A-Z Challenge: V is for Vedettes

While there is no bad way to view Paris, one of the more unique experiences is to take a Seine River boat ride.

The most popular vendor is Bateaux Mouches. I think its convenient location, walking distance from the Eiffel Tower, contributes to its popularity.

I had planned to take the Bateaux Mouches later in the week, but while walking along the Seine after a long day of touring the Louvre, I happened upon another boating company: Vedettes du Pont-Neuf. I was ready to give my feet a break, and so I decided to try it.

This proved to be a great decision.

The line was manageable and moved quickly. However, I missed boarding by just five people. Some may consider this misfortune, but I was thrilled.

We waited less than twenty minutes for another boat to arrive and empty. I was one of the first ones on the boat, which meant I secured one of the coveted seats in the front. This allowed for great views and a few nice photos without the obnoxious back-of-the-head feature.

The ride itself lasts about an hour, give or take a few minutes. It cruises up the Seine, past Notre Dame, then back down the Seine around the Eiffel Tower, before returning to its home base.

Viewing the iconic monuments from this particular vantage point is worth the cost of admission. But I find the up-close-and-personal views of the unique bridges that cross the river of particular enjoyment.

Once we returned to "port", I disembarked the boat well-rested and ready to log a few more miles walking around the city.