6-night all-inclusive river cruise in Provence, France

Boarding is available from 6:00 PM. After settling into your cabins, we will introduce our crew and host a welcome cocktail to kick off the first evening’s dinner in a joyful atmosphere.

From Paris, there is a direct train to Sète, with a journey time of approximately four hours.

Sète is a beautiful port city located on the Mediterranean coast in southern France, often referred to as the “Venice of France.” It is situated on a sandbar connected to the mainland and surrounded by water, earning it the nickname “the city on water.” This charming city has a rich tradition of fishing and maritime trade, and is known for its unique canal system and boats.

Visitors can enjoy walking along the waterfront, observing traditional fishing boats and the daily life of local fishermen. Sète also attracts travelers with its beautiful beaches, charming architecture, rich culinary scene, and friendly atmosphere. Here, you can taste authentic Mediterranean cuisine, experience vibrant seaside culture, and enjoy unforgettable sunsets.

Today, we will head to the renowned shellfish-producing region of Étang de Thau for a day of exploration.

We will visit the Étang de Thau Museum, where you will have the opportunity to meet local shellfish farmers and fishermen, as well as taste a selection of fresh shellfish. In the afternoon, we will continue to one of the most beautiful villages in France, Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert. After the visit, we will return to our vessel.

Étang de Thau is a large inland saltwater lagoon located in the Occitanie region of southern France, between Montpellier and Sète. It is considered one of the largest inland bodies of water connected to the Mediterranean Sea.

Covering an area of approximately 75 square kilometers, the lagoon is rich and diverse, serving as a habitat for numerous bird and fish species, and playing an important role as a regional fishing center. It is especially well known for its high-quality seafood, particularly oysters. Numerous oyster farms are located around the lagoon, where visitors can learn about oyster cultivation and enjoy freshly harvested oysters and other seafood specialties.

The lakeside towns around Étang de Thau are also major highlights. Sète, one of the most important towns along the lagoon, is a charming port city known for its canal system, beautiful beaches, and distinctive architecture. Visitors can stroll along the waterfront, enjoy scenic views of the lagoon, and experience the relaxed Mediterranean atmosphere.

Whether enjoying fresh seafood or admiring the tranquil waterside scenery, this journey promises a truly unforgettable experience.

This morning, we will enjoy a leisurely cruise to the seaside town of Palavas-les-Flots. We will pass through the Étang de Thau and then continue along the Rhône à Sète Canal.

In the afternoon, we will head out to discover a traditional manade and learn about the lifestyle of local herdsmen. We will enjoy a carriage ride and take part in a cattle sorting demonstration. Before returning to the ship, we will enjoy delicious farm-style snacks.

In the evening, you may take some free time to explore Palavas-les-Flots, a seaside resort town whose history dates back more than three centuries.

Palavas-les-Flots is located on a sandbar between the Mediterranean Sea and the saltwater lagoon Étang du Méjean, giving it a unique and privileged geographic setting. The town is well known for its beautiful sandy beaches and clear waters, attracting many summer visitors and water sports enthusiasts. Here, you can relax, sunbathe, swim in the sea, or enjoy various water activities such as sailing, windsurfing, and paddleboarding.

Beyond the beaches, Palavas-les-Flots also features a charming fishing port, where visitors can stroll and observe fishing boats and daily local life. The fish market offers fresh seafood, especially specialties from Étang du Méjean, allowing you to experience authentic Mediterranean flavors. In addition, the town has a historic center with 19th-century architecture, traditional restaurants, and local shops, providing a pleasant setting for a relaxed walk.

“Manade” is a French term used to describe a traditional ranch or herd of cattle raised in the Camargue region of France. Camargue, located in the south of the country, is known for its unique natural landscape and rich cultural traditions, with the “manade” being an important part of its heritage.

In the Camargue region, there is a distinctive breed known as Camargue cattle. These animals are recognized for their black coats and characteristic white horns. They are typically raised in wide open marshlands and natural pastures, where they can roam freely.

A “manade” refers to a traditional ranch dedicated to breeding and caring for these Camargue cattle. These ranches are often family-run and passed down through generations.

Within a manade, herders manage the cattle using traditional methods, often with the help of horses. These herders are known as gardians, and they are an essential part of the region’s cultural identity and way of life.

In Camargue, both the cattle and the manades are not only part of local culture but also important tourist attractions. Many visitors come to explore manades, learn about cattle raising, and watch traditional events such as herding demonstrations, horse shows, and cattle festivals. These activities offer a unique opportunity to experience the region’s rich cultural traditions.

We will spend the morning cruising along the Rhône à Sète Canal to Aigues-Mortes. In the afternoon, we will enjoy an in-depth exploration of this historic fortified town. Surrounded by marshlands, Aigues-Mortes boasts a rich heritage and is considered one of the most beautiful destinations in Provence.

We will board a sightseeing train to visit the salt marshes and explore the salt museum. After the visit, we will return to our ship.

Aigues-Mortes is a charming and historic town in southern France, with origins dating back to the 6th century BC. It is renowned for its remarkably well-preserved medieval fortifications and impressive cultural heritage. Located near coastal lagoons, the town is encircled by massive defensive walls built in the 13th century to protect it from invasions. Today, these walls remain intact and are one of the main highlights for visitors.

Within Aigues-Mortes, you can stroll through narrow streets lined with medieval architecture, and discover historic churches and lively squares. One of the most notable landmarks is the Saint-Louis Church, built in honor of Louis IX.

The town is also known for its charming canal network, where visitors can enjoy boat rides and take in the scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The combination of tranquil waters and the striking city skyline creates a truly unforgettable atmosphere.

With its rich history and distinctive architecture, Aigues-Mortes is a favorite destination for history and culture enthusiasts. Whether you are seeking a cultural journey or simply wish to relax in a historic setting, Aigues-Mortes is well worth a visit.

Bicycles are available on board free of charge. For those who enjoy an early morning workout, feel free to borrow a bike and take a ride into town for a leisurely exploration!

We will spend the morning cruising to Gallician. In the afternoon, we will depart for an excursion to the Camargue. You will then have some free time to explore Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, where we recommend visiting its fortified church. After the visit, we will return to the ship by coach.

Gallician is a small village located in southern France, in the heart of the Camargue region. Surrounded by the Étang du Méjean and the Petit Rhône, it is a peaceful area rich in natural beauty and an ideal starting point for exploring the unique culture of the Camargue.

Gallician is a typical Camargue village, preserving traditional rural life and historic architecture. You can stroll through its narrow streets, admire old stone houses, and enjoy the tranquil countryside atmosphere.

It is also an excellent place for wildlife observation. You may spot a variety of bird species, wild horses, and the distinctive Camargue cattle roaming freely across the wetlands.

In addition, the surrounding area offers a range of activities, such as boating on the lagoon, horseback riding across the salt flats, or joining guided wildlife observation tours.

We will spend the morning cruising to Arles, sailing along the Rhône River and the Rhône à Sète Canal. In the afternoon, we will enjoy a guided tour of Arles. We will explore this cultural hub and its remarkable Roman heritage, before heading inland to learn about olive oil production in Provence. The excursion will conclude with a tasting of local products. After the visit, we will return to our ship.

Tonight, we will enjoy a Gala Evening dinner on board.

Arles is a charming historic city in the Provence region of southern France, located along the banks of the Rhône River. With a rich history dating back to the 6th century BC, it is renowned for its ancient monuments and reputation as a city of art and culture.

In Roman times, Arles was an important city of the Roman Empire, and its well-preserved heritage remains a defining feature today. The most famous landmark is the Arles Amphitheatre, a remarkably preserved Roman arena that is still used today for events and festivals.

Other notable sites include the Saint-Trophime Church, as well as the lively squares of Place de la République and Place du Forum.

Arles is also an important cultural and artistic center. Famous artists such as Vincent van Gogh and Paul Gauguin once lived and worked here, and visitors can still explore places connected to their lives and works.

Today, Arles is also known for its gastronomy, offering excellent restaurants and cafés serving traditional Provençal cuisine and local wines, allowing visitors to enjoy the flavors of the Mediterranean.

This morning at 9:00 a.m., we will say goodbye to everyone. After that, any further arrangements can be discussed with your travel consultant.