While we had heard good things about other options, this particular cruise stood out because of its open-air top deck, which added an extra touch of luxury and exclusivity to the experience and made it truly special. The banks of the Seine on a summer weekend night were completely packed with Parisians enjoying their vibrant nightlife, which kept changing as we floated by. We heard dj’s playing, saw festivals, people dining out, then string music a few minutes later. It was such a great way to experience the energy of the city without being bogged down in big crowded streets.

The shift in perspective that let us experience the city this way is exactly why we recommend seeing places from the water; we were pretty blown away by how special and exciting it was. From the deck of the boat, we also got a unique view of the city’s iconic landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, both of which were beautifully illuminated, casting a magical glow over the river. Talk about romantic! It was a truly magnificent night.

The dinner itself was delicious and leisurely. Opting for the excellence menu (absolutely worth the price to upgrade), we enjoyed premier window seating, which gave us uninterrupted views of the breathtaking scenery as we passed by. The menu offered a selection of high-quality dishes, perfectly paired with an excellent wine selection and the option to upgrade to champagne. 

The boat’s design allowed us to move freely between courses, enjoying the live music and the lively atmosphere on the top deck whenever we pleased. And the attentive servers ensured that our dining experience was flawless, holding our food when we briefly left the table and going above and beyond to make us feel pampered throughout the evening.

As the cruise came to an end, another special surprise awaited us. Our server handed us a bottle of champagne as we disembarked, and we were met with applause and cheers from passersby as we popped it with the Eiffel Tower in the background. It was one of those moments you never forget.  

As we disembarked and walked back along the Seine, we couldn’t help but appreciate the vibrant energy of Paris at night. The city’s spirit and great vibes were evident as we passed numerous barges that had been turned into restaurants, cafes, and nightclubs, a testament to the resilience of the city after the challenges of the pandemic.

Lesson learned! We realized that sometimes even the most touristy activities can lead to extraordinary and unique moments. This Seine River Cruise with Bateaux Muches was not only a highlight of our trip, it was easily one of the most memorable experiences I’ve ever had while traveling.