Ultimate France - Uniworld · 2017-02-18 · Travel Documents Passports: All Uniworld river cruises require a passport. In most cases, passports must be valid for six (6) months after

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Ultimate France

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Icon/Letter Code Legend

The symbols below will help guide you through the

descriptions of the daily itineraries. They will give you

an idea of the length and pace of the excursions, and

they will note which meals are provided.

Uniworld Signature Icons

u UNESCO Site b Motorcoach

e Embark/Disembark S Boat

Dining Letter Codes

CB Continental Breakfast BB Buffet Breakfast

L Lunch D Dinner

WD Welcome Gala Dinner FD Farewell Gala Dinner

Tour Duration Icons

5 1/4 Day 7 1/2 Day

9 3/4 Day 8 Full Day

Shore Excursion IconsAll tours involve walking unless strictly noted as a

panoramic tour. In many cases, the walking takes place

over uneven ground, cobblestones or flagstone walkways,

and several tours involve stairs or short uphill climbs.

Please wear comfortable, non-skid walking shoes while

on all tours. These symbols give an idea of what to

expect on each program.

1 Easy walking

Includes walking of 15 minutes or less from multiple

motorcoach stops to and around historical sites.

Possibly some steps, or gentle uphill and downhill walks.

2 Intermediate walking

Includes walks of up to two hours on uneven terrain.

Limited seating at sites. Multiple stairs and/or uphill/

downhill walking.

3 Strenuous walking

Involves walking at all sites. Many stairs and uphill/

downhill passages. Those with physical limitations

and those who may need private arrangements

should contact the Cruise Manager when onboard.

W E L C O M E

Our world begins with youThank you for selecting Uniworld Boutique River Cruise

Collection. We want to do everything we can to ensure

you have the most enjoyable and worry-free vacation.

With that in mind, we have prepared this booklet for

you, so you can plan your trip with the greatest of ease.

Consider it a guideline to help you get ready for your

upcoming trip. It contains valuable tips and advice

on what to pack, your flight and transfer experience,

onboard information, day-to-day details and much more.

We highly look forward to hosting you onboard our

beautifully appointed ships and making your vacation

the most memorable and enjoyable experience possible.

Sincerely,

The Uniworld Team

COVER: Bordeaux, France ▲ Paris, France

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C R U I S E C O M PA N I O N

Helpful Hints Before You Go

4 Travel Documents Passports

Visa Requirements

Passenger Information Form

Travel Protection Plan

5 Cruise Documentation Final Documentation Includes

6 Baggage Limitations

6 Travel Essentials

7 Health and Mobility Physical Limitations

Medical

Special Diets

8 General Money Matters ATMs

Currency Exchange

Credit Cards and Travelers Checks

Transaction Fees

Getting There

9 Airport Security and Check-In

9 Transfers Airport Arrival Transfers

Airport Departure Transfers

Private Car Transfers

Guests with Independent Arrangements

Late Flight Arrivals and Missed Flights

Baggage Delays

12 Pre- or Post-Cruise Optional Extension

13 Hotel Check-In and Hotel Check-Out

13 Embarkation and Disembarkation Embarkation

Disembarkation

About Your Uniworld Cruise Package and Onboard and Onshore Services

14 Dining

14 Elevators

14 Fitness Center

14 Front Desk

15 Gift Shop

15 Go Active

15 Gratuities

15 Health and Hygiene

15 Ice Machine

15 Internet Access

16 Laundry

16 Lounge and Coffee Station

16 Mail

16 Mooring and Docking Facilities

16 Quietvox

17 Responsibility and Waiver

17 Safety Deposit Box

17 Shopping

17 Shore Excursions

17 Smoking

18 Spa Treatments and Massage

18 Stateroom and Suite Amenities

18 Sun Deck Access

18 Visitors

18 Water

18 Weather

19 What to Wear

19 Omissions

20 Frequently Asked Questions

2 0 1 7 R I V E R C R U I S E P R O G R A M

Ultimate France

23 Avignon to Bordeaux / 22 Days

47 Bordeaux to Avignon / 22 Days

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Whenever using a visa service, it is highly recommended

that you provide the service with a copy of your entire

travel itinerary. There are times when multiple-entry visas

may be required, or when there may be restrictions to

entering one country from another depending on your

nationality. If the service does not have your full itinerary,

this may result in improperly issued documentation.

Passenger Information Form: By now, you should have

completed the Uniworld Passenger Information Form.

The information on this form is used to comply with

certain foreign government and airline security

restrictions in advance of your arrival onboard our ships.

If you have completed this form, we thank you for your

prompt attention. If you have not completed this form,

please visit our website at uniworld.com and complete

the online Passenger Information Form in the “Already

Booked” section. Each guest must complete the form.

Travel Protection Plan: Uniworld strongly recommends

that each guest purchase a Travel Protection Plan. Please

carry all policy information with you during the course of

your trip.

During the cruise, it is advisable to have copies of

important documents (i.e., first page of your passport,

photo, credit card numbers and bank/credit card

company phone numbers) in a separate packet, in case

the originals are lost or stolen.

Cruise DocumentationUniworld sends all final cruise and air documents

between 21 and 30 days prior to your trip departure,

provided that Uniworld has received a completed

Passenger Information Form and your booking is paid

in full. All documents are sent via a priority mail delivery

service, such as UPS or FedEx.

Final Documentation Includes:

▶ Cruise Ticket

▶ Passenger Ticket Contract (which is legally binding

between Uniworld and each guest)

▶ Airline Tickets or E-Ticket Confirmation (if international

air ticket was purchased from Uniworld)

▶ Cruise Companion

▶ Baggage Tags

▶ Leave-Behind Communication Card

▶ Travel Protection Plan Pamphlet (if Uniworld travel

protection was purchased)

▶ Pre- or Post-Cruise Optional Extension Information

(if optional extension was purchased)

Helpful Hints Before You Go

Travel DocumentsPassports: All Uniworld river cruises require a passport.

In most cases, passports must be valid for six (6) months

after the scheduled return date from the trip. Each guest

is fully responsible for obtaining and carrying the travel

documents necessary for his or her travel itinerary.

Uniworld will not be responsible for any delays, damages

and/or losses, including missed portions of your trip,

related to improper or absent travel documents.

Visa Requirements: No visas are required for US or

Canadian citizens on the itinerary shown in this

booklet. Non-US or non-Canadian citizens must contact

each consulate of the country or countries to be visited

for specific requirements. Information for US citizens

and Canadian citizens can also be found at uniworld.

com in the “Already Booked” section. All guests are

strongly advised to obtain necessary visas well in

advance of departure to avoid unnecessary expedited

processing charges.

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Baggage LimitationsAirline baggage restrictions change frequently, and

each guest needs to check with his or her specific air

carrier for limitations concerning baggage weight,

baggage size, carry-on regulations, and excess or

overweight baggage charges. This information can

be found on the carrier’s website or on Uniworld’s

website at uniworld.com/baggage. Remember to

check for both international (over the water) and

domestic (intracontinental) regulations, as limitations

differ depending on flight routings. Overweight or

excess baggage charges vary, and guests who exceed

an airline’s recommended limit may be asked by the

airline to pay fees ranging from $25 to $80 US dollars

(USD), or possibly more, per infraction.

Onboard the ship and motorcoaches, storage space

is very limited. Therefore, for your comfort and

convenience on the cruise as well as on pre- or post-

cruise optional extensions we ask that you bring

one (1) suitcase per person and one (1) carry-on bag

per person (excluding purses). Please note that there

may be a fee assessed on-site for excess baggage.

Keep an eye on your baggage and all personal

belongings—they are solely your responsibility throughout

the trip. Uniworld is not responsible for loss, theft or

damage to baggage and personal belongings. A Travel

Protection Plan covering lost, stolen or damaged

baggage is highly recommended.

Travel EssentialsThe following items are essential for any destination:

comfortable walking shoes, sunglasses, sunscreen, a hat,

an umbrella, and a lightweight raincoat or outerwear

garment appropriate for the seasonal weather conditions.

It is recommended that you bring duplicates of

prescription eyewear, copies of prescriptions for any

medication, copies of credit card information and copies

of your passport information pages. Make sure that your

baggage has identification tags both inside and outside

with your contact information and address clearly

marked. Do not pack valuables or important medication

in your checked baggage unless required to do so by

your airline; these should be carried with you in your

carry-on baggage. Please contact your air carrier for

any additional regulations.

Health and MobilityPhysical Limitations: Uniworld trips are exciting,

relatively active vacations. While there will be plenty

of time to relax, there will also be much to see and do.

Your included excursions generally require an extensive

amount of walking, as well as navigating numerous steps

and cobblestone streets. During shore excursions, guests

with physical limitations will find access to sites generally

restricted. For your safety and enjoyment, we recommend

that all guests be in good physical condition.

In addition, river ships, while spacious and elegant, are

not in compliance with the Americans with Disabilities

Act, and some do not have elevators. Uniworld, at its

sole discretion, reserves the right to refuse passage or

to require a current passenger to end his or her trip if

the passenger’s state of health or physical condition

may affect his or her own health, safety and enjoyment,

or that of other passengers.

The use of mobility devices such as wheelchairs, walkers,

scooters, etc. is not recommended for travel in Europe,

and such devices cannot be readily obtained in the region.

Medical: Uniworld does not employ staff nurses or

doctors onboard its ships, nor can the onboard gift shop

carry medications that are sold over the counter in the

US and other countries (most European nations allow

the sale of medications by licensed pharmacies only).

Should you require medical attention, you will need to

obtain it at local facilities at your own expense. Uniworld

is not responsible for any costs incurred as a result of

medical service or for the quality of medical care

received. A Travel Protection Plan covering medical

expenses is highly recommended.

Special Diets: Please advise us of any special dietary

restrictions in advance of your departure. This information

will be provided to the proper personnel. To the extent

possible, and in consideration of local conditions, every

effort will be made to accommodate your needs. It is the

guest’s responsibility to provide us with as much detail

as necessary concerning any medically related dietary

concerns. Not all dietary requests can be accommodated,

and we appreciate your understanding in this matter.

Dietary restrictions should be reiterated to the service

staff at the time of placing orders in restaurants.

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General Money MattersThe currency in France is the euro. The euro comes in

banknote denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and

500. One euro is divided into 100 cents, and coin

denominations are 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, or 1 euro

and 2 euros.

Uniworld features a “cashless” environment onboard, and

all charges are billed directly to each guest’s onboard

account. Currency accepted onboard for settlement of

final bills is either the euro or US dollar (the total amount

will be converted into US dollars based on the onboard

exchange rate). The major credit cards accepted are

Visa, MasterCard and American Express, and these will

incur extra bank charges for transactions, which will be

your responsibility. Please contact your bank and/or

credit card companies to let them know that you will be

leaving the country to avoid any problems using your

debit and/or credit card(s) overseas.

ATMs: The ship does not have ATMs onboard, but ATMs

linked to major bank networks can be found throughout

Europe. Most debit and major credit cards can be used

for cash withdrawals ashore. Your bank can tell you

which network your ATM card can access and whether a

debit or credit card must be used. Make sure you have

the correct PIN for the card you plan to use before

leaving home, as the PIN is required for all money

withdrawals. It is also recommended that you bring an

overseas contact number for your bank or credit card

company in case you require assistance while traveling.

Currency Exchange: Limited currency exchange is

available onboard for the exchange of cash only (US

dollars and euros). Credit cards cannot be accepted for

money exchange. All hotels and major tourist sites have

exchange facilities. We recommend that you do not carry

euro bills in denominations greater than ¤100, as many

merchants are hesitant to accept them due to

counterfeiting. Local banks can break larger bills into

smaller denominations for you.

Credit Cards and Travelers Checks: Most major credit

cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) are accepted

worldwide. There may be some stores or locations where

cash is preferred or where a particular credit card cannot

be used for purchases. We recommend bringing at least

one major credit card, as well as an ATM card that is

both a debit and credit card. It is not advisable to bring

Travelers Checks, as it is becoming increasingly difficult

to cash them at local banks.

Transaction Fees: Please note currency exchange

transactions and ATM cash withdrawals always involve

transaction fees. It is always best to inquire as to the fee

before exchanging any money. ATMs will typically ask

you if you accept the fee before enabling the transaction.

Note: ¤ = Euro.

Getting There

Airport Security and Check-InIt is advisable to contact the airline in advance of your

departure to verify that there have been no changes to

the flight number or schedule found on your travel

documents. After your travel documents are issued and

sent to you, Uniworld is not responsible for notifying

guests of any changes in flight schedules.

Please make sure you arrive at the airport at least two

and a half (2.5) hours prior to your scheduled departure

to complete check-in and security procedures. For peak

travel times, you may want to arrive three (3) hours prior

to your scheduled departure time.

TransfersAirport Arrival Transfers: If your cruise package includes

a group arrival transfer (and your flights coincide with

our transfer guidelines and have been communicated to

Uniworld), or if you have purchased a private arrival

transfer from Uniworld, you will be greeted by a Uniworld

representative and transferred to the ship or hotel.

Transfers are only provided on the actual start day of the

cruise. Guests who have purchased a pre-cruise optional

extension will also be met by a Uniworld representative

at the airport of the city in which the extension is to take

place. You will be met as you exit the secure customs

area. Please claim all of your baggage before exiting the

baggage claim area. Porterage services at the airport are

not included.

Please note that transfers are nonrefundable. There may

be a waiting period of up to two (2) hours for scheduled

airport transfers, depending on groupings of flight

arrivals. Uniworld will not be responsible for late arrivals

or missed transfers due to delayed, changed, canceled or

missed flights; for missed cruise or extension days; or for

extra costs resulting from delayed, changed, canceled or

missed flights.

Flight information and pre-trip arrangements for all

guests making their own flight arrangements must

be given to Uniworld no later than 45 days prior to

departure in order for transfers to be properly arranged.

Your flight arrangements must also be made in

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accordance with Uniworld’s recommended transfer

guidelines. For complete details, please see the “Terms

and Conditions” section of our current brochure or our

website, uniworld.com.

Guests who have purchased extra nights with a Uniworld

optional extension will be provided private transfers as

part of the extra nights purchase as long as Uniworld has

received their flight information no later than 45 days

prior to departure.

If your cruise package does not include transfers (i.e., for

flights outside Uniworld’s recommended transfer time

guidelines or if flight details have not been communicated

to Uniworld in time), then please make your way to the

ship or hotel as per your itinerary at your own expense.

Airport Departure Transfers: If your cruise package

includes a group departure transfer (and your flights

coincide with our transfer guidelines and have been

communicated to Uniworld), or if you have purchased a

private departure transfer from Uniworld, you will be

transferred to the airport for your flight home. Transfers

are only provided on the actual end day of the cruise.

Guests who have purchased a post-cruise land extension

will be transferred from the ship to the hotel and from

the hotel to the airport accordingly. Porterage services

at the airport are not included.

In accordance with Uniworld’s transfer guidelines, all

guests making their own flight arrangements are

required to provide Uniworld with their flight information

and post-trip arrangements no later than 45 days prior

to departure in order to receive transfers. For complete

details, please see the “Terms and Conditions” section

of our current brochure or our website, uniworld.com.

Guests who have purchased extra nights with a Uniworld

optional extension will be provided private transfers as

long as Uniworld has received their flight information no

later than 45 days prior to departure.

If your cruise package does not contain transfers (i.e.,

for flights outside Uniworld’s recommended transfer

time guidelines or if flight details have not been

communicated to Uniworld in time), then please make

your way from the ship or hotel as per your trip

itinerary at your own expense.

Private Car Transfers: Guests who make independent

flight arrangements and arrive outside Uniworld’s

recommended transfer time guidelines can purchase

private car transfers from Uniworld at an additional cost.

Private car transfers are only available on the cruise start

and end dates.

Please ask your preferred Travel Professional or Uniworld

for details. In some locations, private transfers are not

available due to the distance between the airport arrival

city and the port of embarkation and disembarkation.

Guests with Independent Arrangements: For guests

who are making their own way to the ship and who

are not using Uniworld’s transfer options, we strongly

suggest that you call the ship to determine its exact

location before proceeding to the dock. The ship’s

telephone number will be shown on your Cruise Ticket.

Docking assignments for river cruise vessels can change

at the last minute, and the information provided on your

Cruise Ticket about the expected docking location could

be incorrect on your day of arrival. It is not possible for

Uniworld to notify guests making their own way to the

ship of any last-minute changes.

Late Flight Arrivals and Missed Flights: If your package

includes a Uniworld arrival transfer and you experience

a travel delay of any kind, please proceed as follows:

Advise an airline representative at the airport that you

are a cruise passenger set to sail that day or the

following day.

Upon clearing customs in the cruise or extension start

city, look for the Uniworld representative outside the

customs area. Depending on the nature of the delay,

Uniworld’s ground staff may be able to track flight

changes. If your flight arrangements were drastically

altered, it is unlikely that the ground staff will be notified

in time of your specific flight changes. And due to

security protocols enacted after September 11, 2001,

airlines very rarely provide updated flight information to

third parties.

If you cannot find the Uniworld representative, please

contact the Transfer Provider in your arrival city. Their

contact information is shown in the transfer section of

your Cruise Ticket. If unable to match you up with a

scheduled group transfer, the Transfer Provider will

ask you to make your way to the ship or hotel at your

own expense. Costs incurred due to missed transfers

are the responsibility of the guest, and in most cases,

compensation can be obtained from your Travel

Protection Plan provider or airline carrier.

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If your delay is serious enough that you miss the starting

point of your cruise, you will need to get to the next stop

on the ship’s itinerary at your own expense. Using the

ship’s phone number shown on your Cruise Ticket, please

contact the ship for its exact location on your revised

date of arrival. The ship’s personnel will advise you on

the best course of action. Uniworld is not responsible for

missed transfers or additional costs incurred in getting to

the next destination due to missed or delayed flights.

Baggage Delays: Baggage delays do unfortunately

occur from time to time, especially during peak travel

periods. First and foremost, do not leave the baggage

area without completing a Lost Baggage Report with

your air carrier. This report is essential to the tracking

of your claim. If traveling with a companion, we

recommend that one (1) person exit the baggage

claim area and locate the transfer representative to

inform him or her of the situation. This will allow the

representative to ensure that transfers are properly

provided. Give the air carrier a copy of your travel

itinerary and the ship’s contact information. Report

your lost baggage to the Uniworld representative and

provide your Uniworld Cruise Manager with a copy of

your Lost Baggage Report. This will assist our staff in

helping to locate your baggage as quickly as possible.

Uniworld is not responsible for loss, theft, or damage to

baggage and/or personal belongings. A protection plan

covering lost, stolen or damaged baggage is available

through the Uniworld Travel Protection Plan.

Pre- or Post-Cruise Optional ExtensionAll Uniworld land programs are fully hosted by a

Uniworld local host who will be on hand during your stay

to provide you with information and assistance. Daily

breakfast, transfers and porterage are also included.

Most feature at least one (1) special sightseeing program.

Guests on a pre-cruise optional extension will receive a

welcome briefing from the on-site Uniworld representative

the evening of the first day of the extension. Guests on a

post-cruise optional extension will receive their briefing

onboard the ship prior to disembarkation. This briefing

will familiarize you with the scheduled program and

provide additional information about excursions, dining

recommendations, shopping tips and more. Details of

your pre- or post-cruise optional extension are included

with your final documents.

Hotel Check-In and Hotel Check-OutPlease note that every effort is made to ensure that your

hotel room is available and ready for occupancy upon

your arrival at the hotel. This is not always possible due

to differences in hotel check-in times and scheduled

airport-to-hotel transfers. Most hotels do not allow

check-in earlier than 2:00 pm. If you arrive at the hotel

before 2:00 pm, you may need to wait until the room

becomes available. Hotel check-out must be no later

than 12:00 pm.

Embarkation and DisembarkationEmbarkation: Guests are to embark no later than two

(2) hours prior to the scheduled sailing time.

Ultimate France (Avignon to Bordeaux)—the ship sails

at 7:00 pm on embarkation day.

Ultimate France (Bordeaux to Avignon)—the ship will

overnight the first night in the embarkation city.

All times shown are subject to change without notice.

Uniworld is not responsible for any loss, damages,

personal costs or inconvenience incurred due to

such changes.

On embarkation day, the ship is being cleaned and

prepared for your arrival. Most of the ship’s facilities,

including your stateroom or suite, will not be available

before 3:00 pm. We appreciate your understanding and

cooperation. Should you arrive at the ship earlier than

3:00 pm, you may leave your baggage at the Front Desk

and take a walk in the area or relax in the lounge.

Please keep your hand baggage with you at all times.

Complimentary coffee, water and light snacks will be

available for your enjoyment.

Disembarkation: About two (2) evenings before your

departure from the ship, your Cruise Manager will brief

all guests about what to expect on the morning of

disembarkation and what time to have baggage available

for pick-up, and will distribute any documentation

necessary to make your departure as smooth as possible.

All guests must vacate their staterooms and suites no

later than 8:00 am the day of disembarkation so the staff

and crew can prepare for the next group of guests.

Breakfast hours are coordinated around airport transfer

times, which, in some cases, can be very early in the

morning. It is not unusual in some destinations to have

airport transfers as early as 4:00 am. In such cases, we

will provide guests with coffee, tea, juices and pastries

from our 24-hour coffee station.

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About Your Uniworld Cruise Package and Onboard and Onshore Services

DiningYour ship’s onboard restaurant provides a relaxed

environment and accommodates all guests with

open seating. It offers both local and international

cuisine. Breakfast and lunch are sumptuous buffets,

while evenings feature specialties of the chef and

regional dishes.

All beverages are included (excluding premium wine and

premium spirits) during your cruise.

In addition, al fresco dining may be available on the

Sun Deck on scheduled nights, weather permitting.

Reservations are necessary as space is limited.

Reservations can only be made onboard the ship.

All meal times are scheduled around tour departures,

and breakfast can take place very early in the morning.

Please notify Uniworld immediately if you have any

special dietary concerns or considerations that need to

be taken into account while traveling with us. We will do

our best to ensure that your request is accommodated,

but we cannot guarantee that every request can be met

in all cases.

ElevatorsThe S.S. Catherine is equipped with an elevator that

services all decks except the Sun Deck. A chair lift

connects the Camargue Deck with the Sun Deck.

The S.S. Joie de Vivre is equipped with an elevator that

services all decks except the Sun Deck. A chair lift

connects the Victor Hugo Deck with the Sun Deck.

The River Royale is equipped with an elevator that

services all decks except the La Durance Deck and the

Sun Deck. A chair lift connects the La Gironde Deck

with the Sun Deck.

Fitness CenterThe Fitness Center is open 24 hours a day. Use of the

fitness equipment is at your own risk.

Front DeskThe Front Desk operates 24 hours a day. The Night

Receptionist will make hourly safety checks of the ship.

Gift ShopThere is a gift shop onboard with a limited selection of

toiletries, souvenirs and other sundries. All purchases

are charged to your shipboard account. The hours of

operation are adjusted to each day’s program.

Please note: No over-the-counter medications are available, in accordance with European laws.

Go ActiveComplimentary bicycles and Nordic walking sticks are

available for your onshore enjoyment. Bicycle and walking

paths are easily accessible from some of the ports of call.

Your Cruise Manager can offer recommendations. The

number of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks available

is limited, and they can only be reserved through the

Front Desk 24 hours in advance of the time you wish

to use them (or on the day of, if available). Their use is

solely at your own risk; all guests must sign a release

form prior to using bicycles or Nordic walking sticks.

GratuitiesAll tips and gratuities are included during the cruise portion

of your trip as well as on pre- and post-cruise optional

extensions purchased in conjunction with your cruise.

Health and HygieneAs part of our commitment to a clean, safe and healthy

onboard environment, Uniworld practices a strict

sanitization protocol on our ships. To assist us in this

important matter, we kindly ask all guests to frequently

wash their hands and to consistently use the hand-

sanitizer machines when entering the ship and when

entering the restaurant. The machines are located just

inside the main entrance to the ship and at the entrance

to the restaurant. We thank you in advance for your

cooperation in this very important matter.

Ice MachineFor your convenience, a self-service ice machine is

located at the entrance of the lounge. Please ask the

bartender for an ice bucket when required.

Internet AccessLaptop computers allowing you to send and receive

emails and to access the Internet can be borrowed from

the Front Desk. In addition, you may use your own laptop

computer to access our Wireless Internet Service (Wi-Fi).

Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship and is generally best

in the main lounge. The use of laptops and Wi-Fi service

is complimentary.

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Please note: The Internet connection might not be available in remote areas or when transiting locks. Expect the connectivity speed to be slower than your home connection and not suitable for services requiring a high bandwidth such as Skype or YouTube.

LaundryA laundrette containing a self-service washing machine,

dryer and iron is available for your use onboard the

S.S Catherine and the S.S. Joie de Vivre (detergent is

available at the Front Desk); there is no self-service

launderette onboard the River Royale. There are no dry

cleaning facilities. The ships also provide washing, drying

and ironing services for a fee.

Lounge and Coffee StationThe onboard lounge provides spectacular, expansive

views at every turn. Relax in the comfort of soft chairs

and sofas upholstered in fine fabrics and leathers. Enjoy

our full-service bar and dance the night away to the

music of our onboard pianist.

The coffee station is located in the main lounge.

Complimentary coffees and teas are available here

24 hours a day. The lounge also serves specialty coffees

and finely brewed teas on order.

MailStamps are available for purchase at the Front Desk. Mail

is posted daily unless local mail facilities are not available.

Uniworld is not responsible for mail that is not properly

delivered to the addressee by the postal service.

Mooring and Docking FacilitiesLocal river authorities allocate docking space based upon

ship arrivals and departures in port. Typically, river ships

dock facing upstream, against the current. Occasionally,

port conditions require ships to tie up alongside each

other, in which case guests may be required to walk

through another ship to get to their own ship. This is part

of the river cruise experience and is perfectly normal and

beyond the control of Uniworld. Guests may experience

obstructed views from staterooms and suites when the

ship is docked.

QuietvoxUniworld is proud to use Quietvox portable audio headset

systems on shore excursions and tours, so that you will

always be able to hear your local expert’s commentary

with ease and comfort. Connection to the local expert’s

transmitter takes about 40 seconds, so if you do not

hear the local expert straight away, please be patient.

The Quietvox system can be used with hearing aids that

are compatible with a telecoil induction loop. All you

need to do is to replace the regular Quietvox earpiece

with the telecoil. We have a limited number of telecoil

induction loops onboard available to loan, so please

inquire with the Cruise Manager once you are on the ship.

Responsibility and WaiverThe guest accepts the terms and conditions of the

Passenger Ticket Contract when participating in any

organized shore excursion/tour that is provided by

Uniworld. Participation in some shore excursions or

tours may also be subject to an independent operator’s

own terms and conditions.

Safety Deposit BoxEach stateroom and suite onboard and hotel room

onshore comes equipped with a safe. We urge you

to leave valuables at home. We are not responsible

for any valuables left in your stateroom or suite. Any

charge to return “lost and found” property onboard

will be at the owner’s expense. Please beware of

pickpockets when ashore.

Shopping Time for shopping is allowed for within the framework

of most sightseeing programs. Actual time available for

shopping may be limited due to tour constraints. Keep

in mind that many shops in France may be closed on

Sundays and holidays. Shopping recommendations can

be made by your Cruise Manager and shipboard staff.

Larger stores accept most major credit cards. Market

vendors and small stores usually only accept local

currency. It is a good idea to take a small amount of

cash for on-the-spot gratuities or to purchase souvenirs

or sundries.

Shore ExcursionsEach cruise program includes comprehensive shore

excursions led by a local English-speaking expert; these

excursions have been designed to provide you with the

best possible experience ashore.

A complete day-by-day shore excursion itinerary is

provided in this booklet. Details for your particular

itinerary can also be found at uniworld.com.

SmokingThe ship maintains a non-smoking environment in all

public areas and in the staterooms and suites. Smoking is

only allowed on designated parts of the Sun Deck, which

are marked on the deck plan in your room directory. For

the comfort of all passengers smoking is not permitted

on sightseeing or transfer vehicles.

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Spa Treatments and MassageSpa treatments and massage services are available

onboard the ship. These services are available for a fee

and can be paid for in cash or with a credit card at the

time of purchase or at the time you settle any of your

onboard charges prior to disembarkation from the ship.

Stateroom and Suite AmenitiesEvery riverview stateroom and suite includes an

individual thermostat for air-conditioning and/or heat,

a flat-screen TV, an internal telephone, a safety deposit

box, a bathroom stocked with L’Occitane and Hermès

bath and body products, a luxurious bathrobe for each

guest, complimentary bottled water, a hair dryer and

an umbrella. Electrical current is 220V, the European

standard, however each stateroom and suite has one

110V outlet. The majority of staterooms have hotel beds

that can be positioned separately or together. Your

stateroom or suite will be serviced by your Stateroom/

Suite Attendant on a daily basis. Security and

maintenance checks may also be performed. Your ship

features butler service in the suites.

Sun Deck AccessFor safety reasons, access to the Sun Deck may be

limited or restricted while passing through locks and

areas with low bridges, and during inclement weather.

VisitorsVisitors are generally not permitted onboard the ship and

are not allowed to join any shore excursions. Please make

arrangements to meet your friends and relatives onshore.

WaterThe ship has been outfitted with a sophisticated filtration

system, and the tap water in each stateroom and suite is

safe for drinking. In addition, bottled water is provided in

your stateroom or suite for your comfort. Also, for your

convenience, we’ve provided two reusable, eco-friendly

water bottles in each stateroom and suite that may be

refilled and carried along on your daily shore excursions.

The bottles are yours to keep as a souvenir of your voyage.

WeatherToday, weather forecasts are widely available at the click

of a button on the Internet. Uniworld’s favorite resource

for up-to-the-minute international weather information

is weather.com. This site features a very informative

vacation-planner tool that you may find useful.

What to WearPrepare for a variety of weather conditions, depending

on your travel season and the regions through which you

will be cruising. Layering clothing items is always your

best bet, as this allows you to adjust to most temperatures,

including artificially maintained temperatures, by

removing or adding items throughout the day.

Comfortable, sporty, smart-casual daywear is

appropriate both onshore and onboard. Everyday slacks,

khakis, walking shorts and everyday skirts/dresses are

recommended. For warmer temperatures, we suggest

lightweight clothing that can be layered, such as a mix

of sweaters, lightweight knit shirts, slacks and walking

shorts. For early spring and late fall departures, you’ll

find sweatshirts, heavier cotton or wool tops and

long-sleeved shirts, and corduroy or heavy khaki pants

perfectly suitable. Mix-and-match color schemes work

best to help keep baggage light. You will participate in a

significant amount of walking over uneven terrain during

your time ashore. We recommend comfortable walking

shoes with good ankle support. Sturdy sandals are

another good option.

For evenings, any resort-type wear is perfectly suitable;

however, we do ask that you not wear shorts to dinner.

Men may want to bring one sport jacket for dressier

restaurant venues in places such as Paris and for special

events onboard such as the Captain’s Welcome and

Farewell festivities. Women may wish to bring a cocktail

dress or two for finer dining or entertainment experiences.

Don’t forget to pack a lightweight, waterproof jacket

(preferably hooded) or even a heavier-weight wind-

breaker for colder temperatures.

OmissionsUniworld is not responsible for omissions or printing

and/or presentation errors in brochures, on Internet

sites or in any other media where such information may

be presented; we reserve the right to make corrections

as required.

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Frequently Asked QuestionsI have concerns about my physical ability. What do I do?

Guests with mobility concerns should discuss their

concerns with Uniworld staff in advance of their

departure. Guests requiring the use of a mobility device,

such as a wheelchair, motorized scooter or walker, may

not be able to participate in many shore excursions or

use such devices onboard the ships. Also, guests who

are limited in their ability to walk long distances may

also have difficulties, as there is often uneven terrain

on many shore excursions.

How accurate are the shore excursion/tour descriptions?

Uniworld does everything possible to ensure that shore

excursions are performed as promoted and as outlined in

the subsequent pages. In certain circumstances, or for

reasons beyond the control of Uniworld, it may not be

possible or practical for the excursion to be performed

exactly as written. The decision not to operate, to alter the

operation, to change content, and/or to otherwise adjust

or modify any element of the excursion as advertised is at

the sole discretion of Uniworld, always taking into account

the safety and best interests of the guests and the overall

product delivery. Any such modifications to excursions

will not result in eligibility for a refund.

Can the itinerary change? What happens if it

does change?

You can count on the value of Uniworld’s vast experience

and regional knowledge to make sure you enjoy your

cruise even when conditions beyond our control occur.

The very nature of a river, with its sources and networks of

bridges and locks, means that there will be times when

weather or other conditions in a region require Uniworld

to make adjustments and modifications to the operation

of an itinerary. Itineraries may need to be altered

specifically because of water levels. Although every

effort is made to keep itineraries as advertised, Uniworld

reserves the right to make changes and substitutions as

necessary to ensure the safety of our guests and the

vessels. Time permitting, every possible effort will be

made to alert guests in advance of boarding of any

known changes. Otherwise, all guests will be informed

onboard of amendments. Any changes to itineraries,

including the addition of extensive motorcoach touring

to effect delivery of the intended itinerary operation, will

not result in eligibility for a refund.

What time will excursions depart?

All shore excursions are carefully coordinated to the

ship’s daily schedule. Prior to dinner each evening, your

Cruise Manager will brief all guests about what activities

will take place the next day. This briefing includes

information about departure times, specifics about the

shore excursions/tours not covered in this booklet,

shopping and restaurant recommendations, and other

important information about the port of call. In addition

to the briefing, a daily program will be distributed to

each guest’s stateroom or suite every evening. This

program provides a written overview of all events taking

place the next day—whether onboard or ashore.

Does each motorcoach or walking group have its own

tour guide?

Yes. Each motorcoach or walking group has its own

English-speaking local expert. Uniworld tries very hard to

ensure that our guides are of the highest quality and well

versed in their subjects to make sure that you have the

best possible time ashore.

What is the transportation like on excursions?

Uniworld works with some of the world’s best tour

companies, all of which are chosen with our exacting

standards in mind. To ensure your maximum enjoyment

of each excursion, all motorcoaches seat 40 to 45 people

and are air-conditioned whenever possible. There are a

few destinations where the equipment may not be of a

similar standard and, in such cases, the best possible

transportation will be arranged. Rest stops will be

provided throughout the course of the excursions, and

most of the motorcoaches used for excursions will have

onboard toilets.

Is smoking allowed on shore excursions/tours?

Smoking is not allowed while on the motorcoach, and

many historical venues now request that visitors not

smoke anywhere on-site. We ask all our guests who

smoke not to do so while on excursions/tours.

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Ultimate France

AVIGNON TO BORDEAUX / 22 DAYS

Discover the grand panoply of France in one

incredible journey

All of France spreads out before you in an enticing and

entrancing adventure. Sail five stunning rivers, visit

historic regional capitals—including Rouen, Arles and

Lyon—walk through Roman ruins and Romanesque

cathedrals, stroll along the banks of the Seine, taste the

great wines of the greatest appellations in the world,

and indulge every sense on this extraordinary voyage.

Medieval villages clinging to rocky promontories,

gracious châteaux surrounded by legendary vineyards

and world-class museums filled with the artistic

treasures of Europe are only part of the pleasures

awaiting you. The lavender fields of Provence, the

glittering charms of Paris and the haunts of the

impressionists combine to offer you the ultimate

experience of this extraordinary nation.

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During your free time after the tour, you can peruse the

local shops, go olive tasting or delve further into Arles’s

stunning collection of architectural treasures. After lunch

onboard, enjoy more leisure time to explore on your own.

B. Tarascon walking discovery tour 7 2The stern castle walls rising from the Rhône, erected in

the 15th century to defend valuable trade routes, could

stand in for the Bastille, and indeed this castle was

used as a prison for centuries (in fact, occupying

German forces housed British prisoners of war in it).

Owned by the dukes of Anjou, it was transformed into

a splendid Renaissance palace by the duke known as

Good King René for his generous patronage of the arts

and his support of local fishermen. As you walk from

the castle through the little town, you’ll find wonderful

examples of Provençal architecture—civic buildings,

houses and churches, including St. Martha’s Collegiate

Church. (According to legend, the area was terrorized

by a dragon called Tarasque until AD 48, when St.

Martha arrived and tamed the ferocious beast.)

Did You Know? For centuries, the life of Good King René has been romanticized in fiction and in art, including Shakespeare’s Henry VI and Pre-Raphaelite painter Ford Madox Brown’s imagined scene, King René’s Honeymoon.

A special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Gala Dinner

will be prepared for you this evening.

DAY 3 Avignon

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Avignon is home to the medieval bridge immortalized

in the folk song “Sur le Pont d’Avignon,” as well as the

mighty Palace of the Popes. From a distance, the

picture-perfect city center looks as though it has been

lifted straight from the pages of a history book, but all

you need to do is step inside its medieval walls to

discover the prosperous heart of contemporary Avignon.

Choose between three different ways to explore this

intriguing and ancient city.

DAY 1 Marseille, transfer to Avignon

b e D

Arrive at Marseille International Airport. If your cruise

package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have

purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted

by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship

docked in Avignon.

DAY 2 Tarascon (Arles or Tarascon)

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Arles has existed since the sixth century BC, when the

ancient Greeks founded it and named it Theline. It was

here that the Romans built their first bridge across the

Rhône River, creating a vital overland route between Italy

and Spain and facilitating the expansion of their empire.

Long renowned as one of the region’s most attractive

cities, it lured artist Vincent van Gogh, who painted

hundreds of works here (including Sunflowers and The

Yellow House) in just 15 months. A short distance from

Arles is the ancient and charming town of Tarascon. Its

many medieval sites include a 12th-century church and a

15th-century castle that is rich with tales of a beloved

ruler. Bask in the warmth of the Provençal sunlight in

either of these friendly Mediterranean towns.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Arles walking discovery tour

B. Tarascon walking discovery tour

A. Arles walking discovery tour 7 2 Van Gogh paid tribute to Arles’s atmospheric beauty in

some 200 paintings, including Starry Night Over the

Rhône. It’s an ancient city boasting a remarkable

collection of Roman ruins; among them are a theater

where the famous Venus of Arles—on display in the

Louvre—was discovered in 1651 and an amphitheater that

is still used for sporting events. Join your expert local

guide for a stroll through this district, where medieval

houses crowd in among the ancient structures and the

city gates date to the 13th century. Pause before the town

hall, built with stone quarried from the Roman theater,

and the Romanesque St. Trophime Church, which was

erected in the 12th century. It replaced the church where

St. Augustine, the man who converted the inhabitants

of England to Christianity, was consecrated by the first

archbishop of Canterbury. Walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps

past the cheery yellow Café de Nuit—still open and still

the same shade of yellow it was when he painted it.

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C. Exclusive guided “Go Active” kayak ride on the

Gardon River 7 3 bSlather on some sunscreen and plan to get wet as you

spend a couple of fun and relaxing hours on the clear,

tranquil waters of the Gardon. Accompanied by a

soundtrack of chirping cicadas, you’ll paddle from Collias

to Remoulins, spotting trout in the river and water birds on

the shores. Your adventure ends with a marvelous view of

the arches of the oldest extant Roman aqueduct in France,

the 2,000-year-old, UNESCO-designated Pont du Gard.

This magnificent tri-level aqueduct bridge has spanned

the Gardon since 19 BC, when it was constructed as part

of the system that carried water from Uzès to Nîmes.

Note: The kayak ride on the Gardon River is only available for May-October departure dates.

DAY 4 ViviersBB L D

An enchanting village where time seems to have

stopped centuries ago, Viviers has a long and storied

past that goes back more than 1,600 years—and a

splendid architectural heritage to match. At one time,

Viviers was divided along religious lines—the clergy

lived in the upper part of the town, the laity in the lower

part. Your exploration of the town will take you through

both parts, as you begin at the crest and make your

way to the riverbank.

Featured Excursion:Exclusive intimate Viviers “Village Day” 5 3Sycamores line some of Viviers’ stone-paved streets

(planted, so they say, to provide shade for Napoleon’s

soldiers), and houses here bear the watermarks of floods

over the years. Your local guide will show you the fountain

squares in the Old Town, which combines Roman and

medieval influences, and cobblestone lanes so narrow you

can stand in the middle and touch the medieval houses on

either side. Viviers climbs a hill crowned by 12th-century

St. Vincent’s Cathedral. It happens to be the smallest

cathedral in France, but it contains a marvelous organ.

Take a seat under the soaring vaults and listen while a

local organist demonstrates just how fine an instrument it

is before you meet some of the local residents. You might

choose to learn how a local potter makes the attractive

wares sold at Poterie; step into one of two homes—one a

mansion, the other more modest; take a dance class; or

sample the wares at a popular bar. Don’t feel that you

must opt for the bar if you’d like a little refreshment; all

visits include an aperitif. On your way back to the ship,

stop to try your hand at a game of petanque, which is

akin to horseshoes, only it’s played with steel balls.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Avignon walking discovery tour with Palace of the Popes

B. Avignon walking discovery tour with Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct

C. Exclusive guided “Go Active” kayak ride on the Gardon River

A. Avignon walking discovery tour with

Palace of the Popes 7 3It’s hard to believe, looking at the charming cafés and

entertaining street performers in the Clock Tower Square,

that this lively scene owes its existence to a 15th-century

siege. This area was the heart of medieval Avignon (and

the site of the original Roman town), crowded with

cottages and narrow streets—until a pope had it all

demolished in order to give his troops a clearer field of

fire. That is Avignon in a nutshell: It was the city of the

popes. The Avignon popes built the ramparts that still

surround the Old Town and the huge, nearly impregnable

fortress that dominates the UNESCO-designated district;

in fact, the city did not officially become part of France

until 1791. Stand below the high, thick walls to get a

sense of just how daunting these fortifications were, then

prepare to climb many steps as you tour the Palace of

the Popes itself—it’s worth it!

B. Avignon walking discovery tour with

Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct 7 2In the middle of the first century, Roman engineers

responded to Nîmes’s need for water to fill its baths,

fountains and pools by building a 30-mile-long

(48-kilometer-long) aqueduct from Uzès to Nîmes—

which required transporting Uzès springwater over the

River Gardon. A thousand workers quarried 50,000 tons

of soft golden limestone and used it to construct—

without mortar—the magnificent tri-level bridge that still

spans the river. An expert guide will explain the

techniques used to build this engineering marvel, which

has withstood 2,000 years of floods and storms that

swept away much newer bridges. You can see notations

those ancient Romans made in the stones as they cut

and fitted them into place when you view the bridge

itself, and you can learn about the entire project at the

museum. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is as

beautiful as it is fascinating.

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DAY 5 Tournon (Tain-l’Hermitage)BB L D

Spend the day in the midst of Côte du Rhône wine

country, exploring storied vineyards and picturesque

villages.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Exclusive Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage village stroll

with wine tasting

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” Hermitage vineyards hike with wine tasting

A. Exclusive Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage village

stroll with wine tasting 5 2Nestled on opposite sides of the river in the heart of

the Côtes du Rhône, the twin cities of Tournon and

Tain-l’Hermitage are an ideal destination for connoisseurs

of fine wine. Tournon may be a small town, but stirring

events took place here: A castle was raised on the

hilltop in the 10th century to protect the region, and

new fortifications were added over the centuries,

including two “new” towers built to defend against

Protestant attacks in the 16th century. You’ll see the

handsome houses constructed by wealthy merchants

and garrison officers when you walk through the

Rue de Doux area, and you’ll pass the 14th-century

church—unusual for the number of houses incorporated

in its walls—and the oldest secondary school in France.

Cross the pretty flower-decked Marc Seguin suspension

bridge to Tain-l’Hermitage to visit local wine cellars,

where you’ll taste the region’s famous Côtes du Rhône,

Saint-Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage wines. These wines

are produced from the Syrah grapes that grow on the

steep slopes lining the river. After your wine tasting,

you’ll have time to browse through the shops; the

Valrhona chocolate factory is always a popular stop.

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” Hermitage

vineyards hike with wine tasting 5 3Are you ready to explore the steepest vineyards on

the Rhône? The vines producing the world-famous

Hermitage wines grow on precipitous slopes above the

river, so steep that terracing is essential. Hike along the

paths that parallel the rough courses of stone through

the vineyards, each one situated to catch the afternoon

sun. After you’ve seen how the grapes—primarily

Syrah—are grown, taste the fruit that has been

transformed by the vintners’ craft into legendary wine.

DAY 6 Lyon

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Two rivers: one tranquil, one torrential. Two hills: one for

labor, where the sound of the silk weavers’ looms used

to echo; the other for prayers, crowned by a spectacular

basilica. Two cities, as different as night and day: one

boasting colorful Old World façades, medieval mansions

and hidden passageways; one with a sophisticated

urbanity reminiscent of Paris. Situated at the confluence

of the Rhône and Saône rivers, and with roots stretching

back over 2,000 years to the days of Julius Caesar, Lyon

is a place of fascinating dualities. Today you have your

choice of ways to explore this city of contrasts: Sample

its culinary riches with a visit to its peerless market hall

or follow the footsteps of the silk weavers in the old

quarter. For a more active option, see the city from its

extensive—and lovely—bike paths.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Lyon walking tour

B. Exclusive silk weavers walking discovery tour

C. Exclusive guided “Go Active” Lyon peninsula bike tour

A. Exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Lyon

walking tour 5 2 No one eats better than the citizens of Lyon, a tradition

that harks back more than a century, when women

opened unpretentious restaurants, called bouchons, to

feed hungry workers. The traditional bouchon serves

hearty meat-based dishes, but quenelles—luscious

dumplings—and a seasoned cream cheese called

cervelle de canut are longtime local favorites too. While

explaining Lyon’s important gastronomic history, your

guide will show you the city’s bouchons and specialty

food shops and take you into the legendary main market,

Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse. There you’ll find stalls

brimming with local produce, fish, game and cheeses,

all beautifully displayed on black marble countertops—

and you’ll have a chance to taste some of these delectable

offerings. Don’t miss the macarons! On the way to these

fabulous culinary destinations, you’ll see some of Lyon’s

historic old quarter, with its many spectacular examples of

medieval and Renaissance architecture, and les traboules,

the city’s old passageways.

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B. Exclusive silk weavers walking discovery tour 5 2

Lyon’s history is entwined with silk, which dominated the

city’s economy for centuries—at one time, almost a third

of the city’s population were silk weavers. Jump on a

tram and head for Lyon-Perrache station with your

guide, who will take you into the historic Saint-Jean

Quarter, part of the UNESCO-honored Old Town. The

Gothic cathedral is probably the most striking heirloom

of the Middle Ages, but the tall rose and ocher buildings

dating to the Renaissance pay tribute to the importance

of the silk trade with Italy in that era. Enter the courtyard

of the Gadagne Museum, which is housed in an early-

16th-century building, and stroll along Rue Juiverie,

which has been occupied since Roman times and was

once home to Nostradamus. You’ll see some of the

traboules, the old passageways that snake between and

through buildings, secret shortcuts that silk weavers took

to keep their delicate fabrics out of the rain. You’ll pass

cozy bouchons, which serve traditional local dishes, and

you’ll have a chance to see a Jacquard loom in use.

Did You Know? The Jacquard loom, a revolutionary programmable weaving machine, was invented by a native of Lyon, Joseph Marie Jacquard, in about 1803; it employed punch cards to create damask and other intricate patterns. While Jacquard came from a family of silk weavers, he worked a succession of odd jobs and failed at many of them before finding his calling as an inventor. Napoleon granted the city of Lyon the patent for Jacquard’s loom and gave him a lifelong pension that solved all of his financial problems.

C. Exclusive guided “Go Active” Lyon peninsula

bike tour 7 3Get out and about with a bike ride along the river. Lyon

boasts a thriving bike-rental scene, which tells you just

how popular this mode of transportation is—you will

definitely have two-wheeled company as you pedal

along the banks of the Rhône on a sunny day. Your

route takes you over the new Raymond Barre Bridge,

past the spectacular new Museum of Confluences (so

named because it sits at the confluence of the Rhône

and the Saône) and along the peninsula, a strip of land

with the Saône on one side and the Rhône on the other.

Here, houseboats tie up along the banks, swans float

on the water and locals take advantage of the lovely

parklike setting. You’ll also have a great view of the

Old Town on the other side of the river. This outing

gives you a little taste of what it is like to live in Lyon,

as well as a little exercise.

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Featured Excursion:Exclusive Lyon “Illuminations” tour 5 1 bWhat can creative lighting designers do with historic

buildings? You will fall in love with Lyon tonight as you

take in the view from the top of Fourvière Hill. The city

spreads out below you, perfectly chosen lighting

illuminating the splendid face of the cathedral and the

magnificent façades of Renaissance houses. You’ll get a

sense of how the city developed, growing from Roman

roots to encompass the peninsula and the eastern bank

of the Rhône, before you ride through the streets to the

riverbanks, where light and shadow paint the bridges

and shimmer on the water. You may want to stroll along

the quays back to the ship; this area really comes alive

at night, when the old barges tied up along the river

throw open their doors and reveal vibrant bars and

restaurants inside.

DAY 7 Mâcon (Beaune)

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Located in the southernmost part of Burgundy, Mâcon,

a Saône River port, is your gateway to Beaune.

Featured Excursion:Beaune, Hospices de Beaune and open-air food

market visit 9 2 bBeaune may not be a large town, but it brims with history,

a wealth of splendid regional architecture and incredible

food. Nestled inside medieval ramparts, Beaune was

the seat of the warlike dukes of Burgundy until the

16th century. It is best known for two magnificent sights:

the Hospices de Beaune and the open-air market.

You’ll recognize the Hospices de Beaune (also known as

Hôtel-Dieu) immediately by its fabulous multicolored-tile

roof—it’s a symbol of Burgundy. Founded as a charitable

institution by the duke’s chancellor in 1443, the hospital

became a model for charitable giving in southern France,

one with a unique fundraising tradition that continues

to this day. Over the centuries, the hospice monks were

given wine and vineyards, and they began selling the

wine at auction in order to support their charitable work.

The wine auction is now world-famous, and the institution

remains a working hospital for the poor, with modern

facilities standing alongside the historic Hôtel-Dieu.

After seeing Hôtel-Dieu, check out the farmers’ market,

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” bike ride

to Giverny 7 3 The country roads between Vernon and Giverny offer

easy—and pretty—biking. Hop aboard your bike and

pedal about three miles to the village where the artist

lived for decades. You’ll pass the church and cemetery

where Monet is buried and the Hotel Baudy, where his

painter friends often stayed, and arrive at the artist’s

home and garden for a tour.

Featured Excursion:Hike to Château Gaillard 7 3 bUncover the tumultuous past with a visit to the

picturesque remains of Château Gaillard. Les Andelys

was of considerable strategic importance during the

Middle Ages, a fact that prompted Richard the Lionheart

to build a fortified castle here to protect the Duchy of

Normandy from the French king, Philip II. While the

construction of large stone castles in this period often

took the better part of a decade, Château Gaillard was

completed in less than two years through the combined

labor of 6,000 workers. You’ll see how the stronghold

was carved out of the natural rock, making this one of

the best designed castles of its age. Your guide will

explain Château Gaillard’s extraordinary history, including

the frequent transfer of ownership between the English

and the French, and its use as both a prison and a place

of refuge for troubled European rulers.

Note: The hike to the ruin is steep, so you may opt to travel by motorcoach if you aren’t in the mood for an invigorating walk.

This evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and

Gala Dinner will be prepared for you.

DAY 10 Rouen

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The medieval capital of Normandy, Rouen has managed

to preserve much of its historic core, despite being

turned into a battlefield numerous times. The roll call of

famous people who lived or died in Rouen is long and

varied—Richard the Lionheart, Joan of Arc, Gustave

Flaubert and Claude Monet are among them.

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which spills from street to street in the Old Town.

Cheeses, fruits, vegetables, local sausages, breads—all

are on colorful display here. Browse and assemble your

own picnic lunch or take advantage of one of the many

delightful sidewalk cafés for lunch.

A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Gala Dinner


DAY 8 Lyon to Paris

e b BB Light Lunch D

Disembark the S.S. Catherine and transfer to Paris via

high-speed, first-class TGV train. Your next ship, the

magical S.S. Joie de Vivre, awaits you in the “City of

Light,” where you’ll embark on the next leg of your

French adventure.

DAY 9 Vernon (Giverny), Les Andelys

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Nestled along the banks of the Seine, Vernon is a

charming city and an ideal starting point for exploring

this historic region. Visit the home and gardens of

impressionist master Claude Monet—they were the

inspiration for many of his most beloved works. Then

your ship sails to lovely Les Andelys, a town dominated

by the ruins of a great stone castle on the heights

above the river.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Monet’s Giverny

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” bike ride to Giverny

A. Monet’s Giverny 7 2 bMonet often painted the little riverside town of Vernon,

so you are likely to recognize scenes the master rendered

in oils on your way to his home in the village of Giverny,

where he lived and worked for more than 40 years. When

Monet bought the property, most of it was an orchard; he

transformed it over the years into the enchanting visions

immortalized in his paintings, essentially creating each

work of art twice: once as a living garden and again as

a painting. As you stroll through the grounds, you’ll see

the famed Japanese bridge and water garden shaded by

weeping willows. Monet’s house, which you will also visit,

remains furnished as it was when the leader of the

impressionist school lived here, complete with his precious

collection of Japanese engravings. After the tour, you will

return to the ship for lunch.

Note: Giverny will be closed during the October 22 cruise departure date. Instead of Giverny, guests will visit the gardens of Versailles.

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Notes:

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Rouen gourmet walking discovery tour

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” golfing at Rouen’s Mont-Saint-Aignan

A. Rouen gourmet walking discovery tour 5 2Rouen’s most famous landmark, the cathedral—

celebrated in 30 paintings by Monet—was begun some

800 years ago, acquiring a multitude of spires and styles

as it was expanded and renovated in different eras.

Ramble from the cathedral square, with its ornate

Renaissance clock, and begin your exploration of the Old

Town. The cobblestone alleyways are lined with tall

half-timbered houses, often with shops on the first floor

and apartments above; it may be a historic district, but it

is also a living one. Step into a couple of these shops and

patisseries for tastes of regional specialties—delicious

cider, for instance, and the chocolate confection unique

to Rouen known as the “tears of Joan of Arc”—as you

make your way toward the Old Market Square.

Reminders of life and death are common here: Note the

carved skulls and other symbols of death on the

buildings near Saint-Maclou, a spectacular late-

Flamboyant Gothic church, and the adjacent Aître

Saint-Maclou, once a cemetery for plague victims and

now a garden. As you enter the Old Market Square, you’ll

spot a bronze cross marking the most famous death in

the city—the place where the English burned Joan of Arc

at the stake. The Church of St. Joan, on the square, may

seem incongruous in its modernity; it was built on the

site of Saint-Sauveur church, which was destroyed

during WWII—the stained-glass windows in the new

church were salvaged from the ruins.

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” golfing at Rouen’s

Mont-Saint-Aignan 7 3Normandy boasts more than 30 18-hole golf courses.

Why let your game get rusty when you have such scenic

and well-designed courses to play? Rouen’s Mont-Saint-

Aignan par-70 course, originally designed in 1911 by Denis

Robinson, offers a mix of easy and challenging holes: The

course starts with some easy holes, but the six holes in

the valley demand skillful playing, and the last hole is

played against prevailing winds. Break out the clubs and

prepare to enjoy a morning on the links.

Note: Golf excursions are open to a limited number of golfers.

DAY 11Caudebec-en-Caux (Honfleur or Étretat)

BB L DCaudebec, a lovely little town on a serene loop of

the Seine, is your base for one of two very different

excursions. You could drive through the beautiful

Calvados countryside to Honfleur, a delightful seaside

harbor and city of painters, or head to the windy cliffs of

Étretat for a game of golf.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Honfleur walking discovery tour

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” golfing in Étretat

A. Honfleur walking discovery tour 7 2 bA walking tour of the fishing village begins at the former

smugglers’ harbor of Vieux Bassin—the most frequently

painted scene in Honfleur—which looks much as it did

a century ago, though now the boats in the harbor are

more likely to be pleasure craft than fishing vessels. Your

local guide will take you down tiny lanes, where houses

stand shoulder to shoulder in a jumble of styles: narrow

19th-century slate-roofed townhouses, 15th-century

fishermen’s cottages, and tall and elegant mansions—

many adorned with figures of chimeras or saints. You’ll

also see St. Catherine’s Church, built in the 15th century

by shipwrights who gave it an oak ceiling that looks like

the hull of a boat.

Did You Know? Honfleur was the starting point for 17th-century explorer Samuel de Champlain, who sailed for the New World in 1604. He founded the city of Quebec in 1608, and in 1609 he was the first European to see the New England lake that was later named for him.


7 3 bIt would be hard to find a more spectacular location than

Étretat’s clifftop course, which is ranked as one

of the best in France. Originally laid out in 1908 and

substantially redesigned in the 1990s, it offers a multitude

of challenges: Two nine-hole loops take players right to

the cliff’s edge, the wind can be a serious challenge in and

of itself, and the 10th through 14th holes offer formidable

tests of a golfer’s skill. Spend the morning on the course,

lunch on your own in charming Étretat and explore the

seaside village that so many artists, including Monet,

rendered in paint, or return to the ship for lunch and a

leisurely afternoon onboard.


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DAY 12 Rouen (Normandy Beaches)BB D

Immerse yourself in the tactics, desperate courage and

horrendous human cost of the 1944 Allied invasion of

France, the first step in the ultimately victorious land

campaign against the Third Reich. It began here, on

these Norman beaches, each of which was assigned a

code name by the Allies as they planned their attack.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Full day Normandy Beaches with Utah and

Omaha beaches and Sainte-Mère-Église

B. Full day Normandy Beaches with Juno Beach

C. Full day Normandy Beaches with Bayeux

A. Full day Normandy Beaches with Utah and

Omaha beaches and Sainte-Mère-Église 8 2 bThis tour encompasses the major areas of the American

assault: Utah Beach, where the first American infantry

units came ashore; Sainte-Mère-Église, the first village

freed from the Germans and home to a museum

dedicated to the Airborne divisions that suffered 2,500

casualties in the battle; Pointe du Hoc, a strategic high

point controlled by the Germans and captured by a

Ranger unit; and Omaha Beach, the second landing site,

where the Americans encountered much stiffer resistance

than they did at Utah. At each location, you can see the

actual equipment used for the invasion—tanks, landing

craft, bombers, gliders—and get a feel for what these

young men experienced.

B. Full day Normandy Beaches with Juno Beach 8 2 b

When the Allies prepared to invade Normandy, they

assigned a six-mile stretch of beach to the 3rd Canadian

Infantry Division under the command of Major-General

Rodney Keller. The Canadians trained for their assault

in Scotland and were generally regarded as the best-

prepared of any of the invading forces. Unfortunately,

preliminary bombing had failed to eliminate German

battlements, so Canadian troops were met with well-

prepared German resistance, and several companies

suffered heavy casualties. Walk the shoreline where so

many died, and visit Juno Beach Center, dedicated to the

Canadian war effort. One million Canadians served during

WWII, and 14,000 participated in the landing. Exhibits

describe both life at home during the war and the service

of—and sacrifices made by—the men who fought.

C. Full day Normandy Beaches with Bayeux 8 2 bBayeux, the first French town to be liberated in 1944, is

home to the Bayeux Tapestry, an astonishing millennium-

old textile listed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World

Register. The tapestry tells the story of the Norman

conquest of England; it was probably embroidered by

monks in the south of England in October 1066, a few

months after William I’s troops overwhelmed the island’s

Saxon defenders. Take a guided audio tour of this

remarkable textile, which details the story of the

conquest in 58 distinct scenes with Latin annotations.

Note: Because the Tapestry Museum is a popular attraction in summer, the order of events may change to accommodate scheduling issues.

Featured Excursion: Arromanches and the American Cemetery 5 1 bWhichever historic beach you choose to visit, you’ll

join your fellow passengers in a journey to the American

Cemetery, where almost 10,000 US soldiers are buried,

most of whom lost their lives during the D-Day

invasion. Pay your respects here with a special wreath-

laying ceremony.

DAY 13 Mantes-la-Jolie (Versailles)

u BB L FD

How did France’s rulers live over the centuries? Step

into the private rooms of either Versailles, the lavish

palace built by the Sun King, or Malmaison, home to

Napoleon Bonaparte’s empress Josephine, to find out.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Palace of Versailles

B. Château de Malmaison

A. Palace of Versailles 7 2 bIt was the official residence of the country’s kings and

queens from 1682 until the revolution, and though the

monarchy possessed other palaces, Versailles stood

alone in magnificence. Tour the royal apartments, which

still look much as they did when Louis XVI and Marie

Antoinette fled in 1789. In these rooms, you’ll find lush

silk draperies, exquisite marquetry tables, gilded beds,

Aubusson carpets and porcelain ornaments that reveal

the elegance of the 18th-century royalty’s lifestyle, as

well as the extravagance that helped fuel the rage

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Notes:

A. “Heart of Paris” cruise and city tour 7 2 b SHemingway called Paris a moveable feast: Once you’ve

experienced it, you will take it with you wherever you

go. If you are experiencing Paris for the first time, this

tour will introduce you to the City of Light’s most

cherished landmarks from both the water and the land.

Paris, after all, grew up along the banks of the Seine,

and its principal civic and historic buildings line the

river; the Louvre, National Assembly, Conciergerie,

Hotel de Ville, Place de la Concorde, Notre Dame—you

will see them all as you cruise through the heart of the

city. Onshore, you’ll head via motorcoach from the Arc

de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon to celebrate

his Grand Army’s 128 victories, down the Champs-Élysées

to the Place de la Concorde. These broad 19th-century

avenues and stately buildings were created by

Baron Haussmann in a great urban development that

eliminated the cramped, crazy-quilt medieval city and

gave Paris its modern form. You’ll pass the magnificent

Opéra Garnier, the Place Vendôme (home to designer

salons), the legendary Louvre and, on the Left Bank,

the Sorbonne University and the Panthéon. Stretch

your legs at the Luxembourg Gardens, then take in the

École Militaire before arriving at the manicured grounds

of the Champs de Mars, the perfect vantage point from

which to see Paris’s most iconic structure—the Eiffel

Tower. Cross the Seine via the most stunning single-arch

bridge in Paris, Pont Alexandre III; it displays elegantly

sculpted nymphs, winged horses and graceful art nouveau

lamps. Once on the other side of the river, you’ll be sure

to spot the largest glass ceilings in France, which shelter

the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais. As you continue

along the Seine’s banks you’ll see many striking

contemporary bridges too. Your city tour will finish

at your ship’s dock.

B. Exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Île de la Cité and

Latin Quarter walking tour 7 2As a true Parisian would, take the Métro to the Île de

la Cité and the great cathedral of Notre Dame. Henry IV

said that Paris was worth a Mass when he converted

to Catholicism—and he made that conversion official

here, in the center of Paris. In fact, Notre Dame is

officially the center of France; facing its main entrance is

Kilometer Zero, the location from which distances in

France (including those of the French national highways)

are traditionally measured. An expert in the history and

architecture of this magnificent cathedral is your guide

as you explore both inside and out. Begun in the 12th

century and finished about 200 years later, Notre Dame

is one of the finest examples of French Gothic

architecture in Europe.

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leading to the revolution. Climb the great staircase and

enter the jaw-dropping Hall of Mirrors, where the

absolute ruler of France held court for the ambassadors

of Siam, Persia and the Ottoman Empire, along with all

the great seigneurs of France. Ladies intrigued behind

their fans, plots were hatched, and careers were made

and destroyed beneath the sparkling chandeliers here.

B. Château de Malmaison 7 2 bPart great romance, part scandal, part politics—this is

the story of Napoleon Bonaparte and Josephine, the

fascinating (and notorious) widow he married in 1796

and divorced 14 years later in order to marry Marie-

Louise of Austria (who gave him the son Josephine

could not bear him). Despite the divorce, Napoleon

remained devoted to Josephine: Malmaison is a

testament to that devotion. The jewel-box palace was

redesigned under Josephine’s direction in the 1790s,

with every facet intended to reflect both the “Little

Corporal’s” glory and Josephine’s own exquisite

Directoire tastes. Though the palace fell on hard times

in the 19th century, it has been beautifully restored. The

Consulate Chamber, where Napoleon met with his staff,

resembles a military tent; the library is furnished with

the emperor’s desk from his apartments in the Tuileries.

Josephine’s bedroom retains the elegant tented

Jacob-Desmalter bed in which the empress slept.

Among the many gems on display here are David’s

original Napoleon Crossing the Alps and the Austerlitz

table, inlaid with Sèvres plaques commemorating

Napoleon’s victory at Austerlitz.



DAY 14 Paris

u BB L D

You have a host of options for exploring incomparable

Paris: You have a hose of options for exploring incom-

parable Paris: See all the important sights via boat and

motorcoach, explore the heart and soul of the city on

a walk from Notre Dame to the Latin Quarter, or bike

along the quays with a knowledgeable guide.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. “Heart of Paris” cruise and city tour

B. Exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Île de la Cité and Latin Quarter walking tour

C. Exclusive guided “Go Active” Seine riverbank bike ride

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DAY 16 Cadillac, Bordeaux

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Vous êtes arrivé à Cadillac, the area known for

producing sweet dessert wines under the celebrated

Cadillac AOC designation. You’re in for a treat!

Featured Excursion:Cadillac, châteaux and Sauternes vineyards with

exclusive artisanal wine-pairing lunch at Château

de Cazeneuve 9 2 bIt’s called the noble rot. Botrytis cinerea, a fungus that

affects wine grapes, results in a concentrated and

distinctive sweet wine that takes its name from the

region, Sauternes. Today’s tour is devoted to an

exploration of this region and its delectable wine.

You’ll visit one of the area’s finest estates for an intimate

wine tasting as special as the wine itself, sampling the

unique perfume and flavor of Sauternes. After your

tasting, you’ll journey to Château de Cazeneuve, a

polygonal 14th-century fortress with a royal pedigree.

A favored residence of Henry IV, who inherited it from

his mother, Jeanne d’Albret, the beautifully restored

château still belongs to descendants of the Albret

family. Here you’ll gather for a delectable wine-pairing

lunch and learn how easy (and fun!) it is to pair a sweet

wine with a whole new variety of dishes.

Note: Sailing on this stretch of the Garonne depends on the tides. If it is not possible to sail to Cadillac, you will be taken to your destination via motorcoach. Please be aware that tide levels may affect the order in which all activities and excursions are offered, since it is not always possible to sail to destinations in the order described in this booklet.



DAY 17Cruising the Garonne River and Gironde Estuary, Pauillac

BB L D

Enjoy the waters of the Garonne River and the Gironde

Estuary before heading to the pretty town of Pauillac,

gateway to the storied Médoc wine route and the

prestigious “châteaux road.” Visit a celebrated winery

for an exclusive special tasting. Or take a guided bicycle

ride through the Médoc vineyards.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Médoc city tour with exclusive wine tasting

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” vineyard bike ride with wine tasting

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After you’ve admired Notre Dame’s stained glass, flying

buttresses and idiosyncratic gargoyles, cross the

Archbishop’s Bridge to the Left Bank and the Latin

Quarter. Wander through the narrow streets where for

centuries artists, writers, philosophers and the

Sorbonne’s students have lived and worked, argued

politics, painted, sipped absinthe and lived the bohemian

lifestyle for which the district is famous. Matisse, Picasso,

Rimbaud and Sartre, as well as American expatriate

writers Hemingway and Fitzgerald, are just a few of the

notables who made this district home. Take some time to

meander through the area’s little squares, perusing the

shop windows and perhaps relaxing with a drink at a

classic café.

Did You Know? Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame revived interest in the great cathedral, which had been badly damaged during the Revolution, and as a result, Empress Eugénie’s favorite architect, Viollet-le-Duc, undertook a major restoration.

C. Exclusive guided “Go Active” Seine riverbank

bike ride 7 3The Seine’s quays may be protected by UNESCO for

their cultural importance and significance in the

development of Paris, but they are also the scene of

a host of fun outdoor activities: games for kids and

grown-ups, a climbing wall, a running track, yoga

classes, even a beach in August—and an inviting bike

path. Join a guide to pedal along the Left Bank,

crossing the bridges that link historic Île de la Cité and

Île Saint-Louis and getting a close look at the heart of

the city’s origins. Bike to the Esplanade des Invalides

(Napoleon’s tomb is one of the monuments here) and

along the Quay d’Orsay to the Champs de Mars, one of

Paris’s largest green spaces . . . which just happens to

have one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower in the

city. It’s a fun way to take part in the life of the city

while also getting some exercise.

DAY 15 Paris to Bordeaux


Disembark the S.S. Joie de Vivre and transfer to

Bordeaux via high-speed, first-class TGV train. The

breathtaking River Royale awaits you in the heart of

the city.

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A. Médoc city tour with exclusive wine tasting 7 2 b

In 1855, when Napoleon III asked for a classification of the

best wines in France to give visitors, some 60 Médoc

wines were awarded Grand Cru status—out of 61 total. A

panoramic tour of this legendary landscape takes you from

Pauillac to the tip of the Médoc peninsula, past storied

vineyards of the region, including Château Latour, Mouton

Rothschild and Pichon Longueville Baron, and through the

villages of Margaux, Saint-Julien and Saint-Estèphe. You

might be surprised to discover that the peninsula is only

three miles wide, though it is 50 miles (80 kilometers)

long, and the road carries you past a dizzying array of

architectural styles—Renaissance, Greek Revival and

medieval—as well as miles of grapevines. You’ll turn off the

road and enter one of these estates for a private tour and a

tasting of premier Grand Cru wines—but you won’t know

which one of these exceptional châteaux is your

destination until you open your invitation.

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” vineyard bike ride

with wine tasting 7 3 Combine fresh air, gorgeous scenery and fine wine with a

bicycle ride among the prestigious Médoc vineyards. Meet

your guide and mount your bicycle in Pauillac and wheel

out of town, pedaling through the lush landscapes of

historic estates that have seemingly remained unchanged

for centuries. Truly experience the atmosphere—the

earth, the sunshine—of this famous wine-growing

region. Do all those beautiful vineyards make you yearn

to sample their fruit? Luckily, this adventure includes a

stop at Château Lynch-Bages for a wine tasting.

DAY 18Blaye, Bourg-sur-Gironde, cruising the Dordogne River, Libourne

u BB L D

Sail across the peaceful waters of the estuary, where

fishing huts rise above grassy marshlands edged by

limestone cliffs, as you make your way to the town of

Blaye. A visual feast awaits you on a storied road

named for the many flowers that line it.

Featured Excursion:Scenic drive along the Route de la Corniche Fleurie

with Blaye Fortress 7 2 bThis little road between Blaye and Bourg-sur-Gironde

winds through picturesque hamlets with equally

picturesque names—Pain de Sucre, Marmisson and

Roque de Thau among them—limestone cliffs on one

side, the Gironde on the other. Fishing huts on stilts

stand above the waters of the estuary; charming

19th-century stone houses built by sea captains sit tidily

along the road. Many of these captains traveled to

far-off places and returned with exotic plants, which

they planted in their gardens and along the road (hence

the route’s name). But the history of these cliffs extends

far beyond the 19th century—people have inhabited the

area for thousands of years.

Upon returning to Blaye, your guide will take you through

the 17th-century demilune-shaped citadel built by famed

military engineer Vauban. This fortress design was the

one Vauban, Louis XIV’s favorite military engineer, found

most satisfactory, and he built some 300 of them in the

Sun King’s realm. The citadel contains the ruins of a

medieval castle, houses, squares, streets, even a convent,

all enclosed within stark walls. If you stand on top of

those walls, you will have a terrific view of the estuary—

this view was the field of fire, giving the citadel

command of the river.

This afternoon your ship sails to Bourg-sur-Gironde,

which you may explore on your own. Climb the steep

stone stairs rising from the riverbanks to the top of the

village for a view of the confluence of the Gironde and

the Dordogne, and be sure to check out the medieval

gates and the Moorish villa.

DAY 19 Libourne (Saint-Émilion)

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With Libourne as your base, travel to nearby Saint-

Émilion and immerse yourself more deeply in the

region’s history and wine culture.

Featured Excursion:Saint-Émilion walking discovery tour with wine tasting 7 2 bHilltop Saint-Émilion offers both exceptional architecture

and historic vineyards. The Romans were the first to plant

grapes here, and this was the first vineyard region to

be protected by UNESCO because of its history. Shops

brimming with wine and wine tools line the steep

cobblestone streets; medieval ramparts that bore witness

to battles for control between French and English

monarchs still stand; and vineyards encroach upon

the village. Of all the sights, however, perhaps the most

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Notes:

extraordinary is the 12th-century church carved into

a cliff. Only the tower is aboveground; the rest of the

church is subterranean. Its numerous underground

galleries provided refuge during periods of strife, and

include the grotto where St. Émilion, for whom the town

is named, lived out his life in the ninth century. You have

to see it for yourself—you’ll be amazed by its almost

unfathomable construction. After touring Saint-Émilion,

you’ll visit the cellars of a premier Grand Cru estate where

you’ll taste some of the world’s most highly rated wines.

DAY 20Libourne, cruising the Garonne River, Bordeaux

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Featured Excursion: Libourne “Village Day” with farmers’ market 5 2How could you visit this rich agricultural land without

delving into a farmers’ market? Libourne’s market is the

heart and soul of the town; everyone comes here to

choose the freshest vegetables, the ripest cheeses, the

most luscious fruits, the loveliest flowers, and to chat

with the producers and growers. Check out the stalls

brimming with produce in the market square, then duck

into the covered market and savor the enticing aromas

of bread and cheese, fish and meat. After exploring the

market, you and a small group of other travelers will be

invited to push open the doors of ateliers, homes and

shops, meeting the artisans who make some of the

goods arrayed so enticingly in the market.

Featured Excursion:Exclusive “Bordeaux under the Stars” tour 5 1 bIt’s sometimes called the Port of the Moon, so what

could be more appropriate—or magical—than to see

Bordeaux under the moon and stars? Step aboard an

open-top bus for a view of this extraordinarily beautiful

city illuminated at night. The Bourse glimmers on the

wide, shallow pool before it; the reflection of each

lighted arch of the Pont de Pierre doubles the bridge’s

graceful lines. Bordeaux has more protected buildings

than any other French city but Paris, and your tour will

show you just how lovely they are at night, each one

masterfully lighted. This is a wonderful, unexpected way

to see one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

DAY 21 Bordeaux

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How to spend your last day in Bordeaux? You have a

wonderful selection of exclusive opportunities to see this

magnificent place, whose seamless blend of classical and

neoclassical architecture led to its being designated a

UNESCO World Heritage Site. “Do as the Locals Do” with

a walking tour of the city, or venture out on a bicycle ride

through the city. Either way, you’ll have an up-close and

personal view of one of the world’s most bustling and

dynamic cities.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Bordeaux walking tour

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” bike ride through the Bordeaux backstreets

A. Exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Bordeaux

walking tour 7 2Catch a tram at the Quai des Chartrons to the Place de

la Comédie, the heart of Bordeaux’s Golden Triangle.

Though Bordeaux was the capital of Aquitaine in the

Middle Ages and has its share of Gothic churches, it

reached its apex in the 18th century: The splendid

honey-colored stone buildings from this era make up a

city core that UNESCO has designated a World Heritage

Site. (This is the district that inspired Baron Haussmann

when he redesigned Paris at Napoleon III’s behest.)

Trade with the French colonies built this handsome

district, furnishing vanilla, sugar, spices and cocoa to

inventive chocolatiers and bakers, who used these

goods to create iconic desserts. Chocolate, once a

Spanish monopoly, became part of Bordeaux’s culinary

heritage when banished Spanish Jews brought the art

of chocolate-making to France. What are Bordeaux’s

present-day residents enjoying when they step inside

the luxurious food halls and elegant shops in this

neighborhood? Find out as you sample the delicious

handiwork of Bordeaux’s present-day bakers, as well as

cheeses and chocolates—learn a few recipes too! You’ll

also visit one of the city’s wine bars and see firsthand

how the wines of the many local châteaux are enjoyed

by today’s sophisticated clients.

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CRUISE LAND UNESCOTGV TRAINRiverStart/End

uniworld.com / 47

Ultimate France

BORDEAUX TO AVIGNON / 22 DAYS

The quintessential voyage for gourmets, oenophiles

and lovers of all things French

All of France spreads out before you in an enticing and

entrancing adventure. Sail five stunning rivers, visit

historic regional capitals—including Rouen, Lyon and

Arles—walk through Roman ruins and Romanesque

cathedrals, taste the great wines of the greatest

appellations in the world, stroll along the banks of the

Seine, and indulge every sense on this extraordinary

voyage. Gracious châteaux surrounded by legendary

vineyards, medieval villages clinging to rocky

promontories and world-class museums filled with the

artistic treasures of Europe are only part of the pleasures

awaiting you. The glittering charms of Paris, the lavender

fields of Provence and the haunts of the impressionists

combine to offer you the ultimate experience of this

extraordinary nation.

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” bike ride through

the Bordeaux backstreets 5 3Hop on a bike and wheel with your expert guide along

the Quai des Chartrons, a riverfront neighborhood that

was the purview of British wine merchants back when

they dominated the wine trade. It fell on hard times in the

20th century, but the tall merchant houses have since

been reclaimed; now they house welcoming shops and

cafés. Pedal past the antiques shops of Rue Notre Dame

and the Church of St. Louis on your way to major city

squares such as the Bourse and Parliament before

heading back to the ship along the banks of the Garonne.

Of course your outing will include a stop for refreshments

at one of the delightful cafés you pass.



DAY 22 Depart Bordeaux

e b CB/BB

Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes

a group departure transfer or if you have purchased

a private departure transfer, you will be transferred

to Bordeaux-Mérignac International Airport for your

flight home.

Note: Ship schedule and order of sightseeing may change throughout the itinerary. Tour to port of destination by motorcoach and substitute visits to other sites may occur during your trip due to impact of the ocean tides, water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors.

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DAY 1 Bordeaux

b e D

Arrive at Bordeaux–Mérignac International Airport,

where you will be transferred to the ship. Your ship is

conveniently docked right in the heart of the city, so if

time allows, why not stroll to the nearby food markets

or take the tram to the popular Saint-Michel flea market,

which is just a few stops away.

DAY 2 Cadillac, Bordeaux

BB L WD

Vous êtes arrivé à Cadillac, the area known for producing

sweet dessert wines under the celebrated Cadillac AOC

designation. You’re in for a treat!

Featured Excursion:Cadillac, châteaux and Sauternes vineyards with

exclusive artisanal wine-pairing lunch at Château

de Cazeneuve 9 2 bIt’s called the noble rot. Botrytis cinerea, a fungus that

affects wine grapes, results in a concentrated and

distinctive sweet wine that takes its name from the

region, Sauternes. Today’s tour is devoted to an

exploration of this region and its delectable wine.

You’ll visit one of the area’s finest estates for an intimate

wine tasting as special as the wine itself, sampling the

unique perfume and flavor of Sauternes. After your

tasting, you’ll journey to Château de Cazeneuve, a

polygonal 14th-century fortress with a royal pedigree.

A favored residence of Henry IV, who inherited it from

his mother, Jeanne d’Albret, the beautifully restored

château still belongs to descendants of the Albret

family. Here you’ll gather for a delectable wine-pairing

lunch and learn how easy (and fun!) it is to pair a sweet

wine with a whole new variety of dishes.

Note: Sailing on this stretch of the Garonne depends on the tides. If it is not possible to sail to Cadillac, you will be taken to your destination via motorcoach. Please be aware that tide levels may affect the order in which all activities and excursions are offered, since it is not always possible to sail to destinations in the order described in this booklet.



DAY 3Cruising the Garonne River and Gironde Estuary, Pauillac

BB L D

Enjoy the waters of the Garonne River and the Gironde

Estuary before heading to the pretty town of Pauillac,

gateway to the storied Médoc wine route and the

prestigious “châteaux road.” Visit a celebrated winery

for an exclusive special tasting. Or take a guided bicycle

ride through the Médoc vineyards.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Médoc city tour with exclusive wine tasting

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” vineyard bike ride with wine tasting

A. Médoc city tour with exclusive wine tasting 7 2 b

In 1855, when Napoleon III asked for a classification of the

best wines in France to give visitors, some 60 Médoc wines

were awarded Grand Cru status—out of 61 total. A

panoramic tour of this legendary landscape takes you from

Pauillac to the tip of the Médoc peninsula, past storied

vineyards of the region, including Château Latour, Mouton

Rothschild and Pichon Longueville Baron, and through the

villages of Margaux, Saint-Julien and Saint-Estèphe. You

might be surprised to discover that the peninsula is only

three miles wide, though it is 50 miles (80 kilometers) long,

and the road carries you past a dizzying array of

architectural styles—Renaissance, Greek Revival and

medieval—as well as miles of grapevines. You’ll turn off the

road and enter one of these estates for a private tour and a

tasting of premier Grand Cru wines—but you won’t know

which one of these exceptional châteaux is your

destination until you open your invitation.

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” vineyard bike ride

with wine tasting 7 3 Combine fresh air, gorgeous scenery and fine wine with a

bicycle ride among the prestigious Médoc vineyards. Meet

your guide and mount your bicycle in Pauillac and wheel

out of town, pedaling through the lush landscapes of

historic estates that have seemingly remained unchanged

for centuries. Truly experience the atmosphere—the earth,

the sunshine—of this famous wine-growing region. Do all

those beautiful vineyards make you yearn to sample their

fruit? Luckily, this adventure includes a stop at Château

Lynch-Bages for a wine tasting.

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DAY 4Blaye, Bourg-sur-Gironde, cruising the Dordogne River, Libourne

u BB L D

Sail across the peaceful waters of the estuary, where

fishing huts rise above grassy marshlands edged by

limestone cliffs, as you make your way to the town of

Blaye. A visual feast awaits you on a storied road named

for the many flowers that line it.

Featured Excursion:Scenic drive along the Route de la Corniche Fleurie

with Blaye Fortress 7 2 bThis little road between Blaye and Bourg-sur-Gironde

winds through picturesque hamlets with equally

picturesque names—Pain de Sucre, Marmisson and

Roque de Thau among them—limestone cliffs on one

side, the Gironde on the other. Fishing huts on stilts

stand above the waters of the estuary; charming

19th-century stone houses built by sea captains sit tidily

along the road. Many of these captains traveled to

far-off places and returned with exotic plants, which

they planted in their gardens and along the road (hence

the route’s name). But the history of these cliffs extends

far beyond the 19th century—people have inhabited the

area for thousands of years.

Upon returning to Blaye, your guide will take you through

the 17th-century demilune-shaped citadel built by famed

military engineer Vauban. This fortress design was the

one Vauban, Louis XIV’s favorite military engineer, found

most satisfactory, and he built some 300 of them in the

Sun King’s realm. The citadel contains the ruins of a

medieval castle, houses, squares, streets, even a convent,

all enclosed within stark walls. If you stand on top of

those walls, you will have a terrific view of the estuary—

this view was the field of fire, giving the citadel

command of the river.

This afternoon your ship sails to Bourg-sur-Gironde,

which you may explore on your own. Climb the steep

stone stairs rising from the riverbanks to the top of the

village for a view of the confluence of the Gironde and

the Dordogne, and be sure to check out the medieval

gates and the Moorish villa.

DAY 5 Libourne (Saint-Émilion)

u BB L D

With Libourne as your base, travel to nearby Saint-Émilion

and immerse yourself more deeply in the region’s history

and wine culture.

Featured Excursion:Saint-Émilion walking discovery tour with

wine tasting 7 2 bHilltop Saint-Émilion offers both exceptional architecture

and historic vineyards. The Romans were the first to plant

grapes here, and this was the first vineyard region to

be protected by UNESCO because of its history. Shops

brimming with wine and wine tools line the steep

cobblestone streets; medieval ramparts that bore witness

to battles for control between French and English

monarchs still stand; and vineyards encroach upon

the village. Of all the sights, however, perhaps the most

extraordinary is the 12th-century church carved into

a cliff. Only the tower is aboveground; the rest of the

church is subterranean. Its numerous underground

galleries provided refuge during periods of strife, and

include the grotto where St. Émilion, for whom the

town is named, lived out his life in the ninth century.

You have to see it for yourself—you’ll be amazed by its

almost unfathomable construction. After touring

Saint-Émilion, you’ll visit the cellars of a premier Grand

Cru estate where you’ll taste some of the world’s most

highly rated wines.

DAY 6Libourne, cruising the Garonne River, Bordeaux

BB L D

Featured Excursion:Libourne “Village Day” with farmers’ market 5 2How could you visit this rich agricultural land without

delving into a farmers’ market? Libourne’s market is the

heart and soul of the town; everyone comes here to

choose the freshest vegetables, the ripest cheeses, the

most luscious fruits, the loveliest flowers, and to chat

with the producers and growers. Check out the stalls

brimming with produce in the market square, then duck

into the covered market and savor the enticing aromas

of bread and cheese, fish and meat. After exploring the

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market, you and a small group of other travelers will be

invited to push open the doors of ateliers, homes and

shops, meeting the artisans who make some of the

goods arrayed so enticingly in the market.

Featured Excursion:Exclusive “Bordeaux under the Stars” tour 5 1 bIt’s sometimes called the Port of the Moon, so what

could be more appropriate—or magical—than to see

Bordeaux under the moon and stars? Step aboard an

open-top bus for a view of this extraordinarily beautiful

city illuminated at night. The Bourse glimmers on the

wide, shallow pool before it; the reflection of each

lighted arch of the Pont de Pierre doubles the bridge’s

graceful lines. Bordeaux has more protected buildings

than any other French city but Paris, and your tour will

show you just how lovely they are at night, each one

masterfully lighted. This is a wonderful, unexpected way

to see one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

DAY 7 Bordeaux

u BB L FD

How to spend your last day in Bordeaux? You have a

wonderful selection of exclusive opportunities to see this

magnificent place, whose seamless blend of classical and

neoclassical architecture led to its being designated a

UNESCO World Heritage Site. “Do as the Locals Do” with

a walking tour of the city, or venture out on a bicycle ride

through the city. Either way, you’ll have an up-close and

personal view of one of the world’s most bustling and

dynamic cities.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Bordeaux walking tour

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” bike ride through the Bordeaux backstreets

A. Exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Bordeaux

walking tour 7 2Catch a tram at the Quai des Chartrons to the Place de

la Comédie, the heart of Bordeaux’s Golden Triangle.

Though Bordeaux was the capital of Aquitaine in the

Middle Ages and has its share of Gothic churches, it

reached its apex in the 18th century: The splendid

honey-colored stone buildings from this era make up a

city core that UNESCO has designated a World Heritage

Site. (This is the district that inspired Baron Haussmann

when he redesigned Paris at Napoleon III’s behest.)

Trade with the French colonies built this handsome

district, furnishing vanilla, sugar, spices and cocoa to

inventive chocolatiers and bakers, who used these

goods to create iconic desserts. Chocolate, once a

Spanish monopoly, became part of Bordeaux’s culinary

heritage when banished Spanish Jews brought the art

of chocolate-making to France. What are Bordeaux’s

present-day residents enjoying when they step inside

the luxurious food halls and elegant shops in this

neighborhood? Find out as you sample the delicious

handiwork of Bordeaux’s present-day bakers, as well as

cheeses and chocolates—learn a few recipes too! You’ll

also visit one of the city’s wine bars and see firsthand

how the wines of the many local châteaux are enjoyed

by today’s sophisticated clients.

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” bike ride through

the Bordeaux backstreets 5 3Hop on a bike and wheel with your expert guide along

the Quai des Chartrons, a riverfront neighborhood that

was the purview of British wine merchants back when

they dominated the wine trade. It fell on hard times in the

20th century, but the tall merchant houses have since

been reclaimed; now they house welcoming shops and

cafés. Pedal past the antiques shops of Rue Notre Dame

and the Church of St. Louis on your way to major city

squares such as the Bourse and Parliament before

heading back to the ship along the banks of the Garonne.

Of course your outing will include a stop for refreshments

at one of the delightful cafés you pass.



DAY 8 Bordeaux to Paris


Disembark the breathtaking River Royale and transfer

to Paris via high-speed, first-class TGV train. Your next

ship, the magical S.S. Joie de Vivre, waits to carry you

along the Seine on the next leg of your adventure.

DAY 9 Vernon (Giverny), Les Andelys

BB L WD

Nestled along the banks of the Seine, Vernon is a

charming city and an ideal starting point for exploring

this historic region. Visit the home and gardens of

impressionist master Claude Monet—they were the

inspiration for many of his most beloved works. Then

your ship sails to lovely Les Andelys, a town dominated

by the ruins of a great stone castle on the heights

above the river.

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Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Monet’s Giverny

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” bike ride to Giverny

A. Monet’s Giverny 7 2 bMonet often painted the little riverside town of Vernon,

so you are likely to recognize scenes the master rendered

in oils on your way to his home in the village of Giverny,

where he lived and worked for more than 40 years. When

Monet bought the property, most of it was an orchard; he

transformed it over the years into the enchanting visions

immortalized in his paintings, essentially creating each

work of art twice: once as a living garden and again as

a painting. As you stroll through the grounds, you’ll see

the famed Japanese bridge and water garden shaded by

weeping willows. Monet’s house, which you will also visit,

remains furnished as it was when the leader of the

impressionist school lived here, complete with his

precious collection of Japanese engravings. After the tour,

you will return to the ship for lunch.

Note: Giverny will be closed during the October 22 cruise departure date. Instead of Giverny, guests will visit the gardens of Versailles.

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” bike ride

to Giverny 7 3 The country roads between Vernon and Giverny offer

easy—and pretty—biking. Hop aboard your bike and

pedal about three miles to the village where the artist

lived for decades. You’ll pass the church and cemetery

where Monet is buried and the Hotel Baudy, where his

painter friends often stayed, and arrive at the artist’s

home and garden for a tour.

Featured Excursion:Hike to Château Gaillard 7 3 bUncover the tumultuous past with a visit to the

picturesque remains of Château Gaillard. Les Andelys

was of considerable strategic importance during the

Middle Ages, a fact that prompted Richard the Lionheart

to build a fortified castle here to protect the Duchy of

Normandy from the French king, Philip II. While the

construction of large stone castles in this period often

took the better part of a decade, Château Gaillard was

completed in less than two years through the combined

labor of 6,000 workers. You’ll see how the stronghold

was carved out of the natural rock, making this one of

the best designed castles of its age. Your guide will

explain Château Gaillard’s extraordinary history, including

the frequent transfer of ownership between the English

and the French, and its use as both a prison and a place

of refuge for troubled European rulers.

Note: The hike to the ruin is steep, so you may opt to travel by motorcoach if you aren’t in the mood for an invigorating walk.

This evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and

Gala Dinner will be prepared for you.

DAY 10 Rouen

BB L D

The medieval capital of Normandy, Rouen has managed

to preserve much of its historic core, despite being

turned into a battlefield numerous times. The roll call of

famous people who lived or died in Rouen is long and

varied—Richard the Lionheart, Joan of Arc, Gustave

Flaubert and Claude Monet are among them.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Rouen gourmet walking discovery tour

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” golfing at Rouen’s Mont-Saint-Aignan

A. Rouen gourmet walking discovery tour 5 2Rouen’s most famous landmark, the cathedral—celebrated

in 30 paintings by Monet—was begun some 800 years

ago, acquiring a multitude of spires and styles as it was

expanded and renovated in different eras. Ramble from

the cathedral square, with its ornate Renaissance clock,

and begin your exploration of the Old Town. The

cobblestone alleyways are lined with tall half-timbered

houses, often with shops on the first floor and apartments

above; it may be a historic district, but it is also a living

one. Step into a couple of these shops and patisseries for

tastes of regional specialties—delicious cider, for instance,

and the chocolate confection unique to Rouen known as

the “tears of Joan of Arc”—as you make your way toward

the Old Market Square. Reminders of life and death are

common here: Note the carved skulls and other symbols

of death on the buildings near Saint-Maclou, a spectacular

late-Flamboyant Gothic church, and the adjacent Aître

Saint-Maclou, once a cemetery for plague victims and

now a garden. As you enter the Old Market Square, you’ll

spot a bronze cross marking the most famous death in

the city—the place where the English burned Joan of Arc

at the stake. The Church of St. Joan, on the square, may

seem incongruous in its modernity; it was built on the site

of Saint-Sauveur church, which was destroyed during

WWII—the stained-glass windows in the new church

were salvaged from the ruins.

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B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” golfing at Rouen’s

Mont-Saint-Aignan 7 3Normandy boasts more than 30 18-hole golf courses.

Why let your game get rusty when you have such scenic

and well-designed courses to play? Rouen’s Mont-Saint-

Aignan par-70 course, originally designed in 1911 by Denis

Robinson, offers a mix of easy and challenging holes:

The course starts with some easy holes, but the six

holes in the valley demand skillful playing, and the last

hole is played against prevailing winds. Break out the

clubs and prepare to enjoy a morning on the links.


DAY 11Caudebec-en-Caux (Honfleur or Étretat)

BB L DCaudebec, a lovely little town on a serene loop of

the Seine, is your base for one of two very different

excursions. You could drive through the beautiful

Calvados countryside to Honfleur, a delightful seaside

harbor and city of painters, or head to the windy cliffs of

Étretat for a game of golf.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Honfleur walking discovery tour


A. Honfleur walking discovery tour 7 2 bA walking tour of the fishing village begins at the

former smugglers’ harbor of Vieux Bassin—the most

frequently painted scene in Honfleur—which looks

much as it did a century ago, though now the boats in

the harbor are more likely to be pleasure craft than

fishing vessels. Your local guide will take you down tiny

lanes, where houses stand shoulder to shoulder in a

jumble of styles: narrow 19th-century slate-roofed

townhouses, 15th-century fishermen’s cottages, and tall

and elegant mansions—many adorned with figures of

chimeras or saints. You’ll also see St. Catherine’s Church,

built in the 15th century by shipwrights who gave it an

oak ceiling that looks like the hull of a boat.

Did You Know? Honfleur was the starting point for 17th-century explorer Samuel de Champlain, who sailed for the New World in 1604. He founded the city of Quebec in 1608, and in 1609 he was the first European to see the New England lake that was later named for him.


7 3 bIt would be hard to find a more spectacular location

than Étretat’s clifftop course, which is ranked as one

of the best in France. Originally laid out in 1908 and

substantially redesigned in the 1990s, it offers a

multitude of challenges: Two nine-hole loops take players

right to the cliff’s edge, the wind can be a serious

challenge in and of itself, and the 10th through 14th

holes offer formidable tests of a golfer’s skill. Spend the

morning on the course, lunch on your own in charming

Étretat and explore the seaside village that so many

artists, including Monet, rendered in paint, or return to

the ship for lunch and a leisurely afternoon onboard.


DAY 12 Rouen (Normandy Beaches)BB D

Immerse yourself in the tactics, desperate courage and

horrendous human cost of the 1944 Allied invasion of

France, the first step in the ultimately victorious land

campaign against the Third Reich. It began here, on

these Norman beaches, each of which was assigned a

code name by the Allies as they planned their attack.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Full day Normandy Beaches with Utah and

Omaha beaches and Sainte-Mère-Église

B. Full day Normandy Beaches with Juno Beach

C. Full day Normandy Beaches with Bayeux

A. Full day Normandy Beaches with Utah and

Omaha beaches and Sainte-Mère-Église 8 2 bThis tour encompasses the major areas of the American

assault: Utah Beach, where the first American infantry

units came ashore; Sainte-Mère-Église, the first village

freed from the Germans and home to a museum

dedicated to the Airborne divisions that suffered 2,500

casualties in the battle; Pointe du Hoc, a strategic high

point controlled by the Germans and captured by a

Ranger unit; and Omaha Beach, the second landing site,

where the Americans encountered much stiffer resistance

than they did at Utah. At each location, you can see the

actual equipment used for the invasion—tanks, landing

craft, bombers, gliders—and get a feel for what these

young men experienced.

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B. Full day Normandy Beaches with Juno Beach 8 2 b

When the Allies prepared to invade Normandy, they

assigned a six-mile stretch of beach to the 3rd Canadian

Infantry Division under the command of Major-General

Rodney Keller. The Canadians trained for their assault

in Scotland and were generally regarded as the

best-prepared of any of the invading forces.

Unfortunately, preliminary bombing had failed to

eliminate German battlements, so Canadian troops

were met with well-

prepared German resistance, and several companies

suffered heavy casualties. Walk the shoreline where so

many died, and visit Juno Beach Center, dedicated to the

Canadian war effort. One million Canadians served during

WWII, and 14,000 participated in the landing. Exhibits

describe both life at home during the war and the service

of—and sacrifices made by—the men who fought.

C. Full day Normandy Beaches with Bayeux 8 2 bBayeux, the first French town to be liberated in 1944, is

home to the Bayeux Tapestry, an astonishing millennium-

old textile listed on UNESCO’s Memory of the World

Register. The tapestry tells the story of the Norman

conquest of England; it was probably embroidered by

monks in the south of England in October 1066, a few

months after William I’s troops overwhelmed the island’s

Saxon defenders. Take a guided audio tour of this

remarkable textile, which details the story of the

conquest in 58 distinct scenes with Latin annotations.

Note: Because the Tapestry Museum is a popular attraction in summer, the order of events may change to accommodate scheduling issues.

Featured Excursion: Arromanches and the American Cemetery 5 1 bWhichever historic beach you choose to visit, you’ll

join your fellow passengers in a journey to the

American Cemetery, where almost 10,000 US soldiers

are buried, most of whom lost their lives during the

D-Day invasion. Pay your respects here with a special

wreath-laying ceremony.

DAY 13 Mantes-la-Jolie (Versailles)

u BB L FD

How did France’s rulers live over the centuries? Step into

the private rooms of either Versailles, the lavish palace

built by the Sun King, or Malmaison, home to Napoleon

Bonaparte’s empress Josephine, to find out.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Palace of Versailles

B. Château de Malmaison

A. Palace of Versailles 7 2 bIt was the official residence of the country’s kings and

queens from 1682 until the revolution, and though the

monarchy possessed other palaces, Versailles stood

alone in magnificence. Tour the royal apartments, which

still look much as they did when Louis XVI and Marie

Antoinette fled in 1789. In these rooms, you’ll find lush

silk draperies, exquisite marquetry tables, gilded beds,

Aubusson carpets and porcelain ornaments that reveal

the elegance of the 18th-century royalty’s lifestyle, as

well as the extravagance that helped fuel the rage

leading to the revolution. Climb the great staircase

and enter the jaw-dropping Hall of Mirrors, where the

absolute ruler of France held court for the ambassadors

of Siam, Persia and the Ottoman Empire, along with all

the great seigneurs of France. Ladies intrigued behind

their fans, plots were hatched, and careers were made

and destroyed beneath the sparkling chandeliers here.

B. Château de Malmaison 7 2 bPart great romance, part scandal, part politics—this is

the story of Napoleon Bonaparte and Josephine, the

fascinating (and notorious) widow he married in 1796 and

divorced 14 years later in order to marry Marie-Louise of

Austria (who gave him the son Josephine could not bear

him). Despite the divorce, Napoleon remained devoted to

Josephine: Malmaison is a testament to that devotion.

The jewel-box palace was redesigned under Josephine’s

direction in the 1790s, with every facet intended to

reflect both the “Little Corporal’s” glory and Josephine’s

own exquisite Directoire tastes. Though the palace fell

on hard times in the 19th century, it has been beautifully

restored. The Consulate Chamber, where Napoleon met

with his staff, resembles a military tent; the library is

furnished with the emperor’s desk from his apartments

in the Tuileries. Josephine’s bedroom retains the elegant

tented Jacob-Desmalter bed in which the empress slept.

Among the many gems on display here are David’s

original Napoleon Crossing the Alps and the Austerlitz

table, inlaid with Sèvres plaques commemorating

Napoleon’s victory at Austerlitz.



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DAY 14 Paris

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You have a host of options for exploring incomparable

Paris: See all the important sights via boat and

motorcoach, explore the heart and soul of the city on

a walk from Notre Dame to the Latin Quarter, or bike

along the quays with a knowledgeable guide.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. “Heart of Paris” cruise and city tour

B. Exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Île de la Cité and Latin Quarter walking tour

C. Exclusive guided “Go Active” Seine riverbank bike ride

A. “Heart of Paris” cruise and city tour 7 2 b SHemingway called Paris a moveable feast: Once you’ve

experienced it, you will take it with you wherever you

go. If you are experiencing Paris for the first time, this

tour will introduce you to the City of Light’s most

cherished landmarks from both the water and the land.

Paris, after all, grew up along the banks of the Seine,

and its principal civic and historic buildings line the

river; the Louvre, National Assembly, Conciergerie,

Hotel de Ville, Place de la Concorde, Notre Dame—you

will see them all as you cruise through the heart of the

city. Onshore, you’ll head via motorcoach from the Arc

de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon to celebrate

his Grand Army’s 128 victories, down the Champs-Élysées

to the Place de la Concorde. These broad 19th-century

avenues and stately buildings were created by

Baron Haussmann in a great urban development that

eliminated the cramped, crazy-quilt medieval city and

gave Paris its modern form. You’ll pass the magnificent

Opéra Garnier, the Place Vendôme (home to designer

salons), the legendary Louvre and, on the Left Bank,

the Sorbonne University and the Panthéon. Stretch

your legs at the Luxembourg Gardens, then take in the

École Militaire before arriving at the manicured grounds

of the Champs de Mars, the perfect vantage point from

which to see Paris’s most iconic structure—the Eiffel

Tower. Cross the Seine via the most stunning single-arch

bridge in Paris, Pont Alexandre III; it displays elegantly

sculpted nymphs, winged horses and graceful art

nouveau lamps. Once on the other side of the river,

you’ll be sure to spot the largest glass ceilings in France,

which shelter the Grand Palais and the Petit Palais. As

you continue along the Seine’s banks you’ll see many

striking contemporary bridges too. Your city tour will

finish at your ship’s dock.

B. Exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Île de la Cité and

Latin Quarter walking tour 7 2As a true Parisian would, take the Métro to the Île de

la Cité and the great cathedral of Notre Dame. Henry IV

said that Paris was worth a Mass when he converted

to Catholicism—and he made that conversion official

here, in the center of Paris. In fact, Notre Dame is

officially the center of France; facing its main entrance

is Kilometer Zero, the location from which distances in

France (including those of the French national

highways) are traditionally measured. An expert in the

history and architecture of this magnificent cathedral is

your guide as you explore both inside and out. Begun in

the 12th century and finished about 200 years later,

Notre Dame is one of the finest examples of French

Gothic architecture in Europe.

After you’ve admired Notre Dame’s stained glass, flying

buttresses and idiosyncratic gargoyles, cross the

Archbishop’s Bridge to the Left Bank and the Latin

Quarter. Wander through the narrow streets where for

centuries artists, writers, philosophers and the

Sorbonne’s students have lived and worked, argued

politics, painted, sipped absinthe and lived the

bohemian lifestyle for which the district is famous.

Matisse, Picasso, Rimbaud and Sartre, as well as

American expatriate writers Hemingway and Fitzgerald,

are just a few of the notables who made this district

home. Take some time to meander through the area’s

little squares, perusing the shop windows and perhaps

relaxing with a drink at a classic café.

Did You Know? Victor Hugo’s The Hunchback of Notre Dame revived interest in the great cathedral, which had been badly damaged during the Revolution, and as a result, Empress Eugénie’s favorite architect, Viollet-le-Duc, undertook a major restoration.

C. Exclusive guided “Go Active” Seine riverbank

bike ride 7 3The Seine’s quays may be protected by UNESCO for

their cultural importance and significance in the

development of Paris, but they are also the scene of

a host of fun outdoor activities: games for kids and

grown-ups, a climbing wall, a running track, yoga

classes, even a beach in August—and an inviting bike

path. Join a guide to pedal along the Left Bank,

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DAY 17 Lyon

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Two rivers: one tranquil, one torrential. Two hills: one for

labor, where the sound of the silk weavers’ looms used

to echo; the other for prayers, crowned by a spectacular

basilica. Two cities, as different as night and day: one

boasting colorful Old World façades, medieval mansions

and hidden passageways; one with a sophisticated

urbanity reminiscent of Paris. Situated at the confluence

of the Rhône and Saône rivers, and with roots stretching

back over 2,000 years to the days of Julius Caesar, Lyon

is a place of fascinating dualities. Today you have your

choice of ways to explore this city of contrasts: Sample

its culinary riches with a visit to its peerless market hall

or follow the footsteps of the silk weavers in the old

quarter. For a more active option, see the city from its

extensive—and lovely—bike paths.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Lyon walking tour

B. Exclusive silk weavers walking discovery tour

C. Exclusive guided “Go Active” Lyon peninsula bike tour

A. Exclusive “Do as the Locals Do” Lyon

walking tour 5 2 No one eats better than the citizens of Lyon, a tradition

that harks back more than a century, when women

opened unpretentious restaurants, called bouchons,

to feed hungry workers. The traditional bouchon serves

hearty meat-based dishes, but quenelles—luscious

dumplings—and a seasoned cream cheese called cervelle

de canut are longtime local favorites too. While

explaining Lyon’s important gastronomic history, your

guide will show you the city’s bouchons and specialty

food shops and take you into the legendary main market,

Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse. There you’ll find stalls

brimming with local produce, fish, game and cheeses, all

beautifully displayed on black marble countertops—and

you’ll have a chance to taste some of these delectable

offerings. Don’t miss the macarons! On the way to these

fabulous culinary destinations, you’ll see some of Lyon’s

historic old quarter, with its many spectacular examples

of medieval and Renaissance architecture, and les

traboules, the city’s old passageways.

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crossing the bridges that link historic Île de la Cité and

Île Saint-Louis and getting a close look at the heart of

the city’s origins. Bike to the Esplanade des Invalides

(Napoleon’s tomb is one of the monuments here) and

along the Quay d’Orsay to the Champs de Mars, one

of Paris’s largest green spaces . . . which just happens

to have one of the best views of the Eiffel Tower in the

city. It’s a fun way to take part in the life of the city

while also getting some exercise.

DAY 15 Paris to Lyon


Disembark the S.S. Joie de Vivre and transfer via

high-speed, first-class TGV train to Lyon for the

fantastic final leg of your French adventure, where you’ll

find the striking S.S. Catherine waiting to carry you

through Burgundy and Provence.

DAY 16 Mâcon (Beaune)

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Located in the southernmost part of Burgundy, Mâcon,

a Saône River port, is your gateway to Beaune.

Featured Excursion:Beaune, Hospices de Beaune 9 2 bBeaune may not be a large town, but it brims with history,

a wealth of splendid regional architecture and incredible

food. Nestled inside medieval ramparts, Beaune was the

seat of the warlike dukes of Burgundy until the 16th

century. It is best known for the Hospices de Beaune

(also known as Hôtel-Dieu), which you’ll recognize

immediately by its fabulous multicolored tile roof—it’s a

symbol of Burgundy. Founded as a charitable institution

by the duke’s chancellor in 1443, the hospital became a

model for charitable giving in southern France, one with

a unique fundraising tradition that continues to this day.

Over the centuries, the hospice monks were given wine

and vineyards, and they began selling the wine at

auction in order to support their charitable work. The

wine auction is now world-famous, and the institution

remains a working hospital for the poor, with modern

facilities standing alongside the historic Hôtel-Dieu.



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62

Notes:

Notes:

B. Exclusive silk weavers walking discovery tour 5 2

Lyon’s history is entwined with silk, which dominated the

city’s economy for centuries—at one time, almost a third

of the city’s population were silk weavers. Jump on a tram

and head for Lyon-Perrache station with your guide, who

will take you into the historic Saint-Jean Quarter, part of

the UNESCO-honored Old Town. The Gothic cathedral is

probably the most striking heirloom of the Middle Ages,

but the tall rose and ocher buildings dating to the

Renaissance pay tribute to the importance of the silk

trade with Italy in that era. Enter the courtyard of the

Gadagne Museum, which is housed in an early-16th-

century building, and stroll along Rue Juiverie, which has

been occupied since Roman times and was once home to

Nostradamus. You’ll see some of the traboules, the old

passageways that snake between and through buildings,

secret shortcuts that silk weavers took to keep their

delicate fabrics out of the rain. You’ll pass cozy bouchons,

which serve traditional local dishes, and you’ll have a

chance to see a Jacquard loom in use.

The afternoon is yours to spend in town at your leisure,

shopping in the fashion or textile boutiques, visiting

the antique dealers or simply relaxing with a glass of

Beaujolais at one of the many cafés.

Did You Know? The Jacquard loom, a revolutionary programmable weaving machine, was invented by a native of Lyon, Joseph Marie Jacquard, in about 1803; it employed punch cards to create damask and other intricate patterns. While Jacquard came from a family of silk weavers, he worked a succession of odd jobs and failed at many of them before finding his calling as an inventor. Napoleon granted the city of Lyon the patent for Jacquard’s loom and gave him a lifelong pension that solved all of his financial problems.

C. Exclusive guided “Go Active” Lyon peninsula

bike tour 7 3Get out and about with a bike ride along the river. Lyon

boasts a thriving bike-rental scene, which tells you just

how popular this mode of transportation is—you will

definitely have two-wheeled company as you pedal

along the banks of the Rhône on a sunny day. Your

route takes you over the new Raymond Barre Bridge,

past the spectacular new Museum of Confluences (so

named because it sits at the confluence of the Rhône

and the Saône), and along the peninsula, a strip of land

with the Saône on one side and the Rhône on the other.

Here, houseboats tie up along the banks; swans float

on the water; and locals take advantage of the lovely

parklike setting. You’ll also have a great view of the

Old Town on the other side of the river. This outing

gives you a little taste of what it is like to live in Lyon,

as well as a little exercise.

Featured Excursion:Exclusive Lyon “Illuminations” tour 7 1 bWhat can creative lighting designers do with historic

buildings? You will fall in love with Lyon tonight as you

take in the view from the top of Fourvière Hill. The

city spreads out below you, perfectly chosen lighting

illuminating the splendid face of the cathedral and the

magnificent façades of Renaissance houses. You’ll get a

sense of how the city developed, growing from Roman

roots to encompass the peninsula and the eastern bank

of the Rhône, before you ride through the streets to the

riverbanks, where light and shadow paint the bridges

and shimmer on the water. You may want to stroll along

the quays back to the ship; this area really comes alive

at night, when the old barges tied up along the river

throw open their doors and reveal vibrant bars and

restaurants inside.

DAY 18 Tournon (Tain-l’Hermitage)BB L D

Spend the day in the midst of Côte du Rhône

wine country, exploring storied vineyards and

picturesque villages.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Exclusive Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage village stroll

with wine tasting

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” Hermitage vineyards hike with wine tasting

A. Exclusive Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage village

stroll with wine tasting 5 2Nestled on opposite sides of the river in the heart of

the Côtes du Rhône, the twin cities of Tournon and

Tain-l’Hermitage are an ideal destination for connoisseurs

of fine wine. Tournon may be a small town, but stirring

events took place here: A castle was raised on the

hilltop in the 10th century to protect the region, and

new fortifications were added over the centuries,

including two “new” towers built to defend against

Protestant attacks in the 16th century. You’ll see the

handsome houses constructed by wealthy merchants

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and garrison officers when you walk through the

Rue de Doux area, and you’ll pass the 14th-century

church—unusual for the number of houses incorporated

in its walls—and the oldest secondary school in France.

Cross the pretty flower-decked Marc Seguin suspension

bridge to Tain-l’Hermitage to visit local wine cellars,

where you’ll taste the region’s famous Côtes du Rhône,

Saint-Joseph and Crozes-Hermitage wines. These wines

are produced from the Syrah grapes that grow on the

steep slopes lining the river. After your wine tasting,

you’ll have time to browse through the shops; the

Valrhona chocolate factory is always a popular stop.

B. Exclusive guided “Go Active” Hermitage

vineyards hike with wine tasting 5 3Are you ready to explore the steepest vineyards on

the Rhône? The vines producing the world-famous

Hermitage wines grow on precipitous slopes above

the river, so steep that terracing is essential. Hike along

the paths that parallel the rough courses of stone

through the vineyards, each one situated to catch the

afternoon sun. After you’ve seen how the grapes—

primarily Syrah—are grown, taste the fruit that has been

transformed by the vintners’ craft into legendary wine.

DAY 19 Viviers BB L D

An enchanting village where time seems to have stopped

centuries ago, Viviers has a long and storied history that

goes back more than 1,600 years and a splendid

architectural heritage to match. At one time Viviers was

divided along religious lines—the clergy lived in the upper

part of the town, the laity in the lower part. You’ll see

both parts today on your walking tours; its picturesque

rooftops and cobblestone streets always delight visitors.

Featured Excursion:Exclusive intimate Viviers “Village Day” 5 3Sycamores line some of Viviers’ stone-paved streets

(planted, so they say, to provide shade for Napoleon’s

soldiers), and houses here bear the watermarks of

floods over the years. Your local guide will show you

the fountain squares in the Old Town, which combines

Roman and medieval influences, and cobblestone lanes

so narrow you can stand in the middle and touch the

medieval houses on either side. Viviers climbs a hill

crowned by 12th-century St. Vincent’s Cathedral. It

happens to be the smallest cathedral in France, but it

contains a marvelous organ. Take a seat under the soaring

vaults and listen while a local organist demonstrates

just how fine an instrument it is before you meet some

of the local residents. You might choose to learn how a

local potter makes the attractive wares sold at Poterie;

step into one of two homes—one a mansion, the other

more modest; take a dance class; or sample the wares

at a popular bar. Don’t feel that you must opt for the

bar if you’d like a little refreshment; all visits include

an aperitif. On your way back to the ship, stop to try

your hand at a game of petanque, which is akin to

horseshoes, only it’s played with steel balls.

DAY 20 Avignon

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Avignon is home to the medieval bridge immortalized

in the folk song “Sur le Pont d’Avignon,” as well as

the mighty Palace of the Popes. From a distance, the

picture-perfect city center looks as though it has been

lifted straight from the pages of a history book, but

all you need to do is step inside its medieval walls to

discover the prosperous heart of contemporary Avignon.

Choose between three different ways to explore this

intriguing and ancient city.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Avignon walking discovery tour with Palace of the Popes

B. Avignon walking discovery tour with Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct

C. Exclusive guided “Go Active” kayak ride on the Gardon River

A. Avignon walking discovery tour with

Palace of the Popes 7 3It’s hard to believe, looking at the charming cafés and

entertaining street performers in the Clock Tower Square,

that this lively scene owes its existence to a 15th-century

siege. This area was the heart of medieval Avignon

(and the site of the original Roman town), crowded

with cottages and narrow streets—until a pope had it

all demolished in order to give his troops a clearer field

of fire. That is Avignon in a nutshell: It was the city of

the popes. The Avignon popes built the ramparts that

still surround the Old Town and the huge, nearly

impregnable fortress that dominates the UNESCO-

designated district; in fact, the city did not officially

become part of France until 1791. Stand below the high,

thick walls to get a sense of just how daunting these

fortifications were, then prepare to climb many steps

as you tour the Palace of the Popes itself—it’s worth it!

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Notes:

B. Avignon walking discovery tour with Pont du Gard

Roman Aqueduct 7 2In the middle of the first century, Roman engineers

responded to Nîmes’ need for water to fill its baths,

fountains and pools by building a 30-mile-long

(48-kilometer-long) aqueduct from Uzès to Nîmes—

which required transporting Uzès springwater over the

River Gardon. A thousand workers quarried 50,000 tons

of soft golden limestone and used it to construct—

without mortar—the magnificent tri-level bridge that still

spans the river. An expert guide will explain the

techniques used to build this engineering marvel, which

has withstood 2,000 years of floods and storms that

swept away much newer bridges. You can see notations

those ancient Romans made in the stone as they cut

and fitted them into place when you view the bridge

itself, and you can learn about the entire project at the

museum. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is as

beautiful as it is fascinating.

C. Exclusive guided “Go Active” kayak ride on

the Gardon River 7 3 bSlather on some sunscreen and plan to get wet as you

spend a couple of fun and relaxing hours on the clear,

tranquil waters of the Gardon. Accompanied by a

soundtrack of chirping cicadas, you’ll paddle from Collias

to Remoulins, spotting trout in the river and water birds

on the shores. Your adventure ends with a marvelous view

of the arches of the oldest extant Roman aqueduct in

France, the 2,000-year-old, UNESCO-designated Pont du

Gard. This magnificent tri-level aqueduct bridge has

spanned the Gardon since 19 BC, when it was constructed

as part of the system that carried water from Uzès to

Nîmes.

Note: The kayak ride on the Gardon River is only available for May-October departure dates.



DAY 21 Tarascon (Arles or Tarascon)

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Arles has existed since the sixth century BC, when the

ancient Greeks founded it and named it Theline. It was

here that the Romans built their first bridge across the

Rhône River, creating a vital overland route between

Italy and Spain and facilitating the expansion of their

empire. Long renowned as one of the region’s most

attractive cities, it lured artist Vincent van Gogh, who

painted hundreds of works here (including Sunflowers

and The Yellow House) in just 15 months. A short

distance from Arles is the ancient and charming town of

Tarascon. Its many medieval sites include a 12th-century

church and a 15th-century château that is rich with tales

of a beloved ruler. Bask in the warmth of the Provençal

sunlight in either of these friendly Mediterranean towns.

Choice Is Yours Excursion Options:A. Arles walking discovery tour

B. Tarascon walking discovery tour

A. Arles walking discovery tour 5 2Van Gogh paid tribute to Arles’s atmospheric beauty

in some 200 paintings, including Starry Night Over

the Rhône. It’s an ancient city boasting a remarkable

collection of Roman ruins; among them are a theater

where the famous Venus of Arles—on display in the

Louvre—was discovered in 1651 and an amphitheater

that is still used for sporting events. Join your expert

local guide for a stroll through this district, where

medieval houses crowd in among the ancient structures

and the city gates date to the 13th century. Pause before

the town hall, built with stone quarried from the Roman

theater, and the Romanesque St. Trophime Church,

which was erected in the 12th century. It replaced the

church where St. Augustine, the man who converted the

inhabitants of England to Christianity, was consecrated

by the first archbishop of Canterbury. Walk in Van Gogh’s

footsteps past the cheery yellow Café de Nuit—still

open and still the same shade of yellow it was when he

painted it—and across Forum Square before visiting

the town’s bountiful farmers’ market, which displays

seasonal fruits and vegetables, medicinal herbs and

many more specialties of Southern France.

During your free time after the tour, you can peruse the

local shops, go olive tasting or delve further into Arles’s

stunning collection of architectural treasures. After lunch

onboard, enjoy more leisure time.

B. Tarascon walking discovery tour 7 2The stern castle walls rising from the Rhône, erected in the

15th century to defend valuable trade routes, could stand

in for the Bastille, and indeed this castle was used as a

prison for centuries (in fact, occupying German forces

housed British prisoners of war in it). Owned by the dukes

of Anjou, it was transformed into a splendid Renaissance

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palace by the duke known as Good King René for his

generous patronage of the arts and his support of local

fishermen. As you walk from the castle through the little

town, you’ll find wonderful examples of Provençal

architecture—civic buildings, houses and churches,

including St. Martha’s Collegiate Church. (According to

legend, the area was terrorized by a dragon called

Tarasque until AD 48, when St. Martha arrived and tamed

the ferocious beast.)

Did You Know? For centuries, the life of Good King René has been romanticized in fiction and in art, including Shakespeare’s Henry VI and Pre-Raphaelite painter Ford Madox Brown’s imagined scene, King René’s Honeymoon.

DAY 22 Depart Avignon, transfer to Marseille

e b CB/BB

Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a

group departure transfer or if you have purchased a

private departure transfer, you will be transferred to

Marseille International Airport for your flight home.

Note: Ship schedule and order of sightseeing may change throughout the itinerary. Tour to port of destination by motorcoach and substitute visits to other sites may occur during your trip due to impact of the ocean tides, water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors.

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