River Cruise Itinerary

1. Day 1
   Paris

   Mon, Aug 07, 2023

   Enjoy a welcome dinner before cruising out of Paris with the beautiful city as a backdrop.

   
   Meals: Dinner
2. Day 2
   Les Andelys

   Tue, Aug 08, 2023

   Freechoice: Join a hike with a difference and visit King Richard the Lionheart’s Château Gaillard, or journey to Lyons la Forêt, one of the most beautiful villages of France, and visit a local farm to sample cider, the region’s specialty. Alternatively, join your local guide for a walking tour of the quaint village of Les Andelys, or take a bicycle tour through this beautiful village, set on the banks of the Seine.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
3. Day 3
   Rouen

   Wed, Aug 09, 2023

   Freechoice: Enjoy a walking tour of Rouen, the capital of the Normandy region. Take in the famous sites relating to Joan of Arc, and admire the city’s half-timbered houses and the historic Rouen Cathedral. Or learn about the Viking Warlord Rollo ‘the Walker’, who will host a guided walking tour through the medieval laneways of Rouen.

   This region is also the gateway to the historic Western Front, and this afternoon you’ll have the opportunity to gain fascinating insights into the Somme battlefields and learn about what life was like for a soldier during WWI with a fascinating lecture. After dinner, a local pâtissier will come on board with a selection of their finest desserts for your dining pleasure.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
4. Day 4
   Rouen

   Thu, Aug 10, 2023

   Freechoice: Get a glimpse of what the Somme battlefields might have been like for those caught up in this terrible World War I battle, which claimed the lives of more than 150,000 British and Commonwealth soldiers. You may choose to visit the Australian National Memorial, containing the Sir John Monash Centre as well as the Caterpillar Valley Memorial, dedicated to the New Zealand citizens who perished during the Battle of the Somme. Or, you may choose to visit the Lochnagar Crater, the Newfoundland memorial park and the Thiepval memorial. Alternatively, stay in Rouen and explore the collection of impressionist paintings, including masterpieces by Renoir and Monet, at the Museum of Fine Arts which was founded by Napoleon Bonaparte (please note: Fine Art Museum is not available all dates and will be replaced with Joan of Arc Museum).

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
5. Day 5
   Rouen > Honfleur

   Fri, Aug 11, 2023

   Relax on board this morning as you cruise toward the open waters of the English Channel.

   Freechoice: Explore Honfleur on a guided walking tour, with its quaint architecture, relaxed coastal atmosphere and colourful fishing boats bobbing on the water, or visit charming Norman villages and discover their traditional Cheeses and Calvados. The small town of Pont l’Eveque is renowned for producing a cheese of the same name, and you will get to sample this and more during your guided tour.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6. Day 6
   Honfleur

   Sat, Aug 12, 2023

   Freechoice: Visit the historic Normandy beaches, the site of the D-Day landings that took place in June 1944. Here you have three equally fascinating options to choose from. Explore the involvement of the British forces as you visit the Bayeux War Cemetery, Museum of the Battle of Normandy and the Landing Museum in Arromanches, finishing at the British Normandy memorial, or learn about the US contribution to the battle at Utah Beach and Memorial before a visit to the Normandy American cemetery and visitor centre, or view the battle through the eyes of Canadian forces as you visit Juno Beach Centre, a museum that focuses on the Canadian war effort as well as the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian cemetery and Pegasus Bridge & Museum. Alternatively, learn about history of a different era and visit Bayeux including its famous Tapestry, a hand embroidered masterpiece that depicts the tales of the Norman conquest of England and dates back to the 11th century.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
7. Day 7
   Honfleur > Caudebec-en-Caux

   Sun, Aug 13, 2023

   Freechoice: Visit Fécamp and its mighty palace. Situated in spectacular surrounds, the city’s natural setting contrasts perfectly with its architectural centrepiece, the Benedictine Palace. Alternatively, visit the beautiful seaside town of Étretat, sitting proudly between dramatic rock faces, or travel to the hilltop village of Bolbec and view fabrics at the fascinating Textile Museum before visiting a traditional farm nearby. For the more adventurous, join a guided cycling tour to the charming village of Villequier and visit the Victor Hugo Museum to learn more about the famous French writer.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
8. Day 8
   Vernon

   Mon, Aug 14, 2023

   In a location rich in visual treasures, it’s easy to understand why this region of France inspired many of history’s most famous artists.

   Freechoice: Visit Giverny and Monet’s former residence and gardens. Many of the artists most famous art works were inspired by this impressive location, or get your heart pumping on a self-guided cycle through Vernon to Giverny where you have the opportunity to visit Monet’s garden. After exploring these spectacular gardens you may feel inspired to join a painting class on board this afternoon.

   Enrich
   Built into a steep rock face overlooking the Seine River and the small village bearing the same name, Château de La Roche-Guyon is a sight to behold. Experience the opulence and grandeur of yesteryear as you enjoy a classical concert performed by the region’s most reputable musicians. The Château dates back to medieval times and you’ll be sure to have fond memories of this experience for many years to come.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
9. Day 9
   Conflans > Paris

   Tue, Aug 15, 2023

   Freechoice: Discover the charms of Auvers-sur-Oise and see Vincent van Gogh’s room, or step inside the magnificent Chantilly Castle for a guided tour of this remarkable château, set amidst beautiful parklands. Alternatively, visit the great stables on the grounds of Chantilly. The stables also house a museum dedicated to the relationship between man and horse throughout time.

   
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
10. Day 10
    Paris

    Wed, Aug 16, 2023

    Today it’s your choice to either spend time exploring France’s most celebrated city, or embark on a discovery beyond the city limits

    Freechoice: Walk through the trendy Marais district with a resident expert and hear tales that only the locals know, or admire the extravagance and grandeur of the famous Opera Garnier on a guided tour (not available all departures, will be replaced with visit to Montmatre). Alternatively, see the highlights of Paris during a city tour and marvel at the many iconic sights of the city, or you may wish to explore beyond Paris and tour the 17th century estate of Château Vaux-le-Vicomte, Louis XIV’s inspiration for Versailles Palace.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
11. Day 11
    Paris > Bordeaux

    Thu, Aug 17, 2023

    Board your included flight from Paris to Bordeaux where you will embark on the luxurious Scenic Diamond for your 10 night cruise along the waterways of this region.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
12. Day 12
    Bordeaux > Saint-Émilion

    Fri, Aug 18, 2023

    Enjoy a relaxing morning as you cruise into the beautiful 13th century port of Libourne. While cruising, perhaps drop into Scenic Culinaire for a French cooking class. Or you could choose to relax in the on board Salt Therapy Lounge and soak in the healing properties of the salt, or on the Sundeck with a drink in hand as you take in the stunning scenery along the Dordogne River. Spend the afternoon in the nearby town of Saint-Émilion, a visual feast and the jewel of this ancient wine growing region. Saint-Émilion is a medieval village with world famous wineries, beautiful architecture and fascinating monuments. You’ll get the chance to take in all its beauty, and to explore the underground catacombs of the Monolithic Church – a true highlight.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
13. Day 13
    Libourne > Pauillac

    Sat, Aug 19, 2023

    Freechoice: Enjoy a guided tour of Libourne and view its quaint 16th century town-houses and Gothic church, or visit the eclectic city of Bergerac. Alternatively, explore the estate of Château Siaurac with a wine tasting, or join a cycling tour through the region to the estate.

    During your afternoon at leisure, opt to enhance your culinary prowess in Scenic Culinaire, or simply take in the riverside panoramas while cruising towards Pauillac.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
14. Day 14
    Médoc

    Sun, Aug 20, 2023

    Freechoice: Travel the scenic Médoc wine route and discover why this region is viewed as the world’s leading red wine producer. Afterwards, sample the region’s finest at a local estate. Alternatively, cycle through the region to a grand château and sample delicious wine produced on the estate.

    Enrich
    Set in spectacular surrounds in the Médoc countryside, Château d’Agassac is truly enchanting. Dating back to the 13th century, the Château is one of the oldest winemaking establishments in the region, and is the venue for your unforgettable evening concert. Soak in the ambience of this magnificent property as live musicians perform classical masterpieces for your exclusive enjoyment.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
15. Day 15
    Pauillac > Cadillac

    Mon, Aug 21, 2023

    Soak in the vistas as you cruise past the picturesque landscapes of the Garonne River into Cadillac, some of the most beautiful scenic cruising in the Bordeaux region. While on board, you may choose to hone your cooking skills with a lesson in Scenic Culinaire. Tonight, this remarkable space comes to life when fabulous local entertainers perform live in the Panorama Lounge for a night of entertainment.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
16. Day 16
    Cadillac

    Tue, Aug 22, 2023

    Freechoice: Venture into the Sauternes region for a delicious wine tasting at the prestigious Château de Rayne Vigneau, or cycle through the rolling vineyards of Sauternes to the Grand Cru Classé estate of Lafaurie Peyraguey for a tasting.

    Freechoice: This afternoon, visit Roquetaillade Castle; it’s one of the region’s most impressive historic sites, and you’ll tour it with the family that now lives within its walls. Alternatively, visit a truffle farm and sample the delicious regional delicacy (please note: not available all dates and will be replaced with Château Cazeneuve, please enquire for details), or perhaps visit Château Malromé, the family home of well known artist, Toulouse Lautrec.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
17. Day 17
    Bordeaux

    Wed, Aug 23, 2023

    Freechoice: Shop with a Chef at a local food market and cook up a storm in Scenic Culinaire (Please note: Most markets in France do not open on a Monday. If your visit falls on a Monday your on board chef will explain local produce in Scenic Culinaire and provide an extended Scenic Culinaire cooking demonstration.). Alternatively, enjoy a guided tour of Bordeaux and her many attractions, or if you’re feeling more active, you may choose to cycle the historic regions of the city.
    Back on board your Cruise Director will organise a treat for you, with a tasting of fresh oysters delivered straight from the waters of Arcachon Bay.

    Enrich
    After the doors have closed to the public, you will be welcomed with a glass of Champagne to Les Bassins des Lumières, Bordeaux’s former submarine base, now an impressive digital art installation. Be treated to an exclusive show, customised and curated just for Scenic guests.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
18. Day 18
    Arcachon > Bourg

    Thu, Aug 24, 2023

    Freechoice: Journey to Arcachon and join a walking tour including a visit to the local markets, or climb Dune du Pilat, Europe’s largest sand dune. Alternatively, stay in Bordeaux and take a tram to the Cité du Vin museum. After a short introduction enjoy a interactive journey around a world of wine and culture on a self-guided tour.

    Tonight enjoy a special dinner on board showcasing regional delicacies before an illuminations cruise on the Garonne River.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
19. Day 19
    Cognac

    Fri, Aug 25, 2023

    Today explore the unique northern shores of the Gironde Estuary.

    Freechoice: Discover the Carriages Museum in the enchanting Bourg Castle and visit the 16th century passageway to the guards rooms and see the immense WWII oil tanks. Alternatively, spend a full day exploring the fortified town of Cognac, renowned for its production of fine brandy and afterwards, enjoy a tasting at the acclaimed property of Rémy Martin.

    This afternoon, unwind on the Sun Deck while cruising into the historic port of Blaye.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
20. Day 20
    Blaye > Bordeaux

    Sat, Aug 26, 2023

    Discover the remarkable Blaye region, established to protect the Bordeaux region from invasion.

    Freechoice: Stroll through the charming town during a guided walking tour, or take a more active walk through the Citadel of Blaye and learn about the defence system which was created by the famous architect Sébastien Vauban. Alternatively, join a 30 kilometre roundtrip cycle along the Captain’s Road, or explore the stunning beauty of the fairytale Château de La Roche Courbon, known as ‘The Castle of Sleeping Beauty’. Explore the castle and its beautiful gardens during a guided tour.

    Later, enjoy a cooking class in Scenic Culinaire, or simply relax on board as we cruise past beautiful uninhabited islands, bound for Bordeaux. Dine at the Captain’s farewell dinner on board this evening.

    
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
21. Day 21
    Bordeaux

    Sun, Aug 27, 2023

    Disembark after breakfast and transfer to Bordeaux airport or train station for your onward journey.

    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.

    
    Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Health and Safety Protocols for Scenic

Ship Information

Cabins

Life on Board

Questions & Answers