A JOURNEY OF EXQUISITE PLEASURES
by Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
Please join us, July 27th 2021 for a spectacular French Provincial River Cruise.
There's no better way to explore the charming villages and towns of the south of France, than by river.
by Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
Please join us, July 27th 2021 for a spectacular French Provincial River Cruise.
There's no better way to explore the charming villages and towns of the south of France, than by river.
Cruise the Rhône and Saône rivers, following in the footsteps of Van Gogh, Cézanne and Gauguin on this exquisite journey through southern France; the same beautiful countryside and culture that inspired the masters will now inspire you.
Stroll the very streets of Arles made famous by Van Gogh. Visit Avignon’s majestic Palace of the Popes. Experience “Village Day” in enchanting Viviers, including a recital of music composed by Bach and Handel. And for those who wish for a more active exploration of the area, you can kayak on the tranquil Gardon River under the UNESCO-designated Pont du Gard; hike the steepest vineyards on the Rhône; and pedal through the city designed with bike riders in mind while in Lyon. Explore unforgettable “Burgundy & Provence” where tradition is as deeply rooted as the historic grapevines on the hills.
Stroll the very streets of Arles made famous by Van Gogh. Visit Avignon’s majestic Palace of the Popes. Experience “Village Day” in enchanting Viviers, including a recital of music composed by Bach and Handel. And for those who wish for a more active exploration of the area, you can kayak on the tranquil Gardon River under the UNESCO-designated Pont du Gard; hike the steepest vineyards on the Rhône; and pedal through the city designed with bike riders in mind while in Lyon. Explore unforgettable “Burgundy & Provence” where tradition is as deeply rooted as the historic grapevines on the hills.
Itinerary
DAY 1: Lyon (Embark)
June 27, 2021
Arrive at Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport. You will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.Note: For Arrival, Departure and Transfer details, please visit Uniworld.com/transfers.
For Port Location details, please visit Uniworld.com/ports.
Guests will fly into Lyon, France unless you select the optional Paris Pre-Trip, whereas you'll fly into Paris.
DAY 2: Macon (Beaune)
June 28, 2021
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. Located in the southernmost part of Burgundy, Mâcon, a Saône River port, is your gateway to Beaune.
Tour Choices:
Burgundy landscapes, Beaune and the Hospices
or Mâcon walking tour
Connoisseur Collection Excursion:
Wine tasting at a Burgundy Estate
This excursion is only available on sailings that belong to the Connoisseur Collection program. Additional Charge.
DAY 3: Lyon (In Depth)
June 29, 2021
As the epicenter of French gastronomy, Lyon is a city of tantalizing contrasts. There’s much to explore here, from the work of culinary visionaries to silk weavers’ secret passageways.
After your choice of excursions, embrace the locals’ favorite mode of transportation with a patisserie-fueled bike ride—a great way to see the sights. Two rivers: one tranquil, one torrential. Two hills: one for labor, where the sound of the silk weavers’ looms used to echo; the other for prayers, crowned by a spectacular basilica. Two cities, as different as night and day: one boasting colorful Old World façades, medieval mansions and hidden passageways; one with a sophisticated urbanity reminiscent of Paris.
Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, and with roots stretching back over 2,000 years to the days of Julius Caesar, Lyon is a place of fascinating dualities. Today you have your choice of ways to explore this city of contrasts: Sample its culinary riches with a visit to its peerless market hall or follow the footsteps of the silk weavers in the old quarter. For a more active option, see the city from its extensive—and lovely—bike paths.
Tour Choices:
Lyon Capital of Gastronomy tour
or Silk weavers walking tour
or “Let's Go” Lyon peninsula bike tour
DAY 4: Tournon (Tain-l'Hermitage)
June 30, 2021
If you love fine wine, you’ll love the twin villages of Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage. Whether you opt for a guided walk or a more vigorous vineyard hike, you’ll also have a chance to taste the local specialty—wonderful wines made primarily from Syrah grapes.
Tour Choices:
Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage twin villages stroll with wine tasting
or “Let's Go” Hermitage Terrace vineyards hike with wine tasting
Connoisseur Collection Excursion:
Château des Seigneurs de Tournon: Induction to the wine brotherhoods
This excursion is only available on sailings that belong to the Connoisseur Collection program. Additional Charge
DAY 5: Viviers
July 1, 2021
Meet some new friends today in the village of Viviers; encounters that really get at the heart and soul of the French people and their culture and traditions. No matter whom you get to know—a pottery maker, a dance teacher or a local homeowner—you’ll have an enjoyable and truly authentic experience, something you’ll remember for years to come.
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.
Featured Excursion: Intimate Viviers Village Day
Sycamores line some of Viviers’ stone-paved streets (planted, so they say, to provide shade for Napoleon’s soldiers), and houses here bear the watermarks of floods over the years. A local expert will show you the fountain squares in the Old Town, which combines Roman and medieval influences, and cobblestone lanes so narrow you can stand in the middle and touch the medieval houses on either side. Viviers climbs a hill crowned by 12th-century St. Vincent’s Cathedral. It happens to be the smallest cathedral in France, but it contains a marvelous organ. Take a seat under the soaring vaults and listen while a local organist demonstrates just how fine an instrument it is before you meet some of the local residents. You might choose to learn how a local potter makes the attractive wares sold at Poterie; step into one of two homes—one a mansion, the other more modest; take a dance class; or sample the wares at a popular bar. Don’t feel that you must opt for the bar if you’d like a little refreshment; all visits include an aperitif. On your way back to the ship, stop to try your hand at a game of petanque, which is akin to horseshoes, only it’s played with steel balls.
Connoisseur Collection Excursion:
Truffle hunting - Châteauneuf-du-Pape
or Valrhona Chocolate and Wine pairing
These excursions only available on sailings that belong to the Connoisseur Collection program. Additional Charge
DAY 6: Avignon
July 2, 2021The 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 see the Palace of the Popes and much more today, and also have a chance to kayak under a 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct.
Tour Choices:
Avignon walking tour with Palace of the Popes
or Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct visit
or "Let’s Go” kayak ride on the Gardon River
DAY 7: Tarascon
July 3, 2021
Explore one of two sun-drenched Provençal towns today, each with an allure all its own. Known for its remarkable Roman ruins, Arles so inspired Van Gogh that he painted some 200 paintings there; Tarascon boasts an ancient castle, as well as a local legend about a ferocious dragon.
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 and facilitating the expansion of their empire. Long renowned as one of the region’s most attractive cities, it lured artist Vincent van Gogh, who painted hundreds of works here (including Sunflowers and The Yellow House) in just 15 months.
A short distance from Arles is the ancient and charming town of Tarascon. Its many medieval sites include a 12th-century church and a 15th-century castle that is rich with tales of a beloved ruler. Bask in the warmth of the Provençal sunlight in either of these friendly Mediterranean towns.
Featured Excursion: Arles Walking Tour
Van Gogh paid tribute to Arles’ atmospheric beauty in some 200 paintings, including Starry Night Over the Rhône. It’s an ancient city boasting a remarkable collection of Roman ruins; among them are a theater where the famous Venus of Arles—on display in the Louvre—was discovered in 1651 and an amphitheater that is still used for sporting events. Join a local expert for a stroll through this district, where medieval houses crowd in among the ancient structures and the city gates date to the 13th century. Pause before the town hall, built with stone quarried from the Roman theater, and the Romanesque St. Trophime Church, which was erected in the 12th century. It replaced the church where St. Augustine, the man who converted the inhabitants of England to Christianity, was consecrated by the first archbishop of Canterbury. Walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps past the cheery yellow Café de Nuit—still open and still the same shade of yellow it was when he painted it—and across Forum Square before visiting the town’s bountiful farmers’ market, which displays seasonal fruits and vegetables, medicinal herbs and many more specialties of Southern France.
During your free time after the tour, you can peruse the local shops, go olive tasting or delve further into Arles’ stunning collection of architectural treasures.
DAY 8: Disembark in Avignon
July 4, 2021
Unless you have extended your vacation, you will disembark the ship and be transferred to Marseille International Airport for your flight home.
Guests will fly out of Marseille, France unless you select the optional French Riviera Post-Trip, whereas you'll fly out of the French Riviera (Airport TBD based on itinerary).
June 27, 2021
Arrive at Lyon–Saint-Exupéry Airport. You will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.Note: For Arrival, Departure and Transfer details, please visit Uniworld.com/transfers.
For Port Location details, please visit Uniworld.com/ports.
Guests will fly into Lyon, France unless you select the optional Paris Pre-Trip, whereas you'll fly into Paris.
DAY 2: Macon (Beaune)
June 28, 2021
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. Located in the southernmost part of Burgundy, Mâcon, a Saône River port, is your gateway to Beaune.
Tour Choices:
Burgundy landscapes, Beaune and the Hospices
or Mâcon walking tour
Connoisseur Collection Excursion:
Wine tasting at a Burgundy Estate
This excursion is only available on sailings that belong to the Connoisseur Collection program. Additional Charge.
DAY 3: Lyon (In Depth)
June 29, 2021
As the epicenter of French gastronomy, Lyon is a city of tantalizing contrasts. There’s much to explore here, from the work of culinary visionaries to silk weavers’ secret passageways.
After your choice of excursions, embrace the locals’ favorite mode of transportation with a patisserie-fueled bike ride—a great way to see the sights. Two rivers: one tranquil, one torrential. Two hills: one for labor, where the sound of the silk weavers’ looms used to echo; the other for prayers, crowned by a spectacular basilica. Two cities, as different as night and day: one boasting colorful Old World façades, medieval mansions and hidden passageways; one with a sophisticated urbanity reminiscent of Paris.
Situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, and with roots stretching back over 2,000 years to the days of Julius Caesar, Lyon is a place of fascinating dualities. Today you have your choice of ways to explore this city of contrasts: Sample its culinary riches with a visit to its peerless market hall or follow the footsteps of the silk weavers in the old quarter. For a more active option, see the city from its extensive—and lovely—bike paths.
Tour Choices:
Lyon Capital of Gastronomy tour
or Silk weavers walking tour
or “Let's Go” Lyon peninsula bike tour
DAY 4: Tournon (Tain-l'Hermitage)
June 30, 2021
If you love fine wine, you’ll love the twin villages of Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage. Whether you opt for a guided walk or a more vigorous vineyard hike, you’ll also have a chance to taste the local specialty—wonderful wines made primarily from Syrah grapes.
Tour Choices:
Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage twin villages stroll with wine tasting
or “Let's Go” Hermitage Terrace vineyards hike with wine tasting
Connoisseur Collection Excursion:
Château des Seigneurs de Tournon: Induction to the wine brotherhoods
This excursion is only available on sailings that belong to the Connoisseur Collection program. Additional Charge
DAY 5: Viviers
July 1, 2021
Meet some new friends today in the village of Viviers; encounters that really get at the heart and soul of the French people and their culture and traditions. No matter whom you get to know—a pottery maker, a dance teacher or a local homeowner—you’ll have an enjoyable and truly authentic experience, something you’ll remember for years to come.
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.
Featured Excursion: Intimate Viviers Village Day
Sycamores line some of Viviers’ stone-paved streets (planted, so they say, to provide shade for Napoleon’s soldiers), and houses here bear the watermarks of floods over the years. A local expert will show you the fountain squares in the Old Town, which combines Roman and medieval influences, and cobblestone lanes so narrow you can stand in the middle and touch the medieval houses on either side. Viviers climbs a hill crowned by 12th-century St. Vincent’s Cathedral. It happens to be the smallest cathedral in France, but it contains a marvelous organ. Take a seat under the soaring vaults and listen while a local organist demonstrates just how fine an instrument it is before you meet some of the local residents. You might choose to learn how a local potter makes the attractive wares sold at Poterie; step into one of two homes—one a mansion, the other more modest; take a dance class; or sample the wares at a popular bar. Don’t feel that you must opt for the bar if you’d like a little refreshment; all visits include an aperitif. On your way back to the ship, stop to try your hand at a game of petanque, which is akin to horseshoes, only it’s played with steel balls.
Connoisseur Collection Excursion:
Truffle hunting - Châteauneuf-du-Pape
or Valrhona Chocolate and Wine pairing
These excursions only available on sailings that belong to the Connoisseur Collection program. Additional Charge
DAY 6: Avignon
July 2, 2021The 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 see the Palace of the Popes and much more today, and also have a chance to kayak under a 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct.
Tour Choices:
Avignon walking tour with Palace of the Popes
or Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct visit
or "Let’s Go” kayak ride on the Gardon River
DAY 7: Tarascon
July 3, 2021
Explore one of two sun-drenched Provençal towns today, each with an allure all its own. Known for its remarkable Roman ruins, Arles so inspired Van Gogh that he painted some 200 paintings there; Tarascon boasts an ancient castle, as well as a local legend about a ferocious dragon.
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 and facilitating the expansion of their empire. Long renowned as one of the region’s most attractive cities, it lured artist Vincent van Gogh, who painted hundreds of works here (including Sunflowers and The Yellow House) in just 15 months.
A short distance from Arles is the ancient and charming town of Tarascon. Its many medieval sites include a 12th-century church and a 15th-century castle that is rich with tales of a beloved ruler. Bask in the warmth of the Provençal sunlight in either of these friendly Mediterranean towns.
Featured Excursion: Arles Walking Tour
Van Gogh paid tribute to Arles’ atmospheric beauty in some 200 paintings, including Starry Night Over the Rhône. It’s an ancient city boasting a remarkable collection of Roman ruins; among them are a theater where the famous Venus of Arles—on display in the Louvre—was discovered in 1651 and an amphitheater that is still used for sporting events. Join a local expert for a stroll through this district, where medieval houses crowd in among the ancient structures and the city gates date to the 13th century. Pause before the town hall, built with stone quarried from the Roman theater, and the Romanesque St. Trophime Church, which was erected in the 12th century. It replaced the church where St. Augustine, the man who converted the inhabitants of England to Christianity, was consecrated by the first archbishop of Canterbury. Walk in Van Gogh’s footsteps past the cheery yellow Café de Nuit—still open and still the same shade of yellow it was when he painted it—and across Forum Square before visiting the town’s bountiful farmers’ market, which displays seasonal fruits and vegetables, medicinal herbs and many more specialties of Southern France.
During your free time after the tour, you can peruse the local shops, go olive tasting or delve further into Arles’ stunning collection of architectural treasures.
DAY 8: Disembark in Avignon
July 4, 2021
Unless you have extended your vacation, you will disembark the ship and be transferred to Marseille International Airport for your flight home.
Guests will fly out of Marseille, France unless you select the optional French Riviera Post-Trip, whereas you'll fly out of the French Riviera (Airport TBD based on itinerary).
An optional extension is available for 3 nights to the Cote d'Azure, the French Riviera.
For more information on the extension, please follow the link below.
For more information on the extension, please follow the link below.
PRICING INFORMATION
The following pricing is per person covering the cost of the 8 day journey onboard Uniworld's SS Catherine. International airfare and any optional pre-trip or post-trip extensions selected are at additional cost.
We are pleased to offer $300 per person off of what the general public will pay for this journey. Discounts are reflected in the rates below.
All Cabins Receive $250 per person Onboard Credit as our gift to you.
(Think: Massages, ultra-premium spirits & wines, the onboard gift boutique, etc...where you can use your gift)
Classic Stateroom
Our Exclusive Pricing $3899pp + $200 Port Fees
French Balcony Stateroom (Our personal recommendation)
Our Exclusive Pricing $4799pp + $200 Port Fees
Deluxe Balcony Stateroom - SOLD OUT
Our Exclusive Pricing $5299pp + $200 Port Fees
Suite - SOLD OUT
Our Exclusive Pricing $7799pp + $200 Port Fees
Grand Suite - SOLD OUT
Our Exclusive Pricing $9999pp + $190 Port Fees
Deposits are 10% of the selected Cabin Fare.
Past Guests of Uniworld receive an additional discount.
The following pricing is per person covering the cost of the 8 day journey onboard Uniworld's SS Catherine. International airfare and any optional pre-trip or post-trip extensions selected are at additional cost.
We are pleased to offer $300 per person off of what the general public will pay for this journey. Discounts are reflected in the rates below.
All Cabins Receive $250 per person Onboard Credit as our gift to you.
(Think: Massages, ultra-premium spirits & wines, the onboard gift boutique, etc...where you can use your gift)
Classic Stateroom
Our Exclusive Pricing $3899pp + $200 Port Fees
French Balcony Stateroom (Our personal recommendation)
Our Exclusive Pricing $4799pp + $200 Port Fees
Deluxe Balcony Stateroom - SOLD OUT
Our Exclusive Pricing $5299pp + $200 Port Fees
Suite - SOLD OUT
Our Exclusive Pricing $7799pp + $200 Port Fees
Grand Suite - SOLD OUT
Our Exclusive Pricing $9999pp + $190 Port Fees
Deposits are 10% of the selected Cabin Fare.
Past Guests of Uniworld receive an additional discount.
A World of Inclusions
These amenities and more are yours while sailing onboard the SS Catherine.
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