Which boat should you choose for a wedding in Paris? The criteria to consider

Twenty guests, a hundred, or more: the right boat won't be the same. For a wedding on the Seine, the first question isn't necessarily one of style. It's about the actual format of the reception.

In practice, you need to look at capacity, but also at how people will move around on board. A boat can hold a certain number of people and still not be suited to a seated dinner with a dance floor in that same layout.

For a small wedding, prioritise conviviality

With a limited number of guests, a private boat can help keep a fairly intimate atmosphere. The space still needs to be big enough to set up the tables, allow for service, and let guests move around.

For a larger reception, look at the spaces

Beyond a certain number of guests, an event barge can offer a more comfortable set-up. What you need to check is whether the different stages of the reception can be kept distinct: the welcome, the cocktail reception, the dinner and the party.

Cruising, a terrace and indoor spaces

Having an outdoor area can be pleasant for the cocktail reception or more informal moments. Indoor spaces matter just as much, particularly if the weather changes. Cruising can also change the feel of the evening and its pace.

The right choice mainly depends on the programme

Before choosing a boat, it's worth asking a few simple questions: how many guests will there be? Will there be a seated dinner? A ceremony? A DJ? Will part of the evening take place outside? The answers alone will already rule out several layouts.