Princess Elizabeth paddle steamer - Image 1
1 / 10

Princess Elizabeth Paddle Steamer

4.4
·2k reviews·Dunkerque, France

Dine on a historic paddle steamer in Dunkirk, offering a unique culinary experience with delicious French cuisine and scenic views.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Lunch

Less crowded, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Princess Elizabeth paddle steamer - Image 1

Princess Elizabeth Paddle Steamer

Best Time

Weekday Lunch

Less crowded, more relaxed

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Dine on a historic paddle steamer in Dunkirk, offering a unique culinary experience with delicious French cuisine and scenic views.

4.4
(2k reviews)

"A memorable birthday lunch with delicious food and a nice atmosphere on board."

Vertical photo
TIP

🌐 Review Menu Online

Menus are in French; check the website beforehand to understand dishes & dietary options. :memo:

📞 Confirm Reservation

Online system is good, but timings can be off. Call to confirm your booking details. :telephone:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

A Memorable Dining Experience

A Memorable Dining Experience

Onboard the Paddle Steamer

Enjoy delicious food and a unique atmosphere on a historic paddle steamer. A truly special occasion spot.

Reddit
French Martinis & Views

French Martinis & Views

Bar Area

Sip on a recommended French Martini while taking in the scenic surroundings. Perfect for a relaxed moment.

Reddit
Accommodating Dietary Needs

Accommodating Dietary Needs

Dining Area

The restaurant is noted for being accommodating to dietary needs, including gluten-free options.

Reddit
Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Book Ahead for Prime Times

Popular lunch and dinner slots, especially on weekends, fill up fast. The online reservation system is efficient, but double-check timings as some may not reflect actual restaurant closures. A quick call to confirm is recommended. Reddit

Navigate the Menu with Ease

While the experience is memorable, menus are primarily in French. Reviewing the menu online beforehand is a smart move, especially if you have dietary restrictions or prefer to understand dish descriptions before ordering. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday Lunch
Why
Less crowded, more relaxed
Crowd
Low
When
Weekend Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

BEHHH #dunkerque #accent #prtoi
@lilibabiess
44.6K likes • 340.7K views

🌐 Review Menu Online

Menus are in French; check the website beforehand to understand dishes & dietary options. Reddit :memo:

📞 Confirm Reservation

Online system is good, but timings can be off. Call to confirm your booking details. Reddit :telephone:

Day 5 of #boatober2024 hosted by @doug_jackson_artwork - great fun to participate! #waverlypaddlesteamer #dtiyschallenge #drawingchallenge #illustration #sketchbook #steamboat #hocoro #sailorhocoro #fude
anna___wie
104 likes • 0 views
🌅 Sunset Cruising on the Waverley, the last seagoing paddle steamer 😍 Last night we had an amazing trip from Kyle of Lochalsh under the Skye bridge, up to Loch Carron and Loch Kishorn and back again. We went on the Waverley, which is the last surviving seagoing paddle steamer, like those that used to regularly service the west coast of Scotland. You can even see the engine and paddles, and ha...
sonjabolger
100 likes • 0 views

🥂 Try a French Martini

A recommended cocktail for a delightful experience onboard. Reddit :cocktail:

🗣️ Be Patient with Language

Staff may not be fluent in English. Be prepared for communication nuances. Reddit :speech_balloon:

On board the Waverley Paddle Steamer yesterday going from Ipswich Docks to Southend. Great day weather wise & a really interesting experience 🚢 #waverleypaddlesteamer #steampaddleboat #sailing #atsea #engineroom #lastpaddlesteamerintheworld #historicboats #restoration #thingsisee #iphonephotography #onboard #greatdaysout
juliefrost.photography
56 likes • 0 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🌐 Review Menu Online

Menus are in French; check the website beforehand to understand dishes & dietary options. Reddit :memo:

📞 Confirm Reservation

Online system is good, but timings can be off. Call to confirm your booking details. Reddit :telephone:

🥂 Try a French Martini

A recommended cocktail for a delightful experience onboard. Reddit :cocktail:

🗣️ Be Patient with Language

Staff may not be fluent in English. Be prepared for communication nuances. Reddit :speech_balloon:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(2k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Diners praise the Princess Elizabeth Paddle Steamer for its unique atmosphere and delicious food, making it a memorable spot for special occasions. While the French-only menu and occasional language barriers are noted, the accommodating staff and quality of the dining experience generally outweigh these concerns. Reddit

"The food was impeccable. I enjoyed being there, it was definitely an experience. The staff was friendly, however every time I was approached in French, even though it had been established that I didn't speak any. As a tourist I understand I'm the visitor, but I found it a bit pointless."

Karin Bitóová

"Birthday lunch Easter 2025. Boat was lovely. Food was delicious but my daughter struggled to find vegetarian choices. She settled on the one identified dish which she assured us was really good. I recommend the French martini ! Nice atmosphere on board but menu on French ( i know, how dare they! 😂) and staff didn’t speak English well enough to describe dishes to us. So - have a look at the menu before you go is my tip of the day, it’s on their website. Well worth a visit and a memorable birthday lunch."

Lorraine Morrissey

"We had a very nice lunch here and they accommodated my gluten-free needs very well. Their online reservation system worked very well except some timings do not reflect the restaurant closure but they called us to inform us and modify our timing."

Andrew Plater

What People Like

Unique dining atmosphere
Delicious food
Accommodating dietary needs

What People Dislike

French-only menu
Language barrier

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Princess Elizabeth Paddle Steamer is typically located in Dunkirk, France. Access will depend on your starting point, but it's often accessible by car or local public transport. It's advisable to check the specific docking location and available transport options closer to your visit. Reddit

Parking availability can vary. It's recommended to research local parking facilities near the docking area in Dunkirk. Some areas might have paid parking lots. Reddit

Yes, depending on Dunkirk's public transport network, you may be able to reach the vicinity of the paddle steamer via bus or tram. Check local transport schedules for routes and stops. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular dining times like weekends and holidays, as the restaurant can get busy. The online reservation system is efficient. Reddit

Operating hours, particularly for dining services, can vary. It's best to check their official website or contact them directly for the most up-to-date information on lunch and dinner service times. Reddit

Typically, there isn't a separate admission fee to board if you are dining. The cost is usually associated with the meal or drinks you purchase. Reddit

Yes, the paddle steamer can accommodate large groups, but it's essential to book well in advance to ensure availability and to discuss any specific group requirements. Reddit

Cancellation policies can vary. It's advisable to review the terms and conditions when booking or contact the establishment directly to inquire about their specific cancellation or modification procedures. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The paddle steamer offers a dining experience with a focus on French cuisine. Reviews mention delicious food, though some note that menus are primarily in French. Reddit

While some vegetarian options are available, they might be limited. It's recommended to check the menu in advance or inform the staff of your dietary needs when booking to ensure suitable choices. Reddit

Yes, the establishment has been noted for being accommodating to gluten-free needs, with guests successfully finding suitable options. Reddit

Prices are considered a bit high by some, but many feel it's justified by the unique location and the overall dining experience. Reddit

The French Martini is specifically recommended as a delightful cocktail to enjoy during your visit. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The entire paddle steamer offers a unique backdrop. The decks provide scenic views, and the interior dining areas have a classic charm. Capturing the boat itself against the water is also a great shot. Reddit

Generally, casual photography for personal memories is allowed. However, it's always polite to be mindful of other diners and avoid intrusive photography. Reddit

Golden hour, just before sunset or early morning, can offer beautiful lighting for exterior shots of the paddle steamer. For interior shots, consider the ambient lighting during your dining time. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Princess Elizabeth Paddle Steamer can be a fun and unique experience for families. The novelty of dining on a boat is often a hit with children. However, parents should be aware that the menu is primarily in French, so it might be helpful to pre-select kid-friendly options from the website. Reddit While the restaurant accommodates dietary needs, it's always best to confirm specific children's meal options or suitability when booking. The atmosphere is generally pleasant, but the experience might be more suited for families with slightly older children who can appreciate the dining aspect. Reddit

🥂 Couples & Special Occasions

This paddle steamer is an excellent choice for couples looking for a romantic or special occasion meal. The unique setting on the water provides a charming ambiance that's hard to replicate. Reddit The delicious food, particularly the recommended French Martinis, adds to the celebratory feel. Reddit Booking in advance is crucial to secure a table for an anniversary, birthday, or simply a memorable date night. Be prepared for the French menu, but the overall experience is often described as worth it for a special treat. Reddit

✈️ Day-Trippers to Dunkirk

If you're visiting Dunkirk for the day, a meal on the Princess Elizabeth Paddle Steamer can be a highlight. It offers a distinct local experience away from typical tourist traps. Reddit Consider timing your visit for lunch to fit it into a day trip itinerary. Remember to book your table in advance, especially if visiting on a weekend. Reddit Familiarize yourself with the menu online beforehand to maximize your enjoyment and minimize any potential language-related delays during your limited time. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Unique Dining Experience

Dining aboard the Princess Elizabeth Paddle Steamer offers a truly distinctive experience. The charm of being on a historic vessel combined with a culinary offering makes it a memorable outing. Reviews highlight the food as impeccable and delicious, with particular praise for the French Martinis. Reddit However, it's important to note that the menu is primarily in French, which can be a barrier for some visitors. Reddit Planning ahead by reviewing the menu online is a practical tip to ensure you can make informed choices, especially if you have dietary restrictions or preferences. Reddit

Despite the language barrier, the staff are generally friendly and accommodating. The restaurant has shown a willingness to cater to specific dietary needs, such as gluten-free requirements, which is a significant plus for many diners. Reddit While some find the prices a bit on the higher side, the unique ambiance and the quality of the experience are often seen as justifying the cost. Reddit It's a place that promises a special occasion, whether it's a birthday lunch or a romantic dinner. Reddit

Navigating Reservations and Service

The online reservation system for the Princess Elizabeth Paddle Steamer is generally efficient, but it's wise to be aware that some timings might not perfectly reflect the restaurant's actual operating schedule. Reddit A proactive approach, such as calling to confirm your booking, can prevent any last-minute confusion and ensure a smooth experience. Reddit This is particularly important for special occasions where timing is crucial.

When it comes to service, while the staff are described as friendly, there can be challenges with language. Some visitors have noted that even after establishing they don't speak French fluently, they were still addressed in French. Reddit This, coupled with the menu being in French, means that clear communication might require patience and preparation. Reddit Despite these minor hurdles, the overall sentiment is that the staff do their best to provide a pleasant dining experience. Reddit

You may also like

1 of 2