Floating through Provence

Exclusively for Women

• Round-trip air transportation from New York/JFK. Fuel surcharges included (valid at time of printing).
• Outside cabin accommodations for seven nights, with all onboard meals.
• Hotel accommodations for two nights in Paris, including hotel taxes and service charges.
• Services of a local host available at specific times in Paris.
• Round-trip airport to hotel/barge transfers.

• Day 1 - Depart the U.S. for France.
• Day 2 - Lyon, France: Arrive in Lyon, the former capital city of Gaul, and France's second largest city today. Transfer to the pier and board the MV Princesse de Provence; a deluxe vessel built in 1992 and refurbished in 2004. She has a light and airy ambiance and is distinguished by staterooms on her upper deck that have full-length French doors that open into your cabin (cabins on the lower deck have large windows). Original works of art can be found throughout the vessel. She has a total of 70 cabins, all of which are outside, configured as twins and identical in size. Each is beautifully appointed and features built-in closets, desk, shower and toilet, telephone and three-channel radio. Bedding is a European-style duvet with feather pillows and eiderdowns (synthetic materials available upon request). No smoking is allowed in the cabin or corridors. (Dinner)
• Day 3 - Tornus and Chalon Sur Saone: Arrive this morning in Tournus, situated in the Southern Burgundy region, where you have the opportunity to explore several fine examples of Romanesque and Renaissance architecture. This afternoon the ship stops in Chalon-sur-Saone, your departure point for an optional excursion to the medieval town of Beaune. Surrounded by thriving vineyards, Beaune's stunning Hotel Dieu dates from the Middle Ages and was the chief residence of the Dukes of Burgundy, until the 14th century. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
• Day 4 - Macon and Trevoux: Awake this morning in the town of Macon, which marks the border between Burgundy and the Lyonnais regions. You have the option of exploring the town on your own or taking an excursion to the Cluny Abbey or the wine country of Maconnais. Enjoy lunch while cruising to Trevoux, where an afternoon excursion will introduce you to the Beaujolais Wine Country, including a visit and tasting with a local producer. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
• Day 5 - Tournon: After your arrival in Tournon, step back in time for a journey via steam powered train to the Mastrou, in the Ardeche region. Your optional excursion presents the beautiful landscapes, arched bridges and chateaux of the area. Relax in the afternoon as the ship sets sail for Arles in the region of Provence. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
• Day 6 - Arles and Avignon: Awake to the rich light and color of Provence that permeated the canvases of Van Gogh and Cézanne. Enjoy the morning at your leisure to explore the beautiful Roman town of Arles or opt for a morning tour of the Camargue nature reserve. This afternoon, your optional excursion meanders through the lovely Provencal countryside following "In the Footsteps of Vincent van Gogh." (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
• Day 7 - Avignon: Join an optional morning walking tour in Avignon, which will take you to the numerous sights including the imposing Papal Palace, or explore the charming old streets and squares on your own. You may also wish to take an optional afternoon excursion to the completely preserved Roman aqueduct bridge, the Pont du Gard, an amazing example of Roman engineering that can still convey water over 30 miles to the town on Nimes. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
• Day 8 - Vienne and Lyon: Relax and enjoy the sights this morning while you cruise to the town of Vienne. An afternoon optional excursion will take you for a visit of Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France, including the Fourviere Hill for beautiful views over the city and countryside. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
• Day 9 - Lyon/Paris: Disembark and transfer to the airport for your short flight to Paris. Arrive in Paris, the "City of Light" where you will be met by a Club ABC Tours representative and transferred to your hotel. Paris is one of the world's most romantic cities full of monuments, elegant squares, picturesque streets and grand boulevards. Famed for the Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe and Cathedral Notre-Dame, Paris and its surrounding areas feature countless other art, culture and food treasures. Breakfast is included each morning. (Breakfast)
• Day 10 - Paris: During your stay in the beautiful city of Paris, enjoy the wealth of art museums Paris has to offer. Visit the Musée du Louvre, one of the world's largest and greatest, with its many treasures including the Mona Lisa and Venus de Milo. An impressive collection of art from 1848 to 1914 is housed at the Musée d'Orsay and features many fine Impressionist paintings from the likes of Manet, Degas and Renoir. The Musée Picasso offers an unparallel collection of Picasso to view. You can also explore the many fine shops and cafes of Paris on your own. (Breakfast)
• Day 11 - Paris/U.S.: After breakfast, transfer top the airport for your return flight to the U.S. (Breakfast)

Please note: Though rare, it may be necessary to substitute hotels and adjust itineraries due to local conditions. Included features may not be available on all departures.