Contact UsCall Us Today
Cruise & Tour: Indulge in France & Britain

Cruise & Tour: Indulge in France & Britain

About This Cruise

Journey by land to experience Great Britain in all its glory as you explore Alnwick and Edinburgh Castles. Join the Yeoman Warder for a Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London. Partake in a traditional high tea in the grand Castle Howard after it closes to the public. See the ancient spas of Bath before enjoying a Michelin-starred lunch of seasonal fare. Moving your journey to the Seine River, board the S.S. Joie de Vivre to cruise from Paris through Normandy's countryside, uncovering its many charms: Château de La Roche-Guyon, the medieval capital of Rouen, Monet's beloved home in Giverny, and the famed Normandy beaches. Discover a different side of Northern France's history with a behind-the-scenes tour of the majestic palace of Versailles, once home to Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Couples

    Luxury service and an intimate, small-ship feel

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

S.S. Joie de Vivre

Departure Date

16 April 2027

Cruise Line

UNIWORLD Boutique River Cruises

Duration

16 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 01 6874149

Itinerary

Scotland

Edinburgh

Arrive at Edinburgh Airport. If you have arranged a Uniworld arrival transfer, you will be greeted at the airport and transferred to the Kimpton Charlotte Square for a 2-night stay. This vibrant city escape offers beautifully designed rooms, exquisite dining, and a lively glass-roofed courtyard—perfect for unwinding in the heart of Scotland’s capital. Tonight, toast the start of your journey with your fellow guests at our Welcome Dinner.

Scotland

Edinburgh

Explore the grounds of Edinburgh’s “castle on the hill,” as your guide unlocks more than 900 years of history. This afternoon, meet a former bagpiper to the royals. Additionally, you can personalize your day with a choice to either visit the 17th-century Mary King's Close or participate in a stimulating whisky tasting.

England

Alnwick

Visit Alnwick Castle with a Local Expert, uncovering its storied legacy and cinematic allure. Journey onward through the picturesque English countryside to the Lake District, where you’ll enjoy dinner and a magnificent stay at a charming country house hotel overlooking Lake Windermere.

England

York

Let the rugged beauty of the Lake District inspire you as you cruise across shimmering Ullswater. Pause for lunch at a traditional English pub before continuing to York. Stroll the cobbled lanes of The Shambles with your Travel Concierge, soaking in the city’s rich medieval charm.

England

York

Step back into the Middle Ages in York, where you’ll join an expert-led tour of the York Minster or a walk on the 13th-century city walls. Enter the stately Castle Howard through landscaped gardens before sitting down to a traditional English afternoon tea and private tour of the house.

England

York

Trace the footsteps of Shakespeare with a stroll around Stratford-upon-Avon, the playwright’s birthplace. Continue through the honey-colored villages and rolling hills of the Cotswolds before arriving in the elegant Georgian city of Bath.

England

Bath

Uncover the elegant history of Bath on a guided city tour, admiring its Georgian architecture and Roman legacy. Then indulge in a Michelin-starred lunch at The Olive Tree, where refined British cuisine is served in a beautifully relaxed setting. Personalize your day with a choice to either visit the Jane Austen Centre or visit the Roman Baths and Georgian Pump Room, Britain’s only natural hot springs.

England

Stonehenge

Savor a relaxed start to your day before standing in awe of mysterious Stonehenge, Britain’s most iconic UNESCO World Heritage Site. Continue to London and experience the centuries-old Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London, before settling in for the evening at The Rubens at the Palace.

England

London (Greenwich)

Hear the bells of Big Ben and admire London’s iconic landmarks, from the Houses of Parliament to Westminster Abbey. Take in the energy of Trafalgar Square and Piccadilly Circus before visiting the Royal Mews at Buckingham Palace. This evening, toast your journey with a Celebration Dinner at The English Grill, a refined dining experience in regal surroundings.

France

Paris

Transfer via high-speed train to Paris, where your Floating Boutique HotelTM awaits. As you settle into your new home for the week, we’ll begin our cruise on the Seine River.

France

Vernon

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.

France

Rouen

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.

France

Caudebec-en-Caux

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. From here, drive through the beautiful Calvados countryside to Honfleur, a delightful seaside harbor and city of painters.

France

Rouen

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, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, 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.

France

Mantes-la-Jolie

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.

France

Paris

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 neighborhoods.

France

Paris

Disembark the ship. If you have arranged a Uniworld departure transfer, you will be transferred to Charles de Gaulle Airport for your flight home.

Overview

Journey by land to experience Great Britain in all its glory as you explore Alnwick and Edinburgh Castles. Join the Yeoman Warder for a Ceremony of the Keys at the Tower of London. Partake in a traditional high tea in the grand Castle Howard after it closes to the public. See the ancient spas of Bath before enjoying a Michelin-starred lunch of seasonal fare. Moving your journey to the Seine River, board the S.S. Joie de Vivre to cruise from Paris through Normandy's countryside, uncovering its many charms: Château de La Roche-Guyon, the medieval capital of Rouen, Monet's beloved home in Giverny, and the famed Normandy beaches. Discover a different side of Northern France's history with a behind-the-scenes tour of the majestic palace of Versailles, once home to Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette.

View More Images
Suite

Grand Suite

Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (410 sq ft - 38 sq m) with a French balcony

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

The Grand Suite offers extra benefits, including a separate spacious living room, bathroom with a separate rain shower and tub, and secluded toilet and bidet area

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, and comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Butler service, such as packing and unpacking assistance, shoe shining, complimentary laundry service, and in-room breakfast delivery

In-room treats: fresh fruits and treats from your pastry chef delivered daily, a complimentary menu of specialty snacks and cocktails, Nespresso coffees and fine teas, a fully stocked mini bar, and a bottle of wine upon arrival

View More Images
Suite

Suite

Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (260 sq ft - 24 sq m) with a French balcony

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Butler service, such as packing and unpacking assistance, shoe shining, complimentary laundry service, and in-room breakfast delivery

In-room treats: fresh fruits and treats from your pastry chef delivered daily, a complimentary menu of specialty snacks and cocktails, Nespresso coffees and fine teas, a fully stocked mini bar, and a bottle of wine upon arrival

Balcony

Deluxe French Balcony

Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms (194 sq ft - 18 sq m) with a French balcony

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

View More Images
Balcony

French Balcony

Please note this category is only available for 2026 sailings.

Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms (194 sq ft - 18 sq m) with a French balcony

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

View More Images
Balcony

French Balcony A

Please note this category is only available for 2027 & 2028 sailings.

Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms (194 sq ft - 18 sq m) with a French balcony

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

View More Images
Balcony

French Balcony B

Please note this category is only available for 2027 & 2028 sailings.

Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms (194 sq ft - 18 sq m) with a French balcony

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Outside

Classic

Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (162-180 sq ft - 15-17 sq m)

Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Note: windows in these staterooms are situated at the water line

french

La Cave Des Vins

Lovers of French food and wine can experience an exclusive epicurean event in our onboard show kitchen. Under the guidance of Uniworld’s talented chef, prepare an exquisite seven-course meal. Then relish your creation with wine pairings designed just for you by our Sommelier. Simply ask our Concierge to reserve your spot. Bon appetit!

french

Le Bistrot

The ship's very own Parisian-style sidewalk café serves classic French cuisine. Designed with windows that lower for an open-air ambiance, Le Bistrot is a très bon spot to savor wrap-around views of the Seine.

regional

Le Restaurant Pigalle

Le Restaurant Pigalle is located on Balzac Deck.

room

24-Hour Room Service

Craving a bite in between breakfast, lunch or dinner? Inquire about 24-hour room service and à la carte menus. 

Bar

Claude's

Experience the magic each evening as Club L’Esprit transforms into Claude’s, a vibrant bar and entertainment venue. Claude’s glitzy and glamorous atmosphere is the perfect place to listen to local music, enjoy signature cocktails, or view a classic French film on select nights in an intimate cinema.

View More Images
Bar, Lounge

Salon Toulouse

Salon Toulouse can be found on Victor Hugo Deck

Reception

Information Desk

The Information Desk can be found on Balzac Deck.

Reception, Atrium

Reception

Reception can be found on Balzac Deck.

Spa

Serenity River Spa™

Relax at the Serenity River Spa™ with a soothing facial or massage treatment.

Exercise Class, Wellness, Yoga

Wellness on the Water™

Start your day with sunrise yoga on the top deck, a TRX® Suspension Training class, or work out at your own pace in the well-equipped fitness center.
Spa, Pool, Yoga

Club L'Esprit

Relax and indulge your mind, body and soul at Club L’Esprit, our onboard spa and wellness centre. Pamper yourself with an array of beauty and well-being treatments. Unwind with yoga. Work out in the resistance pool. Get your heart pumping in the onboard fitness centre. Afterwards, refresh and recharge with a deliciously good-for-you smoothie at the L’Espirit Bar. 

Gym

Fitness Centre

The Fitness Centre Spa can be found on the Victor Hugo Deck.

View More Images

The Generations Collection

Share the joys of river cruising with the entire family.

Find out more here.