France River Cruising 2022 & 2023
Few countries spark the emotions quite like France, a land of elegance and grace, filled with a passion for fine wine and good food.
Emerald Liberté, Lyon
With our stylish and spacious Star-Ship, Emerald Liberté, which has been specially appointed to traverse the romantic Rhône and Saône rivers, France’s sublime rolling hills, charming towns and iconic cities, set against its iconic and historic backdrop, are waiting for you to explore. Your next great escape is on the horizon and a river cruise through France is a 'fantastique' choice.
Explore Southern France
Contents
This was my first ever river cruise. I have been thoroughly impressed and felt content every minute of every day. Emerald Cruises guest sailing the Rhône, May 2022
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Discover more about our France river cruises at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552
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Cruise with confidence
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A wealth of generous inclusions
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EmeraldDISCOVERY
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EmeraldPLUS & EmeraldACTIVE
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Explore France
10-11
Our award-winning Emerald Liberté Star-Ship
12-13
French River Cruise Offers & Inclusions
14-15
2022 & 2023 French River Cruises Sensations of Lyon & Provence
16-19
Extend Your Stay
20-23
Book your France river cruise online at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552
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Cruise with
Confidence
a ll
Ship Expe
You're in safe hands
Let us take care of you
Our USTOA Membership Benefits You
When travelling with Emerald Cruises, you’ll benefit from the small ship experience, enjoying the intimacy of small guest numbers paired with the spacious surrounds of our innovative Star-Ship, Emerald Liberté. Every part of our award-winning cruises have been designed with you in mind.
Only companies that meet the highest standards of care, integrity and insurance can become members of the United States Tour Operators Association (USTOA). Our membership offers travelers like you an extra layer of added confidence when booking and traveling. As a member in good standing, Emerald Cruises is backed by USTOA’s $1 Million Travelers Assistance Program.
The state-of-the-art Emerald Liberté caters for just 132 guests, letting you meet like-minded travellers in a more intimate group, while allowing you to have plenty of room for yourself.
Our Flexible Booking Policy
We are working closely with Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), local and international Government Health agencies, to ensure our protocols exceed the latest regulatory requirements. We are ensuring you can travel with complete confidence that your well being and safety are taken care of to the highest standard. We are continuously updating our protocols to safeguard both the health, safety and the experience of our valued guests.
We’ve created our book with confidence assurance to give you complete peace of mind when booking your next getaway with us. Fresh air and open spaces
For more information on our book with confidence assurance visit emeraldcruises.com/confidence
Pool with retractable roof
Small Ship Experts
Cruise with Confidence
Our commitment to our guests and crew, the guest experience and their health, safety and well being remains our key priority.
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Relax and cruise with confidence
With our Flexible Booking Policy, you can defer your travel plans and transfer to an alternative departure date or itinerary up to 60 days prior to your cruise commencing with no Emerald Cruises fees (third party fees may apply). This policy is available for new bookings across our 2022 France river cruises.
For more information on our book with confidence assurance visit emeraldcruises.com/confidence
Book your France river cruise online at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552
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Always included
So much
Is included
You can look forward to an exciting collection of included excursions and experiences, hand picked to make the most out of your time in the South of France. From guided hikes and bike rides, canoeing excursions and walking tours of iconic towns and cities, to wine tasting, and exclusive experiences with local residents that will truly immerse you into local life. Whether you are seeking adventure, or just want to relax, there is something for everyone on an Emerald Cruises French river cruise.
Enjoy all of these inclusions on our collection of French river cruises... ■ Airport transfers to and from Emerald Liberté ■ Stylish accommodation on board the Emerald
Liberté Star-Ship ■ Spectacular innovations like an indoor pool which
transforms into a cinema at night ■ All on board meals including a collection of highlight
dinners at Reflections Restaurant, or breakfast and a light lunch at The Terrace ■ Enjoy a delicious selection of wine, beer and soft drinks at
meal times on board ■ From luscious lattes to creamy cappuccinos, our
state-of-the-art coffee machines are yours to enjoy throughout your cruise ■ Bottled water restocked daily in your cabin ■ Enjoy an included excursion almost every day of
your cruise ■ Visits to UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites
Explore iconic vineyards
■ Extra-special excursions and experiences courtesy of our
EmeraldPLUS and EmeraldACTIVE programs
Whether you’re meandering through the world-famous wine vineyards of Tournon or uncovering the historic Roman influence and architecture in Avignon, when you book a holiday with us you can rest assured knowing that a luxurious list of inclusions are always available for every Emerald Cruises guest.
■ First-class service from an English-speaking crew ■ ESPA Luxury Toiletries on board ■ Knowledgeable local guides at every destination ■ Wi-Fi on board ■ On board bicycles ■ Earn EmeraldEXPLORER loyalty points for every Emerald
Cruises river cruise, entitling you to exclusive benefits
We include, transfers and even all gratuities in the price you pay, as well as delicious regionally inspired meals and selected drinks at meal times. On board Emerald Liberté, stylish accommodation comes complete with modern amenities, so whether you are spending time on board, or exploring onshore, we include a wealth of experiences and inclusions to help you make memories that last a lifetime.
■ All port charges and overseas transfers ■ All gratuities are included Amenities differ by ship
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Enjoy delicious dining on board
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To find out more about our generous inclusions visit emeraldcruises.com/emeraldexperience
Guided bike rides
For more details on our generous inclusions visit emeraldcruises.com/value Book your France river cruise online at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552
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Fall in love with France with
EmeraldDISCOVERY Your cruise along the Rhône and Saône rivers is sure to provide many magical moments in breathtaking destinations. Our hand-crafted itineraries and EmeraldDISCOVERY program will provide the perfect platform for you to explore the South of France with in style. Whether you prefer to explore independently or as part of a guided tour, each port of call will bring you a wealth of knowledge and culture, with our included excursions designed to help bring each destination to life.
St. Georges, Lyon, France
Chef Fabien Morreale
Included Excursion Led in small groups and at different paces to suit all our guests' needs, our itineraries through the heart of France all offer a selection of included excursions, each giving in-depth and expansive experiences so you have the opportunity to see the very best of each destination we visit.
Discover UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites with our EmeraldPLUS, EmeraldACTIVE and DiscoverMORE excursions and experiences, which provide an in-depth and sometimes exclusive look at each fascinating destination we visit.
EmeraldPLUS Designed to show the destinations we visit in a different light, our EmeraldPLUS program will enable you to see places from a different perspective bringing memorable experiences that go above and beyond that of the ordinary traveller. Exclusive to Emerald Cruises, you can enjoy an extra-special Provençal-influenced dinner hosted by local Chef Fabien Morreale.
DiscoverMORE
Activity Manager
EmeraldACTIVE For the more active Emerald Cruises guests, we have our amazing EmeraldACTIVE program. Venture off Emerald Liberté and participate in a guided hike through the vineyards of Tournon, enjoy a guided bike ride around Lyon, and step into a canoe in Avignon. Even join our activity managers or wellness coach for classes on board, and with our on board gym you can continue your own fitness regime. For more details on our generous inclusions visit emeraldcruises.com/emeraldexperience
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To find out more about our included excursions and experiences visit emeraldcruises.com/emeraldexperience
We offer a selection of special DiscoverMORE optional excursions designed to enable you to see and do even more. Available at an additional cost, these immersive experiences present opportunities to delve deeper into each destination and acquaint yourself with each destination's natural beauty, history and culture. Visit emeraldcruises.com/more for more information.
Avignon concert
Book your France river cruise online at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552
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Provence
Explore
France Beginning in Lyon, the meandering Rhône River carves a path through the South of France through Lyon, Tournon, Avignon and Arles, as it makes its way to the Mediterranean Sea. This beautiful part of France is home to an abundance of history; with medieval towns, Roman ruins and Gallic heritage all offering an insight into the charming past, and stunning scenery as dramatic mountain ranges, rustic settlements and endless lavender fields line the Rhône’s riverbanks.
Aix-en-Provence, France
Famed for its iconic lavender fields, delicious wines and countryside landscapes, Provence is surely one of the most beautiful regions in the South of France. The beauty of Provence has inspired some of the world’s most famous artists throughout the centuries, and looking at its serene surroundings, it’s clear to see why. Those who visit Provence once find themselves returning to this stunning region again and again, with so much to discover throughout. A taste of Provençal food is not to be missed, from its classic bakeries to its open-air markets offering meats and vegetables, this area is truly a feast for all the senses.
Arles
France's third-largest city, Lyon, will mark the start of your Rhône river cruise. As a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, Lyon has a wealth of striking architectural landmarks and is dubbed unofficially 'world capital of gastronomy' due to its unmatched culinary scene.
Once an important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who then covered the city with iconic monuments, the past is yours to discover in Arles. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments of Arles perfectly showcase how the city has evolved from one century to the next. You can follow in the footsteps of world-renowned artist, Vincent Van Gogh and visit the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre, then meander between the countless local cafés and bars as you make your way back to Emerald Liberté. Arles, France
Avignon Take a step back in time on your visit to Avignon. The city, surrounded by beautifully-preserved medieval walls, is packed with fascinating architecture and historic civic buildings. At the center of Avignon’s old-world charm is Palais des Papes – regarded as a ‘must see’, this is the largest Gothic palace in Europe and is recognized as one of the continent’s great architectural achievements.
Exploring Southern France with Emerald Cruises exceeded all expectations, First class in all aspects. Emerald Cruises guest on board Emerald Liberté, May 2022 Avignon bridge, Provence, France
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Discover France in more detail at emeraldcruises.com/france
Discover France in more detail at emeraldcruises.com/france
Book your France river cruise online at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552
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Our award-winning
Emerald Liberté Star-Ship
Horizon Bar & Lounge An open and contemporary meeting place. Enjoy a glass of wine, a beer or a hot drink as you unwind in the plush seating area.
Sun Deck Enjoy the best views of the river from this spacious vantage point. Bask in the sunshine as you enjoy a drink or challenge a fellow guest to some putting.
Pool & Evening Cinema† Floor to ceiling windows and a retractable roof are the perfect setting for a leisurely swim. On selected evenings, this space transforms into an evening cinema.
Wellness Area
Suites & Staterooms
Take care of mind, body and soul as you enjoy a range of spa treatments# or maintain your fitness in our well-equipped gym.
Of a standard you would expect from a world-class hotel, our Star-Ships boast some of most stylish suites and staterooms available on Europe’s rivers.
The Terrace This indoor and outdoor space is separated by floor-to-ceiling glass windows. Take full advantage of the passing views as you enjoy a light breakfast or lunch.
Reflections Restaurant The center of our on board dining experience, marvel at the beautiful views of the river, while dining on a menu designed to celebrate seasonal and regional flavors.
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For more information about Emerald Liberté visit emeraldcruises.com/liberté
†Emerald Radiance on the Douro River does not have an indoor pool/cinema, instead there is a spa-style Serenity Pool on the Sun Deck. #Available at additional cost.
Book your France river cruise online at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552
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2022 & 2023 France River Cruise Offers Whether you are looking for this year's getaway or planning your 2023 adventure we have incredible offers available.
SAVE $2,000 per couple
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PLUS
10%
Bonus Savings when you pay in full
To discover our exclusive France river cruise offers visit emeraldcruises.com/offers
Book your France river cruise online at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552
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Sensations of Lyon & Provence
Beaune Chalon-sur-Saône 7
8-Day Lyon to Arles Departing through October 2022 | April - October 2023
Tournon
Rhône River
Viviers 7
Southern France's unrivaled beauty comprises the finest examples of French 15th century architecture, with Roman ruins and sun-soaked vineyards resting at the foot of emphatic mountain ranges. Journey to the country’s gastronomic beating heart, Lyon, before enjoying an exclusive Provençal dinner on board, hosted by renowned French chef, Fabien Morreale.
Saône River
Lyon
Number of nights
River cruise Coach transfer Map is a guide only
Avignon
FRANCE
Arles Marseille
Provençal dinner hosted by chef, Fabian Morreale
Your EmeraldDISCOVERY highlights unique to this itinerary: 4 EmeraldPLUS activities including a silk presentation on board. 4 EmeraldACTIVE experiences including a guided hike to the vineyards of Tournon. 6 included excursions including visits to UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites and a guided tour of Lyon. Guided canoeing excursion, Avignon, France
So much included
Guided tour, Arles, France
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Book your France river cruise online at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552
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Transfers to and from Emerald Liberté
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7 nights in a suite or stateroom of your choice, all with a river view
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20 meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners including a Welcome and Farewell Reception and Dinner
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All gratuities are included
For a full list of our generous inclusions see page 6
Book your France river cruise online at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552
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Hospices de Beaune, France
Day 1 Lyon
St. Georges, Lyon, France
Alternatively, embark on an EmeraldACTIVE guided bike tour of Lyon.
On the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, Lyon can be found set across twin hills. Here, you will be met and transferred from the airport to the lush surrounds of the Emerald Liberté Star-Ship.
A silk presentation on board
Meals: Dinner
A guided tour of Lyon
Day 2 Chalon-sur-Saône – Beaune
An excursion to Pérouges
Chalon-sur-Saône is known for its art and history. Today, you will have the opportunity to witness the areas architectural heritage and peaceful surrounds as you travel to the quaint village of Beaune and visit the Hospices de Beaune, originally a hospital for the poor, and now home to one of Burgundy’s most popular wine auctions. A cheese and olive tasting on board Visit the Hospices de Beaune Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 3 Lyon France’s third-largest city, Lyon is a former Roman capital, steeped in history and considered to be the gastronomic heartbeat of the country and the home of traditional Lyonnaise cuisine. Today, enjoy a guided tour of Lyon, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière, part of the inscribed historic site of Lyon. Wander through the city and soak in its vividly illustrated history, as buildings from all time periods can be seen adorning narrow cobblestone streets.
A bike tour of Lyon
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 4 Tournon The picturesque village of Tournon borders the gently meandering Rhône, dominated by a 16th century castle that overlooks the village and a number of iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers. Your guided tour of the village will showcase its intangible cultural heritage, granting every opportunity for you to immerse yourself in your surroundings. Alternatively, embark on an EmeraldACTIVE hike through some of the local vineyards. Later, a guided bike tour to Glun will showcase rural life in the French countryside. A regional wine lecture on board A guided bike tour to Glun
Famous cafe painted by Van Gogh, France
Day 5 Viviers Arrive in Viviers, a town with much Middle Age flair and home to one of France’s oldest cathedrals. Your included walking tour of Viviers will showcase its numerous listed monuments, along with their ornate windows and lavish façades. A guided tour of Viviers
A guided tour of Tournon
Book your France river cruise online at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552 or contact your local travel agent
A guided tour of the Pont du Gard A classical concert in Avignon Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 7 Arles The past is yours to discover in Arles, once an important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who peppered the city with iconic monuments. Today, your included tour of the city will showcase some of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments of Arles.
A fishing class on the Rhône Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 6 Avignon Avignon has a rich history, from Celtic beginnings to being the residence of the Pope and central to the French Revolution. Your included walking tour of Avignon will take you past the ornate beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais-des-Papes, as well as Pont d’Avignon, an ancient stone bridge crossing the Rhône. This afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. This evening, enjoy a delightful EmeraldPLUS Provençal dining experience, expertly prepared by Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. Provençal dining experience hosted by Chef Fabien Morreale A canoeing excursion in Avignon A guided tour of Avignon
Visit the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre and follow in the footsteps of world-renowned artist, Vincent van Gogh. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure. A guided tour of Arles with arena visit An excursion to Camargue Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
Day 8 Arles – Marseille
After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark Emerald Liberté, taking memories of the idyllic French countryside and delightful cuisine with you. Meals: Breakfast
A guided hike through the vineyards
Meals: Breakfast, lunch and dinner
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Viviers, France
2022 River Cruises
2023 River Cruises
Emerald Stateroom
from $2,395 pp
Emerald Stateroom
from $2,595 pp
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite
from $3,045 pp
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite
from $3,280 pp
Book your France river cruise online at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552
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Why not explore further…
Extend your stay Our pre-and post-cruise city stays are perfect for those who want to explore independently and really immerse themselves further into local life. With our Sensations of Lyon & Provence river cruise, you have the option of adding a few extra days to explore Paris, the city of love, discover the quaint surrounds of Aix-en-Provence, or choose a more relaxed stay in Nice, exploring its breathtaking coastline. Our city stays include breakfast as standard, along with a guided tour, before having plenty of time to explore independently at your own pace. In addition, our hotels have been specially selected for their impeccable service and great locations.
Venture into the city and experience the culture
2-Night Paris City Stay France’s capital city, Paris, has a proud ancient history with spectacular architecture and monuments, and more recently has become the global center of fashion and gastronomy. As an Emerald Cruises guest, you’ll have the opportunity to spend two nights in the luxury Jardin du Marais hotel - a centrally based hotel perfect for you to explore the cities world-famous attractions, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Louvre Museum and the stunning Musée d’Orsay, as well as a number of World Heritage-listed sites. If you are looking for something other than the tree-lined boulevards and bustling streets, enjoy our included coach tour of the city and a cruise along the glistening waters of France’s second-longest river, the Seine.
See page 22 for more information about our Nice city stay and Aix-en-Provence city stay
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To find out more about our Paris extension visit emeraldcruises.com/extend
Book your France river cruise online at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552
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Nice, France
Aix-en-Provence, France
3-Night Nice City Stay
3-Night* Aix-en-Provence City Stay
Known for its stunning seaside views, year-round sunshine and colorful buildings, Nice is one of the most iconic spots along the French Riviera. Enjoy three nights in this vibrant coastal city – the fifth most populous in France – walking the shoreline, people watching on the Promenade des Anglais or enjoying local Niçois cuisine.
A town known for being the birthplace of Post-Impressionist artist Paul Cézanne, peaceful and relaxing Aix-en-Provence will be your home for three fantastic nights. Take to the streets and explore the leafy boulevards and public squares which are lined with 17th and 18th century mansions, separated by grand moss-covered fountains.
During your city stay, you’ll enjoy a guided tour of nearby Monte Carlo, the South of France’s famed luxury hotspot. And you’ll have plenty of free time to explore Nice itself, wondering its winding alleys full of shops and authentic French cafés, and immersing yourself in the local arts and culture on offer.
Included in your stay, a local guide will provide a wealth of knowledge as you stroll along cobblestone squares, and after a day of discovery, why not reside in one of many local café’s, enjoy an espresso, and watch the world go by. A ‘must see’ when visiting Aix-en-Provence is the Musée Granet, a museum devoted to painting, sculpture and archaeology of France. La Promenade des Anglais, Nice, France
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To find out more about our Nice & Aix-en-Provence extension visit emeraldcruises.com/extend
*2-Night post cruise extension in 2023.
The Fontaine de la Rotonde, Aix-en-Provence, France
Book your France river cruise online at emeraldcruises.com, call 833 507 6552
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For more information or to book contact your professional travel advisor or call:
833 507 6552 emeraldcruises.com
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