s historic canal system.
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Itinerary and Experience
Depending on the departure point, travelers can embark on the Seine River Cruise and Paris Canals Tour near the Musée d’Orsay or the Villette Basin.
The tour offers a unique perspective, allowing visitors to glide down the Seine and enter the historic Canal Saint-Martin. Along the way, they’ll pass iconic landmarks like the Musée d’Orsay, Place de la Bastille, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
The tour then ventures into the tunnels, locks, and neighborhoods of the Canal Saint-Martin, built under Napoleon in the early 1800s.
The experience concludes at either the Musée d’Orsay or the Villette Basin gardens.
Inclusions and Logistics

The Seine River Cruise and Paris Canals Tour includes the cruise, live onboard commentary, and gratuities.
Hotel pickup and drop-off are also provided, but food and drinks are excluded unless specified.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, and the maximum number of participants is 90 travelers.
Travelers should note the cancellation policy, which allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts.
Traveler Feedback

What do travelers have to say about the Seine River Cruise and Paris Canals Tour? Based on over 1,100 reviews, the tour receives a 3.5/5 rating.
Positive comments praise the engaging guides, informative commentary, and scenic views. Travelers enjoy the unique perspective on Paris’ waterways and historical insights about the canal system.
However, some criticize the difficulty in finding the meeting point and feel the tour is too long or slow, particularly through the locks.
Recommendations

Based on the overall feedback, the Seine River Cruise and Paris Canals Tour is recommended for families and individuals interested in Parisian history and scenic city views. The tour offers a unique perspective on Paris’ waterways, with engaging guides and informative commentary. To make the most of the experience, visitors should dress in layers, arrive early to secure a good spot, and consider the length of the tour if traveling with children or those with limited patience. The following table provides additional tips to enhance one’s enjoyment of the Seine River Cruise and Paris Canals Tour.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Arrive Early | Secure a good spot on the boat |
| Dress in Layers | Prepare for varying temperatures |
| Consider Tour Length | Account for children or limited patience |
| Expect Mixed Experiences | Guides may vary in clarity and engagement |
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Location and Accessibility

The Seine River Cruise and Paris Canals Tour departs from two convenient locations in the city – near the Musée d’Orsay or the Villette Basin. This allows participants to easily access the tour, whether they’re exploring the Left Bank or the northeast neighborhoods.
The tour, however, isn’t wheelchair accessible, so those with mobility challenges may need to consider other options. With a maximum of 90 travelers, the tour provides an intimate experience as you glide through the historic waterways of Paris.
Just be sure to arrive early to secure a good spot on the boat.
Tour Details

The Seine River Cruise and Paris Canals Tour allows visitors to explore the city’s iconic landmarks and lesser-known waterways. Gliding down the Seine, travelers catch glimpses of the Musée d’Orsay, Place de la Bastille, and the Louvre. The tour then ventures into the Canal Saint-Martin, built under Napoleon in the early 1800s. Navigating the canal’s tunnels, locks, and historic neighborhoods, passengers witness a different side of Paris. With live commentary providing historical insights, the tour offers a unique perspective on the city’s iconic sights and hidden gems.
| Highlights | Musée d’Orsay | Bastille | Canal Saint-Martin | Notre-Dame | Louvre |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Description | Pass By | Pass By | Explore | Pass By | Pass By |
Common Questions

Is There a Minimum Age Requirement for the Tour?
The tour doesn’t have a minimum age requirement, but it may not be suitable for very young children as the full experience lasts around 2 hours. Families should consider the length and pace when deciding if the tour is appropriate for their children.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat. However, it’s best to check with the tour operator to confirm any restrictions or policies regarding outside food and beverages.
Is Photography Allowed During the Cruise?
Passengers are generally allowed to take photos during the cruise. However, it’s best to avoid using flash photography as it can disturb other guests. Be mindful of your surroundings and enjoy capturing the scenic views along the way.
What Is the Maximum Group Size for Private Tours?
The maximum group size for the private tours is 90 travelers. This allows for a more intimate experience while still accommodating a decent-sized group. Travelers should arrive early to secure a good spot on the boat.
Are There Any Discounts Available for Seniors or Students?
The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. Prices are the same for all adult travelers. There may be other Paris sightseeing passes or packages that could provide savings, but not specifically for this Seine River and Canal Saint-Martin cruise.
The Sum Up
The Seine River Cruise and Paris Canals Tour offers a delightful way to explore Paris’s scenic waterways. With its combination of a leisurely Seine cruise and a journey through the picturesque Canal Saint-Martin, this tour provides stunning views of the city’s iconic landmarks and historical insights. While the pace may be slow for some, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking a relaxing and visually captivating experience in the heart of Paris.
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