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Journey through Normandy’s historic and cultural heart. From Monet’s gardens to the D-Day beaches, this charming region offers something for every traveller.
This unique eight-day cruise along the alluring River Seine begins and ends in Paris, the French Capital and romantic ‘City of Light.’ On board Emerald Lumi, embark on a memorable journey through Normandy, a beautiful northern France region. Discover a wealth of culinary, artistic and historical highlights, ancient towns and bucolic landscapes, and relish exclusive experiences that reflect the region. Your first stop is Giverny and the former home and gardens of Monet, the celebrated Impressionist artist – an idyllic spot that inspired many of his famous artworks. Discover Rouen and its medieval centre, and why this charming city is forever linked to Saint Joan of Arc and Viking warriors. Cruise straight into Honfleur – where few ships have access – and join a full day D-Day tour. Experience first-hand the key sites of the Allied landings – one of the most significant chapters in World War II history. Next day, leisurely explore Honfleur, a picturesque harbour town and savour the local specialty, fresh oysters. Deep in Normandy’s bucolic countryside, enjoy an exclusive visit to a traditional cider farm, relishing authentic local flavours.Explore the impressive Château de La Roche-Guyon, a Norman nobility retreat steeped in history and embark on guided e-bike tours and hikes. Your unforgettable cruise along the Seine and unique journey through the heart and soul of Normandy concludes in Paris, the romantic ‘City of Light.‘
The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
Historic Normandy: Allied Landing Sites
Exclusive local cider farm visit with tasting
Guided bike tour of Honfleur
Complimentary wine, beer & soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board
Port taxes and charges
Walking tour of Honfleur with oyster tasting
Hike to Château Gaillard
All tipping and gratuities
Visit to Château Guyon and Gardens
Kayaking on the Seine
DiscoverMORE optional tours – at additional cost
Itinerary
Day 1 - Paris
Welcome to Paris, the enchanting capital of France, Upon arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred 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.
Inclusions: Dinner
Day 2 - Vernon
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
DiscoverMORE - Paint like Monet (extra expense)
DiscoverMORE - Rouen by Night (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 - Rouen
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
DiscoverMORE - Camembert Cheese farm visit with tasting (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 - Honfleur
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
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 - Honfleur
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
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 – Les Andelys
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
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 – La Roche Guyon
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
DiscoverMORE - In the footsteps of Van Gogh (extra expense)
Inclusions: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 - Paris
Today, after breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and your luxury Star-Ship, leaving with memories of Normandy’s timeless landscapes, authentic flavours and compelling historical sites. From here, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward flight.
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.
Inclusions: Breakfast
Booking terms and conditions apply.
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Term and conditions apply: All pricing subject to change and availability. Advertised prices are per person twin share unless stated otherwise. Offers may be withdrawn at any time. Itineraries are subject to change. Booking Conditions and Phil Hoffmann Travel Schedule of Professionalism* applies. Please speak to your Phil Hoffmann Travel Consultant for more information.
