dhlemaistre

Several couples we're going to Paris with want to do a dinner cruise on the Seine. The company our travel agent is working with offers an early cruise at 6:30 and a later one at 8:30. One couple wants to do the early cruise but we'd need to be there by 5:30. I've checked a couple of different websites and it appears sunset won't be until close to 7:00 and I'm sure not totally dark until around 7:15 or so. My question is would we enjoy seeing the city lit up while we cruise or part of it by daylight and part by night?

Thanks for your replies!

vincenzo32951

I vote for the later cruise.

nytraveler

I vote for an evening cruise without dinner (the food is marginal at best by all reports) and then a dinner in a nice restaurant. (I would never do a dinner cruise anywhere based on several I have done - that were very upscale -as special activities for clients we ere entertaining.)

kja

I'm with nytraveler on this one -- take the later cruise, and dine somewhere that has better food and service! JMO....

You might even consider booking your own cruise -- you don't need to work with a travel agent unless you want to! I don't pretend to know all the options, but you should be able to find them easily enough with a google search....

OR agree to split up for the evening. Just a thought!

justineparis

I think you are making a big mistake booking through a travel agent who is trying to steer you onto an inferior product. Cruises that have two seatings like that are likely the mass market ships.. and the food is cooked out in factory kitchens and shipped on and reheated.. gross.. and you are rushed through meal to get ready for next seating.

I strongly suggest you skip using a travel agent.. they are so useless.. and book on either the

La Calife Cruises.. - google for their menu and website,, smaller ship, excellent reviews.. and they COOK the food onboard. I know several people who have taken them and loved them.

I have not taken this other cruise.. its more high end ( read pricey) but you could look into it..

Yachts of Paris.

Good luck and dump your ta.. or at least do this on your own!

dhlemaistre

Thanks so much for the suggestions! I never use a travel agent but another couple initiated this trip and had already started with a local one. I, however, have taken over a couple things and made the arrangements myself.

Dinner cruise is nothing I would do but it's one of the other's birthday and their request. I had already suggested dinner some where else and cruising later but she has her heart set on this so I'm taking one for the team. (and, only one!)

I am going to investigate La Calife Cruises (thank you JustineParis). Our reservations haven't been made yet, just inquirers .

kja

You are a GOOD friend, dhlemastre! Even if you can't arrange anything else, I'm sure your friend will remember this moment forever -- what a wonderful thing to do for her!

Honestly, if it's about a friend and her celebration, I'm sure it will be a wonderful and memorable event. The quality of the food and service might not matter that much, or might pale in context. (Or be a delightful source of laughter for years to come. ;-) ) JMO.

historytraveler

Perhaps look at alternatives, make suggestions and maybe a hint or two regarding reviews and then leave final decision up to birthday person. People often get preconceived ideas about something with no real clue as to the reality. Nothing wrong with offering a couple of options.