France River Cruises
Glide past châteaux, vineyards and Paris itself. France’s rivers — the Seine, the Rhône and the waterways of Bordeaux — are cruised in floating comfort, with wine and cuisine to match.
A France river cruise is the elegant way to see the country: the Seine winding from Paris through Monet’s Normandy to the D-Day beaches; the Rhône & Saône carrying you through Burgundy, Lyon’s food capital and sun-drenched Provence; and the rivers of Bordeaux threading world-famous wine estates. Small ships dock in the heart of each town, with guided excursions, regional wine and French cuisine on board.
Why Cruise France’s Rivers?
Wine at the source
Burgundy, Bordeaux & Rhône vineyards.
Paris & Provence
From the Seine to sun-drenched Avignon.
Châteaux & villages
Dock in the heart of each town.
French cuisine aboard
Regional food and wine, beautifully done.
France’s Rivers
The Seine
Paris, Normandy, Rouen & the D-Day coast.
Rhône & Saône
Lyon, Burgundy, Avignon & Provence.
Bordeaux & the Garonne
Médoc, Saint-Émilion & wine country.
The Loire & more
Châteaux and the Garonne canals.
Popular France River Cruise Routes
- Seine — Paris to Normandy & the D-Day beaches
- Rhône & Saône — Lyon, Burgundy & Provence
- Bordeaux — Médoc, Saint-Émilion & the Gironde
- Christmas-market sailings on the Seine & Rhône
- Wine-themed and gourmet river cruises
Ready to plan your France river cruise?
Tell us your river, dates and cruise line and we’ll match the perfect sailing. Get up to 5 free, no-obligation quotes from a river-cruise specialist.
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France River Cruises — Frequently Asked Questions
Which French rivers can I cruise?
The Seine (Paris/Normandy), the Rhône & Saône (Lyon/Provence), and the rivers of Bordeaux (Garonne, Dordogne, Gironde) are the main routes; the Loire is cruised on smaller vessels.
When is the best time for a France river cruise?
April–October is the main season; spring and fall are mild and less crowded, and December brings festive Christmas-market sailings.
Are meals and wine included?
On most French river cruises, yes — regional cuisine and wine are typically included, with optional gourmet and wine-themed departures.
How do I get a quote?
Request up to 5 free, no-obligation quotes from a river-cruise specialist and compare rivers, ships and dates.