Grand France WWII Remembrance & History Cruise (Northbound) 2026
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on a captivating multi-day tour through the heart of France, where history, art, and culture intertwine along the scenic waterways. From the vibrant streets of Marseille to the iconic landmarks of Paris, each day offers a unique blend of guided tours, leisure activities, and culinary delights. Experience the charm of Provence, the grandeur of medieval cities, and the artistic legacy of impressionist masters. With luxurious accommodations and a suite of enriching activities, this journey promises an unforgettable exploration of France's most cherished regions.
Included
Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere
Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options
Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections
Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
New in 2023 - included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day
Cruise ship
Open–Air Balconies® and Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows in all Panorama SuitesSM
Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
Bathrobes & slippers
Premium L'Occitane® bath products & hairdryer
Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door
Wide selection of free movie channels and English-speaking TV
Individual climate control and in-room safe
Full-size closet and mirror
Additional under-bed storage
Well-stocked mini-bar
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship
Panoramic windows throughout the ship
Elegant, contemporary design & decor
Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
Covered Observation Lounge
Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
Elevator
Non-smoking interior and staterooms
Avalon Waterways offers a selection of included excursions in every port of call, with something for everyone within their "Classic", "Discovery" and "Active" collections
Map
Attractions
Pont du Gard
Palais des Papes
Louvre Museum
Fondation Monet in Giverny
Bayeux Cathedral
Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
Eiffel Tower
Arles Amphitheatre
Botanical Garden
Place Bellecour
Évreux Cathedral
Biotropica, animal gardensDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Welcome to the Enchanting South of France
- Marseille
- Arles - Arrival day
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Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Marseille, where your luxurious Suite Ship® awaits. As you board, immerse yourself in the rich culture and history that this Mediterranean gem offers. Set sail towards Arles, where you'll dock overnight, savoring a delightful dinner on board.
Day 2 – A Brush with Genius in Arles
- Arles
- Avignon
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- L'espace Van Gogh
- Arles Amphitheatre
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Explore the artistic allure of Arles, a city that inspired Vincent van Gogh. Choose between a power walk, a painting workshop, or a guided tour of the Roman Amphitheater. Enjoy a glass of wine at Le Café Van Gogh before sailing to the historic city of Avignon, where you'll dock overnight.
Day 3 – The City of Popes in Picturesque Provence
- Avignon
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- Pont du Gard
- Palais des Papes
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Discover Avignon's medieval charm with a guided tour of the Palace of the Popes. Opt for excursions to the ancient Pont du Gard or the wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Capture the essence of Provence with its art, culture, and stunning landscapes before enjoying live entertainment on board.
Day 4 – World History in a Charming French Village
World History in a Charming French Village
- Orange Cathedral
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Sail leisurely to Viviers, a village steeped in history. Ascend to the hilltop cathedral or explore the quaint streets on a guided tour. Discover the blend of Romanesque and medieval influences in this picturesque setting before cruising towards Tain l'Hermitage.
Day 5 – A Rendezvous with Castle Views and Vineyards
- Lyon
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- Train de l'Ardèche
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Explore Tournon, one of France's oldest medieval towns, with a guided tour or a scenic hike. Marvel at the 16th-century castle and Roman ruins. In the afternoon, cruise to Lyon, where you'll dock overnight, enjoying the culinary delights of the region.
Day 6 – La Vie En Rose in Lyon
- Lyon
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- Place Bellecour
- Tour d'Oingt
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Delve into Lyon's rich history with a guided tour of Fourvière Hill and the Old Town. Enjoy free time cycling through the city's vibrant squares and along the Rhône and Saône rivers. As night falls, sail to Tournus, relishing live entertainment on board.
Day 7 – Wine and Cheese on the Stunning Saône
Wine and Cheese on the Stunning Saône
Journey into the Mâconnais region to explore its renowned Chardonnay vineyards and partake in a wine-tasting at a medieval castle. Cruise along the Saône River, enjoying a cheese tasting and live entertainment before docking in Chalon-sur-Saône.
Day 8 – From Beaune to the City of Light
- Beaune
- Dijon
- Paris
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- Hôtel-Dieu Museum - Hospices de Beaune
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Visit the architectural marvel of Hôtel-Dieu in Beaune, home to Van der Weyden's masterpiece. Travel to Dijon and board a high-speed train to Paris, where your Suite Ship® awaits. Enjoy a delightful dinner as you cruise towards Vernon.
Day 9 – Monet's Muses and Castle Courtyards
- Vernon
- Les Andelys
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- Fondation Monet in Giverny
- Biotropica, animal gardens
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Explore the artistic haven of Giverny, home to Claude Monet, or visit the grand Bizy Castle. Enjoy a traditional French luncheon on board before cruising to Les Andelys, where you can hike to the ruins of Château Gaillard or stroll through the picturesque town.
Day 10 – Ancient Abbeys Along the Seine
Ancient Abbeys Along the Seine
- Valmont Abbey
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Cycle along the Seine or explore the Normandy Abbeys Route, rich with medieval history. Opt for a visit to the seaside town of Honfleur. Enjoy an onboard lecture about WWII, deepening your understanding of the region's past.
Day 11 – Heroic Bravery on Normandy Beaches
- Rouen
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- Bayeux Cathedral
- Botanical Garden
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Embark on a guided tour of Normandy's WWII landing beaches or explore the region's agricultural heritage with a visit to the Bayeux Tapestry. Experience the poignant history of the area before cruising to Rouen, where live entertainment awaits.
Day 12 – The Cathedral of Our Lady and a Heroine for France
- Rouen
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- Évreux Cathedral
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Discover Rouen's medieval quarter, where Joan of Arc met her fate, and admire the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral. Opt for a visit to Dieppe or enjoy a guided bike tour. As night falls, sail to Conflans, enriched by an onboard history lecture.
Day 13 – The Footsteps of Van Gogh and Bonaparte
- Paris
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- Château de Malmaison
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Visit Auvers-sur-Oise, where Vincent van Gogh spent his final days, or explore the opulent Château de Malmaison. Consider an excursion to the Palace of Versailles before cruising to Paris, ready to explore the iconic City of Light.
Day 14 – Cafés, Cathedrals, and Canvases in Paris
- Paris
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- Louvre Museum
- Eiffel Tower
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Immerse yourself in Parisian culture with a guided walk through the city's historic heart or a tour of its iconic landmarks, including the Louvre and Eiffel Tower. Enjoy free time to explore or relax in a Left Bank café, savoring the essence of Paris.
Day 15 – Farewell to the City of Light
- Paris - Departure day
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Conclude your unforgettable journey with a sumptuous breakfast on board, reflecting on the memories and experiences gathered along the Seine. Depart from Paris, carrying the spirit of France with you.
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