Giving your grandparents a boat trip: ideas and planning

Choosing a gift for grandparents who already have everything is rarely easy. A shared moment, on the other hand, stays in the memory far longer. A boat trip on the Seine ticks plenty of boxes: you sit down, there is no walking, you take in Paris at your own pace and you spend time together as a family.

This article is written from the point of view of grandchildren (and parents) who would like to give this gift. It does not repeat our general guide to cruises for seniors, nor our ideas for golden wedding anniversaries. Here, we look at the practical planning of an outing designed for older guests, from choosing the boat to the way you break the news of the surprise.

Why a boat trip makes a good gift for older relatives

For grandparents, the loveliest gift is often the attention you show them. A trip on the water has the advantage of being calm: no crowds to push through, no long periods standing, no imposed noise. The quays, bridges and monuments drift past without any physical effort.

It is also a gift that brings back memories. Many older people have known Paris all their lives, but have rarely seen it from the Seine. Conversation starts naturally: "Do you remember when we came past here?" And the boat provides an ideal setting for three generations to talk, with no screens and no rush.

Choosing the right format: yacht, small boat or moored boat

The size of the boat makes a big difference to the experience. For an outing with grandparents, opt for an intimate format.

• A privately hired yacht for a small group: the grandparents, their children and grandchildren, around ten people in all. The atmosphere is warm, the crew takes care of everything and nobody is jostled.
• A moored boat: this is the most relaxing option for those who dislike movement. You enjoy the setting, the view over the water and the meal, without sailing. You will find the details in our article on hiring a moored boat privately.
• A barge: better reserved for when the whole extended family is invited, for example for a grandmother's birthday with cousins.

Hiring privately rather than sharing a group cruise is a real advantage here: you decide the time, the pace and the number of guests, and your grandparents are not mixed in with a large crowd.

Comfort and accessibility: what to check before booking

Before you choose, ask the right questions. Every boat and every quay has its own particularities, and it is better to confirm everything when you book rather than on the day.

• Access to the boat: gangway, steps, the slope of the quayside stairs. If one of your grandparents uses a stick, a walker or a wheelchair, say so from the outset.
• Seating: comfortable seats with backrests, and the option of staying inside or outside depending on the weather.
• Toilets on board and how accessible they are.
• Heating or protection from the wind: it gets cool quickly on the water, even in summer. Bring something warm to wear.
• The boarding point: an easily accessible quay, with parking or a drop-off point nearby, avoids a long walk.

To find out more on this subject, our guide to wheelchair-accessible boats in Paris sets out the questions to ask.

A short trip at a gentle pace

Tiredness is the main enemy of a lovely outing with older guests. A short, successful moment is better than a long afternoon that wears everyone out. Aim for around two hours on board, including arrival and return, and leave some leeway for boarding: nobody should have to rush.

A few simple principles for how the outing unfolds:

• a relaxed welcome, with a hot or cold drink as soon as you arrive;
• cruising at a moderate speed, with commentary on the monuments if your grandparents enjoy learning;
• quiet moments for conversation;
• an unhurried return, with transport arranged for the journey home.

If you are unsure how much time to allow, our article on the length of a private cruise will help you plan.

A light meal, suited to tastes and diets

On board, it is best to avoid a large multi-course menu. A light afternoon tea or lunch works better: small savoury bites, a few sweet treats, tea, coffee, juice and, if the occasion calls for it, a glass of champagne for a toast.

Think about your grandparents' habits: mealtimes, foods to avoid, salt-free or sugar-free diets, difficulty chewing. Let the caterer know in advance: most providers adapt their offerings. Our article on diets and allergies on board explains how to prepare. And if you want to mark the occasion, a small family cake can make a lovely touch, as long as you arrange it with the organiser.

The ideal day and having the grandchildren along

For older guests, the best time slot is often early afternoon: the light is lovely, the temperature is milder, and you avoid both evening tiredness and the rush-hour crowds. A late lunch can also work very well.

As for the calendar, a weekday is generally quieter on the quays, provided the whole family is free. A weekend suits better if the grandchildren work or are at school. A symbolic date (a birthday, Grandmothers' Day, a get-together after the holidays) also gives the gift added meaning. The in-between seasons, spring and early autumn, offer pleasant temperatures without the heat of summer.

As for the grandchildren, their presence is often half the joy. If some are young, provide a quiet corner, discreet games and suitable drinks, and check the safety points. Our article on welcoming children and pushchairs will guide you. The idea is for everyone to find their place: the children have fun, the older guests rest and the adults make sure everything runs smoothly.

How to announce the gift

Giving an outing also means staging it. You can hand over an illustrated card with the date and time, or keep the surprise until you reach the quay. For older guests, however, it is best to give them enough notice to get organised, choose their outfit and rest the day before: a complete surprise mostly suits those who don't mind being caught off guard.

Think too about a small keepsake: a few photos taken on board, later printed in an album or framed, prolong the pleasure. Appoint a family member to take care of this, so that everyone can enjoy the moment.