A Christmas in Provence (port-to-port cruise)

A Christmas in Provence (port-to-port cruise)

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5 Days From

$1093

A Christmas in Provence (port-to-port cruise)

5 Days Starting and ending in Lyon

Visiting: Lyon, Avignon, Arles, Tain-l'Hermitage

Tour operator:

CroisiEurope Cruises

Ship Name:

MS Rhone Princess

Ship Capacity:

138

Tour operated in:

English , French

Trip Styles:

River Cruise

From: $1093

NB: Prices correct on 28-Dec-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

In France, each region has its own holiday traditions and legends. The season is jam packed full of local customs marking the end of the year. Come and share these experiences on a unique trip.Discover the magic of Christmas in Provence, including the santonsclay figurines that decorate local nativity scenes at the miniature village in Paradou and the origins of the 13 desserts as the traditional way to end a Christmas meal in the region. Slip into the holiday spirit as you crisscross inspirational sites, intriguing cities, and charming villages in Provence.

Itinerary

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Day 1 : Lyon

Location: Lyon

Passengers are welcome to board at 4:00 p.m. in Lyon. Our ship will begin to cruise towards Avignon. We'll introduce our crew at a welcome cocktail.

Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.


Day 2 : Avignon

Location: Avignon

We'll cruise through the Rhne Valley in the morning.This afternoon, the included excursion is: A tour of the Papal Palace. The imposing fortress and luxurious Papal Palace symbolize the power of the Catholic Church in the Middle Ages. It is one of the largest and most important Gothic buildings in Europe and the city's most famous attraction. Take a step back in time as you stroll through the immense halls, contemplate the beauty of the chapels, and visit the papal apartments. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Avignon as the Christmas spirit begins to seep into the streets and transform them into a magical place.Free evening in the city.

Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace, and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, Avignon offers a rich cultural heritage. Its charming streets, vibrant markets, and annual theater festival, the Festival d'Avignon, add to its allure. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and the Rhône River, Avignon blends history with a lively contemporary atmosphere, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture seekers.




Overnight

Day 3 : Avignon/Arles

Location: Arles

We'll spend the morning cruising to Arles. Join us during this time for a presentation on Christmas traditions in Provence and the 13 Desserts. Introduction to and tasting of the sweet treats that top off the already copious holiday meal in Provence. Traditionally, the 13 Desserts are served abundantly enough so that every guest can taste each of the dried and fresh fruits, nougats, figs, and local breads.This afternoon, join us for an included excursion to Les Baux-de-Provence and the miniature santon village in Paradou. The village decks itself out in festive finery at this time of year. Officially one of the most beautiful villages in France, the small medieval city of Les Baux-de-Provence lies atop a peak nestled between vineyards and olive orchards within the Alpilles Mountains. Our tour will include seeing the exteriors of several important sites such as the chteau and the church. We'll continue on to the miniature santon village in Paradou. Discover the regional craftwork representing former times. The old-time pharmacy, knife grinder, a Provenal marketplace, farandole dancing, and the windmill that was the inspiration for Alphonse Daudet are all part of 350 santons set up over 300 m2 as a remembrance of 19th-century Provence. Each remarkable, life-like santon is based on a character from the books of Alphonse Daudet and Marcel Pagnol. They are remarkable for their originality and details. We'll cruise towards Tain-l'Hermitage overnight.

Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace, and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, Avignon offers a rich cultural heritage. Its charming streets, vibrant markets, and annual theater festival, the Festival d'Avignon, add to its allure. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and the Rhône River, Avignon blends history with a lively contemporary atmosphere, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture seekers.




Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout landmarks. Arles also boasts charming streets and vibrant markets, reflecting its rich cultural life. Known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, the city features scenes immortalized in his paintings. The blend of historical architecture, vibrant local culture, and picturesque landscapes makes Arles a captivating destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.


Day 4 : Tain-L'hermitage

Location: Tain-l'Hermitage

We'll spend the morning cruising. When we arrive in Tain-l'Hermitage, join us for a tour of the Cit du Chocolat and a wine cellar. Come and explore, smell, and taste chocolate in all of its forms at the Valrhona Discovery Center. You'll learn everything you need to know about the world's favorite candyfrom growing cacao to the secrets behind the most excellent recipes. Lastly, we'll indulge in a tasting, of course! We'll then head over to the Maison Chapoutier wine cellar to discover their seven generations of know-how in producing bold and elaborate wine following biodynamic principles and practices.(1) To round out the tour, we'll enjoy a tasting of wines.We'll return on board and leave for Lyon. Tonight is our festive gala evening.

Tain-l'Hermitage, France, is a picturesque town in the Rhône-Alpes region, renowned for its exceptional wines, particularly its Syrah and Hermitage varietals. Nestled along the Rhône River and surrounded by lush vineyards, it offers scenic views and a charming atmosphere. The town features historic sites like the 12th-century Hermitage Chapel and the Cité du Chocolat, celebrating local culinary delights. With its blend of fine wine, rich history, and stunning landscapes, Tain-l'Hermitage is a captivating destination for wine enthusiasts and travelers seeking a taste of Provence.


Day 5 : Lyon

Location: Lyon

Enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. End of our services.

Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.


Ship Details

MS Rhone Princess

Image Of Ship

The MS Rhône Princess sails on the Rhône and the Saône rivers, from Burgundy to Provence. Discover a region rich in culture, full of natural beauty and mouth-watering delicacies. You will find yourself in the heart of landscapes that are among the most beautiful and unspoiled in France.

The MS Rhône Princess is an intimate-sized standard ship, measuring 110 meters long and 11,40 meters wide. It can accommodate 138 passengers, in 69 cabins

spread over two decks. Each of them, comfortable and spacious, offers amenities and provides guests with all the comforts they need during their stay. The warm orange tones of the decoration, as well as the golden woodwork and ceilings, create a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Located on the upper deck, the restaurant offers a delicate cuisine in a refined setting, where large bay windows allow guests to fully enjoy the panorama. The lounge bar with a dance floor is located on the same deck, while on the sun deck, an ideal place to relax and admire the landscapes, guests can enjoy comfortable sun loungers, as well as a large shaded area.

Ship Name:

MS Rhone Princess

Adults Only Areas:

no kids

Ship Children Facilities:

none

Smoking Areas:

some

Ship Size:

boutique

Ship Style:

classic

Ship Type:

river

Ship Kind:

Riverboat

Ship Currency:

EUR

Ship Language:

fr+en

Ship Capacity:

138

Ship Crew Count:

25

Number of Decks:

3

Number of Cabins:

69

Number of Large Cabins:

0

Ship Launch Year:

2001

Ship Refit Year:

2011

Ship Gross Tonnage:

1500

Ship Length (Meters):

110 M

Ship Width (Meters):

11.4 M

Ship Speed (Knots):

9 Kn

Main Deck

Double Cabin Cat. ADouble Cabin Cat. BDouble Cabin Cat. CSuite Cat. B

Sun Deck

Sun DeckSun LoungersLarge Shaded Area

Upper Deck

RestaurantReceptionLounge / Bar with dancefloorDouble Cabin Cat. ADouble Cabin Cat. B

Upon boarding, you will be welcomed by the crew who will help you settle into your cabin. The advantage of cruising is that you will only unpack your suitcase once before you let yourself go to relax and travel!

An elegant setting, a warm atmosphere and quality bedding: our cabins are comfortable, functional, air-conditioned and all have an exterior panoramic view allowing you to fully enjoy the scenery. Some cabins have French balconies or private terraces. 

Choose between 3 cabin categories:

  • Category A: Cabin with a “premium” location.
  • Category B: Cabin with an “intermediate” location.
  • Category C: Cabin can be slightly smaller in size and with a “standard” location. 

Main Deck 2 Adjustable Twin Beds - Cat. A (Grade A_GLS_PP )

Spacious and comfortable cabin equipped with two beds that can be separated, private bathroom with shower and bath products, satellite TV, safe, hairdryer and radio. Located on the main deck with small window, it offers a panoramic view of the landscapes.AMENITIESTVTelephone (for internal calls only)SafeIndependent air-conditioningElectricity 220VWi-FiBathroom with shower and toiletHair dryerSelection of bath productsTowelsPlease note that there is no laundry service on board the ship.

Main Deck Adjustable Twin Beds - Cat. C (Grade C_GLS_PP )

Spacious and comfortable cabin equipped with two beds that can be separated, private bathroom with shower and bath products, satellite TV, safe, hairdryer and radio. Located on the main deck with small window, it offers a panoramic view of the landscapes.AMENITIESTVTelephone (for internal calls only)SafeIndependent air-conditioningElectricity 220VWi-FiBathroom with shower and toiletHair dryerSelection of bath productsTowelsPlease note that there is no laundry service on board the ship.

Suite (Grade CAT4D B_SU2_PP SU2_PP )

Spacious and comfortable suite equipped with two single beds that can be joined together to form a Queen sized bed, marbled bathroom with walk-in shower, dressing room with personal safe, desk, flat screen TV, fridge, espresso machine, hairdryer, radio alarm clock with iPod docking station and telephone. Capture passing ocean scenes through your large panoramic window while relaxing in the armchairs of the seating area.

Upper Deck 2 Adjustable Twin Beds - Cat. A (Grade A_GLS_PS A_GLS_PIH )

Spacious and comfortable cabin equipped with two beds that can be separated, private bathroom with shower and bath products, satellite TV, safe, hairdryer and radio. Located on the upper deck with large window, it offers a panoramic view of the landscapes.AMENITIESTVTelephone (for internal calls only)SafeIndependent air-conditioningElectricity 220VWi-FiBathroom with shower and toiletHair dryerSelection of bath productsTowelsPlease note that there is no laundry service on board the ship.

Double Cabins (Grade GLS_PS A_GLS_PS B_GLS_PS A_GLS_PP C_GLS_PP B_SU2_PP B_GLS_PP )

Spacious and comfortable cabin equipped with two beds that can be separated, private bathroom with shower and bath products, satellite TV, safe, hairdryer and radio. Located on the upper deck, it offers a panoramic view of the landscapes. TVTelephone (for internal calls only)Bathroom with shower and toiletTowelsSafeIndependent air-conditioningElectricity 220VWi-FiPlease note that there is no laundry service on board the ship.

Main Deck 2 Single Beds Suite - Cat. B (Grade B_SU2_PP )

Spacious and comfortable cabin equipped with two beds, private bathroom with shower and bath products, satellite TV, safe, hairdryer and radio. Located on the main deck with small window, it offers a panoramic view of the landscapes.AMENITIESTVTelephone (for internal calls only)SafeIndependent air-conditioningElectricity 220VWi-FiBathroom with shower and toiletHair dryerSelection of bath productsTowelsPlease note that there is no laundry service on board the ship.

Upper Deck 2 Adjustable Twin Beds - Cat. B (Grade B_GLS_PS )

Spacious and comfortable cabin equipped with two beds that can be separated, private bathroom with shower and bath products, satellite TV, safe, hairdryer and radio. Located on the upper deck with large window, it offers a panoramic view of the landscapes.AMENITIESTVTelephone (for internal calls only)SafeIndependent air-conditioningElectricity 220VWi-FiBathroom with shower and toiletHair dryerSelection of bath productsTowelsPlease note that there is no laundry service on board the ship.

Main Deck Adjustable Twin Beds - Cat. B (Grade B_GLS_PP )

Spacious and comfortable cabin equipped with two beds that can be separated, private bathroom with shower and bath products, satellite TV, safe, hairdryer and radio. Located on the main deck with small window, it offers a panoramic view of the landscapes.AMENITIESTVTelephone (for internal calls only)SafeIndependent air-conditioningElectricity 220VWi-FiBathroom with shower and toiletHair dryerSelection of bath productsTowelsPlease note that there is no laundry service on board the ship.

The fine French gastronomy on board is an asset of our company. The meals are created by our head chef, Alain Bohn, member of the esteemed French association Maîtres Cuisiniers de France, which includes only 250 chefs from all over the world, and the Chaîne des Rôtisseurs since 2013. With his team of chefs, he creates each of the menus in the pure tradition of French gastronomy while bringing out the local tastes and flavours of the regions and countries crossed. Our wines are selected to accompany each of your meals. We adapt our menus for people with allergies or who are following a specific diet.

Restaurant

Located on the upper deck, the restaurant is where all meals are served during your cruise. It seats all guests at tables which vary in size with a panoramic view. The atmosphere is casual but elegant. (complimentary)

The lounge bar with a dance floor is located on the same deck, while on the sun deck, an ideal place to relax and admire the landscapes, guests can enjoy comfortable sun loungers, as well as a large shaded area.

Lounge Bar with Dancefloor

The lounge tastefully decorated, is located at the front of the ship and offers panoramic views. Cocktails and games, dancing, and other forms of entertainment all happen here.

Reception Desk

Perfect place to meet with friends before excursions or to ask any information you may need to the staff. The Gift Shop is also located here, you'll find a wide assortment of souvenirs, CroisiEurope products and post cards.

Sun Deck

Take advantage of the sun deck to relax! It is equipped with chairs and deckchairs, allowing you to cool off while enjoying a panoramic view of the magnificent landscapes.

Excursions

We offer on all our cruises numerous and surprising excursions. You may prefer to stay aboard our cruise ships and enjoy the tranquillity, but we have an extensive range of excursions we offer that are great ways to discover each country in detail. (All excursions are optional)Always with the help of our guides, you will visit tremendous cities, picturesque landscapes, and great activities with our bike rides, scenic tours, tastings, whole days visits or evenings out to appreciate the cities by night.To offer you the best experience, we offer classic or discovery excursion packages, the latter offering atypical tours, original themes or even helicopter flights.

There are no dedicated children's facilities on board.

Start your day joining us for a morning fitness class on the sun deck.

Fitness

Start your day by joining us for a morning fitness class on the sun deck.

Tipping habits vary according to the country and culture. At CroisiEurope, tips are collected globally at the end of the trip and shared equally among all the crew members.

This attention from our passengers allows us to show that they have appreciated the quality of the services and the attention that was given to them during the cruise, at all levels.

How much should I leave? A tip of between £5 and £10 per day and per person is an average, but each passenger is free to give what he or she wishes. An envelope is left in your cabin during your last evening on board. Put it in the box provided for this purpose at the ship's reception desk when you disembark.

Age Restrictions

Minors of under 18 years of age are not permitted to travel on board unaccompanied. They must be accompanied by parents or adults of more than 18 years of age. No alcoholic beverages shall be served to minors on board. Proof of the customer's age may be requested by the ship's personnel.

Babies on board: bring your own equipment

Due to space constraints, our ships do not have "baby" equipment on board.If you are travelling with an infant or baby, please be sure to bring the necessary supplies and equipment, such as a travel cot, a pushchair, a child carrier, nappies, etc.For children over 1 year old, remember to book age-appropriate menus at the time of booking. For your comfort, we can warm baby bottles and food for your children.

Dietary Requirements

Please advise the reservation agent at time of booking of any special dietary requirements you may have and they will make every effort to accommodate your request.  

Disabled Facilities

You must report any disability requiring special assistance while on a CroisiEurope itinerary to CroisiEurope at the time the reservation is made. All vessels and motor coaches are equipped to comply with European standards. Most transportation services, including the vessels and motor coaches, are not equipped with elevators or wheelchair ramps. Only our 3-deck ships have elevators (which cannot service the sun deck). CroisiEurope will make reasonable attempts to accommodate the special needs of disabled travelers, but is not responsible in the event it is unable to do so nor is it responsible for any denial of services by vessel operators, air carriers, hotels, restaurants or other independent suppliers. We regret that we cannot provide individual assistance to a vacation participant for walking, dining, getting on and off vessels, motor coaches and other vehicles, or other personal needs. A qualified and physically able companion must accompany travelers who need such assistance and must assume full responsibility for their well-being.

Dress Code

During the day, you will be more comfortable in a casual outfit.We advise you to bring clothes that are not very wrinkled, or that can easily be transported after ironing at your house, because there are no ironing facilities on board our fleet.Remember to dress according to the weather, the season and the environment of your cruise: light suits and swimsuits for warm weather; sweater or jacket for cooler weather; sweatshirt, rain gear and small umbrella.Do not forget to bring comfortable walking shoes in your suitcase. They will be very useful during our excursions!Regarding dinners, cocktails and galas, it is advisable to dress up a little more without the need, for gentlemen, necessarily to wear a jacket and tie.Finally, on any excursion, when you visit places of worship, make sure to opt for an appropriate outfit, neither too light nor too undressed, so as not to be prohibited entry.

Health

There is no nurse or doctor on board the boats of our fleet. In the event of an emergency, the purser will contact the nearest hospital or medical service, the boat will make stop-over so that medical care can be provided as quickly as possible to the person.A defibrillator is available on board each boat. On board, at least two people hold the Lifeguard Rescuer at Work certificate and have been trained to use this device.If you are worried about a health problem, please consult your doctor before going on your cruise and undergo a complete check-up. We remain at your disposal in case of emergency.Finally, do not forget to bring any medication packaged in their labeled boxes) and the corresponding prescriptions. Have them renewed if necessary before your departure.

Languages on Board

The official languages ??on board our ships are French and English.Our team members and tour guides speak English fluently. They also speak other major European languages, such as German, Italian and Spanish.Indeed, CroisiEurope has more than 19 different nationalities among its employees (French, Germans, Austrians, Hungarians, Spaniards, Italians, Portuguese, Filipinos ...)On board, menus, information about the cruise, shore excursions, and important messages are communicated in French and in English. They may also be advertised in another language, depending on the nationality of the passengers on board.

Personal Expenses

You are responsible for any personal expenses outside the boat, during excursions, purchases in our shop, or drinks that you choose from our special wine list and at the bar.How to pay on board?CroisiEurope only accepts euros on board the boats. We do not accept sterling, US dollars or any other currency. We do not accept travelers checks on board. Make sure you get euros before boarding, which will allow you to pay for all your purchases.CroisiEurope accepts American Express, Visa and MasterCard. You may wish to contact your bank or the company that issued your credit card to warn them that you are departing on holiday.

Persons with reduced mobility: adapted cabins

CroisiEurope welcomes passengers with reduced mobility and endeavors to facilitate their access to both the facilities on board and on the available excursions. Before booking, our company requires passengers with reduced mobility to mention their specific needs to their travel agent, so that they can be offered the most suitable ship.People with reduced mobility or have trouble getting around can benefit from adapted cabins on some of the boats in our fleet.Please note that our three-deck ships have lifts allowing direct access to various bridges, as well as the dining room, lounges and toilets suitable for reduced mobility people.Our ships with 2 decks, meanwhile, are well thought-out in terms of layout, so common facilities (restaurant, lounge bar, reception) on one level: the main deck, which also has cabins.Some of our excursions can cause difficulties for people with reduced mobility (walking for several hours, destabilizing floor coverings, elevation, etc.), participation in some excursions and travel is subject to the sufficient mobility of the passenger.

Safety on board

All our ships (except the African Dream) are certified Bureau Veritas.Life jackets and life buoy are located in your cabins as well as on the sun deck.During the presentation of the crew, all safety instructions will be provided.Animals are not accepted on board.

Smoking Policy

For safety reasons, it is forbidden to smoke on board any of our fleet , as it is a closed environment. However, smokers are invited to go to the sun deck, where ashtrays are provided.

Special Diets & Allergies

Please inform us at the time of your booking whether you require a special diet or suffer from allergies. Our cook will offer you a fully adapted and tasty menu.

Taking Care of Our Environment

CroisiEurope’s longstanding environmental position focuses on nature as our most valuable asset.We consider ourselves pioneers in our field, as our commitment to protecting the environment goes above and beyond our legal obligations. We are continually reflecting on how we can expand our green efforts.After conclusive tests carried out on the Seine River with our partner AS Energy, our ships now use GTL fuel. Gas-to-Liquid fuels combust more uniformly and result in lower emissions.Here are other environmental initiatives we would like to share with you:Installation of water-saving devices on our ships that reduce freshwater consumption by 35% and, as a consequence, the amount of wastewater produced.Installation of on-board water fountains that filter public water and transform it into quality drinking water, saving 23 tons of plastic per year.Installation of wastewater evacuation systems on our entire fleet that are emptied into wastewater treatment facilities or urban sewer systems during ports of call.Installation of a wastewater recipient connected directly to the city sewer system at the CroisiEurope dock.All of our ship engines (Green Ship Label) respect the strictest European standards against pollution to help reduce greenhouse gas emissions.The latest onboard technology helps limit fuel consumption when cruising.We have insulated the ventilation in our engine rooms to reduce noise pollution.At ports, we systematically connect to power supply terminals (Powerlock connectors) whenever possible, and for our own docks, we are investing in these newer installations. In addition, most of our ships are equipped with energy-efficient electrical devices.In winter, our ships are moored at river ports with electrical terminals that power the vessels, which helps reduce noise and pollution.In Paris, we are providing excursions on electric buses that are quieter and pollute less, to everyone’s advantage.For the replacement of bath towels, we are trying to raise our passengers’ awareness using written messages and announcements.CroisiEurope follows the criteria outlined by Imprim’Vert in regards to environmentally friendly printing. All of the documents printed at our company is done so with vegetable-based inks on unbleached paper.All of our waste is sorted and compacted on board before being recycled.All food waste and biowaste are collected and converted into biogas by specialised companies.Used engine oil is collected and transformed by onshore specialists.We use biodegradable and environmentally friendly cleaning products.Exterior paints contain no pollutants.Plastic straws and cups have been replaced by biodegradable paper.Our company is affiliated with E2F, Entreprises Fluviales de France which brings together players in our sector to orchestrate collective actions regarding the immense challenges that lie ahead.

Wheelchair Accessibility

CroisiEurope welcomes passengers with reduced mobility and strives to facilitate their access to the places of conviviality on board and to the suggested excursions. Before making a reservation, our company invites you to mention your specific needs to one of our agents, so that we can offer you the most suitable boat.People with reduced mobility or with mobility difficulties can benefit from adapted cabins on some of the boats in our fleet.Please note that our three-deck boats have elevators that provide access to the different decks, as well as to the dining room, the lounge and the toilets adapted to people with reduced mobility.Our two-deck boats, on the other hand, are designed in terms of layout so that the common facilities (restaurant, lounge-bar, reception) are all on one level: the main deck, which also has cabins.Some of our excursions may cause difficulties for people with reduced mobility (walking for several hours, unsteady ground surfaces, unevenness, ...), participation in the excursions as well as the trip is subject to the passenger's sufficient mobility.We invite you to contact your CroisiEurope agent or your usual travel agency for further information.

Wi-Fi

All the company's European fleet are equipped with free Wi-Fi for passengers. This internet connection is available in all lounges / bars and receptions. The Wi-Fi is free to use.For passengers who do not have computer equipment, we have equipped each boat (except those on the Volga, Mekong, and Africa) with a touch pad that can be lent to them when needed.

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Check out our Q&As

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    All you need to know about the smooth running of your cruise is listed in your 'Travel Logbook', which you will receive before your cruise departure. It will be sent directly to you by email or by post before leaving.

  • Personal expenses

    The prices of our cruises are "all included on board", they include full board, drinks served with meals and at the bar (read the detail under heading "Package stay on board"). You are responsible for any personal expenses outside the boat, during excursions, purchases in our shop, or drinks that you choose from our special wine list and at the bar. How to pay on board? CroisiEurope only accepts euros on board the boats. We do not accept sterling, US dollars or any other currency. We do not accept travelers checks on board. Make sure you get euros before boarding, which will allow you to pay for all your purchases. CroisiEurope accepts American Express, Visa and MasterCard. You may wish to contact your bank or the company that issued your credit card to warn them that you are departing on holiday.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    CroisiEurope’s longstanding environmental position focuses on nature as our most valuable asset. We consider ourselves pioneers in our field, as our commitment to protecting the environment goes above and beyond our legal obligations. We are continually reflecting on how we can expand our green efforts.

  • Dress Code

    During the day, you will be more comfortable in a casual outfit. We advise you to bring clothes that are not very wrinkled, or that can easily be transported after ironing at your house, because there are no ironing facilities on board our fleet. Remember to dress according to the weather, the season and the environment of your cruise: light suits and swimsuits for warm weather; sweater or jacket for cooler weather; sweatshirt, rain gear and small umbrella. Do not forget to bring comfortable walking shoes in your suitcase. They will be very useful during our excursions! Regarding dinners, cocktails and galas, it is advisable to dress up a little more without the need, for gentlemen, necessarily to wear a jacket and tie. Finally, on any excursion, when you visit places of worship, make sure to opt for an appropriate outfit, neither too light nor too undressed, so as not to be prohibited entry.

  • Embarkation / disembarkation

    Boarding and check-in on the ship is indicated on your boarding pass provided in your travel log. We ask that you respect this schedule. The ship itself is held to respect the schedules of navigation envisaged for the route, in order to respect the program of navigation throughout the cruise. If you arrive earlier in the day, you can generally leave most of your luggage on board our ships. Your agent can also inform our ships that you will be arriving earlier, when booking. At the end of the cruise, the landing is usually scheduled for 9:00 am for all passengers. In the event that we are responsible for your transfer to the airport, we will ensure that you arrive in time for your flight and connections.

  • Your 'Travel Logbook'

    All you need to know about the smooth running of your cruise is listed in your travel logbook, which you will receive before your cruise departure. It will be sent directly to you by email or by post before leaving. It will contain the following information: The port of embarkation / disembarkation; A voucher for airport / port / airport transfers if these have been booked through us; Boarding tickets to be handed in when you arrive on board; Any exchange vouchers (pre and post-routing, hotel nights, ...); Luggage tags; A presentation of the cruise programme; Useful information about the cruise; The list of proposed excursions.

  • Languages spoken on board

    Official languages on board : French and English.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Missing your departure - this can happen for various reasons: a missed alarm call, a transport strike, an accident on the road, delays train or plane ... In this case, we ask you to notify us as soon as possible by calling the telephone numbers in your travel logbook. We will endeavour to do what is necessary to help you arrive safely.

  • Tips

    Tipping habits vary from country and culture. At CroisiEurope, they are collected centrally in a box at reception at the end of the stay and shared equally between all members of the crew. This token from our passengers shows that they appreciated the quality of the services and the attention they received during the cruise at all levels. How much should I leave? A tip between £5 and £10 per day per person is an average, but each passenger is, of course, free to give what they want. An envelope is deposited for this purpose in your cabin during your last evening on board. Slip it in the box provided for this purpose at the reception before disembarking.

Reviews of this operator

htrowland  

Great tours and food! Exceptional customer service

17-Jun-2022

As a female solo traveller, I especially appreciated CroisiEurope's summer special waiving single supplements. I am non-EU national, and very much enjoyed the international clientele . My flight arrived later than the prescribed boarding time, the crew had my cabin ready, and held dinner. Both land side New York office and the onboard crew were very welcoming, and most attention to detail. Special recognition to Charina, my reservation agent, and Daniel the ship's purser. The vessel's decor is very discreet, comfortable, and relaxing -- no neon, casino, etc. The elegance one would expect from a French company. The land tours were very comprehensive, in comfortable coaches, with sufficient rest stops. Lunches ashore were included, as appropriate. As advertised, both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages were included. In-town shopping was available, but not forced. In all, a delightful experience. I look forward to another voyage with CroisiEurope. The company offers so many unique intineraries, it may be difficult to select.

QRB4539  

Wonderful Ship and Crew

09-Jul-2019

I was on a University Alumni cruise that was organized by AHI on the Douro river in Portugal.. All the passengers were Alumni of different universities, about 85 or so. Many were seasoned travelers. Having been on 3 other river cruises I am familiar with the format. The Amalia Rodrigues was very new, clean and immaculate. And very comfortable. The rooms are small but there was a place for everything. You don't spend that much time in them. The bathroom was nice. The food was quite good. The crew was fabulous and bent over backward to accommodate various requests. All were very kind and helpful. The CD Ricardo was a master in his job - energetic, always informative and funny. He is a real asset to CroisiEurope. Having never before sailed with CroisiEurope I would now consider sailing with them. I understand that we were on a somewhat "special" sailing but if the crew and CD are indicative of the caliber of people at CroisiEurope I would sail with them again.

Jean from Alexandria  

The Beautiful Renoir

24-May-2019

We had a wonderful trip on the beautiful Renoir. We chose this trip because we wanted to do a one way on the Seine, ending in Paris. We started in Honfleur where we had time to explore the city and a coach trip to We were extremely happy with our room and loved that we could keep our sliding glass window cracked open for fresh air at night. The bed was very comfortable and the cleaning staff kept our room and bath room clean and supplied. The entire crew, but especially the gals at the front desk, really was pleasant and never tired of answering our questions. They knew everything that was happening and we felt like we were in extremely good hands. The captain did a great job making sure that we were safe and that we met the schedule. What expertise taking the boat under the bridges in Paris! The excursions for the most part were very good. The boat tour in Paris was par excellence and so glad we were able to do that! The Paris Cabaret show was another highlight for us. The meals were presented well, they were hot and tasty. The dining crew worked really hard and they were always so pleasant and willing to go the extra mile to make sure our dining experience was a good one. We loved the breakfast buffet and the 2 lunch buffets. Because we prefer mainly vegetables, that really worked for us. We wish that every lunch was a buffet!!! Dinners were a little heavy for us and we had to substitute the red meats with fish or chicken. But most of the other people looked like they were really enjoying the menu. We so enjoyed our English speaking table mates, really helped us to communicate at dinner. We would do this trip again in a heartbeat!

Brian Grace  

Budapest to Amsterdam 31 May 2019

31-May-2020

We were 4 New Zealanders and we chose this cruise because it was 18 days and at a reasonable price. The cabin was not huge but nicely decorated, clean and a good shower and had a large window. The bed was very comfortable. The Victor Hugo had very recently been refurbished. The food, wine and drinks were fantastic. The meals were amazing Staff were great and the announcement were in French and English. We had a little hiccup with our excursions but that was an error with their NZ agent and was soon rectified. Unfortunately when we were to leave Regensburg a Viking Ship smashed a lock gate which prevented all boats going any further. Because we were to go to Amsterdam on our cruise, Croisi arranged for us to go by minibus to Strasbourg and join another ship the Gerard Schmitter which then completed our cruise to Amsterdam. We were 4 days short of our cruise so Croisi put us up in a hotel all meals included with wine, and we had a guide for 4 days to show us all the sights of Amsterdam which was fantastic. We would definitely do another cruise with this company and hope to in the near future.

Bronx resident  

A memorable four nights on the Seine - Le Havre to Paris

30-Sep-2021

We had never been on a European river cruise before and chose this one for its brevity, just four nights. We were very happy with our choice and heartily recommend Croisieurope to travelers seeking affordable luxury plus top-flight service. The Renoir was refurbished to a very high standard in 2018 and it shows—comfortable beds, a ship-shape bathroom, lots of clever storage, individual climate control, big picture windows that open to let in fresh air. From the moment we arrived on board, the staff handled everything with professionalism and aplomb. The food in the restaurant (three meals a day with wine) was generous and truly delicious, and the shore excursions were all excellent: Honfleur, Deauville, a noted Calvados estate, Rouen, and Versailles. In each location we had a different guide, all bilingual and well-versed in the particular site's history. We really didn't have to to do anything except show up each day! What a treat. The Seine scenery was gorgeous and the boat was extremely comfortable—we loved that we could stay in our cabin, relax on various decks, or attend onboard activities, including a lively dance performance by a Normandy folk troupe. Even though we were the only English speakers on the cruise, the bilingual staff were always on hand to help us, and the other passengers (mostly French with a few Belgians/Swiss) were friendly and tolerant of our basic French. After our final night sleeping aboard the boat on Quai de Grenelle in Paris, we were rather sad to depart the beautiful Renoir.

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