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Grand France

Grand France

About This Cruise

For Francophiles in love with the culture, history, cuisine, and romance of France, this grand voyage is a dream come true. Soak up the joie de vivre that makes France one of the most adored countries in the world.

Experience France from north to south, sailing three rivers and embarking upon in-depth shore excursions. Walk through Monet's beloved Giverny, seeing the enchanting grounds that he made famous; travel back in time and enjoy a Village day in charming Viviers; and visit Lyon's famous secret passageways, the Traboules.

From the beaches of Normandy and the verve and romance of Paris to the sun-drenched vistas of Burgundy and Provence, this itinerary in France is truly sans pareil!

Grand France is a combination of Paris & Normandy and Burgundy & Provence.

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

  • Solo travellers

    Low or no single supplement on selected cabins

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

S.S. Joie de Vivre

Departure Date

4 April 2027

Cruise Line

UNIWORLD Boutique River Cruises

Duration

14 Nights

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

Itinerary

France

Paris

Arrive at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport. If you have arranged a Uniworld arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.

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

Lyon

You’ll transfer from the magical S.S. Joie de Vivre cruise ship in Paris to the striking S.S. Catherine in Lyon via high-speed TGV train for the second half of this fabulous grand tour. Once you’ve settled into your new home, you’ll have some time to explore delightful Lyon, which is nestled alongside the Saône River.

France

Lyon

Ancient Lyon is a city of tantalizing contrasts, from Roman roots to stunning modern architecture and plenty of Renaissance flair in between. There's much to explore here, from the city's bike paths to the silk weavers' secret passageways. While you're in town, you might like to have lunch on your own at one of the many traditional bouchons that proliferate in the epicenter of French gastronomy.

France

Mâcon

The pace of life is decidedly more relaxed in Burgundy, where endless rows of grapes hang heavy on the vine. The capital of the region’s wine trade, Beaune is renowned for its history, beauty, and highly prized wine, as well as its medieval-era hospital—the Hospices de Beaune.

France

Tain-l'Hermitage

If you love fine wine, you’ll love the twin villages of Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage. 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 and the oldest secondary school in France.

France

Viviers

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.

France

Avignon

The walled city of Avignon is one of the most fascinating towns in southern France, with a host of historic gems to explore—including the fortress residence of rebellious popes who broke from Rome and once lived and ruled here. You’ll explore the city today on a walking tour, or have the chance to visit a 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct.

France

Arles

Explore a sun-drenched Provençal town today with an allure all its own. Known for its remarkable Roman ruins, Arles so inspired Van Gogh that he painted some 200 paintings there. 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.

France

Arles

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

Overview

For Francophiles in love with the culture, history, cuisine, and romance of France, this grand voyage is a dream come true. Soak up the joie de vivre that makes France one of the most adored countries in the world.

Experience France from north to south, sailing three rivers and embarking upon in-depth shore excursions. Walk through Monet's beloved Giverny, seeing the enchanting grounds that he made famous; travel back in time and enjoy a Village day in charming Viviers; and visit Lyon's famous secret passageways, the Traboules.

From the beaches of Normandy and the verve and romance of Paris to the sun-drenched vistas of Burgundy and Provence, this itinerary in France is truly sans pareil!

Grand France is a combination of Paris & Normandy and Burgundy & Provence.

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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

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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

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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

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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

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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.

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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.

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The Generations Collection

Share the joys of river cruising with the entire family.

Find out more here.