A Culinary Experience in Burgundy & Provence (Northbound)

7 nights from £1,900pp departing Tuesday 1st Apr 2025

Take a wondrous journey through beautiful views of France along the Rhône and Saône Rivers with guided sightseeing in the well-known French treasures and some hidden gems too! Take in the beautiful countryside, quaint villages, and towns, as you sail through the most captivating views of France. Indulge in the legendary cuisine of France on this culinary focused cruise through Burgundy and Provence. With a Master of Wine on board for a special tasting and wine-pairing dinner, with special culinary highlights throughout your cruise, you’ll sample regional French specialties with onboard ...

Embark your ship in Arles—famous for inspiring the paintings of Van Gogh and its 1st-century Roman Amphitheater, which hosts plays and concerts to this day. On a guided tour of historical Avignon, see the 14th-century Palace of the Popes—the largest Gothic fortress in the world. The city of Tournon is beautifully nestled among vineyards and you’ll go on a guided walk of this medieval treasure with plenty of Roman ruins and a fascinating 16th-century castle. Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône Rivers and is a showcase of medieval and Renaissance architecture. Visit the popular Place des Terreaux and stand in front of the famous fountain you’ve seen on postcards.

Itinerary

Map

					Arrive	Depart
	1st01	AprApr	202525	Arles, France, embark on the Avalon Poetry II
Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout landmarks. Arles also boasts charming streets and vibrant markets, reflecting its rich cultural life. Known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, the city features scenes immortalized in his paintings. The blend of historical architecture, vibrant local culture, and picturesque landscapes makes Arles a captivating destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike. ARLES, (EMBARKATION) Welcome to France. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding Flights into Marseille must arrive by 3 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ARLES ARLES-WINDOW-DETAIL.jpg
	2nd02	AprApr	202525	Arles, France
Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout landmarks. Arles also boasts charming streets and vibrant markets, reflecting its rich cultural life. Known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, the city features scenes immortalized in his paintings. The blend of historical architecture, vibrant local culture, and picturesque landscapes makes Arles a captivating destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike. ARLES A Brush with Genius Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host. ACTIVE Get your daily dose of exercise through a Power Walk in Arles with your Adventure Host, OR: DISCOVERY Attend a Painting Workshop to learn techniques of Vincent van Gogh. Create your own painting in the style of the legendary artist, OR: CLASSIC Enjoy a Guided Walking Tour of Arles—the captivating city of the Provence region. You’ll visit the Roman Amphitheater in this visually stunning city. Take free time to stop in Le Café Van Gogh for a glass of wine, before sailing to Avignon. DISCOVERY Enjoy a crêpes lunch onboard. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AVIGNON ARLES-PAINTING-CLASS.jpg
	3rd03	AprApr	202525	Avignon, France
Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace, and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, Avignon offers a rich cultural heritage. Its charming streets, vibrant markets, and annual theater festival, the Festival d'Avignon, add to its allure. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and the Rhône River, Avignon blends history with a lively contemporary atmosphere, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture seekers. AVIGNON The City of Popes in Picturesque Provence CLASSIC Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the fortress city of Avignon—with its ramparts encircling the city—and a visit to the amazing Palace of the Popes. Guided Optional Excursions include a visit to the ancient Roman aqueduct of Pont du Gard, or a trip to the famed wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a true taste of the Rhône wine region. Explore Avignon on your own for the city’s art and culture, theatre, and museums. Be sure to snap photos of the captivating countryside, historic monuments, and the medieval Pont Saint-Bénézet. Later, enjoy onboard live entertainment. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AVIGNON AVIGNON-BRIDGE.jpg
	4th04	AprApr	202525	Viviers, France
Viviers, France, is a charming medieval town in the Rhône-Alpes region, renowned for its well-preserved historical architecture. Nestled on the banks of the Rhône River, it features narrow, winding streets, ancient stone houses, and the impressive Saint-Vincent Cathedral. The town's Roman and medieval heritage is evident in its old ramparts and historic buildings. Viviers' tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings offer a glimpse into the past, making it a delightful destination for history lovers and those seeking a serene escape. VIVIERS World History in a Charming French Country Village Enjoy a leisurely morning sail to Viviers. ACTIVE Walk your way up to Vivier's hilltop Cathedral with your Adventure Host, OR: DISCOVERY Explore the charms of Viviers on this extraordinary guided walk through the Old Town with an included tasting of the local culinary delights. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO TAIN L’HERMITAGE VIVIERS.jpg
	5th05	AprApr	202525	Tain-l'Hermitage, France
Tain-l'Hermitage, France, is a picturesque town in the Rhône-Alpes region, renowned for its exceptional wines, particularly its Syrah and Hermitage varietals. Nestled along the Rhône River and surrounded by lush vineyards, it offers scenic views and a charming atmosphere. The town features historic sites like the 12th-century Hermitage Chapel and the Cité du Chocolat, celebrating local culinary delights. With its blend of fine wine, rich history, and stunning landscapes, Tain-l'Hermitage is a captivating destination for wine enthusiasts and travelers seeking a taste of Provence. TAIN L'HERMITAGE A Rendezvous with Castle Views and Vineyards Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities. ACTIVE Explore Tournon by foot as you follow your Adventure Host for a morning hike in this beautiful town along the Rhone, OR: CLASSIC Take a morning Guided Walking Tour to explore Tournon—one of France’s oldest medieval cities with its 16th-century castle. In the early afternoon cruise to Lyon. DISCOVERY Enjoy a pastry demonstration hosted by a French chef on board your ship. Tonight, your Master of Wine will escort you through a French cuisine tasting dinner with wine pairing on board. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LYON TOURNON.jpg
	6th06	AprApr	202525	Lyon, France
Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill. LYON Adventures in Food and Wine in the Gastronomy Capital of France DISCOVERY Take a Culinary Walk through the city to discover why Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France, OR: CLASSIC Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour to survey Lyon from Fourvière Hill with its numerous churches. You’ll also explore the Old Town with its maze of medieval alleyways, and the lively cafés, monuments, and famed fountain of Place des Terreaux. Spend free time riding a bike through Lyon’s town squares, over bridges, and along the banks where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet. DISCOVERY This evening, join an onboard unique dinner inspired by legendary chef Paul Bocuse. Enjoy live entertainment while sailing to Tournus. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO TOURNUS LYON-CAFE.jpg
	7th07	AprApr	202525	Tournon-sur-Rhône, France
TOURNUS–CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE Wine and Cheese on the Stunning Saône DISCOVERY Travel into the rolling landscapes of the Mâconnais region to learn about its world-famous Chardonnay vineyards, the wines produced here, and to attend a wine-tasting in the cellars of a real medieval castle! DISCOVERY Later, enjoy a delicious cheese tasting onboard. Enjoy live entertainment on board this evening. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE TOURNUS.jpg
	8th08	AprApr	202525	Chalon-sur-Saône, France, disembark the Avalon Poetry II
CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE (DISEMBARKATION) Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning. Flights should not leave Lyon airport before 8 am. CHALON-SUR-SAONE-SUNSET.jpg

Avalon Poetry II

Launch Year

2014

Tonnage

2,022

Capacity

128

Cabins

Accessible

Sky Deck

Royal Deck

Sapphire Deck

Indigo Deck

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Panorama Suite

Price guides

Grade Code		From	To
B	Panorama Suite (Sapphire Deck Aft)	£2,500	£2,500
A	Panorama Suite (Sapphire Deck Forward)	£2,550	£2,550
P	Panorama Suite (Royal Deck)	£2,600	£2,600

Room Features

Comfort Collection Beds
Luxurious mattress toppers
Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
European-style duvets
Soft & firm pillows
Extra blankets
Choice of bed configuration
Nightly turn-down service
Bedside tables with reading lamps
Hairdryer
L'Occitane bath products
Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
Easy under-bed luggage storage
Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
Alarm clock
Make-up mirror
Direct-dial telephone
Bathrobes & slippers
Well-stocked minibar
Complimentary water
In-room safe
Individual climate control
Elegant, contemporary design
Large mirror in bathroom
Marble countertops in bathroom
Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
6-person sitting area
Full shower with glass door
Writing desk and chair
Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
Sofa
Coffee table
Complimentary Wi-Fi
One Queen-Sized Bed or Two Twins
USB Ports

Royal Suite

Price guides

Grade Code		From	To
S	Royal Suite	£4,875	£4,875

Room Features

Comfort Collection Beds
Luxurious mattress toppers
Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
European-style duvets
Soft & firm pillows
Extra blankets
Choice of bed configuration
Nightly turn-down service
Bedside tables with reading lamps
Hairdryer
L'Occitane bath products
Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
Easy under-bed luggage storage
Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 100 free movie options
Alarm clock
Make-up mirror
Direct-dial telephone
Bathrobes & slippers
Well-stocked minibar
Complimentary water
In-room safe
Individual climate control
Elegant, contemporary design
Large mirror in bathroom
Marble countertops in bathroom
Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
6-person sitting area
Full shower with glass door
Writing desk and chair
Vanity and lighted makeup mirror
Sofa
Coffee table
Double sinks
Complimentary Wi-Fi
USB Ports
One King-Sized Bed or Two Twins

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Dining Room

The ship’s main venue is the Dining Room situated on the Sapphire deck. With an elegantly simple design, you can enjoy a full buffet breakfast or lunch with special options for those who wish to eat lightly, and delicious four-course dinners in the evening.

Room Service

Room service is available for Continental breakfast & beverages.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

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Our Fusion packages are all ABTA & ATOL protected ensuring that your booking is safe with us

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Holiday Summary

	7 nights cruising on the Rhone, Saone
	Beer, wine & soft drinks at lunch & dinner
	One complimentary shore excursion In every port
	Free Wi-Fi Included
	Exclusive special events
	Speciality wine pairing meal @ Panorama Bistro
	Bikes for passenger use
	Port Taxes and Fees
	ABTA and ATOL Protection*

Oceanview staterooms from		£1,900pp
E	Avalon Deluxe Stateroom (Indigo Deck Forward)	£1,900pp
D	Avalon Deluxe Stateroom (Indigo Deck Aft)	£1,900pp

Suite staterooms from		£2,500pp
A	Panorama Suite (Sapphire Deck Forward)	£2,550pp
P	Panorama Suite (Royal Deck)	£2,600pp
B	Panorama Suite (Sapphire Deck Aft)	£2,500pp
S	Royal Suite

	Oceanview	Suite
	(All prices are £GBP per person)
Tue 15th Apr 202515 Apr 25	1,851	2,401
Tue 15th Apr 202515 Apr 25	2,150	2,700
Tue 15th Apr 202515 Apr 25	2,150	2,700
Tue 15th Apr 202515 Apr 25	2,150	2,700
Tue 15th Apr 202515 Apr 25	2,150	2,700
Tue 13th May 202513 May 25	3,438
Tue 27th May 202527 May 25	3,263	4,462
Tue 24th Jun 202524 Jun 25	2,001	2,601
Tue 24th Jun 202524 Jun 25	2,300	2,900
Tue 24th Jun 202524 Jun 25	2,300	2,900
Tue 24th Jun 202524 Jun 25	2,300	2,900
Tue 24th Jun 202524 Jun 25	2,300	2,900
Tue 5th Aug 202505 Aug 25	1,851	2,401
Tue 5th Aug 202505 Aug 25	2,150	2,700
Tue 5th Aug 202505 Aug 25	2,150	2,700
Tue 5th Aug 202505 Aug 25	2,150	2,700
Tue 5th Aug 202505 Aug 25	2,150	2,700
Tue 19th Aug 202519 Aug 25	1,851	2,401
Tue 19th Aug 202519 Aug 25	2,150	2,700
Tue 19th Aug 202519 Aug 25	2,150	2,700
Tue 19th Aug 202519 Aug 25	2,150	2,700
Tue 19th Aug 202519 Aug 25	2,150	2,700
Tue 16th Sep 202516 Sep 25	3,341	4,540
Tue 30th Sep 202530 Sep 25	3,063	4,262
Tue 14th Oct 202514 Oct 25	3,107	4,256
Tue 28th Oct 202528 Oct 25	2,000	2,550
Tue 11th Nov 202511 Nov 25	2,000	2,550