European river cruise specialist, VIVA Cruises, is launching new cruises along the Seine in November and December 2024, with excursions to the famous Palace of Versailles and opulent Château de Chantilly. With seven cruises in total, VIVA Cruises will be offering the most exciting itineraries on the Seine throughout the festive period.
The new Seine cruises will include six-day Advent cruises, a seven-day Christmas cruise and a glamorous seven-day New Year’s cruise – all itineraries will include two excursions, including an exclusive panoramic city tour through Paris, plus optional tours.
The new Seine cruises will be served by VIVA GLORIA, a freshly renovated premium ship with 76 stylishly furnished cabins for 152 guests – displayed across three levels, most with French balconies to make the most of the views. As well as the ship’s main restaurant, Riverside – offering a wide selection of breakfast, lunch and dinner gourmet menus – VIVA GLORIA features the newly designed VINO. Located at the stern, this is a modern wine bar for guests to taste the best wines France has to offer. Other facilities include a cozy lounge, a wellness area and a spacious sundeck with a heated pool.
Passengers on one of the “winter magic” cruises (Advent, Christmas and New Year’s) will enjoy enriching 5-night itineraries starting and finishing in Paris. VIVA GLORIA will be strategically moored near the Eiffel Tower. Following an overnight stay among the famous landmarks of the French capital, guests will continue their journey into Normandy, visiting the historic towns of Poissy and Les Andelys before sailing to Rouen for the night. Recognised as Normandy’s vibrant, historic and cultural capital, Rouen is famous for its cathedral and many fine museums, like the one dedicated to Joan of Arc, patron saint of France.
Some of the cruises will also stop at Vernon – a charming town famous for its traditional half-timbered houses – and others at the medieval town of Conflans.
As well as walking tours in Paris, which will be illuminated by dazzling light festivals, the winter magic cruises on the Seine will feature excursions to the opulent Palace of Versailles in the low season, offering a unique opportunity to marvel at the château in its festive splendour.
There will also be many opportunities for guests to immerse themselves in French festivities, such as shopping at traditional Christmas markets, visiting museums, ice-skating and trying Vin Chaud (French mulled wine) – plus French wine tasting sessions at VINO.
When on board, guests can look forward to a special evening filled with entertainment in French flair, as VIVA GLORIA will recreate the inviting atmosphere of the 1930s clubs in Montparnasse and Montmartre, known for caricature drawings. Guests can also experience some lively tap-dancing akin to a night at the Jardin du Luxembourg accompanied by the melodies of a Parisian medley.
Additionally, VIVA GLORIA will feature a 6-night cruise for those want to enter 2025 while cruising on the Seine – champagne and confetti included.
Those looking to enjoy Paris before the Christmas rush should consider Paris Intense on VIVA GLORIA. With three dates in November, Paris Intense offers 4-day all-inclusive itineraries within Paris for those who want to make the most of the French capital, as VIVA GLORIA will be mooring in different docks within the city and offering panoramic city tours.
All VIVA Cruises itineraries include VIVA Cruises’ signature VIVA All-Inclusive product, which includes high tea, full board, high-quality alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, minibar, beauty products from cosmetic brand, Rituals, Wi-Fi and all tips and gratuities.
For more information about VIVA Cruises, please visit: www.viva-cruises.com
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