Barbecue Boats on the Canal de l’Ourcq, Paris
A company created in 2024 by residents of the 19th arrondissement and Pantin, AKWA runs silent, license‑free electric boats on the Canal de l’Ourcq.
The barbecue (plancha) model is round, seats up to nine people, and carries a built‑in grill at the center so you can cook while you cruise. BBQ boat rental is for two to five hours.
The BBQ boats are electric, quiet, and easy to handle. Max capacity is nine. Boats leave from the Bassin de la Villette, 37 quai de la Seine in the 19th. This is the Paris end of the Canal de l’Ourcq and the easiest launch point for first‑timers.
The standard sightseeing flow uses the Ourcq axis between the Bassin de la Villette, La Villette, Pantin, and Bobigny, with optional anchor stops where indicated.
Why Choose the Ourcq
The Ourcq is wide, calm, and lined with street art and converted industrial sites, so navigation is simple and the backdrop stays interesting while you cook.
You’re also away from the Seine’s heavy traffic and commercial wake, which makes a huge difference when people are gathered around a hot grill.
Cruise Durations and Itineraries
Two hours is enough to clear the lifting bridge of Crimée, slip through Parc de la Villette past the Géode and the submarine Argonaute, and turn around by the Grands Moulins de Pantin.
With the 3-hour option, you can anchor for a short break inside the Villette stretch, then continue along Pantin’s riverfront, passing the National Dance Center and the Théâtre du Fil de l’Eau before looping back near the Magasins Généraux.
Five hours lets you push on to Parc de la Bergère in Bobigny. This is the most relaxed option, with time for a proper meal on the water and an unhurried return through the same landmarks.
Food on Board
The company offers vegetarian “plancha baskets,” picnic baskets, and small plates (dips like hummus or tapenade). The baskets are priced per person, and dips are sold individually.
If you prefer, you can bring your own ingredients and use the grill. Soft drinks and a curated list of alcohol‑free options are stocked at the dock.
Typical pricing on menu pages shows plancha or picnic baskets at €14 per person and dips at €7 each; drinks on the groups/privatization card are listed at a flat €6 TTC per item.
Prices & Hours
Current rates are €250 for 2h, €375 for 3h, €450 for 4h, and €525 for 5h per BBQ boat (up to nine people). One‑hour rentals aren’t bookable for the BBQ model. If you want food handled for you, budget the per‑person basket price on top.
Opening hours are 10:00-22:00 daily in July-August. April-June and September-October run 10:00-22:00 weekends and holidays, with reduced weekday hours.
Always check your start time against the Crimée bridge lift schedule if you’re aiming to go beyond the basin.
What a BBQ Cruise Looks Like
Arrive 15-20 minutes early to board, stow your coolers, and review handling and safety. Cast off into the Bassin de la Villette. If you’re on a 2h+ slot, take the Crimée opening and slide through La Villette’s green corridor.
Grill once you’re clear of traffic. Keep speeds down near kayaks and day‑boats. Turn at Pantin for 2h rides, stretch to Bobigny for 5h and plan your return so you’re not chasing the last bridge opening.
Website: https://akwa-experience.com