Paris to London and Sensations of the Seine & Normandy

Let a truly Parisian atmosphere clock you today as you are welcomed to the postcard-worthy French capital. You will be met at the airport by an Emerald Cruises representative and transferred to your centrally-located hotel, nestled amidst open boulevards and some of the city’s iconic highlights.

Today, a knowledgeable local guide will introduce you to the best that Paris has to offer, including the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Arc de Triomphe. Later, board a charming river cruise on the Seine and enjoy sailing to the Eiffel Tower.

Included Excursion
A guided tour of Paris and a Seine river cruise

Transfer to your contemporary Star-Ship, Emerald Lumi. This evening, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board. Later, your Star-Ship will depart Paris and cruise to Vernon during the night.

Today, you’ll visit Giverny, a picturesque village near Vernon on the banks of the Seine, where celebrated impressionist artist, Claude Monet, lived for over forty years. Experience an early morning tour of Giverny Gardens and Monet’s former home until his death in 1926. Explore the beautifully preserved house, walking through the rooms where he lived and worked and the restored, elaborate gardens, which inspired some of his most iconic works.

Included Excursion
In the footsteps of Claude Mone

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour of Giverny

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Paint like Monet (extra expense)

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Rouen by Night (extra expense)

Welcome to Rouen, a beautiful city set along the Seine and steeped in history and heritage – from Vikings and saints to renowned artists. In the morning, join a guided walk through Rouen’s medieval centre. Learn how this former Roman settlement emerged as a major stronghold of Viking invaders during the 9th century. Alternatively, join a guided EmeraldACTIVE walk through Rouen, discovering more of this ‘City of a Hundred Spires.’

Later, on board your Star-Ship, gain deeper insight into history with EmeraldPLUS World War II lecture that sets the stage for your visit to the legendary D-Day beaches the following day.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Rouen

EmeraldPLUS
World War II lecture on board

EmeraldACTIVE
Active walk in Rouen

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Camembert Cheese farm visit with tasting (extra expense)

Honfleur, the most picturesque of the Côte Fleurie's seaside towns, is a time-burnished place with a surplus of half-timber houses and cobbled streets that are lined with a stunning selection of stylish boutiques. Much of its Renaissance architecture remains intact—especially around the 17th-century Vieux Bassin harbor, where the water is fronted on one side by two-story stone houses with low, sloping roofs and on the other by tall slate-topped houses with wooden facades. Maritime expeditions (including some of the first voyages to Canada) departed from here; later, Impressionists were inspired to capture it on canvas. But the town as a whole has become increasingly crowded since the Pont de Normandie opened in 1995. Providing a direct link with Upper Normandy, the world's sixth-largest cable-stayed bridge is supported by two concrete pylons taller than the Eiffel Tower and designed to resist winds of 257 kph (160 mph).

The success of the historical ‘D-Day’ was a turning point in World War II, opening a crucial Western front and accelerating the defeat of Nazi Germany. Normandy’s role in this extraordinary military operation makes it one of the most important regions in World War II history. Remembered today for its strategic importance, Normandy was a turning point in the war and the beginnings of liberation for occupied Europe.

Today, you’ll join a remarkable full-day experience and war-themed tour, focused on this highly significant time in World War II. Visit the key sites of the historical D-Day landings by the Allied forces and subsequent battles – one of Normandy’s major highlights. Experience first-hand the Normandy beaches where the Allied vessels landed, as well as the memorials and museum, which honour the bravery of those involved and their ultimate sacrifice.

Included Excursion
Historic Normandy: Allied Landing Sites

Honfleur, the most picturesque of the Côte Fleurie's seaside towns, is a time-burnished place with a surplus of half-timber houses and cobbled streets that are lined with a stunning selection of stylish boutiques. Much of its Renaissance architecture remains intact—especially around the 17th-century Vieux Bassin harbor, where the water is fronted on one side by two-story stone houses with low, sloping roofs and on the other by tall slate-topped houses with wooden facades. Maritime expeditions (including some of the first voyages to Canada) departed from here; later, Impressionists were inspired to capture it on canvas. But the town as a whole has become increasingly crowded since the Pont de Normandie opened in 1995. Providing a direct link with Upper Normandy, the world's sixth-largest cable-stayed bridge is supported by two concrete pylons taller than the Eiffel Tower and designed to resist winds of 257 kph (160 mph).

Enjoy a leisurely day discovering Honfleur, a popular harbour town best known for its picturesque old port and well-preserved, timber-framed houses. Your morning walking tour presents a fascinating snapshot of Honfleur’s unique character and Normandy seaside charm. Stroll around the bustling quay, enjoying the delightful views of colourful fishing boats, scenes that inspired the Impressionist artists. Explore the town’s quaint streets and admire the striking St. Catherine Church, the largest wooden church in France rebuilt entirely of wood from the nearby forest.

As Honfleur is also renowned for its premium fresh seafood, your tour includes a fresh oyster tasting – savouring authentic local flavours. Alternatively, for a different pace, join an EmeraldACTIVE guided bike tour of Honfleur.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Honfleur with oyster tasting

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour of Honfleur

While enjoying a serene cruise along the River Seine, take part in an exclusive EmeraldPLUS cheese tasting on board your Star-Ship. As you take in the bucolic riverine views, relish the delicious, rich and authentic flavours that are connected to the timeless rural lands and traditions of Normandy.

In the afternoon, discover the heart of Normandy’s countryside with a visit to a traditional cider farm. On this EmeraldPLUS you’ll learn how the region’s crisp, refreshing cider is crafted from locally-grown apples using age-old methods. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of authentic local products that celebrate the renowned flavours of Normandy.

Alternatively, for those seeking a more energetic pace, join an EmeraldACTIVE guided hike up to Château Gaillard – the storied remnants of a medieval fortress built by Richard the Lionheart. From the clifftops, you’ll be rewarded with breathtaking views across the River Seine and an area of outstanding beauty.

EmeraldPLUS
Cheese tasting on board

EmeraldPLUS
Exclusive local cider farm visit with tasting

EmeraldACTIVE
Hike to Château Gaillard

With your Star-Ship docked in La Roche Guyon this morning, you’re in close walking distance to Château de La Roche-Guyon, a beautifully preserved estate steeped in centuries of history. Enjoy a morning tour to immerse yourself in the rich history and serene beauty of this riverside gem.

Château de La Roche-Guyon served as a strategic stronghold during the Anglo-French Hundred Years’ War and evolved as a favourite country retreat for Normandy’s nobility. Originally built as a fortified castle in the 14th century and rebuilt in the 15th century, the Château majestically stands as a testament to French architectural heritage.

Wander along tranquil pathways through the meticulously maintained gardens. Within the Château, discover elegant period rooms adorned with antique furnishings and artwork – offering a rare glimpse into the refined lifestyle of past centuries.

For those seeking a more active morning experience, kayak along the Seine for a different perspective of this iconic river.

Included Excursion
Visit to Château Guyon & Gardens

EmeraldACTIVE
Kayak on the Seine

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In the footsteps of Van Gogh (extra expense)

After your marvelous cruise, you’ll be transferred to Gare du Nord station and take the train bound for London St. Pancras station. Upon arrival in London,  you’ll be transferred to your hotel for an exciting 3-night stay in Great Britain’s historic capital. Once you’ve settled in, take time to explore this enthralling multicultural metropolis at your own pace. Immerse yourself in London’s vibrant atmosphere, wander through its history-drenched streets, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the River Thames or through its beautiful urban parks.

About 8 miles downstream—which means seaward, to the east—from central London, Greenwich is a small borough that looms large across the world. Once the seat of British naval power, it is not only home to the Old Royal Observatory, which measures time for our entire planet, but also the Greenwich Meridian, which divides the world into two—you can stand astride it with one foot in either hemisphere. Bear in mind that the journey to Greenwich is an event in itself. In a rush, you can take the driverless DLR train—but many opt for arriving by boat along the Thames. This way, you glide past famous sights on the London skyline (there’s a guaranteed spine chill on passing the Tower) and ever-changing docklands, and there’s usually a chirpy Cock-er-ney navigator enlivening the journey with his fun commentary. A visit to Greenwich feels like a trip to a rather elegant seaside town—albeit one with more than its fair share of historic sites. The grandiose Old Royal Naval Hospital, designed by Christopher Wren, was originally a home for veteran sailors. Today it’s a popular visitor attraction, with a more glamorous second life as one of the most widely used movie locations in Britain. Greenwich was originally home to one of England's finest Tudor palaces, and the birthplace of Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and Mary I. Inigo Jones built what is considered the first "classical" building in England in 1616—the Queen's House, which now houses a collection of fine art. Britain was the world’s preeminent naval power for over 500 years, and the excellent National Maritime Museum> details that history in an engaging way. Its prize exhibits include the coat worn by Admiral Lord Nelson (1758–1805) in his final battle—bullet hole and all. The 19th-century tea clipper Cutty Sark was nearly destroyed by fire in 2007, but reopened in 2012 after a painstaking restoration. Now it’s more pristine than ever, complete with an impressive new visitor center. Greenwich Park, London's oldest royal park, is still home to fallow red deer, just as it has been since they were first introduced here for hunting by Henry VIII. The Ranger's House now houses a private art collection, next door to a beautifully manicured rose garden. Above it all is the Royal Observatory, where you can be in two hemispheres at once by standing along the Greenwich Meridian Line, before seeing a high-tech planetarium show. Toward north Greenwich, the hopelessly ambitious Millennium Dome has been successfully reborn as the O2 and now hosts major concerts and stand-up comedy gigs. More adventurous visitors can also go Up the O2 on a climbing expedition across the massive domed surface. Meanwhile, those who prefer excursions of a gentler kind may prefer to journey a couple of miles south of the borough, farther out into London’s southern suburbs, to the shamefully underappreciated Eltham Palace. Once a favorite of Henry VIII, parts of the mansion were transformed into an art deco masterpiece during the 1930s.

About 8 miles downstream—which means seaward, to the east—from central London, Greenwich is a small borough that looms large across the world. Once the seat of British naval power, it is not only home to the Old Royal Observatory, which measures time for our entire planet, but also the Greenwich Meridian, which divides the world into two—you can stand astride it with one foot in either hemisphere. Bear in mind that the journey to Greenwich is an event in itself. In a rush, you can take the driverless DLR train—but many opt for arriving by boat along the Thames. This way, you glide past famous sights on the London skyline (there’s a guaranteed spine chill on passing the Tower) and ever-changing docklands, and there’s usually a chirpy Cock-er-ney navigator enlivening the journey with his fun commentary. A visit to Greenwich feels like a trip to a rather elegant seaside town—albeit one with more than its fair share of historic sites. The grandiose Old Royal Naval Hospital, designed by Christopher Wren, was originally a home for veteran sailors. Today it’s a popular visitor attraction, with a more glamorous second life as one of the most widely used movie locations in Britain. Greenwich was originally home to one of England's finest Tudor palaces, and the birthplace of Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and Mary I. Inigo Jones built what is considered the first "classical" building in England in 1616—the Queen's House, which now houses a collection of fine art. Britain was the world’s preeminent naval power for over 500 years, and the excellent National Maritime Museum> details that history in an engaging way. Its prize exhibits include the coat worn by Admiral Lord Nelson (1758–1805) in his final battle—bullet hole and all. The 19th-century tea clipper Cutty Sark was nearly destroyed by fire in 2007, but reopened in 2012 after a painstaking restoration. Now it’s more pristine than ever, complete with an impressive new visitor center. Greenwich Park, London's oldest royal park, is still home to fallow red deer, just as it has been since they were first introduced here for hunting by Henry VIII. The Ranger's House now houses a private art collection, next door to a beautifully manicured rose garden. Above it all is the Royal Observatory, where you can be in two hemispheres at once by standing along the Greenwich Meridian Line, before seeing a high-tech planetarium show. Toward north Greenwich, the hopelessly ambitious Millennium Dome has been successfully reborn as the O2 and now hosts major concerts and stand-up comedy gigs. More adventurous visitors can also go Up the O2 on a climbing expedition across the massive domed surface. Meanwhile, those who prefer excursions of a gentler kind may prefer to journey a couple of miles south of the borough, farther out into London’s southern suburbs, to the shamefully underappreciated Eltham Palace. Once a favorite of Henry VIII, parts of the mansion were transformed into an art deco masterpiece during the 1930s.

Join a guided city tour to discover some of London’s most iconic and historical landmarks, including Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace, the official royal residence. Experience the buzz of the West End, home to the world-famous theatre district, take in the sights of Trafalgar Square, and witness the traditional Changing of the Guard, all the while soaking up the capital’s storied heritage.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of London

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Afternoon tea (extra expense)

About 8 miles downstream—which means seaward, to the east—from central London, Greenwich is a small borough that looms large across the world. Once the seat of British naval power, it is not only home to the Old Royal Observatory, which measures time for our entire planet, but also the Greenwich Meridian, which divides the world into two—you can stand astride it with one foot in either hemisphere. Bear in mind that the journey to Greenwich is an event in itself. In a rush, you can take the driverless DLR train—but many opt for arriving by boat along the Thames. This way, you glide past famous sights on the London skyline (there’s a guaranteed spine chill on passing the Tower) and ever-changing docklands, and there’s usually a chirpy Cock-er-ney navigator enlivening the journey with his fun commentary. A visit to Greenwich feels like a trip to a rather elegant seaside town—albeit one with more than its fair share of historic sites. The grandiose Old Royal Naval Hospital, designed by Christopher Wren, was originally a home for veteran sailors. Today it’s a popular visitor attraction, with a more glamorous second life as one of the most widely used movie locations in Britain. Greenwich was originally home to one of England's finest Tudor palaces, and the birthplace of Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and Mary I. Inigo Jones built what is considered the first "classical" building in England in 1616—the Queen's House, which now houses a collection of fine art. Britain was the world’s preeminent naval power for over 500 years, and the excellent National Maritime Museum> details that history in an engaging way. Its prize exhibits include the coat worn by Admiral Lord Nelson (1758–1805) in his final battle—bullet hole and all. The 19th-century tea clipper Cutty Sark was nearly destroyed by fire in 2007, but reopened in 2012 after a painstaking restoration. Now it’s more pristine than ever, complete with an impressive new visitor center. Greenwich Park, London's oldest royal park, is still home to fallow red deer, just as it has been since they were first introduced here for hunting by Henry VIII. The Ranger's House now houses a private art collection, next door to a beautifully manicured rose garden. Above it all is the Royal Observatory, where you can be in two hemispheres at once by standing along the Greenwich Meridian Line, before seeing a high-tech planetarium show. Toward north Greenwich, the hopelessly ambitious Millennium Dome has been successfully reborn as the O2 and now hosts major concerts and stand-up comedy gigs. More adventurous visitors can also go Up the O2 on a climbing expedition across the massive domed surface. Meanwhile, those who prefer excursions of a gentler kind may prefer to journey a couple of miles south of the borough, farther out into London’s southern suburbs, to the shamefully underappreciated Eltham Palace. Once a favorite of Henry VIII, parts of the mansion were transformed into an art deco masterpiece during the 1930s.

Today is yours to leisurely explore the rest of London at your own pace.  You might consider taking in the panoramic views across the city from the iconic London Eye, a visit to the esteemed British Museum, or strolling through the verdant urban landscape of Hyde Park. You could also check out the striking street art in Shoreditch, or enjoy a show at one of the many renowned theatres in the West End.

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Guided Tour of Camden and Borough Market (extra expense)

About 8 miles downstream—which means seaward, to the east—from central London, Greenwich is a small borough that looms large across the world. Once the seat of British naval power, it is not only home to the Old Royal Observatory, which measures time for our entire planet, but also the Greenwich Meridian, which divides the world into two—you can stand astride it with one foot in either hemisphere. Bear in mind that the journey to Greenwich is an event in itself. In a rush, you can take the driverless DLR train—but many opt for arriving by boat along the Thames. This way, you glide past famous sights on the London skyline (there’s a guaranteed spine chill on passing the Tower) and ever-changing docklands, and there’s usually a chirpy Cock-er-ney navigator enlivening the journey with his fun commentary. A visit to Greenwich feels like a trip to a rather elegant seaside town—albeit one with more than its fair share of historic sites. The grandiose Old Royal Naval Hospital, designed by Christopher Wren, was originally a home for veteran sailors. Today it’s a popular visitor attraction, with a more glamorous second life as one of the most widely used movie locations in Britain. Greenwich was originally home to one of England's finest Tudor palaces, and the birthplace of Henry VIII, Elizabeth I, and Mary I. Inigo Jones built what is considered the first "classical" building in England in 1616—the Queen's House, which now houses a collection of fine art. Britain was the world’s preeminent naval power for over 500 years, and the excellent National Maritime Museum> details that history in an engaging way. Its prize exhibits include the coat worn by Admiral Lord Nelson (1758–1805) in his final battle—bullet hole and all. The 19th-century tea clipper Cutty Sark was nearly destroyed by fire in 2007, but reopened in 2012 after a painstaking restoration. Now it’s more pristine than ever, complete with an impressive new visitor center. Greenwich Park, London's oldest royal park, is still home to fallow red deer, just as it has been since they were first introduced here for hunting by Henry VIII. The Ranger's House now houses a private art collection, next door to a beautifully manicured rose garden. Above it all is the Royal Observatory, where you can be in two hemispheres at once by standing along the Greenwich Meridian Line, before seeing a high-tech planetarium show. Toward north Greenwich, the hopelessly ambitious Millennium Dome has been successfully reborn as the O2 and now hosts major concerts and stand-up comedy gigs. More adventurous visitors can also go Up the O2 on a climbing expedition across the massive domed surface. Meanwhile, those who prefer excursions of a gentler kind may prefer to journey a couple of miles south of the borough, farther out into London’s southern suburbs, to the shamefully underappreciated Eltham Palace. Once a favorite of Henry VIII, parts of the mansion were transformed into an art deco masterpiece during the 1930s.

This morning after breakfast, you’ll be transferred from your hotel to the airport for your onward flight, taking with you memories of iconic London landmarks, captivating royal heritage and traditional English afternoon tea.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.