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Seine River Hop On Hop Off Cruises

Hear from our guests

How is a hop-on-hop-off cruise different from a regular cruise?

Wondering what exactly sets a hop-on-hop-off cruise apart from a regular cruise on the Seine? Here's a breakdown for you.

🕙 Flexibility

How does your time and itinerary fit into each?

A hop-on-hop-off cruise is all about flexibility. You can board at various stops along the route, explore the area at your own pace, and then hop back on when you're ready to move to the next spot. It’s more like a city tour on the water, allowing you to jump off and check out different sights as you please.

On the other hand, a regular cruise has a set itinerary. You typically stay on board until the ship reaches a destination, and the schedule is much more rigid.

📋 Purpose

What will you be doing on each?

If you’re on a hop-on-hop-off cruise, you're mainly there to explore—whether it's a harbor, river, or coastal city. It's perfect for quick tours and seeing highlights along the way.

A regular cruise, however, is more of a vacation in itself. You’re not just visiting ports but also enjoying things like onboard entertainment, food, and activities as part of the whole experience.

🍽️ Amenities

What all are you getting once onboard?

A hop-on-hop-off cruise is pretty simple. Expect basic seating, maybe a snack or drink, and usually some commentary about the sights you’re passing by. The main focus is on the journey and what you can see along the way.

Regular cruises are a whole different ball game. You’ll find full-service dining, entertainment, and much more. It’s a floating resort, so the experience is about everything happening on the ship as well as the places you visit.

🚢 Size and scale

How big are we talking for each?

Hop-on-hop-off cruises usually use smaller boats. These are perfect for short distances and getting up close to landmarks.

Regular cruises are bigger boats designed for long journeys. They can carry thousands of people and offer lots of activities for everyone on board.

The hop-on-hop-off Seine River cruise route

Eiffel Tower view from across the Seine River, Paris, with surrounding cityscape.
The famous military complex in Paris, Les Invalides with stories to tell.
Orsay Museum exterior with clock tower and Seine River, Paris.
Saint Germain des Pres Church Paris exterior with historic architecture and detailed facade.

Saint Germain des Prés

This stop is all about Parisian charm—think quaint streets, chic vibes, and that classic French feel.

Nearby things to do:

  • Saint-Germain-des-Prés (3 minutes walk)
  • Jardin du Luxembourg (9 minutes walk)
  • Les Deux Magots (3 minutes walk)
Notre Dame during golden hour with a river view.
Tuileries Gardens Paris with view of manicured lawns and historic statues.

Garden of Plants

Need a little green escape? This stop is a lovely breath of fresh air with a beautiful riverside setting.

Nearby things to do:

  • Jardin des Plantes (3 minutes walk)
  • Pantheon (5 minutes walk)
  • Arab World Institute (1 minute walk)
Hotel de Ville Paris facade with ornate architecture and historical significance.

City Hall

Stop here to admire the grandeur of Parisian architecture and feel the vibrant energy of the city.

Nearby things to do:

Louvre Museum glass pyramid entrance, Paris, with direct entry tickets.
Place de la Concorde with historic obelisk and fountains in Paris, France.

Place de la Concorde

This stop is a showstopper—grand, historic, and so perfectly Paris. It’s one to savor!

Nearby things to do:

  • Place de la Concorde (8 minutes walk)
  • Alma's Bridge (8 minutes walk)
  • Avenue Montaigne (4 minutes walk)

Know before you go on a hop-on-hop-off Seine River cruise

Timings
Boarding points
Facilities
Accessibility
Rules
A river boat on Seine River departing with passengers onboard during evening.
Notre Dame Cathedral facade on Ile de la Cite, Paris, France, during a river boat tour.
Vending machine on seine river cruise

The hop-on-hop-off Seine River cruise offers the following facilities:

  • Heated boats for a comfortable experience
  • Vending machines stocked with snacks and beverages
  • A Seine River cruise featuring an audio guide available in 14 languages, including French, English, Hindi, Arabic, German, Italian, Spanish, Portuguese, Russian, Polish, Dutch, Chinese, Japanese, and Korean
  • Live commentary provided in English and French
Wheelchair accessible path at a bustling port with docked ships in the background.
  • While the cruise is wheelchair accessible, the only stop that provides a ramp is at Eiffel Tower.
  • Guide dogs are allowed on board. 
Police officers conducting security check at a tourist attraction entrance.
  • All visitors must undergo security checks at Batobus entrances.
  • Only small backpacks, purses, and computer bags are allowed: luggage over 0.5 cubic feet is prohibited. 
  • Baby carriages are permitted. It's recommended to fold them and stow at the front of the boat.
  • Guide dogs, muzzled dogs on leashes, and small dogs in carriers are permitted; however, the crew may refuse animals that could pose a nuisance.
  • Eating is allowed on board, but alcoholic beverages are prohibited.

Frequently asked questions about hop-on-hop-off Seine River cruise

Can I explore neighborhoods near the stops?

Definitely! Each stop opens the door to a vibrant quartier. Saint-Germain-des-Prés is ideal for cafés, while Le Marais brims with art and boutiques.

How long does a complete loop of the hop-on-hop-off cruise take?

A full loop of the cruise route takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours if you choose not to hop off.

Is it easy to rejoin the cruise after exploring?

Yes! Boats frequently arrive at each stop, usually every 20-30 minutes, so you can pick up where you left off.

What’s the best stop for a unique view?

Stop at Pont Alexandre III for the most stunning views of Paris, combining grand architecture with river reflections.

Can I use my pass multiple times in one day?

Yes, your pass allows for unlimited rides within the validity period (1 or 2 consecutive days).

Is there an audio guide available during the cruise?

There is no formal audio guide; however, staff provide information about points of interest as you pass by.

Is there a child fare for Seine River hop-on-hop-off cruise tickets?

Yes, children aged 3 to 15 benefit from a reduced fare, while children under 3 can ride for free.

What’s one stop tourists often skip but shouldn’t?

The Ile de la Cité stop: it’s your gateway to Notre Dame and Sainte-Chapelle, but also tiny hidden alleys filled with charm.

How can I make the most of the hop-off feature?

Plan your stops around meal times. Hop off for a croissant at a riverside café or indulge in crêpes near Notre Dame.