Great Solo Traveller Prices - Premium Ship: Single Supplement only $1,610
CroisiCruise: PNR_PP
8 Days
Paris | Melun | Paris | Mantes-La-Jolie | Caudebec-En-Caux | Rouen | La Roche-Guyon | Paris
Retrace the course of history and let yourself be carried away by the currents of the Seine on a unique cruise aboard a paddlewheel boat—an invitation to travel and to the elegance of another era. Sail in complete serenity on this exceptional vessel, where the timeless charm of the paddlewheels’ gentle motion accompanies each stopover, blending heritage, nature, and art.
From Paris to Normandy, discover iconic places where the splendor of royal castles, the charm of Norman villages, and the vibrancy of historic cities come together. From the Île de la Cité to Rouen, passing through the majestic estates of Versailles and Fontainebleau, each stop is an invitation to wonder. Immerse yourself in Monet’s Impressionist world in Giverny, explore the history of navigation at the MuséoSeine, and stroll through landscapes that have inspired the greatest artists.
Between tradition and modernity, let yourself be enchanted by the timeless atmosphere of your paddlewheel boat, where elegance, culture, and serenity blend harmoniously, offering you an unforgettable experience along the water.
THE CROISIEUROPE DIFFERENCE
- Gala dinner and evening : Welcome cocktail
- All meals included : Refined European cuisine, with table service for lunch & dinner
- Drinks included : With meals
- Open bar : Including Cocktails, Mocktails, Regional wines, Beer, Spirits & Soft drinks (excluding premium list)
- Free Wi-Fi in lounge and bar
- Headsets included for excursions
- Official welcome from the captain and crew
- Onboard activities
- Travel assistance and repatriation insurance
- All port fees included
- Prepaid Classic Sightseeing package
CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS
- Only with CroisiEurope
- Navigation aboard a paddle-wheel boat
- Onboard Conference
- THE MUST-SEE SITES:
- Fontainebleau Castle, residence of kings and emperors
- The majestic world of Versailles Palace
- Rouen, the city of a hundred bell towers and the fascinating epic of Joan of Arc
- The charm of La Roche-Guyon, one of the "Most Beautiful Villages of France"
- The enchanting world of Claude Monet in Giverny
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- Itinerary
- Important Information
Day 1: Paris
Passengers are welcome to board the ship at 6:00p.m. After comfortably settling into your cabin, you will be introduced to the crew at a welcome cocktail in the lounge. The City of Light, the French capital, shines brightly after dark. From the river, you will be dazzled by the illuminated Parisian landmarks and the spectacular light displays that bring the city to life. Dinner on board and overnight navigation.
Day 2: Melun
This morning, as you sail along the Seine, you will discover a variety of landscapes, blending historical monuments, picturesque villages, and unspoiled nature. From the sun deck, you can take in breathtaking views of the riverbanks and the peaceful serenity of the river.
Afternoon proposed excursion:
CLASSIC/DISCOVERY: Visit the Château de Fontainebleau (2). This magnificent royal château, combining Renaissance and classical styles, was home to 34 kings and 2 emperors for nearly eight centuries. With its 1,500 rooms, it is one of the largest and most richly furnished châteaux in France. A true witness to both the official and intimate life of the French sovereigns throughout the centuries, it perfectly embodies the French art of living. Its magnificent gardens, designed by Le Nôtre, invite you to a leisurely stroll.
(2) The visit to the Château de Fontainebleau will be replaced by Vaux-le-Vicomte Castle on Tuesdays, Sunday afternoons, and exceptional closure days of Fontainebleau Castle
Day 3: Melun - Paris
This morning cruise from Melun to Paris along the winding course of the Seine. Each stage of the journey, from the locks to the picturesque riverbanks, tells a story and invites quiet contemplation.
Afternoon, proposed excursions:
CLASSICAL: Île de la Cité. Explore the birthplace of Paris on foot. You will admire the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral (interior), a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. After the devastating 2019 fire, the cathedral has regained its splendor and continues to embody the history and soul of Paris. Strolling through the picturesque streets of the island, you will reach the Sainte-Chapelle (exterior), renowned for its exceptional stained glass windows, where multicolored light depicts biblical scenes. Your visit will conclude at the Pont Neuf, the city's oldest bridge, offering a stunning view of the Seine and its romantic quays.
DISCOVERY: Discover Paris by sidecar. Whether alone or in pairs, enjoy an intimate, open-air tour with a full 360° view. You will explore the capital’s must-see landmarks as well as its hidden treasures, accompanied by your local driver. Sharing insights and anecdotes, you will ride through the Latin Quarter and Saint-Germain or Montmartre, experiencing Paris like never before.
Overnight navigation.
Day 4: Poissy - Mantes-La-Jolie
Morning proposed excursions:
CLASSICAL: The Château of Versailles (4). Versailles is one of the most famous and prestigious monuments of 17th-century French art. "It is not a palace, it is an entire city. Superb in its grandeur, superb in its substance," wrote Charles Perrault about this splendid historical monument, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From the Hall of Mirrors to the King’s Apartments, from the Trianon Estate to the breathtaking gardens, every step is an adventure, and everything is a marvel.
DISCOVERY: The Gardens of Versailles: A Stroll in the Footsteps of Le Nôtre (4) Discover the Versailles estate from a new perspective through its vast vistas, the carefully arranged groves, the abundance of sculptures, the richness of the flora, and the profusion of water features and their fascinating history. In 1661, King Louis XIV entrusted André Le Nôtre with the creation and design of the gardens of Versailles, considering them as important as the Château itself. Let yourself be guided through the world’s largest openair museum.
(4) Closed on Mondays. Guaranteed for a minimum of 25 participants—below this threshold or on Mondays, the excursion is replaced by a visit to Malmaison Castle, a major site of the Napoleonic Empire.
Day 5: Caudebec-En-Caux - Rouen
Morning proposed excursions
CLASSIC: Caudebec-en-Caux and the MuséoSeine Museum.
CLASSIC: Caudebec-en-Caux and the MuséoSeine Museum.
Now known as Rives-en-Seine, explore the historic center of Caudebec-en-Caux on foot. Admire the Notre-Dame church, a masterpiece of 15th-century Flamboyant Gothic architecture, distinguished by its stunning stained glass windows, spectacular rose window, and delicate sculptures. The visit continues with the MuséoSeine Museum, an interactive space that immerses you in the history of river navigation and life along the Seine. With scale models, exhibitions, and captivating stories, the museum illustrates the vital role of the Seine in the region.
DISCOVERY: The Château du Taillis.
Discover this Renaissance jewel in Normandy through a guided tour led by its passionate owner. He will take you through the major stages of its construction and the fascinating history of the families who shaped this unique estate. Step into the elegance of the 18th century as you explore the grand salons and emblematic rooms of the Age of Enlightenment.
This afternoon, cruise towards Rouen, the city of a hundred spires. As you approach, take in the breathtaking views of its quays and the majestic cathedral.
Day 6: Rouen - La Roche Guyon
Morning proposed excursions:
CLASSIC: Guided tour of Rouen. The heritage of the "city of a hundred spires" is particularly rich, and its history is as fascinating as it is diverse. Joan of Arc, Gustave Flaubert, Pierre Corneille, Claude Monet, and William the Conqueror all played a role in making Rouen famous. The city boasts a unique collection of civil and religious monuments spanning from the Middle Ages to the present day. Harmoniously blending tradition and modernity, this Norman city is home to both ancient marvels and contemporary street art.
DISCOVERY: The Joan of Arc Historial (limited availability - must be pre-booked). Located in the Archbishop’s Palace, this immersive museum offers a multisensory experience, allowing you to relive the major moments of Joan of Arc’s trial through reenactments, projections, and interactive storytelling. Explore the very places where she was judged and uncover different facets of this legendary heroine through authentic testimonies and historical documents.
This afternoon cruise along picturesque Norman villages, where you will discover a region rich in history and culture. Upon arriving in La Roche-Guyon, admire its castle perched on a rocky spur overlooking the river. Spend the afternoon cruising. Tonight is a festive gala evening.
Day 7: La Roche Guyon - Paris
Morning proposed excursions:
CLASSIC: La Roche-Guyon and its château. Nestled between the Seine and a chalk cliff, La RocheGuyon is one of the most beautiful villages in France. You will visit its château, a fascinating blend of medieval and classical architecture, with its fortified tower perched atop the cliff, offering breathtaking views of the valley. You will explore its historic rooms and stroll through the French-style gardens designed by Le Nôtre, featuring vegetable patches and medicinal plants. Finally, you will wander through the village’s picturesque streets, full of history and bucolic charm.
DISCOVERY: Visit to Claude Monet’s house(5) and gardens. The famous Impressionist painter lived for forty-three years in his house in Giverny. An avant-garde artist, Monet is recognized as one of the pioneers of the Impressionist movement, making light the central "character" of his breathtaking landscapes. His long career and colorful works embody the transition from tradition to modernity. As you explore the artist’s studio and his iconic "water garden", you will be captivated by the magic of the place, the moment, and the elements.
This afternoon cruise towards Paris. Tonight there will be a Gala evening on board.
(5) The Claude Monet House is open from April 1st to November 1st. Outside these dates, the visit is replaced by La Roche-Guyon and its castle.
Day 8: Paris
One last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. End of our services.
INCLUSIONS:
- Your cruise with all meals from dinner the first evening to breakfast on the final day
- Onboard drinks included (except for drinks from the special lists)
- Double-occupancy cabin with shower in bathroom
- Assistance from the onboard multi-lingual host/hostess
- Welcome cocktail
- Gala evening
- Onboard entertainment
- Travel assistance and repatriation insurance
- All port fees
- Prepaid Classic sightseeing package.
EXCLUSIONS:
- Drinks from the special lists, or drinks ordered during excursions or transfers
- Cancellation and baggage insurance
- Optional excursions
- Transfers to/from departure/arrival points
- Personal expenses
For navigation safety reasons, the company and the captain have the sole authority to modify the cruise itinerary. This cruise is influenced by the tide, and arrival times at ports of call may be adjusted.
Trip prices and dates are correct at the time of the website going live, however all offers are subject to reconfirmation at the time of booking. All featured tour itineraries and offers may be subject to change due to seasonal variations without notice, or due to local conditions or other conditions. Please confirm all details at time of booking. Travel insurance is mandatory for all Innovative Travel bookings. All passports must be valid for 6 months prior to your return to your home country. Visas are the responsibility of the traveller. Special VIP meet and assist offers are available in some destinations for New Zealand passport holders, for other nationalities please check at the time of booking. For full terms and conditions, please refer to our Booking Conditions page.