Drive Your Own Boat in Paris Without License
Active
2h
All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Take the helm of your own electric boat for a 2-hour scenic ride along Paris’ charming Canal Saint-Martin! Enjoy the freedom to navigate at your own pace while discovering the beauty of this iconic waterway.
What to Expect:
-Drive Your Own Boat: Easy-to-handle, 6-hp boats—no license required! You’re in control, with your guide sharing fascinating stories about the canal’s history (but never touching the wheel unless requested).
-Stop and Explore: Dock to visit landmarks, enjoy a picnic, or sip champagne along the way.
-Fun for All Ages: Perfect for families, friends, and anyone looking for a relaxing and fun experience.
No Deposit, No License Needed: Just bring your adventure spirit and enjoy an unforgettable Parisian experience!
Book your tour now and discover the magic of the Canal Saint-Martin!
Available options
Drive Your Own Boat in Paris Without License
What's included
You drive your own boat for 2 hours
No license required
Safety equipement
Private Tour
Insurance
Electric boat for up to 10 people (more boats available for larger groups)
No deposit required
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Bassin de la Villette is a large, scenic water basin located in the 19th arrondissement of Paris. This charming spot is a hub for leisure activities, with open-air cafés, boat docks, and a peaceful atmosphere. The basin is surrounded by modern residential buildings, old warehouses, and lush greenery, making it an ideal place to relax and enjoy the water. It’s a popular destination for boat rides and a great starting point to explore the canal system.
2
The Pont Levant de Crimée is a historic lifting bridge that spans the Canal de l'Ourcq in northeastern Paris. Built in the 19th century, this bridge is a striking example of industrial engineering. It opens up to allow boats to pass through, and witnessing this mechanical marvel in action is an exciting experience. As you pass under the bridge, you’ll get a close-up view of its intricate design, a perfect blend of utility and beauty in the heart of the city.
3
Stop 3
Villette Park, one of Paris’s largest public parks, is an expansive green space offering a unique blend of nature, culture, and architecture. The park features vast lawns, playgrounds, ponds, and modern installations such as the “folies” (brightly colored pavilions), which add a whimsical touch to the landscape. This park also hosts cultural venues like the Philharmonie de Paris and the Cité des Sciences. It’s an ideal spot for picnics, outdoor concerts, or a leisurely stroll.
4
Located within the Parc de la Villette, La Géode is a striking, spherical cinema with a mirrored stainless steel exterior. This giant globe offers a 180-degree screen for immersive films, often focusing on nature, science, and exploration. Its modern and futuristic design makes it a landmark in the area, and the films shown here often transport viewers to extraordinary places, making it a thrilling stop for anyone interested in art and technology.
5
Stop 5
The Cité des Sciences et de l'Industrie is Europe’s largest science museum, and it's located within the Parc de la Villette. With its interactive exhibits on topics ranging from space exploration to robotics and environmental science, it’s a fascinating place for all ages. The museum’s striking modern architecture is complemented by the hands-on experiences it offers, making science accessible and fun for everyone. The Cité also hosts temporary exhibitions, workshops, and educational events.
Available languages
Audio guide
EN
FR
Guide guide
EN
FR
Written guide
EN
FR
Important information
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Meeting point
Meeting point at 19 Rue Riquet, 75019 Paris, across from the 'Riquet' metro station, line 7. Your guide, Raphaël, will be waiting for you there. He has medium-length hair.
About Paris
Paris, the capital of France, is a city steeped in history, art, and romance. Known for its iconic landmarks, world-class museums, and charming neighborhoods, Paris offers a unique blend of timeless elegance and modern vibrancy. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, the city is a treasure trove of cultural and historical gems.
Top Attractions
Eiffel Tower
The Eiffel Tower is Paris's most iconic landmark and a symbol of France. Built in 1889 for the World's Fair, it offers breathtaking views of the city.
Architecture
2-3 hours
€17.10-€26.80 (depending on the level)
Louvre Museum
The Louvre is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris. It houses thousands of works of art, including the Mona Lisa and the Venus de Milo.
Museum
3-4 hours
€17 (full price), free for under 18s and EU residents under 26
Notre-Dame Cathedral
Notre-Dame is a masterpiece of French Gothic architecture and one of the most famous cathedrals in the world. It has been undergoing restoration since the 2019 fire.
Historical/Religious
1-2 hours
Free (towers and crypts may have reopening fees in the future)
Montmartre
Montmartre is a historic and artistic district known for its bohemian past, charming streets, and the stunning Sacré-Cœur Basilica.
Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore (Sacré-Cœur dome visit €6)
Palace of Versailles
The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790.
Historical
Full day
€18-€28 (depending on the pass)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Croissant
A buttery, flaky pastry made from laminated dough. Best enjoyed fresh from a local bakery.
Breakfast
Contains gluten and dairy
Baguette
A long, thin loaf of French bread with a crispy crust and soft interior. Often served with cheese or ham.
Breakfast/Lunch
Contains gluten
Steak Frites
A classic French dish consisting of steak and French fries, usually served with a side of salad and béarnaise sauce.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains gluten (if served with fries) and meat
Crêpes
Thin pancakes that can be filled with a variety of sweet or savory ingredients, such as Nutella, cheese, or ham.
Snack/Dessert
Can be made gluten-free and vegetarian/vegan options available
Popular Activities
Hot air balloon rides
Rock climbing in Fontainebleau forest
Kayaking on the Seine
Picnicking in the Luxembourg Garden
Boat tours on the Seine
Spa day at a luxury hotel
Visiting museums and galleries
Attending a cabaret show
Best Time to Visit
June to August
Summer is the peak tourist season in Paris, with warm weather and long daylight hours. This is the best time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals. However, it's also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.
15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
59°F to 77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: French
- Widely spoken: English, Spanish, Arabic, Portuguese
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Euro (EUR)
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Central European Time, CET), GMT+2 (Central European Summer Time, CEST) during daylight saving time
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Paris is generally safe for travelers, but pickpocketing and petty theft can be a problem in tourist areas. Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to protect your belongings.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Be cautious of pickpockets in crowded areas and on public transport
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing services
Getting there
By air
- Charles de Gaulle Airport • 25 km (15.5 miles) from city center
- Orly Airport • 14 km (8.7 miles) from city center
By train
Gare du Nord, Gare de Lyon
By bus
Bercy Seine, Porte Maillot
Getting around
Public transport
The Paris Metro is one of the most efficient and extensive subway systems in the world, covering all major attractions and neighborhoods.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, G7
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Le Marais
Montmartre
Latin Quarter
Saint-Germain-des-Prés
Champs-Élysées
Day trips
Versailles
17 km (10.5 miles) from Paris • Full day
The Palace of Versailles is a grand royal château and garden located just outside of Paris. It was the principal royal residence of France from 1682 to 1790 and is famous for its opulent interiors and vast gardens.
Giverny
75 km (47 miles) from Paris • Half day to full day
Giverny is a charming village known as the home of the famous impressionist painter Claude Monet. The village is home to Monet's House and Gardens, which inspired many of his most famous works.
Château de Fontainebleau
55 km (34 miles) from Paris • Full day
The Château de Fontainebleau is a grand royal château and park located just outside of Paris. It was a residence of the French monarchs from Louis VII to Napoleon III and is known for its beautiful architecture and vast forests.
Festivals
Fête de la Musique • June 21st (annual)
Paris Fashion Week • February and September (annual)
Nuit Blanche • First Saturday in October (annual)
Pro tips
- Learn a few basic French phrases to enhance your experience and show respect for the local culture
- Use public transport, walk, or bike to get around the city and avoid traffic and parking issues
- Consider purchasing a Paris Museum Pass or a multi-day public transport pass to save money on attractions and transport
- Explore the city's many neighborhoods and hidden gems, not just the major tourist attractions
- Try local specialties and enjoy the dining experience slowly and leisurely
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
