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Everything You Need to Know About the Seine River Cruise Timings

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.

Sightseeing cruises timings

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

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

View of the Batauex Pariseines.

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).

Lunch cruises timings

Bateaux Mouches
Bateaux Parisiens
Theo’s Boat
La Marina
Bateaux Mouches: New Year's Eve Dinner Cruise

Saturdays and Sundays

  • Boarding time - 12pm to 12:15pm
  • Departure - 12:30pm
  • Return to dock - 2:15pm
  • Duration - Approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes
Eiffel Tower view from Seine River during Bateaux Parisiens lunch cruise on Paris day trip from London.

Operated Daily

  • Departure - 12:45pm
  • Return to dock - 2:45pm
  • Duration - Approximately 2 hours
Seine River cruise boat with passengers enjoying champagne near Eiffel Tower, Paris.

Operated Daily

  • Boarding: 12pm
  • Departure: 12:30pm
  • Return to dock: 3pm
  • Duration: 2 hours
Burger and chips at Bistro La Marina

Operated Daily

  • Boarding: 11:45am
  • Departure: 12:15pm
  • Return to dock: 2pm
  • Duration: 1.5 hours

Dinner cruises timings

Bateaux Mouches
Bateaux Parisiens
Theo’s Boat
Le Diamant Bleu
Inside the Bateuex Mouches Seine River Cruise

Operated Daily

  • Boarding time - 8pm to 8:30pm
  • Departure - 8:30pm
  • Return to dock - 10:45pm
  • Duration - Approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes
Eiffel Tower from Bistro Parisien

Operated Daily

  • Departure - 6:15pm
    Return to dock - 7:30pm
  • Departure - 8:30pm
    Return to dock - 11pm
Seine River evening dinner cruise with illuminated Eiffel Tower in Paris.

Operated Daily

  • Boarding: 5:30pm
    Departure: 6:00pm
    Return to dock: 8:00pm
  • Boarding: 9:00pm
    Departure: 9:30pm
    Return to dock: 11:30pm
  • Duration: 2 hours
Waiter pouring wine on Le Diamant Bleu Paris.

Operated Daily

  • Boarding: 7:30pm
  • Departure: 8:30pm
  • Return to dock: 11:20pm
Inside the Maxim's Seine River Cruise

Maxim’s Cruise

Operated Daily

  • Boarding: 6:15pm
    Departure: 6:45pm
    Return: 8pm
  • Boarding: 8:45pm
    Departure: 9:15pm
    Return: 11:15pm

Batobus hop-on-hop-off cruise timings

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

Ferry timings

  • Monday to Thursday - 10am to 5pm
  • Friday to Sunday - 10am to 7pm

Note: The opening and closing times indicate the first and last departures from the Eiffel Tower stop.

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.

























Book your Seine River cruise tickets

1-Hour Paris Illuminated Evening Sightseeing Cruise
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
1 hr.
Audio guide
More details
1-Hour Seine River Sightseeing Cruise from the Eiffel Tower
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
Flexible duration
Audio guide
More details
Théo Boat Seine River Dinner Cruise with Italian Menu
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
Mobile ticket
2 hr.
Meals included
More details
Bateaux Parisiens Seine River Lunch Cruise with French Menu
Free cancellation
Instant confirmation
2 hr. - 2 hr. 15 min.
Meals included
More details

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.