A Portrait of Majestic France River Cruise ~ Uniworld

Picture Perfect Journey

The quintessential voyage for lovers of all things French

The S.S. Joie de Vivre offers a French river cruise like no other, embodying the “joy of living” as it glides along the scenic rivers of France. Designed as a floating pied-à-terre, the ship captures the charm of Parisian elegance with handcrafted furniture, fine antiques, and artwork inspired by iconic 20th-century design. Each space is a nod to Paris’s Golden Twenties and the free-spirited Sixties, blending classic style with contemporary amenities. This exceptional journey weaves together the art, culture, and cuisine of France with spectacular views, creating a luxurious French escape.

Set out from Bordeaux to explore the historic treasures of southwest France, from the vineyards of Saint-Émilion and its Monolithic Church to the fortified town of Blaye with its famous citadel. Sailing further, marvel at Rouen’s stunning Gothic cathedral, follow Monet’s footsteps through Giverny, and wander the charming streets of Honfleur’s former smugglers’ harbour. Each stop is complemented by Uniworld’s private excursions, from exclusive wine tastings in Médoc to chef-led culinary tours that showcase regional flavours. Your cruise culminates with the romance and beauty of Paris, the perfect finale to a voyage through majestic France.

All the things you need to know

Arrive at Bordeaux-Mérignac 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.

The legendary Médoc region abounds with prestigious wine châteaux in a dizzying array of architectural styles, as well as miles of grapevines stretching to infinity. Take a scenic drive through the storied Médoc wine route, followed by a wine tasting at a beautiful wine estate.

In the evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

The French phrase “la douceur de vivre” is an accurate description for your time in Cadillac, known for its deliciously flavored dessert wines. Visit Château Royal de Cazeneuve, site of Henry IV’s and Queen Margot’s tempestuous love. Meet the owner around a glass of Sauternes in the reception hall.

Note: Sailing this stretch of the Garonne depends on the tides. If it is not possible to sail to Cadillac, you will be transferred to your destination via motorcoach.

The Route de la Corniche Fleurie…could this be the most beautiful road you’ve ever traveled? Find out today on the drive to Blaye Fortress, passing through one impossibly picturesque hamlet after another. Once you arrive, you’ll discover the wonders of this historic fortress, a UNESCO-designated citadel that once protected Bordeaux from attacks by sea.

With Libourne as your base, travel to nearby breathtaking Saint-Émilion and immerse yourself more deeply in the region’s history and wine culture. The medieval town of Saint-Émilion is an ideal place to linger. Wander its cobblestone lanes lined with wine shops and bakeries, and stop to admire the amazing rock-hewn church that extends beneath the city’s streets.

France’s rich agricultural tradition is the heart and soul of the region’s exquisite cuisine—and what better way to get a taste for the freshest vegetables, cheeses, breads and fruits than with a visit to Libourne’s lively farmers’ market?

 

Discover Bordeaux’s many charms today, either on foot with a local expert or on two wheels—the locals’ preferred way to navigate the city’s charming backstreets. You have a wonderful selection of active opportunities to see this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Disembark the breathtaking S.S. Bon Voyage and transfer to Paris via high-speed 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. 

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 the impact of water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors.

 

Discover Bordeaux’s many charms today, either on foot with a local expert or on two wheels—the locals’ preferred way to navigate the city’s charming backstreets. You have a wonderful selection of active opportunities to see this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Disembark the breathtaking S.S. Bon Voyage and transfer to Paris via high-speed 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. 

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 the impact of water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors.

 

Today is a celebration of northern France’s natural beauty, with an excursion to a splendid château and gardens situated in an equally grand setting, plus a chance to immerse yourself in the very landscapes that inspired Impressionist master Claude Monet. In the morning, choose between a scenic hike or a visit to the hilltop Château de La Roche-Guyon, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers sweeping views over the Seine. Later, explore the beautiful gardens of Monet. You’ll have the opportunity to take in the French countryside on your way there with an invigorating bike ride, or opt to arrive by coach instead.

Walk in the footsteps of greatness in Normandy’s medieval capital, a city with a historic quarter that remains amazingly intact. From the cathedral Monet painted dozens of times to the cross marking the spot where Joan of Arc was martyred, Rouen is a treasure trove for the culturally curious. 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.

Caudebec-en-Caux, a lovely little town on the right bank of the Seine Estuary, is your base for one of two very different excursions. You could drive through the beautiful Calvados countryside to Honfleur, a delightful seaside harbour and city of painters, or head to the windy cliffs of Étretat for a game of golf.

There are moments when we travel that move us on an otherworldly level—experiences that stir a profound emotional connection. The Normandy beaches certainly have that effect. On your full-day outing, you’ll visit Normandy’s beaches, with a choice to venture to either the American, British and Commonwealth, or Canadian beaches. After, partake in a private memorial ceremony for a sentimental remembrance of Operation Overlord.

How did France’s rulers live over the centuries? Step into the private rooms of the Palace of Versailles, the lavish palace built by the Sun King, to find out.

A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the “City of Light” or you’ve been here many times before, there’s something for everyone today in Paris. Enjoy a panoramic overview of the city, or join a local expert for a walk through two much-loved neighbourhoods.

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 Charles de Gaulle Airport for your flight home.

 

With Uniworld, a thoughtfully curated selection of excursions is included, turning each day into a collection of special moments. From guided explorations of iconic landmarks to unique local experiences, every outing is crafted to immerse you in the heart of each destination. Whether it’s a private wine tasting in a sunlit vineyard, a cultural performance, or a historic city tour, Uniworld’s excursions add unforgettable depth and richness to your journey—each one seamlessly included for a truly all-encompassing experience.

Some of the Tour’s Included in this cruise…

  • Médoc Châteaux Route with Private Wine Tasting

  • Let’s Go: Bike in the Médoc Vineyards

  • Private Owner’s Tour of Royal Château with Sauternes Toast

  • Saint-Émilion Walking Tour with Wine Tasting

  • Let’s Go: Bike Bordeaux Backstreets

  • Normandy Beaches: Highlights of American Sites

  • Paris Walking Tour of the Latin Quarter

  • All-Inclusive Dining: Enjoy gourmet meals crafted by renowned chefs, featuring locally sourced ingredients and diverse culinary styles.

  • Free-Flowing Fine Wines and Spirits: Delight in complimentary fine wines, beers, and spirits served throughout the cruise, including at meals and in the lounge.

  • Excursions: Participate in a variety of included excursions, tailored to immerse guests in the culture, history, and highlights of each destination.

  • Onboard Entertainment: Experience engaging onboard activities, performances, and lectures, enhancing your journey with cultural insights.

  • Luxurious Accommodations: Stay in beautifully appointed staterooms with custom-designed décor and all modern amenities for a comfortable experience.

  • Personalised Service: Benefit from attentive service with a high crew-to-guest ratio, ensuring that every guest feels valued and well cared for.

  • Gratuities: All tips and gratuities for onboard staff and excursions are included, allowing you to relax without worrying about additional expenses.

  • Wi-Fi Access: Stay connected with complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship, making it easy to share your experiences and keep in touch with loved ones.

  • Fitness and Wellness: Enjoy access to onboard fitness facilities, wellness classes, and spa treatments designed to rejuvenate your body and mind.

  • Special Events and Experiences: Participate in unique experiences like cooking classes, wine tastings, and themed events that celebrate the local culture.

 

Lucie Onboard S.S Joie De Vivre Uniworld

“I recently had the incredible experience of staying on Uniworld’s luxurious S.S. Joie de Vivre during the Advantage Cruise Conference in November 2023, and I was absolutely blown away by everything this beautiful ship had to offer. From the moment I stepped aboard, I was struck by the ship’s elegance and Parisian charm—S.S. Joie de Vivre truly lives up to its name, bringing the ‘joy of living’ to life on the Seine. Designed with only 64 cabins for a maximum of 128 guests, the ship had an intimate, boutique feel while offering a luxurious level of service and detail. Every corner was thoughtfully decorated with handcrafted furniture, fine antiques, and stunning accents inspired by 20th-century Parisian style, blending sophistication with the comfort and relaxation you’d expect on a Uniworld river cruise.

Le Bistro became my go-to spot to unwind, featuring classic Parisian décor and offering French cuisine that was genuinely out of this world. Dining there felt like stepping into a chic café right along the Seine. And speaking of views, being docked on the Seine was a dream! I had sweeping panoramic views of Paris from my cabin and the public areas, including the picture-perfect sight of the Eiffel Tower lit up each evening. The S.S. Joie de Vivre offered such a serene, intimate cruising experience, giving me the chance to both explore the streets of Paris and fully relax onboard this floating Parisian masterpiece. It was a magical way to experience Paris and river cruising for the first time, and it’s an experience I’d recommend to anyone looking for a unique, luxurious way to see France.” ~ Lucie 

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We are here to help. Our travel experts will organise and book your dream holiday.
call us today or complete our online enquiry form to start your next adventure.