Why take a river cruise on the Rhône?
A cruise on the Rhône is an opportunity to discover cities steeped in history such as Avignon and Arles, while enjoying the charm and calm of river navigation. Numerous stopovers are on the program to take advantage of all that the region has to offer, including vineyards, wild landscapes and picturesque towns. Gastronomy is also on the agenda, with tastings of fine wines and local specialties. It is therefore the ideal trip to combine relaxation, culture and gourmet pleasures without leaving France!
What do our river cruises on the Rhône involve?
How our river cruises on the Rhône work
Our cruises on the Rhône offer an all-inclusive travel experience, allowing you to discover the various must-see sites of this French river in an exceptional way. The idea is to book one or more cabins on board a boat with a dedicated crew who will look after your well-being. You will share the ship with other travelers, but you will have your own private and comfortable space. Several options are available, allowing you to find the river cruise and sailing itinerary that suits you best, with various durations, stopovers and prices.
What boats are available for a river cruise on the Rhône?
For a river cruise on the Rhône, we offer people-sized river boats that offer an intimate and comfortable experience on the river. Our boats have generous communal living spaces, both inside and out. Inside, there are many areas waiting for you: a restaurant as well as a lounge bar and a dance floor for lively evenings. As for the outdoor areas, you can take advantage of the sun deck, where you can relax while admiring the magical landscapes hauled in by the Rhône valley. The cabins of our river boats on the Rhône are equipped with large panoramic windows, offering breathtaking views of the vineyards and picturesque villages along the river.
How much does a cruise on the Rhône on a river boat cost?
The cost of a cruise on the Rhône for 2 people can vary depending on various factors such as the choice of river boat, the booking period and the category of cabin chosen. Here is a dead reckoning of the prices per person for a cruise on the Rhône, including unmissable stops in Lyon, Arles, Sète and other cities.
Spring (March to May) | Summer (June to August) | Fall (September to November) | Winter (December to February) | |
5-day cruise | 1,145 USD | 1,200 USD | 970 USD | 1,000 USD |
7-day cruise | 1,500 USD | 1,270 USD | 1,275 USD | 1,275 USD |
- The price includes: unlimited tea and coffee, mineral water, entertainment on board, assistance from the entertainment team, welcome cocktail, gala evening, assistance/repatriation insurance, port taxes and meals (lunch and dinner) included in the program.
- The price does not include: other drinks, cancellation/baggage insurance, transfers, personal expenses, activities and excursions not included, meals not included in the program, flights not included (upon request) and tips.
What are the must-sees to discover during a cruise on the Rhône?
Sète, the Venice of Languedoc
This small port city was founded in 1666 by Louis XIV to provide a maritime outlet for the Canal du Midi, perfect for yacht charter in the Canal du Midi. Today it is renowned for its network of canals and its fishing port, which is one of the busiest on the Mediterranean coast.
What is there to do during a stopover in Sète?
- Take a stroll along the Canal Royal, which is at the heart of the historic center.
- It's time to taste the famous local specialty: tielle sétoise, which is made with octopus and spicy tomato sauce.
- Before embarking, climb to the top of Mont Saint-Clair for a panoramic view of the entire city and the sea.
Arles, city of art and history
Arles is a veritable open-air museum, as it is home to some of the best-preserved ancient remains in France, notably its famous amphitheater. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is an unmissable stop on your cruise on the Rhône.
What to do during a stopover in Arles?
- Visit the many ancient remains, I recommend the ancient theater.
- For art lovers, the Van Gogh Foundation is well worth a visit!
- Strolling through the Roquette district, with its picturesque alleys and colorful houses.
Avignon, the city of the Popes
Known for its majestic Palais des Papes, one of the largest Gothic buildings in Europe, Avignon is an unmissable stop on your cruise. Whether in summer during the famous Avignon Festival or in winter to see its historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, illuminated for the holidays, Avignon will delight young and old alike!
What to do during a stopover in Avignon?
- We obviously recommend a visit to the Palais des Papes, where you can learn more about the city and its history.
- Taste a glass of the region's iconic wine, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, you won't regret it!
- On the way back to the boat, take the opportunity to stroll through the historic center and bring back some lovely souvenirs.
When to go on a cruise on the Rhône?
The best time for a cruise on the Rhône is generally between April and September, when the days are warm and sunny. Spring and fall are also ideal for a cruise on the Rhône because you benefit from milder temperatures and, above all, fewer crowds. On the other hand, don't forget your sweater for stargazing on deck at night!
Jan | Feb | March | April | May | June | July | August | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
Minimum temperatures | 1°C | 2°C | 4°C | 7°C | 11°C | 14°C | 16°C | 16°C | 12°C | 9°C | 4°C | 2°C |
Maximum temperatures | 7°C | 9°C | 13°C | 16°C | 21°C | 25°C | 28°C | 27°C | 23°C | 14°C | 11°C | 7°C |
Practical information for your river cruise on the Rhône
- For most of our cruises on the Rhône, Lyon is the departure city, but we also offer sailing itineraries that start from other cities such as Sète or Arles.
- Don't forget to bring some money with you to pay for expenses not included in the price of the cruise, such as drinks, meals not included in the program and extras.
- Also make sure you book any additional activities and services not included in the program, such as optional excursions and flights, either yourself or through your advisor.
- If you wish, consider taking out cancellation/baggage insurance for extra peace of mind.
How do I book a cruise on the Rhône?
To book your cruise on the Rhône, you can submit a booking request directly on our website. After receiving your request, an advisor will contact you by phone to discuss your plans (duration, budget and activities). You will then receive cruise suggestions tailored to your preferences by e-mail. Once you have chosen your cruise, you can pay a deposit via your customer area to confirm the booking.