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Sensations of Lyon and Provence with Chef Rachel Hargrove & Swiss Mountains

Sensations of Lyon and Provence with Chef Rachel Hargrove & Swiss Mountains

About This Cruise

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

Emerald Liberte

Departure Date

13 July 2027

Cruise Line

Emerald Cruises

Duration

7 Nights

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

Itinerary

Switzerland

Lausanne

Your enthralling journey begins in Switzerland and Lausanne, a charming city set beside Lake Geneva and surrounded by mountains, where French-Swiss elegance and history meet breathtaking natural beauty. Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and then transferred to your centrally-located hotel, where you’ll enjoy an included four-night stay. This evening, meet your tour director and fellow guests for a welcome drink.

France

Marseille

Your enthralling journey begins in Switzerland and Lausanne, a charming city set beside Lake Geneva and surrounded by mountains, where French-Swiss elegance and history meet breathtaking natural beauty. Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and then transferred to your centrally-located hotel, where you’ll enjoy an included four-night stay. This evening, meet your tour director and fellow guests for a welcome drink.

Switzerland

Lausanne

Your enthralling journey begins in Switzerland and Lausanne, a charming city set beside Lake Geneva and surrounded by mountains, where French-Swiss elegance and history meet breathtaking natural beauty. Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and then transferred to your centrally-located hotel, where you’ll enjoy an included four-night stay. This evening, meet your tour director and fellow guests for a welcome drink.

Switzerland

Lausanne

Take in the natural beauty and historic sights of Lausanne on today’s included tours. Later, you may choose to join an optional Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion or continue exploring the city at leisure. Your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan your explorations in Lausanne.Included ExcursionGuided tour of LausanneToday, explore the historic old centre of Lausanne with your tour director. During a guided walking tour, you'll stroll along the picturesque waterfront and then embark on a captivating boat cruise on Lake Geneva, taking in the breathtaking mountain and lake scenery. You'll also visit the iconic Chateau Chillon, a striking medieval castle steeped in history and legends, that rests on the shores of Lake Geneva.EmeraldPLUSVisit to Chateau Chillon & Lake Geneva cruiseDiscover the beauty of Château de Chillon, a medieval fortress on the shores of Lake Geneva, and explore its rich history with a guided tour. Walk through its impressive rooms, towers, and dungeons, while learning about its fascinating past. After your castle visit, embark on a relaxing Lake Geneva cruise, taking in panoramic views of the surrounding Alps and picturesque lakeside villages, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

Switzerland

Lausanne

Today, you're free to explore Lausanne and the wealth of French-Swiss wonders at your own pace. You may wish to wander the medieval city centre and along its quaint streets and alleys, lined with delightful cafés and boutiques. Be sure to stop and admire the city’s 12th-century cathedral, regarded as Switzerland’s most impressive piece of early Gothic architecture. Or perhaps pay a visit to the Olympic Museum and lakeside Olympic Park.You can also choose to join an optional Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion. Your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan a wonderful day in Lausanne.DiscoverMOREVisit to Gruyere & Maison Cailler (extra expense)On this full day excursion, you’ll experience the charm of the medieval town of Gruyère, nestled in the heart of the Swiss Alps. Explore the historic Gruyère Castle and stroll through the town’s picturesque streets, soaking up the traditional Swiss atmosphere.Next, indulge in the world-famous flavours of Swiss chocolate with a visit to Maison Cailler, Switzerland’s oldest chocolate factory. Learn about the chocolate-making process and enjoy a delicious tasting of premium chocolates that have been crafted for generations.Duration: 7 hours, Activity level: Moderate

Switzerland

Lausanne

Enjoy a memorable full-day excursion, combining a panoramic train ride from Montreux to Gstaad, followed by a thrilling experience at Glacier 3000.Included ExcursionPanoramic train from Montreux to Gstaad & visit to Glacier 3000Embark on a panoramic journey from Montreux to Gstaad, nestled amidst the soaring Swiss Alps. Board the charming train and admire the magnificent panoramic views as you ascend to this world-famous alpine village. From Gstaad, take a thrilling cable-car ride to Glacier 3000, a glacial paradise offering spectacular vistas, exciting activities that include the Peak Walk by Tissot, and the chance to encounter Alpine animals at the Glacier Garden.

Switzerland

Lausanne

This morning, after breakfast, you'll bid a fond farewell to Lausanne and transfer onwards by coach to France and Lyon, ready for your next inspirational journey. As you embark on your luxury Emerald Star-Ship in Lyon, you’ll be warmly welcomed on board by the friendly captain and crew. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow guests on board.

France

Lyon

This morning, after breakfast, you'll bid a fond farewell to Lausanne and transfer onwards by coach to France and Lyon, ready for your next inspirational journey. As you embark on your luxury Emerald Star-Ship in Lyon, you’ll be warmly welcomed on board by the friendly captain and crew. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow guests on board.

France

Lyon

The third-largest city in France and a flourishing trading city since Roman times, the stunning city of Lyon is steeped in history. With its superbly preserved historic quarters, a significant section of Lyon has been designated a World Heritage-listed Site, which contains the emblematic Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Lyon is arguably most famous for its outstanding cuisine and culinary heritage, considered the heart of gastronomy in France and one of the world’s premier food capitals. Home to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, you’ll have plenty of opportunity to sample an array of exceptional culinary delights, accompanied by some of Europe’s finest wines. Included ExcursionGuided tour of Lyon with cheese tastingDiscover the gastronomic heart of France on a flavourful journey through Lyon. Wander through the city’s charming streets with a local expert and explore the traditions and specialties that shaped its renowned culinary culture. The highlight of today’s tour is a guided visit to the incredible Les Halles de Lyon – Paul Bocuse, an iconic city market showcasing the excellence of French cuisine. Meet dedicated artisans, observe their craft, and learn the stories behind Lyon’s celebrated gastronomic heritage. You’ll also enjoy a tasting of some of the region’s outstanding artisan cheeses–a rich, immersive culinary experience for food lovers.EmeraldACTIVEGuided e-bike tour of LyonFor those feeling more energetic, explore the highlights of Lyon on two wheels, as part of a guided e-bike tour through this enchanting city.DiscoverMOREExcursion to Pérouges (extra expense)Located on a small hill overlooking the Ain River valley north of Lyon, this compact medieval walled town thrives on its local wine and weaving industries. Considered one of the most beautiful villages in France, a variety of fascinating buildings, including a fortified church and the house of the Princes of Savoy, invite you to stroll the quaint cobblestone streets. Explore from the upper gate to the 15th-century church, the main street ‘Rue des Rondes’, passing the 33-metre-deep well and the Maison du Sergent de Justice, distinctive with its round tower. A lovely place to relax with a drink, you’ll soon understand why this picturesque location has been used as the backdrop for numerous films, including the French classic, ‘The Three Musketeers.’

France

Mâcon

Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, the Beaujolais region is well-known for its distinctive wines produced here, particularly the world-famous Beaujolais Nouveau. The Beaujolais wine region is renowned for its vibrant, fruity wines produced with the Gamay grape variety. The extensive planting of Gamay grapes makes Beaujolais one of several regions across the world that focus solely on a single grape variety. Red wine accounts for 99 percent of the total wine production in the Beaujolais wine region.Included ExcursionBeaujolais wine tastingJourney through the rolling hills and charming villages of the Beaujolais region, a landscape shaped by centuries of winemaking traditions. Accompanied by a local wine expert, explore the area’s distinctive terroirs that give Beaujolais its lively, expressive character — from fresh, fruit-forward crus to elegant, refined vintages. Enjoy guided tastings as you uncover the craftsmanship, history, and passion behind each pour. A refined and engaging experience created especially for wine lovers.

France

Tournon-sur-Rhône

Today, you’ll arrive in Tournon, a charming village that borders the gently meandering Rhône. Picturesque Tournon is dominated by a 16th-century castle that overlooks the village and several iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers and impressive Roman relics.Included ExcursionGuided tour of Tournon with wine tastingLed by an expert local guide, enjoy a walking tour that highlights the village’s intangible cultural heritage. You’ll also learn about the area’s rich history of viticulture and enjoy a special wine tasting of the local varieties.EmeraldACTIVEGuided hike through the vineyardsAlternatively, for those feeling more active, join a guided hike through the verdant local vineyards. As you take in the bucolic splendour that surrounds you, marvel at the rows upon rows of grapes that are selected to produce some of the finest wines in Europe.

France

Viviers

Welcome to Viviers, a small walled village in southern France that dates back to ancient Roman times. This delightful village is best known for its impressive medieval cathedral – one of the oldest in France – as well as romantic views across the beautiful Rhône River.Included ExcursionGuided tour of ViviersToday, your included walking tour with a local guide through charming Viviers will highlight many of the village’s striking monuments, distinctive for their ornate windows and lavish façades.DiscoverMOREVisit to Chauvet Pont D’Arc (extra expense)Embark on a transformative journey as you delve into the fascinating Caverne du Pont-d'Arc Museum, an awe-inspiring testament to the indomitable spirit of human creativity. Let the luminosity of knowledge guide your steps as you traverse this cavernous expanse. You’ll be accompanied by a local guide who breathes life into the ancient canvases that adorn the largest decorated cave replica in the world.

France

Avignon

Set along the banks of the Rhône River in the celebrated region of Provence, the fortified city of Avignon bears a rich and illustrious history – from Celtic beginnings to the residence of seven successive Popes between 1309 and 1377. This legacy is evident today in the massive Palais des Papes (Popes' Palace), which is surrounded by medieval stone ramparts and an assortment of grand palaces and courtyards. Avignon also played a significant role in the nation-defining French Revolution during the late 18th century.Included ExcursionGuided tour of Avignon with market visitDiscover the charm of Avignon on a guided walk through its historic streets, from medieval ramparts to lively local squares. Today’s walk leads you into the vibrant Les Halles d’Avignon, the city’s covered market, where colourful stalls and Provençal aromas capture the spirit of southern France. Learn about regional traditions, daily life, and the city’s rich heritage as your guide brings Avignon’s stories to life. Enjoy a delightful immersion in the culture and evocative atmosphere at the heart of Provence. EmeraldPLUSProvençal dinner hosted by local chef, Fabien MorrealeThis evening, you’ll enjoy an exclusive Provençal dining experience on board your Emerald Star-Ship, expertly prepared by France's Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. This celebrated French chef will prepare a special Provençal dinner menu just for you to enjoy and savour the authentic flavours of the gastronomic region of Provence, paired with fine wines. EmeraldPLUSClassical concert in AvignonAfter your exclusive Provençal dinner, later this evening, you’re invited to another unforgettable experience: an exclusive classical concert performed within the halls of one of the ancient churches in Avignon.DiscoverMOREGuided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)At the heart of Provence, the World Heritage-listed Pont du Gard Aqueduct presents one of humankind’s great masterpieces. Technically and architecturally impressive, this three-level Roman aqueduct served as an aqueduct until the 6th century A.D., transporting thousands of gallons of water per day. Later, it was used as a toll gate before transforming into a road bridge. On this fascinating guided tour, you’ll also visit the small Roman town of Uzès. Explore the circular streets that once protected the medieval castle and sample some of the region’s delicious cuisine in the local restaurants.DiscoverMOREVisit to Chateauneuf du Pape with wine tasting (extra expense)Enjoy sampling some of the local wines during a private tasting within the delightful village of Chateauneuf du Pape, known for its fine red wines, storied viticulture and charming medieval lanes.

France

Arles

The glorious past is yours to uncover in Arles, a once-important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who liberally peppered the city with iconic monuments that are still clearly evident today.Included ExcursionGuided tour of Arles with arena visitToday, your included tour of this city will showcase some of its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments, illustrating how the city has evolved over the centuries. Visit the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre and follow in the footsteps of world-renowned artist, Vincent van Gogh; some of his legendary artwork was inspired by the dazzling beauty of the surrounding area. DiscoverMOREIn the footsteps of Van Gogh with a painting workshop (extra expense)Follow in the footsteps of celebrated artist Vincent van Gogh as you explore the beautiful landscapes that inspired his iconic works. Afterwards, take part in a painting workshop, where you’ll try your hand at recreating the vibrant scenes that captured the artist’s imagination. You’ll get to keep your own masterpiece inspired by Van Gogh’s legacy and then take this home as a unique souvenir to keep.DiscoverMOREExcursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense)Set at the heart of the Alpilles regional country park, the World Heritage-listed Les Baux de Provence is recognised as one of the most beautiful villages in France. Situated at a fortified rocky site between Arles and St. Remy-de-Provence, explore the Old Village with its narrow cobblestone streets and medieval stone buildings. Compact and brimming with shops and restaurants, the village retains a traditional lifestyle while being regarded as an outstanding attraction. The high, rocky pinnacle of Château-Fortress des Baux extends to the southwest of the village and reveals incredible views from the hilltop.

France

Arles

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the idyllic French countryside, exceptional gastronomic and world-famous wines.After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the idyllic French countryside, exceptional gastronomic and world-famous wines.Please book your flight to depart out of Nice after 01:00 PM.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

France

Nice

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the idyllic French countryside, exceptional gastronomic and world-famous wines.After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the idyllic French countryside, exceptional gastronomic and world-famous wines.Please book your flight to depart out of Nice after 01:00 PM.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.
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Suite

Owner's One-Bedroom Suite

The Owner’s One-Bedroom Suites boast their own separate bedroom which closes off from the rest of the suite. A dedicated lounge area and outdoor balcony, complete with open-air system, allow you to enjoy the views of your surroundings whatever the weather.

They also include a selection of special features including a spacious bathroom, walk-in wardrobe and Nespresso™ machine. Your complimentary mini-bar is restocked daily and you’ll have an iPad to use throughout your cruise so you can keep up-to-date with the latest news. For a more intimate dining experience, upon request, you can also order a continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats to enjoy in the privacy of your suite.

Your suite features:

  • Outdoor private balcony with open-air system
  • Separate bedroom and lounge area
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • Pillow menu
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Walk-in wardrobe
  • Complimentary in-suite mini-bar, restocked daily with wine, beer and soft drinks
  • Complimentary Nespresso™ machine
  • Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite
  • Four items of laundry per day
  • An invite to the top table to enjoy dinner with the senior on board team
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Use of an iPad
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Suite

Grand Balcony Suite

These generously appointed suites offer an inviting vantage point for watching the sunset. Floor-to-ceiling windows on your private balcony, complete with an open-air system and sleek glass partition, let you soak up the ever-changing landscape.

Thoughtful touches include an in-suite Nespresso™ machine, mini-fridge and the option of continental breakfast served on your balcony. In the evening, savour pre- dinner canapés and sweet treats delivered directly to your suite.

Your suite features:

  • Outdoor private balcony with open-air system
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • Pillow menu
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar with wine, beer and soft drinks available to purchase
  • Complimentary Nespresso™ machine
  • Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite

  • Two items of laundry per day

  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Balcony

Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

These spacious suites are ideal for uninterrupted views of the stunning scenery passing by. The innovative all-weather balcony system allows the upper part of the suite’s floor-to-ceiling window to drop down at the touch of a button and the indoor decked area allows you to enjoy the sights in all their glory.

You’ll also find a mini-fridge, complimentary Wi-Fi, a flat-screen TV and infotainment system, a safe for your valuables and plenty of storage.

Your suite features:

  • Indoor balcony with open-air system
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar with wine, beer and soft drinks available to purchase
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Outside

Emerald Stateroom

Marrying exceptional comfort with refined and practical design, the staterooms are spacious and luxurious retreats that provide ample room to accommodate two guests. A picture window welcomes in the natural light, beautifully framing the surrounding landscape.

Your suite features:

  • Picture window
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar with wine, beer and soft drinks available to purchase
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Outside

Emerald Single Stateroom

Select Emerald Cruises Star-Ships on the Danube, Moselle, Rhine and Rhône rivers feature Emerald Single Staterooms which are specially created for solo travellers. These tastefully appointed staterooms include a wealth of quality facilities and excellent levels of comfort for an enjoyable stay.

Your suite features:

  • Picture window
  • Deluxe single bed
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar with wine, beer and soft drinks available to purchase
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Unlimited Starlink Wi-Fi
  • Flat-screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

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fine

Reflections Restaurant

Our premiere on board dining spot

With open seating and elegant design, our Reflections Restaurant sets the benchmark in on board dining across our fleet of boutique Star-Ships throughout Europe and Southeast Asia. Here, savour delightful chef-prepared meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with dishes inspired by local flavours and a few favourites you may recognise from home.

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casual

The Terrace

Dine alfresco

A beautifully decked area in the forward of our European Star-Ships, The Terrace provides a lovely retreat from which to enjoy a light snack or refreshing drink. Depending on the ship, this partly indoor and outdoor space is a spectacular vantage point from which to soak up the scenery, whatever the weather. This peaceful setting is also a great spot to enjoy a drink as the wonders of the landscape pass by.

healthy

Healthy Dining

The freshest ingredients

Dine on delectable meals made with fresh, locally sourced produce.

Lunch with a view

Enjoy healthy meals while soaking in the stunning views and fresh air.

A range of dietary options

Sample amazing vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meal options^. ^Please inform your crew of any dietary requirements.

bbq

Sky Barbecue

The Sky Barbecue can be found on the Sun Deck.
Cinema

Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema

Exclusive to Emerald Cruises Star-Ships cruising Central Europe and France, the innovative heated indoor pool with is a tranquil haven to swim and take in the passing river views by day. As dusk falls, the floor gently rises to cover the pool, and the space transforms into an intimate cinema or Riverside Lounge – a blissful setting to enjoy magical vistas, read, or socialise to gentle music and soft lighting. Morning stretch sessions will also invigorate you, before seamlessly transforming back into a luxurious pool for the day. Enjoy a touch of innovation on board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship in Central Europe and France with the heated indoor pool. With expansive river views, it is a tranquil setting to relax by day and on select evenings, the space transforms into a cosy indoor cinema.

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Sun Deck

Sun Deck

Soak in your surroundings from the Sun Deck, a space for sun-seeking, sightseeing and blissful relaxation. Offering a front-row seat to the wonders of southern France; you won’t miss a thing from the comfort of your Sun Deck deckchair.

Sun Deck

Games Area and Golf Putting Green

Practice your putting or compete with new-found friends on Emerald Liberté’s purpose-built games area and golf putting green – perfect for those lazy afternoons on the river.

Bar, Lounge

Horizon Bar & Lounge

Peruse our extensive drinks menu from the comfort of the Horizon Bar, the principal lounge area on board our boutique Star-Ships. Fitted with comfortable seating, a well-stocked bar and dancefloor and entertainment space, this is the premier spot to relax, unwind or dance the night away at the end of another exceptional day on the river. During the day, you'll also find unlimited coffee and speciality teas here

Relax, socialise and dance the night away in the contemporary lounge and bar. On selected nights enjoy evening entertainment or simply relax and unwind with your favourite drink from the well-stocked bar. Throughout the day, you can enjoy complimentary tea and coffee, making this an inviting space to pause, connect and take in the on board comforts.

Reception

Reception

If you want to purchase a drinks package, enquire about a DiscoverMORE excursion or simply catch-up with our friendly crew, you’ll always receive a warm welcome in our on-board reception area.

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Pool

Pool

Pool and bar by day, cinema by night; this area of the Emerald Liberté is one we’re particularly proud of. The infinity-style pool at the rear of the ship transforms into a cinema in the evenings, so you can enjoy much-loved classics and new favourites.  

Gym, Wellness, Salon

Fitness and Wellness area

Enjoy a relaxing massage, facial or nail treatment in our custom-built wellness area. Our on-board beauty therapist provides a range of treatments to help you look and feel your best on the river, so feel free to drop by and find out how they can help you.

Jogging or Walking Track

Walking Track

Stretch your legs, see the sights and feel the breeze from Emerald Liberté’s specially-built walking track. Taking you around the perimeter of the Sun Deck, it’s the perfect way to stay active and take in a complete view of the river.

Pool, Wellness

Wellness Area

A space dedicated to mind, body, and soul. Stay active on board with a fitness session in the well-equipped gym, or indulge in a blissful range of relaxing and invigorating spa treatments

(at an additional cost).

Salon

Hairdressers

In need of a quick trim during your travels? On-board you can treat yourself at any point during your cruise with our dedicated hairdressers – perfect if you’re looking to get spruced up for a special evening.