Amphibious bus Marcel the Duck, for a mixed cruise on land and the Seine

Discover the Marcel le Canard amphibious bus. An original and educational 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 unassuming square is far more than just a public space.

It is in fact 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 something out of the ordinary!

Jacques Rueff, an internationally renowned economist

Place Jacques Rueff takes its name from 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 before your very eyes! This spot, often overlooked in traditional guides, is nevertheless the stage for a daily spectacle where technology and poetry meet. 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 both on land and 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 witness 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 land tour, departing from Place Jacques Rueff.

Your guide, often a passionate expert on Parisian history, takes you through iconic neighborhoods. You’ll stroll along the Champ de Mars, admire the Eiffel Tower from a unique angle, and discover fascinating anecdotes about the city. The bus, spacious and air-conditioned, offers a 360° panoramic view so you don’t miss a thing.

The transformation: the live metamorphosis

The highlight of the show? The live transformation. After weaving through the streets, Marcel le Canard drives onto a special ramp to plunge into the Seine. The moment the wheels retract and the propulsion switches to a propeller is simply magical. Children (and adults!) hold their breath as the vehicle glides gently onto the water. A technical feat that never fails to amaze.

The river cruise: 1 hour of unforgettable views

The river cruise lasts about 1 hour and offers exceptional views. From the Seine, Paris reveals itself in a new light. You’ll glide 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 guides, available in multiple languages, enhance the visit with historical and cultural insights.

A well-designed and balanced itinerary

The itinerary is carefully crafted to strike the perfect balance between must-see sites 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 bustling with port activity? Marcel Le Canard reveals these secrets while offering you a rare perspective on the City of Light.

Practical information: schedules

For your convenience, schedules are tailored to tourists. Departures generally run every hour between 10 AM and 6 PM, 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 skip the line, especially during busy periods.

Pricing with options

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 available. A great budget tip: prices are often cheaper on weekdays than weekends.

A unique and friendly cruise, an ideal starting point, accessible to people with reduced mobility, in complete safety

What makes this experience truly unique is its interactive and playful nature. Unlike traditional cruises, Marcel Le Canard stands out for its originality and conviviality. The guides, often actors or historians, bring the tour to life with humour and passion. Some even organise games for children, such as a treasure hunt through the monuments. A way to make the discovery even more captivating!

Place Jacques Rueff is also an ideal starting point for exploring the surroundings. After your amphibious adventure, why not stroll along the Champ-de-Mars or visit the nearby Military Academy? The area, rich in history and charm, is full of picturesque cafés and artisan shops. A detour to rue Cler, famous for its gourmet food shops, is also a great 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 adapted life jackets are available. So you can travel with complete peace of mind with the little ones.

For photographers, shots from unique angles

For photography enthusiasts, Marcel Le Canard offers unique angles. Imagine the Eiffel Tower reflecting in the Seine from your seat, or the bridges illuminated at sunset. The best shots are often taken 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.

A half-day activity

In terms of total duration, allow around 1 hour 30 minutes for the entire experience (30 minutes on the bus + 1 hour on the boat). It’s the perfect activity for a half-day, to combine with other visits in the area. For example, you could follow it up with a climb to the Eiffel Tower or a walk to Trocadéro for a panoramic view of the city.

Practical tips

To get to Place Jacques Rueff, you have several options. The metro is the simplest way: 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 extraordinary tourist experience. Combining technological innovation, Parisian history and breathtaking views, this activity appeals to all audiences. Whether you’re visiting with family, as a couple or with friends, you’ll leave with stars in your eyes and unforgettable memories. Ready to embark on the adventure?

For more information or to book your tickets, visit the official Marcel Le Canard website or go directly to the reception at Place Jacques Rueff. One thing is certain: after this visit, you’ll never see Paris in the same way again!