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Offered languages
- English
- French
This unusual 2.5-hour cruise invites you to discover the hidden side of Paris as you glide along the peaceful waters of the Canal Saint-Martin, lined with century-old trees and elegant footbridges. Along the way, hear the history of these authentic Parisian neighborhoods.
You will pass the mysterious and spectacular Bastille vault, where the changing light creates a unique atmosphere. The cruise also takes you through four double locks with swirling waters and two swing bridges, offering a fascinating glimpse into the canal’s engineering and charm. You will enjoy views of the lively canal banks, with their pretty boutiques and retro-style cafés. The route also passes through the Bassin de la Villette and near the Parc de la Villette, home to the Cité des Sciences, La Géode, the Philharmonie de Paris, and themed gardens.
Arsenal departure: Canauxrama, 50 Bd de la Bastille, 75012 Paris, France
Villette departure: Canauxrama, Bassin de la Villette, 13 Quai de la Loire, 75019 Paris, France
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
Itinerary
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(Pass by)
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Admission ticket free -
Place de la Bastille (Pass by)
Enter the long underground tunnel of the Canal Saint-Martin, a vaulted passage beneath the city. As daylight fades and reappears through openings above, the atmosphere becomes uniquely calm and immersive. Emerge from the tunnel near Place de la Bastille, where the contrast between the underground canal and the lively historic square creates one of the most striking moments of the cruise.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Navigate through the Écluse du Temple, another key lock on the Canal Saint-Martin, where the slow rhythm of the water reinforces the peaceful nature of the cruise.
Admission ticket free -
Canal Saint-Martin (Pass by)
Enter the heart of the Canal Saint-Martin, famous for its tree-lined banks, elegant iron footbridges and timeless Parisian charm. This is one of the city’s most picturesque waterways, loved by locals and filmmakers alike.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Pass by the Écluses des Morts, a series of locks whose name recalls the canal’s long and sometimes dramatic past, adding a touch of mystery to the journey.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Glide through the peaceful Bassin Louis Blanc, where the canal blends seamlessly into the surrounding neighborhood, creating a calm and intimate atmosphere away from the city’s bustle.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Experience your first lock as the boat passes through the Écluse de la Villette. Watch the water level gently rise or fall as the lock gates open and close, offering a captivating glimpse into the canal’s engineering.
Admission ticket free -
(Pass by)
Cruise along the Canal de l’Ourcq, originally built to supply Paris with fresh water. Lined with former warehouses and modern residential buildings, this stretch reveals a quieter, more authentic side of the capital.
Admission ticket free -
Le Pont Levant de Crimee (Pass by)
Sail beneath the iconic lift bridge of rue de Crimée, one of the last operational lifting bridges in Paris. Watching the bridge rise above the boat is a rare and fascinating moment that highlights the city’s living industrial heritage.
Admission ticket free -
Bassin de la Villette (Pass by)
The boat reaches the Bassin de la Villette, one of the largest open water basins in Paris. This lively yet relaxed area marks the gateway to the city’s historic canal network, where urban life slowly gives way to calm waterways and a more local Parisian atmosphere.
Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Arsenal departure: Canauxrama, 50 Bd de la Bastille, 75012 Paris, France
- Villette departure: Canauxrama, Bassin de la Villette, 13 Quai de la Loire, 75019 Paris, France
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Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
- This experience requires a minimum number of travelers. If it’s canceled because the minimum isn’t met, you’ll be offered a different date/experience or a full refund.
- This experience requires good weather. If it’s canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.
Rating
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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