A cruise along Seine River is a unique way to explore hidden gems of the French countryside (Photo: India Outbound)
Travellers looking to explore Paris and French countryside in an offbeat manner can look forward to a new cruise along the Seine River that has been launched by Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, a specialist river cruise operator.
In a press statement, Uniworld says that its 7-night ‘Magical Parisian Holiday’ will set sail roundtrip from Paris aboard S S Joie de Vivre, taking travellers to the French countryside. During the cruise, guests will partake in exclusive visits to decorated châteaux, festive French Christmas markets and curated shopping experiences. The statement adds that there will be four departures each in 2025 and 2026, starting in November, coinciding with the Christmas holiday season.
“The holidays are such a special time for families and loved ones to come together, and France is truly one of the most spectacular backdrops for a festive getaway. For the 2025 season, we are thrilled for guests to experience this new addition to our Holiday Collection. It is a fresh way to experience this magical season aboard a decked-out floating boutique hotel that immerses guests in French holiday traditions,” says Ellen Bettridge, President and CEO, Uniworld.
Ellen Bettridge
The statement adds that the ‘Magical Parisian Holiday’ sailing begins in Paris, where customers will travel to the Palace of Versailles for a private tour, including access to secret apartments typically closed to the public.
The ship will stop in various French towns, with itinerary highlights including a walking tour of Rouen, which is home of noted French artist Claude Monet and the site of his studio as well as a visit to the Normandy Cider Farm, a private choral performance in Rouen Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Monument and a ‘Make Travel Matter’ experience with a local family working to preserve a traditional style of broom weaving.
The statement adds that other activities during the cruise include a private reception at Château de Bizy and an exclusive Uniworld-only event at Château le Vaux le Vicomte, the inspiration for Palace of Versailles.
All holiday-themed itineraries include visits to Europe’s legendary Christmas Markets. During this voyage, Uniworld guests will explore various markets in Paris and the countryside where they can sample vin chaud or French mulled wine and browse Christmas decorations, regional produce and specialties from all over France.
One of deluxe rooms onboard S S Joie de Vivre
Uniworld says that with a capacity for up to 128 passengers, the S S Joie de Vivre is designed to bring French culture and 20th-century Parisian design to life via antiques, original artwork and distinctive accents. Other onboard features include a spa and wellness centre, bar and entertainment venue, a Parisian-style ‘sidewalk café,’ and a show kitchen where guests can pre-book a time to prepare a seven-course meal under the guidance of a Uniworld chef.
The statement adds that the ‘Magical Parisian Holiday’ sailing joins a growing list of new offerings for 2025, including six additional European itineraries, themed voyages such as the ‘Women-Only Cruise,’ as well as the inaugural sailing of S S Elisabeth.