Saint-Martin Canal | A historic Parisian waterway

Nearly half the length of the river Seine, the tree-lined Canal Saint-Martin snakes through the upper eastern part of Paris — once full of industries, now bustling with art galleries and trendy restaurants. The canal was built in 1825 to supply Paris with grain and building materials at two ports and narrowly escaped being paved over for a highway in 1960. A cruise along the canal will greet you with iconic sights like the swing bridge of Pont de l'Arsenal, joining the historic districts of Marais and Bastille, and the Bassin de la Villette, a large artificial basin surrounded by parks and gardens. Don’t miss the canal locks!

Read on to discover the best cruise options, the sights you’ll see, where to board from, etc to plan the best sightseeing experience on the Saint-Martin Canal.

Things to know before booking a Saint-Martin Canal cruise

Here’s what you need to know about booking your Saint-Martin canal cruise.

Want to see the famous Parisian attractions of the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum? Opt for a tour departing from the Port de Solferino near the Orsay Museum for a mix of attractions seen from the Seine River and the Canal, or depart from Parc de la Villette — a great starting point to explore the Saint Martin Canal exclusively.

Thinking of exploring more for(a) less(er) price? Opt for the combo ticket of the canal cruise and entry to the Orsay Museum. Prices start at 37 euros.

How about exploring the sights from the Saint-Martin Canal as well as the famous ones from the Seine River? Opt for a tour that cruises past the Saint Martin Canal banks and sails further to landmarks on the Seine like the Eiffel Tower. All of this in under three hours!

The canal cruises run through the day, with the earliest after sunrise and the latest in the afternoon. Pick a time slot best suited to your schedule and the ideal weather for you.

Want exclusive insights on the canal’s history, engineering, and significance? We’ve got you covered with a live bilingual guide onboard in English and French on all cruises.

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Orsay Museum

Housed in a former railway station, this museum houses Impressionist and Post-Impressionist masterpieces, including works by Monet, Renoir, and Van Gogh. Keep an eye out for the Clock Tower when you visit the museum post your cruise to enjoy panoramic views of the city!

Frequently asked questions about Saint-Martin Canal Cruises

What are the types of Saint-Martin canal cruises available?

You can choose from three main types of cruises: a sightseeing cruise to the river Seine, a sightseeing cruise combined with a visit to the Orsay Museum, or a sightseeing cruise combined with a visit to the Science & Industry Museum.

How long does each cruise last?

The sightseeing cruises typically last around 2.5 hours.

Is the cruise a round trip?

The Seine cruise to the Canal Saint Martin is a one-way trip from Port de Solferino to Parc de la Villette or vice versa. Your end points would be the Port de Solferino or Parc de la Villette.

Are the cruises wheelchair accessible?

No, the cruises are not wheelchair accessible or suitable for those with reduced mobility.

Can I bring my children on the cruise?

Yes, you can bring your children on the cruise. Tickets for children up to 3 years of age are free.

Are pets allowed onboard the cruise?

No, pets are not allowed.

Are there any stops during a sightseeing cruise?

No, sightseeing cruises are non-stop. However, all boats have accessible restrooms on board.

Is it possible to eat on board?

Yes, the boats have a vending machine with drinks and chocolate bars, and some tours offer a bar with a larger selection of snacks.

What's the difference between a Saint Martin Canal cruise and a Seine River cruise?

The Saint Martin Canal Cruise offers a more intimate, local experience through quieter neighborhoods, while the Seine River Cruise provides a grander, iconic view of Paris' famous landmarks. Both vary in duration and timings.