Sensations of the Seine and Normandy with Paris

Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Paris, France.

Welcome to Paris, the enchanting capital of France where tour journey will begin. Upon arrival, you will be met by a representative of Mayflower Cruises & Tours and assisted with the transfer to your hotel. The day is free to begin exploring on your own or simply relax.

After breakfast, enjoy an included panoramic tour of this capital city. See such famous sites and landmarks as the Louvre, Opéra Garnier, Place Vendôme, the trendy district of Le Marais on the Right Bank, Place de la Concorde, Champs-Élysées, Arc de Triomphe, Place de la Bastille, the Trocadéro and the pièce de rèsistance…the Eiffel Tower. After your orientation to the city, the remainder of the day is at your leisure to pursue independent interests. Meal: B

Included Excursion: Paris Orientation Tour

In the early afternoon, depart the hotel and embark the MS Emerald Lumi, home for the next seven nights. Enjoy an afternoon at leisure to unpack, discover the amenities on board or take a leisurely stroll along the Seine. This evening, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board. Later, your ship will depart Paris and cruise to Vernon during the night. Meals: B, D

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, Monet’s former home until his death in 1926. Explore Monet’s beautifully preserved house. Walk through the rooms where he lived and worked and the restored, elaborate gardens, which inspired some of his most iconic works, including the beloved Water Lilies series. As you stroll through the colorful flower garden and Japanese-inspired water garden – showcasing the famous Japanese Bridge and lily ponds – you’ll get a sense of the extraordinary play of color and light on nature and how this translated to Monet’s distinctive Impressionist art. Meals: B, L, D

Included Excursion: In the Footsteps of Claude Monet

Welcome to Rouen, a beautiful city set along the banks of 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. Hear fascinating tales about Rollo, the Viking chieftain proclaimed the first Duke of Normandy and how his legacy helped shape not only this region, but the course of European history. Rouen is also forever linked with legendary figure, Joan of Arc, as it was here, in 1431, that this young French heroine was tried and burnt at the stake. Today, enjoy a guided walking tour visiting key sites connected to this martyr’s final days and learn how Rouen honors the legacy of Saint Joan of Arc. Rouen is also famed for its Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, the tallest in France, whose stunning façade was immortalized multiple times by Monet. Later, on board your Star-Ship, gain deeper insight into history with a World War II lecture that sets the stage for your visit to the legendary D-Day beaches the following day. Meals: B, L, D

Included Excursion: Walking Tour of Rouen

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 honor the bravery of those involved and their ultimate sacrifice. Your Star-Ship remains docked in Honfleur overnight. Meals: B, L, D

Included Excursion: Historic Normandy: Allied Landing Sites

Enjoy a leisurely day discovering Honfleur, a popular harbor 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 colorful 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. Meals: B, L, D

Included Excursion: Walking Tour of Honfleur with Oyster Tasting

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 – another EmeraldPLUS experience. Here, 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 flavors of Normandy. Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldPLUS: Cheese tasting onboard
EmeraldPLUS: Exclusive local cider farm visit with tasting

With your Star-Ship docked in La Roche Guyon today, 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 favorite 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. Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldPLUS: Visit to Château Guyon & Gardens

Today, after breakfast, it’s time to bid ‘au revoir’ to France, leaving with memories of wonderful experiences onboard the MS Emerald Lumi along the Seine River. Meal: B