Christmas traditions and Santons along the canals of Provence

4 nights from £864pp departing Monday 1st Dec 2025

Experiencing the pre-holiday festivities in Provence will change your perception of this celebratory time. From Avignon to Aigues-Mortes, dive into the magic of Christmas markets in Provence. Learn about traditional santons in Paradou, a charming village located at the foot of the Alpilles. And while you're in Aigues-Mortes, indulge in fougassea scrumptious sweet bread sold only during the Christmas season.

Itinerary

Map

					Arrive	Depart
	1st01	DecDec	202525	Avignon, France, embark on the MS Anne-Marie	18:00
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. Passengers are welcome to board our ship at 6:00 p.m. After comfortably settling into your cabins, we'll introduce our crew at a welcome cocktail before dinner. Enjoy a 'Christmas traditions-themed evening.
	2nd02	DecDec	202525	Avignon, France		13:00
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. Join us for a guided tour of Avignon and the Papal Palace. We'll then head to the Halles market(1) to discover the regional holiday treats. After our tour, we'll return to the ship and cruise towards Tarascon. Enjoy a Christmas-themed evening on board.
	2nd02	DecDec	202525	Tarascon, France	16:00
	3rd03	DecDec	202525	Tarascon, France		12:00
This morning, join us for an included excursion:A visit to the imposing, immaculate, 15th-century Chteau de Tarascon.The magnificent medieval Chteau de Tarascon sits on the banks of the Rhne. Built by two Dukes of Anjou in the 15th century, many consider it one of the most beautiful castles in Europe. During our tour of the chteau, we'll visit more than 30 rooms, discover the apothecary jars from the former city hospital, and enjoy the exceptional view of Provence and the Rhne River from the immense patio above. After our excursion, well return to the ship andcruise to Arles.Included excursion this afternoon:TheInternational Satonniers Trade Show at the Clotre Saint-Trophime and the charming village of Le Paradou.(2)The International Satonniers Trade Show is a must-see for anyone who loves the French santon crche figurines. Created in 1958 by santon craftspeople who wanted to showcase their work, the trade show welcomes more than 100 exhibitors and artists each year at the beautiful Clotre Saint Trophime.(2) Afterwards, we'll continue on to the Petite Provence du Paradou, an exceptional work of santon artistry. Thousands of santon craftspeople have dedicated more than 8,000 hours of work to create a miniature Provenal village where scenes from days gone by come to life.Enjoy a "Christmas Carols-themed evening on board.
	3rd03	DecDec	202525	Arles, France	13:30
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.
	4th04	DecDec	202525	Arles, France		08:00
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. We'll spend the morning cruising to Aigues-Mortes. This afternoon, join us for a visit ofthe city by coach. We'll finish our tour with a tasting of the traditional sweet fougasse: a delicious light, flat brioche with a subtle orange blossom flavor. Enjoy some free time to explore the town before heading back to the ship. Tonight is our festive gala evening and dinner.
	4th04	DecDec	202525	Aigues-Mortes, France	15:30
	5th05	DecDec	202525	Aigues-Mortes, France, disembark the MS Anne-Marie
Enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. Coach transfer to Avignon. End of our services.

MS Anne-Marie

Launch Year

2014

Tonnage

500

Capacity

Cabins

Accessible

Main Deck

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

Restaurant

Located on the main deck, the restaurant is where all meals are served during your cruise. It seats all guests at tables which vary in size with a panoramic view. The atmosphere is casual but elegant.

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

Sun Deck

Take advantage of the sun deck to relax! It is equipped with chairs and deckchairs, allowing you to cool off while enjoying a panoramic view of the magnificent landscapes.

Lounge & Bar

The lounge tastefully decorated, is located at the front of the ship and offers panoramic views. Cocktails and games, dancing, and other forms of entertainment all happen here.

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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Holiday Summary

	4 nights cruising on the Rhone
	All meals included
	Drinks included with meals & at the bar
	Gala dinner & evening welcome cocktail
	Free Wi-Fi in lounge & bar
	Headsets included for excursions
	Travel Assistance & Repatriation Insurance
	Port Taxes and Fees
	ABTA and ATOL Protection*

Oceanview staterooms from		£864pp
2PL_PP	Main Deck 2 Beds	£864pp
HAG_PS	Upper Deck 1 Double Bed - Disabled Person	£864pp

	Oceanview
	(All prices are £GBP per person)
Thu 11th Dec 202511 Dec 25	864