Passengers are welcome to board our ship in Lyon at 6:00 p.m. After comfortably settling into your cabins, we'll introduce our crew at a welcome cocktail. Dinner tonight will be followed by an evening of entertainment.

Included excursion: Lyon and a tasting at the Halles Paul Bocuse.(2) Set out on a journey through time, styles, and eras as we explore the very best of Lyon. One of the city’s most iconic landmarks is the Basilica of Fourvière, majestically perched atop the hill of the same name. Like a guardian watching over the city, it offers breathtaking views and a striking architectural presence.Next, step into the cobbled streets of Old Lyon, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where the Renaissance comes alive. This district is renowned for its traboules—narrow, covered passageways unique to Lyon—true hidden gems that whisper tales of the past.Of course, no visit to Lyon would be complete without indulging in its world-famous cuisine. At the Halles Paul Bocuse, the city’s temple of gastronomy, your senses will come alive with the flavors and aromas of the finest local products. You'll enjoy a typical Lyonnais tasting, featuring dry sausage and cheese, paired perfectly with a glass of wine.We’ll return on board and begin cruising toward Mâcon. The Saône River reveals its charm as we glide through the heart of the former capital of Gaul, offering splendid views of Lyon’s historic quarters. As we continue, the river winds gently through the valley and across open plains, where villages, elegant estates, and stately châteaux dot the landscape.

We’ll arrive later in the evening. Overnight stopover.

Included excursion: The Beaujolais vineyards, named after the Sires of Beaujeu. Follow the scenic route through the heart of the Beaujolais region, where rolling hills are adorned with vineyards, picturesque villages, and stately châteaux. This enchanting landscape reflects the deep-rooted winemaking tradition that has shaped the area for centuries.The highlight of the excursion is a stop at the Hameau Duboeuf, a unique wine-themed park and cultural center unlike any other in Europe. Discover the fascinating world of vineyards and winemaking through captivating exhibits and rare collections, offering a true immersion into the art of wine.

We’ll return on board and continue cruising along the tranquil waters of the Saône, passing a variety of scenic landscapes before joining the Rhône River after Lyon.Overnight cruise toward Vienne.

Included excursion: The legendary vineyards of Condrieu and Côte-Rôtie. Discover two true gems of the Northern Rhône Valley, nestled on the steep hillsides above the river: the world-renowned Condrieu and Côte-Rôtie vineyards. Each offers a distinctive expression of this exceptional terroir. Condrieu is famous for its rich, 100% Viognier white wines, known for their elegant aromas of stone fruit and white flowers. Côte-Rôtie, on the other hand, produces refined Syrah-based red wines that perfectly balance power and finesse, sometimes enhanced with a touch of Viognier. These two prestigious appellations are a perfect harmony of tradition and grandeur. The excursion includes a tasting at one of the region’s top producers.

We’ll spend the afternoon cruising along the Rhône toward Avignon. Aboard the ship, enjoy a talk that brings the region to life. As we make our way downstream, the Rhône Valley reveals the natural beauty of the Pilat Regional Natural Park, a vast protected area of mid-mountain landscapes that stretches across 700 km². You'll admire forests of fir and beech trees, rolling pastures, vine-covered hillsides, and fruit orchards—an unspoiled environment home to a remarkable variety of flora and fauna. We'll pass charming towns such as Condrieu, Vérin, and Chavanay, all located along the famous Rhône Valley wine route. Enjoy an evening of entertainment.

Overnight cruise.

Early morning arrival in Avignon. Included excursion: Avignon and the Papal City. Step into the rich history of this former capital of Christendom, where a remarkable heritage awaits. From the majestic Palace of the Popes to the famous Saint-Bénézet Bridge and the fortified city walls, Avignon proudly displays its treasures at the gateway to Provence. The Palace of the Popes—an imposing fortress and sumptuous palace—is a powerful symbol of the medieval church’s influence. It housed seven pontiffs during the 14th century. During your guided visit of the world’s largest Gothic palace, you’ll explore the grand ceremonial rooms, chapels, and the private apartments of the Popes, uncovering their political and religious authority.Return on board for lunch before continuing cruising toward Arles, which we will reach in the afternoon.

Included excursion: Guided tour of Arles in the footsteps of Van Gogh. This ancient Roman city, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, boasts the largest number of Roman monuments after Rome itself. Highlights include the Roman amphitheater, the ancient theater, the Constantine Roman baths, and the Alyscamps—the starting point of the famous pilgrimage route, the Way of St. James.Arles also inspired Van Gogh, who created nearly 300 paintings and drawings here. Your visit will follow his footsteps, visiting the very spots where he set up his easel: the Place du Forum, the Rhône quayside, Place Lamartine, and many more.

Enjoy a Provençal evening with traditional folk entertainment on board.

In the morning, included excursion: Saint-Rémy de Provence. Discover this charming Provençal village nestled in the heart of the Alpilles Regional Natural Park. Enjoy a tasting at one of the finest local producers. During the excursion, the ship will continue cruising toward Avignon, where you will rejoin it. Return on board.

Afternoon cruising toward Viviers. Since ancient times, the Rhône has been a vital natural route linking the interior of the country with the Mediterranean world.Evening arrival in Viviers.

Included excursion: Viviers. Step into this beautifully preserved medieval town, classified as a protected heritage site. As the historic capital of Vivarais—named after the region itself—Viviers proudly overlooks the Rhône gorge from its rocky promontory, crowned by its impressive cathedral. A true open-air architectural museum, this Ardéchois town boasts nine buildings listed as historic monuments.

Early morning departure cruising toward Tournon. As we glide along the river, admire Montélimar, the nougat capital; Valence, the heart of the Drôme region and gateway to Southern France; and Tain l’Hermitage, where you’ll enjoy stunning views of the vineyards cascading down the slopes.

The morning features an engaging wine expert who will lead a fun and interactive quiz. Finalists will compete in a blind tasting*, and the lucky winner will be crowned the cruise’s Bacchus and awarded a gourmet cruise(1) on the Rhine with Marc Haeberlin, a two-Michelin-star chef.

Arrival in Tournon early afternoon.

Included excursion: Tain l'Hermitage. This charming town lies at the foot of the Côteau de l'Hermitage, in the heart of the historic Northern Rhône vineyards. According to legend, the noble knight Henri Gaspard de Sterimberg planted Syrah vines brought back from the Crusades to quench the thirst of pilgrims. Today, some of the world’s finest wines are produced here, with the renowned AOC Hermitage red standing out as a true jewel. Enjoy a tasting at one of the best local producers.

Return on board for the gala evening.Overnight cruise toward Lyon.

Enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. End of our services.