Barge at Quai de la Rapee: an event between Bastille and Bercy

Choosing a barge at Quai de la Rapee means holding your event in the heart of eastern Paris, on the right bank in the 12th arrondissement. Between the Bastille area and Bercy, this quay offers particularly easy access and an ideal starting point for cruising towards the islands and the monuments of central Paris.

Here's what you need to know about the area, getting there, and the events best suited to this spot.

Quai de la Rapee, a central location

Quai de la Rapee runs along the Seine on the right bank, upstream of the Île Saint-Louis, before giving way to Quai de Bercy. It sits close to the Port de l'Arsenal, where the Canal Saint-Martin meets the Seine, and faces the left bank, where the Cite de la Mode et du Design and the Jardin des Plantes aren't far away.

The atmosphere here is more urban than the quays of the historic centre, but the location is a real asset: within a few minutes' cruise downstream, the barge reaches the Île Saint-Louis, the Île de la Cite and Notre-Dame, for a cruise that quickly takes in some of the finest sights in Paris.

Access and boarding

Quai de la Rapee is one of the easiest departure points to reach in Paris. Metro line 5 serves the Quai de la Rapee station, and Gare de Lyon (RER A and D, Metro lines 1 and 14) as well as Gare d'Austerlitz are both close by. A real advantage for guests coming by train from the provinces or from anywhere in the Île-de-France region.

The exact boarding point depends on the barge you choose and where it's moored. We confirm this when you book, along with directions to the lower quay, parking options and accessibility information to pass on to your guests.

Events suited to this spot

• Seminars and corporate evenings: the proximity of the train stations makes it easy for colleagues from several sites or regions to attend.
• Private parties and birthdays: a central departure point for a lively evening with a DJ and a dance floor.
• Weddings and family receptions: guests travelling from further afield can easily reach the boarding point.
• Cruises towards the islands: a short, spectacular route towards the Île Saint-Louis, Notre-Dame and the heart of Paris.

Our tips for a successful event

• Make the most of the cruise: from this quay, the monuments of central Paris are quickly reachable, even on a short cruise.
• Think about guests arriving by train: share the walking route from Gare de Lyon or Gare d'Austerlitz.
• Plan the return journey: check the disembarkation time against the last available transport.
• Book early for spring, summer and end-of-year dates, which are the most sought after.