Amphibious bus Marcel the Duck, for a mixed cruise on land and the Seine
Discover the Marcel le Canard amphibious bus. An original and informative way to explore Paris, both from the Seine and from land, without... . With an added departure from a hidden gem of Paris: the Place Jacques Rueff, located in the prestigious 7th arrondissement, just 200 m from the Eiffel Tower. Nestled between the Champ de Mars and the Seine, this discreet square is so much more than just a public space.
It is home to the exclusive starting point of the "Marcel le Canard" amphibious bus, a unique tourist experience that combines a land tour and a river cruise. A must for visitors seeking originality!
Book your seat for the Marcel le Canard amphibious bus cruise (Highly recommended – only 36 seats available)
Jacques Rueff, an internationally renowned economist
Place Jacques Rueff owes its name to a famous French economist, but it is its role as the gateway to an unusual adventure that makes it so fascinating. Imagine: a bus that transforms into a boat right before your eyes! This spot, often overlooked by traditional guides, is nonetheless the stage for a daily spectacle where technology and poetry come together. A stopover that promises unforgettable memories.
The Marcel le Canard amphibious bus
The Marcel le Canard amphibious bus is the story of a vehicle like no other. This amphibious bus, designed to travel just as well on land as on water, is a feat of French engineering. Its playful name, inspired by the famous rubber duck, adds a touch of humor to the experience. On board, you’ll experience a magical transition between two worlds: the bustling streets of Paris and the calm waters of the Seine.
The half-land, half-water route
The experience begins with a 30-minute walking tour, starting from Place Jacques Rueff.
Your guide, often a true enthusiast of Parisian history, takes you through the city’s most iconic neighborhoods. You’ll stroll along the Champ-de-Mars, admire the Eiffel Tower from a unique perspective, and uncover fascinating anecdotes about the city. The spacious, air-conditioned bus provides a panoramic 360° view, ensuring you don’t miss a thing.
The highlight: the live transformation
The main event? The live transformation. After weaving through the streets, Marcel Le Canard rolls onto a special ramp and plunges into the Seine. The moment the wheels retract and the propulsion shifts to a propeller is nothing short of magical. Children (and adults!) hold their breath as the vehicle glides effortlessly across the water. A technical marvel that never fails to amaze.
The river cruise: 1 hour of unforgettable views
The river cruise lasts approximately 1 hour and offers exceptional views. From the Seine, Paris reveals itself in a new light. You will pass under the most famous bridges (Pont Alexandre III, Pont de l’Alma, Pont des Invalides) and admire landmarks such as the Musée d’Orsay, the Louvre, and Notre-Dame.
Audio commentaries, available in multiple languages, enrich the visit with historical and cultural details.Book tickets for Notre-Dame Cathedral in Paris (Free entry but day and time reservation recommended to avoid queues)
Well-designed and balanced itinerary
The itinerary is carefully crafted to offer a perfect balance between must-see landmarks and hidden gems. Did you know, for example, that the Seine has 37 bridges in Paris, each with its own story? Or that the riverbanks were once the scene of intense port activity? Marcel Le Canard reveals these secrets while giving you a rare perspective on the City of Light.
Practical information: opening hours
For practical information, the schedules are tailored to tourists. Departures usually take place every hour between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m., with additional slots during peak season (April to October). In winter, hours may be reduced, so it’s best to check in advance. Online booking is available and recommended to avoid queues, especially during busy periods.
Amphibious Bus Cruise "Marcel the Duck" ticket booking (Highly recommended – only 36 seats available)
Pricing with options
The prices vary depending on age and selected options. Expect around €41 for adults, €27 for children aged 4 to 12, and free for those under 4. Family packages or combined tickets with other Parisian attractions are sometimes offered. A great deal for budget-conscious visitors: prices are often lower on weekdays than on weekends.
A unique and friendly cruise, an ideal starting point, accessible to people with reduced mobility and safe for all
What makes this experience truly unique is its interactive and playful approach. Unlike traditional cruises, Marcel Le Canard stands out with its originality and conviviality. The guides, often actors or historians, bring the tour to life with humor and passion. Some even organize games for children, like a treasure hunt through the monuments—a perfect way to make discovery even more captivating!
Place Jacques Rueff is also an ideal starting point for exploring the surroundings. After your amphibious adventure, why not stroll through the Champ-de-Mars or visit the nearby Military School? The neighborhood, steeped in history and charm, is full of picturesque cafés and artisan shops. A detour to rue Cler, famous for its gourmet grocers, is also an excellent idea for a gourmet picnic.
Accessible to people with reduced mobility, the amphibious bus is equipped with ramps and dedicated spaces. Pets are also welcome, provided they are kept on a leash. Special attention is given to families: child seats and appropriately sized life jackets are available. Travel with complete peace of mind with the little ones.
For photographers, shots from unique angles
For photography enthusiasts, Marcel Le Canard offers unique perspectives. Imagine the Eiffel Tower reflecting in the Seine from your seat, or the bridges lit up at sunset. The best shots are often captured during the land-to-water transition, when the bus seems to defy the laws of physics. The perfect moment to capture your stay in Paris.
An experience to plan for half a day
In terms of total duration, plan for about 1 hour 30 minutes for the entire experience (30 minutes by bus + 1 hour by boat). It’s a perfect activity for a half-day, to be combined with other visits in the area. For example, you could follow it up with a climb to the Eiffel Tower or a stroll to Trocadéro for a panoramic view of the city.
Practical tips
To reach Place Jacques Rueff, you have several options. The metro is the simplest: get off at "École Militaire" station (line 8) or "La Motte-Picquet Grenelle" (lines 6, 8 and 10). By bus, lines 42, 69, 80, 82, 86 and 92 serve the area. If you prefer Vélib’, several stations are available nearby, such as the one at Champ-de-Mars.
Finally, don’t forget to check the weather conditions before booking. In case of heavy rain or flooding of the Seine, cruises may be cancelled for safety reasons. Organisers will then offer a postponement or refund. A good reason to check the forecast and have a backup plan, such as a visit to the Musée de l’Armée or the Cité de l’Architecture.
In summary
In summary, Place Jacques Rueff and its amphibious bus Marcel Le Canard offer an unforgettable tourist experience. Combining technological innovation, Parisian history, and breathtaking views, this activity appeals to all audiences. Whether you're with family, a couple, or friends, you'll leave with stars in your eyes and memories to cherish. So, ready to embark on this adventure?
For more information or to book your tickets, visit the official Marcel Le Canard website or head directly to the reception at Place Jacques Rueff. One thing is certain: after this visit, you’ll never see Paris the same way again!
