1-800-626-0126 or Call your Travel Advisor
Aboard three Award-Winning ships:
AmaDolce ▪ AmaLyra ▪ AmaCello
French Balconies starting from $24,392
Join AmaWaterways as we embark on a once-in-a-lifetime 28-day river cruise journey from Bordeaux to Chalon-sur-Saône, France. Experience wine from six distinctive wine regions while cruising along France’s Garonne, Dordogne, Seine, Saône and Rhône rivers as well as Bordeaux’s Gironde Estuary. Plus, be treated to exquisite locally-sourced cuisine, a variety of enriching excursions such as guided hikes and bike rides, and unparalleled service. Internationally acclaimed wine educator Paul Wagner will accompany you throughout your journey, introducing a new world-renowned guest Wine Host each week. Reserve your space for this enhanced epicurean experience that includes 24 specially curated wine seminars and pairing dinners – and the exclusive experiences only an AmaWaterways river cruise provides.
Our Wine Hosts elevate the wine tasting experience with knowledge, insight, and perspective. Internationally acclaimed wine educator Paul Wagner will accompany you throughout your journey, introducing a new world-renowned guest Wine Host each week. Imagine the expertise of two wine experts each week who will lead us through captivating wine seminars, guide us through exquisite wine paired dinners and join us as we explore the wines of the regions ashore. This exclusive Grand France Wine Cruise is specially curated for the wine enthusiast seeking the ultimate wine cruise experience.
Paul Wagner is a world-renowned wine educator who has spoken at more than eighty international conferences and lectured numerous universities on the history, culture, and marketing of wine. His personable approach and memorable stories make him one of our guests' favorite Wine Hosts.
Joining us in the Bordeaux Region ▪ April 20-27, 2023
Ray Isle is the Executive Wine Editor of Food & Wine and the Wine & Spirits Editor for both Travel + Leisure and Departures. He has been nominated twice for a James Beard Award, has twice won the IACP Award for Narrative Beverage Writing, and his work appears in The Best Food Writing 2017. He has appeared on programs such as Today, CNBC’s On the Money & Squawk Box, NPR’s “All Things Considered,” and American Public Media’s “Splendid Table.”
Joining us in Paris & Normandy ▪ April 27-May 4, 2023
Sara Schneider is a wine, food, and general lifestyle editor and writer of 25 years, Schneider serves as Robb Report’s consulting wine and spirits editor. Previously, Schneider was Sunset Magazine’s wine editor. She has been nominated for multiple James Beard and IACP journalism awards and holds the Academy of Wine Communication’s Certificate for Excellence in Wine Writing.
Joining us in Burgundy & Provence ▪ May 4-11, 2023
Tim Gaiser, MS, served as the Education Chair and the Education Director for the Court of Master Sommeliers, Americas, for eight years and is also a former adjunct professor for the Rudd Center for Professional Wine Studies at the Culinary Institute of America at Greystone. He has developed wine education programs and taught classes on wine and spirits at every level of education, both domestically and internationally.
Joining us in Burgundy & Provence ▪ May 11-18, 2023
Scott Harper, MS, is a managing partner at the Bristol Grille group, an Executive Bourbon Steward and a Member of the Stave and Thief Society. He is a recipient of the Banfi Award from the Society of Wine Educators. Harper teaches wine and spirit courses through the continuing education program at Bellarmine University, and he has written for Sophisticated Living and Food & Dining.
In addition to experiencing the wines of the regions we visit, including Bordeaux, Burgundy and the Rhône Valley, our wine experts will lead us through wine seminars on other great regions including Alsace, Champagne, and the Loire Valley.
Our wine experts are working directly with our award-winning culinary team to highlight the wines of the regions that best complement our locally-sourced farm-to-table delicacies.
On a river cruise, you don’t just pass through a destination — you experience it with all your senses. Visit idyllic châteaux in Bordeaux, wander the vineyards of famed Saint-Émilion and Beaujolais, explore the food markets and become fully enveloped in the regional wine and culinary offerings. The past, present and future of French wine will come to life as you visit the cellars, people, and culture of these regions, including the remarkable Cité du Vin wine museum in Bordeaux. AmaWaterways’ included excursions provide a variety of enriching choices and enticements for every palate.
EXCLUSIVE INCLUSIONS
Relax and rejuvenate in spacious, luxurious staterooms with plenty of amenities. Most feature French balconies that afford stunning views of the scenery along the river.
Savor exquisite cuisine at a variety of dining venues, like the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table. You can also order delicious tapas between meals in the Main Lounge.
With fewer guests on board, you can enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and reconnect with your loved ones. Our public areas are never overcrowded.
Click on map to expand
Taste your way through France’s legendary wine capital, Bordeaux. Savor French flavors paired with premium Grand Cru Classé wines, from Bordeaux’s signature red blends to the “liquid gold” of Sauternes. Tour the Castle of Roquetaillade, enjoy an immersive experience at Bordeaux’s famed Cité du Vin wine museum and visit several historic châteaux during the first leg of your Grand France Wine Cruise.
EMBARKATION
Embark the AmaDolce for your special Grand France Wine cruise
Take in the romance of Bordeaux as you pass iconic sights on a scenic morning cruise. Later in the day, dock in Libourne, a gateway to one of Bordeaux’s most elite wine regions. Join an excursion to Saint Émilion, known for its celebrated vineyards, and while here, explore the monolithic church carved out of one piece of limestone rock, and then go under the church to discover its catacombs and caves. Afterwards, enjoy a Grand Cru Classé wine tasting at either Château de Ferrand or Château de Pressac. Alternately, you can enjoy an excursion to Saint-Émilion solely to discover more of the small historic town. If you prefer a more active adventure, pedal through the vineyard-rich countryside to Saint-Émilion and then to Château Soutard for a Grand Cru Classé wine tasting. You can also choose to tour the magnificent Château Vayres, one of the most prestigious historic buildings of Aquitaine.
Stroll through the colorful, open-air market, tasting some of the region’s specialties. You can also choose to enjoy a tasting of local wines from one of the beautiful wine estates in the Fronsac region. Or, you can get your heart pumping by venturing deeper into town by hiking through one of Libourne’s renowned vineyards. Later in the day, set sail for Blaye, where you’ll enjoy an evening at your leisure.
Once in Blaye, you can join a tour of its 17th-century citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. For a more active excursion, take a bike ride around Blaye. Later in the day, you can choose to bike from Blaye through the idyllic French countryside to Bourg. While in the ancient village of Bourg, take a walking tour and visit the Carriage Museum, which houses a wonderful collection of horse-drawn vehicles. Later in the day, experience the hospitality of this charming medieval village with an exclusive wine festival. Meet the local wine growers and taste the fruits of their labors as well as enjoy live French music and dancing.
Pauillac, a lovely village on the Left Bank of the Gironde Estuary, is gateway to the famed Médoc region, renowned for producing some of the world’s finest Bordeaux wines. You will see some of the most beautiful and famous wine estates, including Château Latour, Château Mouton Rothschild, Château Lafite Rothschild and Château Pichon Longueville. You’ll then visit either Château Gruaud Larose or Château Léoville Poyferré for a tasting of Grand Cru wines. Alternately, you can visit Lynch Bages, a quaint wine estate and village, followed by a wine and local specialties tasting. Or, enjoy a coast drive to Soulac-sur-Mer where you’ll see unique sights, such as the Statue of Liberty and the Cordouan lighthouse known to be the oldest in France.
Visit the impressive Castle of Roquetaillade, an amazingly preserved masterpiece of medieval military architecture owned by the same noble family for 700 years and travel to the Sauternes wine region to either Chateau de Rayne Vigneau or Chateau Guiraud to taste the highly prized golden-hued sweet wines produced here. For those wishing to explore more of the history on the decadent castles, you can enjoy a visit to the Roquetaillade castle and Cadillac castle. Alternatively, enjoy a special Sauternes wine tasting, exclusive to this unique itinerary. Or pedal through the charming town of Cadillac for a guided bike tour.
The breathtaking capital of the wine world, Bordeaux is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and classified as a “City of Art and History.” You’ll have an opportunity to experience much of the rich culture and architecture on a city tour followed by a visit to the famed indoor Les Halles de Bacalan market for a tasting of local specialties to please the palate. Bike enthusiasts will wish to join a tour along the city’s amazing network of bicycle paths. Depending on your interests, you have a choice from three excursions in the afternoon. Enjoy a visit to the immersive and interactive Bordeaux Wine Museum, housed in an awe-inspiring building. Alternately, be treated to a spectacular sound and light show, Les Bassins des Lumières. Or, explore the enriching city of Bordeaux at your own leisure. In the evening, enjoy a spectacular illumination cruise, gazing at the iconic structures of Bordeaux as they glow against the night sky.
Allow our wonderful crew to take care of your luggage as you transfer from our AmaDolce in Bordeaux to her sister ship, AmaLyra, in Paris via TGV high-speed train. Then, glide along the Seine River and experience the romance of Paris, the “City of Lights,” as well as Normandy, which beckons with its stunning coastline, incredible cuisine and artistic beauty. Monet’s Gardens and the charming harbor town of Honfleur will inspire you, as will a meaningful visit to the unforgettable beaches of Normandy.
Disembark the ship and board a high speed train to Paris, where your luggage will be waiting on board the AmaLyra. Enjoy the beautiful skyline of the “City of Lights” while you settle in to the second ship of this wonderful journey.
Tour the idyllic commune of Les Andelys, nestled beneath the watch of Château Gaillard, which was skillfully designed and built by the fiery Richard I of England, feudal Duke of Normandy, better known as Richard the Lionheart. Perched high above the Seine and Les Andelys, Château Gaillard was a virtually impregnable fortress. For a more active alternative, take a hiking tour to Château Gaillard. Or enjoy a guided bike tour of the original village, built as the quarters for the workers of Château Gaillard.
There are several different choices of excursions in this beautiful town, both during the morning and afternoon, depending on your interests. You can choose an excursion to the seaside town of Honfleur, renowned for its picturesque harbor, and for being an inspirational site for Impressionist painters. Alternatively, spend a full day in this lovely seaside town and tour the Pays d’Auge Fécamp monestary, famous for the liqueur and cider created from its apples. In the afternoon, you have the choice of a city tour of the UNESCO-designated Le Havre or a bike tour through Le Havre.
Take a full-day excursion to see the historic Normandy Beaches, where you may visit such sites as the cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, Omaha Beach, the artillery battery at Longues-sur-Mer and the village of Arromanches, where the remains of the floating harbor used during the WWII landings can be seen. Later, enjoy a scenic cruise from Le Havre to Caudebec-en-Caux, where you can visit Route de Abbayes lined with famous abbeys and breathtaking ruins from Roman times. Alternatively, tour Museo Seine, a museum focusing on the history of the Seine River.
Spend the morning enjoying medieval Rouen with a choice of several excursions. Join a walking tour past the imposing Notre Dame Cathedral, painted numerous times by Monet, and see the square where Joan of Arc was martyred, as well as the Medieval Quarter and Great Clock. You also have the choice to explore Lyons-la-Forêt, built on the site of a former fortress and featuring remarkable centuries-old architecture, as well as the idyllic castle Vascoeuil with its octagonal tower, art exhibitions and sculpture park. Or go on the “Tastes of Normandy” tour, where you’ll be treated to the delicious flavors of the region, including chocolate, macaron, Norman cheese and cider. Alternatively, more active travelers can experience this beautiful town on a guided bike tour.
Take in the scenery on a scenic cruise before disembarking the ship to experience the colorful splendor of Claude Monet’s magnificent gardens at his former home in Giverny, admiring the water lilies, Japanese bridges and graceful willow trees immortalized in his paintings. For a more active adventure, pedal through Vernon on a guided bike tour. Or journey to Château de Gaillon, a picturesque Renaissance-style castle, as well as the beautiful Gardens d’Acquigny, boasting waterfalls, bridges, canals and a wide variety of trees and plant life. Alternatively, experience the splendor of Château de Bizy followed by a special cider tasting.
Enjoy some of Paris’s most famous sights during your panoramic tour. You will be guided through the charming Latin Quarter, home to the world-famous Sorbonne University, and through the stunning 400-year-old Luxembourg Gardens, created by King Henry IV’s widow, Marie de’ Medici. Afterward, travel through Paris and see such sights as the Champs-Élysées with its cinemas, sidewalk cafes and luxury specialty shops; the Arc de Triomphe; and the Eiffel Tower. You also can experience the Artist’s Walk of Auvers-sur-Oise on a special walking tour. Later in the day, visit the Musee du Vin, where you can witness exceptional insights into the history of wine. Alternatively, cover more of the city on a guided bike tour.
Bid farewell to the AmaLyra before boarding a TGV train and making your way to your next destination: Chalon on the breathtaking Saone River. Board the AmaCello and make yourself at home.
Sit back and relax while you enjoy a complimentary transfer from the AmaLyra in Paris to Chalon-sur-Saône on the idyllic Saone River via TGV high-speed train. Once on board AmaCello, delight in charming Tournus with its towering Romanesque abbey and historic apothecary shop. Visit French châteaux, taste your way through the French culinary capital of Lyon and visit the Papal Palace in Avignon. Throughout the final leg of your journey, you will also sample Mâconnais, Cornas and Chalonnaise wines. The essence of these Burgundy and Provence will linger on your palate – and in your heart – for a lifetime!
In the morning, enjoy scenic cruising to the Port of Dijon, where you will enjoy the rest of your day. Famously known as the “Birthplace of Mustard,” Dijon was the home to the four Dukes of Burgundy from 1364 to 1477. On a guided tour, explore Dijon’s medieval center which overflows with art and cultural heritage, showcased within several spectacular museums. After your tour, experience a special Nuit-Saint-George wine tasting.
Start the day with scenic cruising to the city of Tournos. Let your knowledgeable guide lead you through Tournus and to its magnificent Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert. Or choose instead to visit the moated Château de Cormatin, which dates back to the early 17th century and features ornate apartments as well as a beautifully manicured garden. As an alternative, venture to the medieval village of Brancion with its preserved gateway, church and market hall.
Witness the beautiful landscapes of the Saône River as you cruise into the port of Villefranche-sur-Saône. While there, enjoy a wonderful tasting of Beaujolais wines. During the evening, enjoy a special Illuminations cruise – a special highlight of your river cruise – as you enter the city of Lyon.
Discover dynamic Lyon, starting in Fourvière Hill, part of the city’s historic region that is now a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the 19th-century basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Continue on to the old town of Lyon, followed by a guided walk through the St. Jean district, where you will be introduced to the city’s unique covered walkways, known as “traboules.” Alternatively, enjoy active a guided bike tour through the city designed with cyclists in mind. Or take a guided hike through Lyon. If you’re a self-described foodie, our Vieux Lyon tasting tour is for you, during which you’ll have a chance to taste some of Lyon’s local delights.
Begin your day by sailing from Lyon to the beautiful town of Touron. Take an exclusive private train ride past magnificent landscape carved along the Gorge du Doux, stopping at the charming little station of Colombier le Vieux-Saint Barthélemy le Plain, where the train maneuvers in preparation for its return journey. Alternatively, lovers of wine and chocolate will want to visit Le Château de Tournon for a presentation and tasting on the pairing of red wine and chocolate. For a more active adventure, take a hike through the vineyards of Tain l’Hermitage, followed by a visit to a local winery where you’ll sample some of the wines.
Considered one of the most beautiful cities in France, Arles enchants all with its tantalizing history, formerly a Roman center of trade. Join a guided walking tour where you’ll visit the Roman ruins of Arles such as its Roman Amphitheater and the Church of Saint Trophime, famous for its Romanesque architecture. Alternatively, venture to the medieval hilltop village, Les Baux de Provence and then delve deeply into the Carrières des Lumières, where you’ll be treated to a spectacular presentation of art, sound and history projected on the former limestone quarry walls of caves. Or visit Camargue, the largest river delta in western Europe, and experience the region’s close tie to nature. In the evening, be treated to a special tasting of the region’s famous olives and wine.
Depending on your interests, you have three choices of excursions for the morning. Avignon, aptly named the “City of Popes,” was the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century when its “Palais des Papes” was the equivalent of today’s Vatican. Discover the history of Avignon on a guided walking tour that includes the Papal Palace and the well-preserved medieval walls surrounding the historic center of town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alternatively, you can go to another UNESCO World Heritage Site, the impressive Pont du Gard, a Roman aqueduct that is a masterpiece of ancient engineering. Or you can enjoy a pleasant bike tour of the town. In the evening, visit a winery in the famed Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region, where viticulture has been promoted since the 14th century. The unique soil composition here has earned the area a reputation for producing distinctive wines that are now popular the world over. Join a specialist from the winery on a private tour of the wine cellars and vineyards, an exclusive opportunity to learn about centuries-old winemaking methods.
Explore to the magnificent hilltop village, Grignan. After visiting this enchanting Provençal town, go in search of the highly prized “Black Diamond” truffles with a farmer and his trustworthy canine companion.
Known to some as “The Door to the South of France,” the city of Valence invites you to experience a delightful blend of Vercors and Provence cultures. Enjoy a walking tour of the city, where you may see iconic historical sites such as the Maison des Tetes and the Saint-Apollinaire Cathedral. Alternatively, join a culinary tour in this city known for its numerous Michelin-star chefs. For a more active tour, pedal through the area with an experienced guide. In the afternoon, relax on the AmaCello as you witness the magnificent landscapes the ship passes during this stretch of scenic cruising.
Situated between the wine regions of Beaujolais and Côtes du Rhône lies Vienne with a Roman past that can be seen in its marvelously preserved ruins. Follow the footsteps of the ancient Romans on a walking tour to see the amazingly well-preserved Augustus and Livia Temple, the Saint Maurice Cathedral, a Gothic church that took more than 500 years to build, and St. Pierre Abbey—one of the oldest surviving churches in France, and now an Archaeological Museum. For those wishing to be more active, you can either take a guided hike from the ship to the Monastery at Mount Pipet or a guided bike tour along a portion of the ViaRhôna bike route. Alternatively, enjoy a special excursion as you board the mini trains in Vienne, touring the city’s iconic sites.
Join a guided tour through the “South Burgundy City” of Mâcon, learning about its local vineyards, museums, historical sites and perhaps its famous son, the poet and minister Alphonse de Lamartine. Or venture somewhat off the beaten path to Cluny, known for its large abbey, and the nearby castle Berze-le-Chatel, a well-preserved fortress perched on a rocky hill offering stunning views below. Alternately, you can enjoy a guided bike tour to Berze-le-Chatel. In the evening, enjoy a delicious tasting of the region’s famous white Mâconnais wines.
Enjoy a scenic cruise to the beautiful town of Beaune, a walled town nestled in the heart of Cote d’Or vineyards where you’ll stroll the cobblestone streets and take in such sights as the mosaic-tiled roof of the Hôtel-Dieu de Beaune, founded in the 15th century as a hospital for the less fortunate. At the end of your tour, be treated to a wonderful wine tasting featuring samples from the region.
Located in southern Burgundy at the heart of the Côte Chalonnaise wine region, Chalon-Sur-Saône whispers the secrets of its medieval past which you will discover on your historic city tour. You’ll also stop at a local market where you can see and taste some of the local fare. Alternatively, visit the storybook Château de Couches, a medieval fortress enveloped in idyllic hills and greenery that once served the Dukes of Burgundy. Active travels can also enjoy a guided bike tour. Later in the day, treat your palate to a tasting of Chalonnaise wines.
Disembark the AmaCello and bid farewell to your Grand France Wine Cruise as you prepare for your flight home.
Three AmaWaterways sister-ships, AmaDolce, AmaLyra and AmaCello will be your home for 28 nights. Distinctly selected to provide the same stateroom layout throughout your journey, these award-winning ships are known for the intimacy, comfort, and elegance associated with a Grand France experience. The glorious Sun Deck offers a soothing whirlpool, giant chess set and recliners from which to drink up the extraordinary scenery. Inside, enticing aromas waft from the beautiful Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, each previewing a masterfully plated dish created by an expert chef using fresh, locally sourced ingredients. After just one bite, you’ll understand why the AmaWaterways ships, were inducted into the internationally renowned culinary society known as La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs! Keeping with the French theme, most staterooms feature a French balcony as well as amenities that include Entertainment-On-Demand, climate-controlled air conditioning and an in-room safe. A fitness room, sauna and massage room are also available for your enjoyment on board these incredible river ships.