BEST FRENCH RIVER CRUISES IN 2023

If you ever thought of experiencing what the best French river cruise will be like. In this post, you have the full details. Luxury French river cruises offer an opulent and intimate experience, featuring upscale accommodations, and fine dining with regional delicacies. An all-inclusive package covering excursions and gratuities, personalized service, exclusive guided tours, enriching activities, wellness facilities, and scenic views. Attention to detail ensures an unforgettable journey through France’s iconic rivers. Immersing guests in its culture, history, and natural beauty.

French River Cruises

French river cruises are a popular and delightful way to explore the beautiful landscapes, historic towns, and iconic landmarks of France. These cruises take place on the country’s major rivers. Offering passengers a unique perspective on the diverse regions of France.

Some of the most famous rivers where you can find river cruises in France include:

#1. Seine River

Cruises along the Seine often start and end in Paris, showcasing the city’s renowned landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, and Louvre Museum As the cruise progresses, you’ll pass through charming towns like Rouen and visit the historic Normandy region.

#2. Rhône River

The Rhône cruises take you through picturesque Provence and its lavender fields, vineyards, and ancient Roman ruins. You might also explore cities like Lyon, known for its culinary delights, and Avignon with its stunning medieval papal palace.

#3. Saône River

Often combined with the Rhône River cruises, the Saône River lets you discover the Burgundy region with its world-class wines and lush landscapes.

#4. Loire River

A cruise along the Loire River allows you to explore the scenic Loire Valley, known for its magnificent châteaux. Such as Château de Chambord and Château de Chenonceau.

#5. Garonne and Dordogne Rivers

These rivers flow through Bordeaux, one of the most famous wine regions in the world. A cruise here offers a blend of cultural experiences, wine tastings, and scenic beauty.

#6. Canal du Midi Cruise

This lesser-known route offers an intimate experience along the narrow canals of southern France. It passed through the scenic countryside and historical villages like Carcassonne.

Features Of French River Cruises

Here are some features of French river cruises:

#1. Cruise Duration

French river cruises can vary in length, ranging from a few days to several weeks. The duration often depends on the specific itinerary and the regions covered during the cruise.

#2. Cruise Operators

Several reputable cruise operators offer French river cruises. Some well-known companies include Viking River Cruises, and AmaWaterways among others.

#3. Scenic Views

One of the highlights of a river cruise is the ever-changing scenery. As you sail along the rivers, you’ll be treated to breathtaking landscapes, vineyards, charming villages, and picturesque countryside.

#4. Excursions

Most river cruises include guided excursions at various ports of call. These excursions are often led by local experts and may include city tours. Also, you may visit historical sites, taste wine, and have cultural experiences to help you immerse yourself in the local culture.

#5. Onboard Entertainment

River cruise ships offer various onboard amenities and entertainment options. Depending on the cruise line, you might enjoy live music, local performances, lectures, cooking demonstrations, and other enrichment activities.

#6. Season

The best time for a French river cruise depends on your preferences. Spring (April to June) and fall (September to November) are generally considered ideal, as the weather is pleasant, and the tourist crowds are smaller compared to the summer months.

#7. Culinary Delights

French cuisine is an integral part of the river cruise experience. Onboard meals often feature regional specialties and wines, allowing you to savor the delectable flavors of France.

#8. All-Inclusive Options

Some river cruise packages are all-inclusive, covering meals, excursions, and even beverages. However, it’s essential to check the specific inclusions before booking to ensure you have the experience you desire.

#9. River Cruise Ports

Depending on the itinerary, your river cruise may start or end in cities like Paris, Lyon, Bordeaux, Avignon, or other charming towns along the rivers.

Best French River Cruises Companies

Several river cruise operators offer exceptional experiences for exploring the best of France’s rivers and regions. The best river cruise can vary based on personal preferences, desired itinerary, and budget.

Here are some of the best French river cruises:

#1. Viking River Cruises

Viking is well-known for its high-quality river cruises, including those along the Seine, Rhône, and Saône rivers. They offer culturally enriching experiences, excellent service, and well-designed itineraries that cover iconic landmarks and hidden gems.

#2. Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Uniworld provides luxury river cruises with a focus on exquisite onboard experiences, including gourmet dining and elegant accommodations. Their French river cruises cover the Seine, Bordeaux region, and Burgundy, offering unique excursions and exclusive experiences.

#3. AmaWaterways

AmaWaterways offers intimate and immersive river cruises along the Seine and the Bordeaux region. They are known for their outstanding dining options, active excursions, and attention to detail.

#4. Avalon Waterways

With contemporary and spacious ships, Avalon Waterways offers cruises along the Seine and the Saône and Rhône rivers. Their panoramic windows and open-air balconies provide excellent views of the passing landscapes.

#5. Scenic Cruises

Dcenic offers all-inclusive luxury river cruises, including routes along the Seine and through the Bordeaux region. Their cruises often include unique experiences, such as exclusive events at historical châteaux.

#6. CroisiEurope

CroisiEurope is a family-owned cruise line that provides a wide range of French river cruises, catering to different budgets. They offer cruises along various French rivers, including the Seine, Rhône, Saône, and Loire.

#7. Tauck

Tauck is a luxury river cruise company that offers a range of excursions, cultural events, and dining experiences focused on an immersive exploration of France’s regions like the Seine, Rhone, and Bordeaux.

#8. European Waterways

European Waterways offers luxury barge cruises on canals and rivers throughout France, providing a more intimate and immersive experience for travelers.

Luxury French River Cruise

Luxury French river cruises offer a premium and indulgent travel experience. They combine the comforts of a high-end hotel with the enchantment of exploring the beautiful French countryside and culturally rich cities along its rivers.

Characteristics Of Luxury River Cruises

Here are some features of luxury French river cruises:

#1. Upscale Accommodations

Luxury river cruise ships feature spacious and elegantly appointed cabins or suites, often with modern amenities and plush furnishings. Some suites may include private balconies or panoramic windows for enjoying the stunning river views.

#2. Gourmet Dining

Fine dining is a hallmark of luxury river cruises. Passengers can expect gourmet meals prepared by skilled chefs, often incorporating the finest French ingredients and showcasing regional specialties.

#3. All-Inclusive Experience

Luxury river cruises often adopt an all-inclusive approach, where the upfront cost covers most aspects of the journey. Such as meals, excursions, gratuities, and sometimes even pre-cruise or post-cruise stays.

#4. Personalized Service

Expect a high staff-to-guest ratio on luxury river cruises, ensuring personalized and attentive service. Crew members are often well-trained and dedicated to meeting guests’ needs and preferences.

#5. Exclusive Excursions

Luxury river cruises frequently offer exclusive and immersive shore excursions led by knowledgeable local guides. These excursions may include private tours of iconic landmarks, visits to vineyards and châteaux, and other unique experiences not accessible to regular tourists.

#6. Wellness and Relaxation

Luxury river cruise ships often have wellness facilities, such as fitness centers, spas, and wellness programs, allowing guests to rejuvenate and pamper themselves during the journey.

#7. Intimate Atmosphere

Luxury river cruises tend to have smaller ships with fewer passengers, creating a more intimate and exclusive atmosphere on board.

Companies That Luxury River Cruise Services

Here are some luxury river cruise operators that offer exceptional experiences in France:

#1. Crystal River Cruises

Crystal Cruises brings its high standard of luxury to river cruising, offering experiences on the Seine and the Garonne and Dordogne rivers in the Bordeaux region. Their luxurious river yachts feature spacious suites, Michelin-inspired cuisine, and exceptional service.

#2. Belmond Afloat in France

Belmond offers a collection of luxurious barges that navigate the picturesque French waterways, including the Burgundy and Canal du Midi regions. These intimate, boutique-style cruises provide a highly personalized and exclusive experience.

#3. French Balloon

French Balloon is a luxury river cruise operator that offers unique and exclusive experiences in France. Their Balloons Over Paris cruise allows guests to enjoy breathtaking hot air balloon rides over the city of Paris.

#4. French Country Waterways

French Country Waterways operates intimate and upscale barge cruises through the picturesque canals and waterways of France. Their luxury barges accommodate a small number of guests, ensuring a personalized and attentive experience.

#4. Ponant

Ponant is a luxury expedition cruise company that offers some exceptional river cruises in France. They have expedition-style ships that navigate the Seine River. This helps in providing in-depth explorations of the region’s cultural and historical landmarks.

#5. Sanctuary Retreats

Sanctuary Retreats offers luxury river cruises on the Saône and Rhône rivers in France. Their ships feature elegant suites with panoramic windows. Their itineraries often include visits to renowned vineyards and historic towns.

#6. Amadeus River Cruises

Amadeus River Cruises provides luxury cruises on the Rhône and Saône rivers in France. Their ships feature spacious cabins and suites, fine dining options, and enriching excursions led by expert guides.

What Is The Best Month For A River Cruise In France?

The best month for a river cruise in France depends on the specific region. For the Bordeaux region, September and October are the ideal months, while the summer months of June to August are popular for a Seine River cruise. The Rhône River is best from June to late September. Overall, the summer months are the most popular, but the off-peak months of April, May, September, and October can also have pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It is recommended to research the specific region to plan accordingly.

How Much Is A River Cruise In Paris?

The price of a river cruise in Paris varies depending on the type of cruise and the company offering the cruise. However, prices for a Seine River cruise start at around 15 euros for a panoramic cruise. While lunch and dinner cruises may start at 40 euros and 50 euros, respectively. It is recommended to research various companies and compare prices and packages to find the best option that suits your budget and preferences.

How Much Is A Rhone River Cruise?

The cost of a Rhone River cruise varies depending on the type of cruise, the company, and the stateroom chosen. Prices for a Rhone River cruise can start from as low as $183 and move up to $6,898. It is recommended to research various companies and compare prices and packages to find the best option that suits your budget and preferences.

What Is The Prettiest River In France?

The prettiest river in France is subjective and depends on personal preferences. However, some of the most famous and beautiful rivers in France according to the provided search results include the Seine, the Lot, the Verdon, the Tarn, the Truyre, the Dordogne, and the Vilaine. The Dordogne River is known for its exceptional natural beauty, while the Seine River is perhaps the most famous.

Is The River Cruise In Paris Worth It?

A river cruise in Paris is highly recommended and worth it for several reasons. It offers unmatched views of iconic landmarks, a relaxing experience, and time-efficient sightseeing. Night cruises add a romantic touch, and guided commentary provides insightful information. With great photo opportunities and comfort, a river cruise is a delightful way to explore the beauty and charm of the “City of Love.

Do You Need a Passport For a River Cruise?

The need for a passport for a river cruise depends on various factors. Such as the destination of the river cruise, the cruise company, and the nationality of the traveler. If the river cruise involves crossing international borders or ending in a different country from the point of departure, a passport is required. For river cruises that remain within a single country, such as the United States or France, a passport may not be required. It is advisable to research the specific river cruise and destination to confirm passport requirements before booking and embarking on the trip.

What To Wear On Paris River Cruise?

The attire for a Paris River cruise varies depending on the company, the time of day, and the type of river cruise. However, for most river cruises, the dress code is smart casual. This means that dressier attire is preferred, but not required. For women, this could be a dressy top, an elegant blouse, or a nice dress. Men are expected to wear a collared shirt, dress pants, and shoes. Some companies may have slightly different dress codes, so it’s recommended to check with the specific company. There might be specific requirements or restrictions. It is always good to dress appropriately for the occasion and to dress according to the weather.

Why Do People Go On River Cruises?

People go on river cruises for a variety of reasons.

Here are some reasons:

To visit more intimate corners of the world and experience lands previously thought hard to get to by cruise.
It is an easy way to see a region with carefully planned itineraries.
It is a relaxed and intimate form of travel with fewer passengers allowing travelers to get to know each other.
Great all-inclusive experience as river cruises offer more inclusions than traditional cruises.
Good for individuals who desire a relaxed and all-inclusive travel experience.
Unexpectedly awesome experience for those in their 30s.
Accessible vacation option for people with disabilities.
Fun and exciting way to travel alone or with a group.

Conclusion

The best French river cruises offer a captivating journey through the heart of France. It showcases its stunning landscapes, picturesque villages, historic cities, and renowned vineyards. These cruises often traverse iconic waterways like the Seine, Rhone, and Saone, providing travelers with a mix of cultural immersion. Culinary delights, and enriching guided excursions. Onboard, passengers can indulge in luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and attentive service, enhancing the overall experience.

The best French river cruises are offered by companies such as Avalon Bateaux de Paris, European River Cruises, CroisiEurope, and Tauck. These companies offer river cruises in various French regions such as Avignon, Lyon, Arles, and Paris, as well as along various rivers such as the Rhine, Rhone, Saone, and Seine. They provide upscale accommodations, gourmet dining, exclusive excursions, and personalized service. All-inclusive packages cover meals and gratuities. While enriching activities and scenic views add to the memorable journey through France’s history, culture, and natural beauty.