Discover the quieter, more authentic side of France on this charming River Seine cruise, where picturesque riverside towns and gentle countryside unfold at a wonderfully unhurried pace. Sailing through the heart of the French landscape, you’ll visit delightful destinations such as Saint-Mammès, Corbeil-Essonnes and La Roche Guyon — each offering its own glimpse into traditional French life, far from the crowds.
At the centre of this experience is the truly distinctive MS R.E. Waydelich L.J.—a rare paddle-wheel river ship that brings a sense of nostalgia and elegance to your journey. Unlike modern vessels, her classic design and gentle rhythm evoke the golden age of river cruising, creating an atmosphere that is both refined and wonderfully relaxing.
Your five-night stay on board is on a fully all-inclusive basis, with drinks included, allowing you to settle in, unwind and enjoy the journey without a care. From comfortable surroundings to attentive service, every detail is designed with your enjoyment in mind.
As with all our holidays, your comfort begins from the very start. Travelling by coach from the UK, we include an overnight stay in Kent before continuing to France. This thoughtful approach ensures you arrive refreshed and ready to embark—avoiding the fatigue of a long, continuous journey and setting the tone for a truly relaxing holiday.
Blending timeless scenery, authentic destinations and the unique charm of paddle-wheel cruising, this River Seine journey offers something truly different—where the journey itself is every bit as memorable as the places you visit.
Day 1: Travel to Kent & Overnight Stay
Your holiday begins with a comfortable journey to Ashford, Kent. Here, you’ll enjoy a relaxing overnight hotel stay with dinner included.
Day 2: Paris & Embarkation
After breakfast, continue your journey to Paris, where your elegant paddle-wheel ship awaits. Settle into your cabin and enjoy a warm welcome from the attentive crew, followed by dinner on board.
As evening falls, take in the magical sights of Paris illuminated by night during a scenic cruise through the heart of the city (subject to water levels).
Cruising the Seine
Over the coming days, you’ll cruise through some of the most beautiful stretches of the Seine, where peaceful countryside replaces the bustle of the capital. Expect charming riverside villages, historic towns and ever-changing scenery drifting past your window. Savour the art, history and iconic landmarks of France as you glide peacefully along the river.
Day 3: Paris – Melun – Saint Mammès
An early morning sailing towards Melun, where you can join an optional tour to the Chateau de Fontainebleau, a magnificent Renaissance palace which was home to 34 kings and two emperors and is one of the largest and best-furnished chateaux in France.
The cruise sails on to Saint Mammès, arriving late afternoon, where those on the excursion will rejoin the ship and we overnight.
Day 4: Saint Mammès – Corbeil-Essonnes
We spend the morning in the small town of Saint Mammès, where you can explore independently or join an optional excursion to the picturesque Moret-Loing-et-Orvanne, a charming village on the banks of the Seine, and the Château Rosa Bonheur, residence of the famous animal painter.
This afternoon we follow the Seine’s winding path towards Corbeil-Essonnes, arriving this evening and overnighting here.
Day 5: Corbeil-Essonnes – Paris
This morning we cruise back to Paris, arriving early afternoon so you can spend some time exploring the capital, with its many landmarks and museums. If you wish, join a walking tour of the famous Île de la Cité – Paris’s birthplace, where you’ll find the majestic Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Sainte-Chapelle, famous for its exceptional stained glass windows, and the Pont Neuf, the city’s oldest bridge.
Or, for something truly memorable, why not take an optional vintage sidecar ride through Paris for a unique perspective of the city?
Back on the ship, we set sail this evening for an overnight cruise to our next port of call.
Day 6: La Roche Guyon
We spend the morning in La Roche Guyon, nestled between the Seine and a chalk cliff, and considered one of France’s most beautiful villages. You can explore under your own steam, or join an excursion to the château, a fascinating blend of medieval and classical architecture, with a fortified tower offering a breathtaking view of the valley. The excursion includes a tour through the village’s picturesque streets.
Alternatively, walk in the footsteps of great artists at Claude Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny. The famous Impressionist painter lived in Giverny for 43 years, and you will see his iconic studio and "water garden" on this optional tour.
This afternoon we cruise back towards Paris, arriving during the night. This evening, enjoy a Gala dinner for your last night on board.
Day 7: Homeward bound
We leave the ship after breakfast and join your coach for the journey back home.
Price pp includes: 1 night D/B/B in the UK, 5 nights full-board river cruise including drinks (exclusions apply), coach travel and Channel crossings.
*Optional excursions for most ports can be purchased from GB Tours or on board (subject to availability)
Important points to note:
- All passengers are required to have travel insurance cover for this holiday.
- All passengers are required to have a Passport with a minimum 6 months’ validity after date of return.
- Please be aware that excursions which include walking & guided tours may often involve uneven ground (cobbled streets, etc) and steps, and therefore are not suitable for persons with mobility issues.
- CroisiEurope Terms and Conditions apply – available on request, or see website.
Important: The nature of river cruising means that mooring locations, cruise itineraries, and the order or timing of excursions may be adjusted or changed by the captain and navigation crew, sometimes at very short notice. Such decisions are made to ensure the safety of all guests and crew at all times. Changes may be required for a variety of reasons, including - but not limited to - conditions or instructions issued by maritime or local authorities, or other external and unforeseen circumstances beyond our control.
The MS R.E. Waydelich L.J is a rare paddle-wheel river ship, offering a nostalgic elegance that sets it apart from all others on the Seine.
This distinctive style of cruising evokes the golden age of travel, combining classic charm with modern luxury. As the paddle wheel gently turns, you’ll glide effortlessly along the river. Enjoy panoramic views from the restaurant and upper-deck lounge bar, or relax on the spacious sun deck with loungers and shaded areas.
With its intimate size (at capacity, accommodating just 81 passengers), your ship offers a boutique experience where service is personal, unhurried and attentive.
On board, enjoy delicious French cuisine, relaxing lounge areas, and convivial evenings with entertainment and dancing, plus a special Gala dinner one evening.
With full-board dining, drinks included (exclusions apply), and a friendly onboard team taking care of every detail, you can simply sit back and enjoy the journey.
All cabins come with ensuite bathroom with shower, towels, hairdryer, TV, telephone (for internal calls only), safe, and air-conditioning.
Main deck cabins have large picture windows (non-opening)
Upper deck cabins have French balconies with sliding door