Looking for an original way to discover Provence? River cruises on the Rhône offer a unique experience to explore the region from the water. These boat trips combine peaceful sailing with stops in iconic cities such as Avignon, Arles, Viviers, and Tarascon.
The main company offering these cruises is CroisiEurope. You will sail aboard 4-anchor boats equipped with comfortable cabins overlooking the Rhône. Cruises include full board with breakfast, buffet lunch on board, and dinner. Entertainment and gala evenings punctuate the trip.
Stopovers allow you to visit the Palais des Papes in Avignon, discover the places where Van Gogh painted in Arles, or explore the Camargue. You will have free time in each port to enjoy the Provençal markets, historic districts, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. Optional excursions take you to Les Baux-de-Provence or the Vercors to taste Clairette de Die.
The duration varies depending on the itinerary. You can choose a 3-day cruise from Lyon to Avignon, or a 6- to 8-day trip down to Martigues and Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône. Prices start at €579 for a short stay and can reach €4,379 depending on the cabin and season.
What river cruises are available in Provence?
There are several types of river cruises to choose from in Provence. Cruises on the Rhône remain the most popular way to discover the region. Rhône-Saône cruises take you from Burgundy to Provence in a single trip.
CroisiEurope offers river cruises lasting 3 to 8 days, departing from Lyon. You will sail to Avignon, Arles, and the Camargue, depending on the itinerary you choose. Cruises in the Camargue often include a stopover in Port-Saint-Louis-du-Rhône or Martigues. It is really like a well-routed Danube river cruise .
The Compagnie des Grands Bateaux de Provence offers shorter cruises in Avignon. You can embark on a day trip to Arles or a 2.5-hour lunch cruise. These options are ideal for travelers with less time.
River cruises in Provence run from April to October. Cruising along the Rhône in Provence, you will discover varied landscapes ranging from wine-growing valleys to wild expanses. You will enjoy stops in towns listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
Must-see places to visit on a cruise in Provence
The Palais des Papes in Avignon is one of the highlights of your cruise. This guided tour immerses you in the medieval history of the papal city. Avignon Tourisme organizes tours of the historic districts and the famous Saint-Bénézet bridge.
Arles welcomes you with its exceptional World Heritage-listed heritage. Walk in the footsteps of Van Gogh and discover the Roman sites that inspired the painter. The city's amphitheater and ancient theater are remarkably well preserved.
Les Baux-de-Provence offers a memorable excursion from the boat. This hilltop village overlooks the Rhône Valley and the Alpilles. Explore its narrow streets and enjoy a panoramic view of Provence.
The Camargue is a unique nature stopover. You can observe white horses, black bulls, and pink flamingos in their natural habitat. The landscapes of this nature reserve contrast with the historic towns along the route.
Lyon is often the starting or ending point of your river cruise. Discovering its traboules, Renaissance neighborhoods, and gastronomy perfectly complements the trip. The Rhône Valley reveals its vineyards and villages as you sail along.
How to book a river cruise in Provence?
You can book your river cruise directly on the companies' websites. CroisiEurope offers an online booking system with real-time availability. La Compagnie des Grands Bateaux accepts reservations by phone or via its website.
Prices vary depending on the duration and type of cabin chosen. A 3-day cruise on the Rhône starts at €579 per person. Six- to eight-day itineraries range from €2,000 to €4,000 depending on the boat and the period.
The offer generally includes full board on board. You must check cabin availability for your departure dates. Some companies offer weekly departures from Lyon or Avignon depending on the season.
Reservations must be made several months in advance for periods of high demand. The main stops remain the same but may vary depending on navigation conditions. You will receive your confirmation with details of the itinerary and boarding times.
What activities are available on board the boats?
Your river cruise will be punctuated by lively evenings. The crew organizes a welcome cocktail on the first evening and a gala evening at the end of the trip. A professional crew provides service and daily entertainment.
The buffet lunch on board offers a variety of regional cuisine. Dinner is served at your table with plate service and food and wine pairings. You can enjoy musical performances and themed entertainment on certain evenings.
Activities vary depending on the company and the boat. You can attend lectures on Provençal history and culture. Wine tastings and local produce enrich the gastronomic experience.
Night sailing allows you to rest in your cabin. Free time on board lets you enjoy the outdoor decks and common areas. Some boats have a swimming pool, fitness room, and massage parlor.
Optional excursions complement the included program. You choose your activities according to your interests at each port of call.
What are the reviews of these river cruises in Provence?
Reviews of river cruises in Provence are generally very positive. CroisiEurope customers highlight the quality of service and the excellent meals. Returning on board after each excursion is a comfortable and welcoming experience.
The overall experience receives rave reviews from satisfied passengers. Travelers particularly appreciate the flawless organization of stopovers and visits. The quality of service on board is one of the most frequently cited points.
Cruises on the Rhône receive high marks for their friendly atmosphere. Customers note the professionalism and helpfulness of the crew. Cruises in the Camargue enchant with the diversity of the landscapes discovered.
Cruises in Provence appeal to travelers seeking culture and gastronomy. Reviews regularly mention the richness of the itineraries and the beauty of the sites visited. The all-inclusive package simplifies the trip and allows you to enjoy every moment to the fullest.
How long do the cruises last?
River cruises in Provence last from 3 to 8 days depending on the itinerary chosen. A short 3-day cruise takes you from Lyon to Avignon with a few stops along the way. Six-day tours are the most common length of time for exploring the region.
The 8-day cruises on the Rhône offer the most comprehensive itinerary. You will sail from Lyon to Martigues via Avignon, Arles, and the Camargue. The sailing time alternates with stops to balance the trip.
Each day usually includes a stopover in a town or natural site. Departures are mainly from Lyon, heading south. Some tours also offer the reverse route, boarding in Martigues.
The length of your trip determines the number of stops and visits possible. A week-long cruise gives you plenty of time to explore each place. Shorter tours focus on the major sites of the Rhône Valley.
What types of boats are available?
The boats of Provence sail on the Rhône with different levels of comfort. The Compagnie des Grands Bateaux operates the Mireio, the largest restaurant boat in southeastern France. This 50-meter ship can accommodate up to 230 passengers for cruises departing from Avignon.
CroisiEurope offers 4-anchor boats for its multi-day river cruises. These ships have cabins with river views and furnished outdoor decks. The large boat offers all the comforts of a floating hotel with a panoramic restaurant.
The Amadeus Provence represents luxury cruising on the Rhône. This 110-meter cruise ship accommodates 140 passengers in 62 cabins and 8 suites. The ship has a swimming pool on the sun deck, a fitness room, and a massage parlor.
The 4-anchor boats guarantee quality service with a professional crew. Each river cruise takes place on recent, well-equipped ships. The exterior cabins have large windows or balconies depending on the category chosen.
We hope this article has inspired you to take a cruise on the rivers of our beautiful Provence region. We wish you a wonderful vacation!
