We have brought together some of your favorite wine experts from around the globe for a truly exciting cruise in this award winning, wine producing region of Provence. You’ll be joined by British Master of Wine Tim Atkin, Canadian wine expert, DJ Kearney, US wine expert, Robin Stark and Australian Master of Wine, Andrea Pritzker. You’ll not only experience stunning views of grape covered landscapes but you’ll also have many opportunities to sample some of the regions most loved wines as well as wines handpicked by each expert all the way from their ”mothering” countries. A truly exclusive and educational trip for wine lovers with private tastings at Chateauneuf du pap and Chateau Meursault as well as many on board Masterclasses as you sail from Arles to Lyon. Throughout your trip you’ll have your chance to chat informally with the experts over a glass of wine in the lounge, ask your questions during talks and Q+A sessions, and accompany them on excursions including a hike through the stunning vineyards of Tournon.
Day 1 Depart the USA
Depart USA for your overnight flight to Nice, France.
Day 2 Arrival Nice – Arles Embarkation
You will be met at the airport in Nice and transferred to the Emerald Liberté in Arles where you will be welcomed by your Captain and crew. Tonight, enjoy a welcome reception and dinner onboard. Meal: D
Day 3 Arles
Join your local guide for a walking tour showcasing the highlights of the city, in particular the 2000-year-old Roman Amphitheatre. This UNESCO World Heritage Site, originally built to hold 20,000 spectators in the style of the Colosseum in Rome, is still in use today. Back onboard, meet British wine expert, Tim Atkin, for a Q+A session. Meals: B, L, D. EmeraldPLUS: Provençale dinner hosted by local Chef Fabien Morreale with wines paired by Master of Wine, Tim Atkin. DiscoverMORE: Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense)
Day 4 Avignon
With a rich history from Celtic beginnings, Avignon is one of the few French cities to have preserved its ramparts, historic center and churches. Classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is well known for the imposing Palace of the Popes. Your guided walk takes you through this historic center strolling the cobbled lanes overlooking the famous 'Pont d’Avignon'. This afternoon challenge your taste buds with a visit to the famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine cellars with Tim Atkin who will discuss his thoughts on the wines of the region. Meals: B, L, D. EmeraldACTIVE: Guided active hike in Avignon. EmeraldACTIVE: Yoga Lesson onboard.
Day 5 Viviers
Arrive in Viviers, a town which still has a lot of flare. Viviers is also the home of one of France’s oldest cathedrals. Join an included city tour exploring all the architectural heritage of this quaint town. Meals: B, L, D. DiscoverMORE: Tour to Grignan (extra expense)
Day 6 Tournon
Join your local guide for a walking tour of Tournon, which is dominated by the 16th-century castle and roman ruins, and is nestled in the valley near the steep slopes of le Massif Central, France's 3rd largest mountain range. The area has a long tradition in wine making, including the renowned wine growing center of Tain l'Hermitage across the river. Meals: B, L, D EmeraldACTIVE: Guided active walk through vineyards accompanied by a wine expert. EmeraldPLUS: Regional wine tasting onboard with Australian wine expert, Andrea Pritzker. EmeraldACTIVE: Guided bike tour to Glun
Day 7 Lyon
Lyon, France’s third largest city, is steeped in history and a former Roman capital positioned at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers. Today, take part in the guided tour of Lyon, which starts with a drive to the Basilique Notre Dame de Fourvière, Lyon’s hilltop church, with stunning views over the town. Then pass by the recently re–discovered Roman amphitheater and walk through the cobbled streets of the gastronomic old town including secret alleyways. Alternatively, join a guided bike tour of Lyon. Enjoy a sweet treat this afternoon in an onboard dessert wine tasting masterclass with U.S. wine expert Robin Stark and Australian wine expert Andrea Pritzker. Meals: B, L, D. EmeraldACTIVE: Guided Bike Tour. DiscoverMORE: Tour to Perouges (extra expense)
Day 8 Chalon-Sur-Saône – Beaune
Chalon–Sur–Saône is best known as the birthplace of photography and the centre of Burgundy’s wine region. Travel by road to the quaint village of Beaune, where we visit the Hospices de Beaune, one of the finest examples of French fifteenth–century architecture. Marvel at the multi–colored roofs of this former hospital, now a museum, which has become one of the symbols of Burgundy. This morning, in addition to your guided tour, visit Château Meursault accompanied by Canadian wine expert, DJ Kearney, for a private wine tasting. This afternoon, enjoy free time in Chalon-Sur- Saône followed by a cheese and olive tasting onboard paired with DJ Kearney’s favorite wines. Meals: B, L, D
Day 9 Lyon Disembarkation
After breakfast disembark your river cruise ship in Lyon and transfer to the airport for your onward or homebound flight. Meal: B