South of France: All-Inclusive Riverside Luxury Cruise with Butler Service, Excursions & Free FULL-SERVICE International Flights
Setting the standard in riverside cruising, Riverside Luxury Cruises has paired with Luxury Escapes to bring you an exclusive, seven-night voyage that unlocks the awe-inspiring beauty of southern France in opulence beyond your wildest dreams. Sailing onboard the resplendent Riverside Ravel from either Arles or Chalon-sur-Saone, you will experience the majesty of the Rhone in all-inclusive luxury. Be spoilt for choice with carefully curated excursions, tours and tastings – from Arles’ artistic offerings and the medieval architecture of Avignon to gastronomic Lyon and the timbered facades of Chalon-sur-Saone.
Prepare to be spoiled aboard the elegant Riverside Ravel, where every detail from gilt accents to jewelled chandeliers has been designed to provide a world-class cruising experience. Indulge with daily all-inclusive drinks and dining, including premium spirits and a choice of fine wines exclusive to Luxury Escapes guests. Savour exquisite gourmet cuisine inspired by the flavours of the regions the ship traverses, and enjoy the services of a dedicated crew, including personal butler service. Onboard, an impressive spa awaits, where you can transcend into bliss before plunging into the glittering pool and ascending to the sun-drenched decks to take in the passing scenery. Plus, enjoy free international flights* from select Australian cities.
Discover Europe’s finest in all-inclusive decadence like never before. Whether savouring a hearty boeuf bourguignon of the flaky crust of tarte tatin, cocooned in Waterside Restaurant’s royal blue velvet armchairs, or toasting sunsest views with a French 75 at Vista Upper Deck’s open-air bar, rest assured the only finger you’ll ever raise is for the next round.
Take in Provence during a journey to the majestic city of Nimes, or you might prefer to visit a traditional Camargue horse ranch or the beachside community of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer instead. As you pause in Vivers, you have the chance to sniff your way around a working truffle farm, embark on a wine cave adventure and tasting or head to th National Nature Reserve of the Ardeche Gorges for a day of hiking and kayaking. With your choice of curated excursions offered in every port – and personal butler service to prepare you for each day ahead – Riverside Luxury Cruises ensures you’ll love roaming along the Rhone.
Free FULL-SERVICE International Flights: Roundtrip economy-class airfares are included in your package, departing from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane or Perth to Europe with Emirates, Qatar, Etihad Airways, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Qantas or similar. Our expert team will contact you post-booking to organise flights and any additions to your perfect itinerary.
Your cruise includes:
- Passage on a seven-night all-inclusive cruise aboard Riverside Ravel
- Free FULL-SERVICE return international flights from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane or Perth with Emirates, Qatar, Etihad Airways, Cathay Pacific, Singapore Airlines, Qantas or similar
- 20 meals included – Seven breakfasts, six lunches and seven dinners
- All-inclusive dine-around access to four white-glove service restaurants, with menus inspired by regional produce
- Daily afternoon tea, plus unlimited cakes, waffles and ice cream
- All-inclusive premium drinks package including premium wines, spirits and Taittinger champagne
- 24-hour butler service with complimentary in-suite dining and minibar (replenished twice daily) to ensure your cruising experience is a breeze
- Your choice of handpicked off-shore excursions in each port
- All port taxes, service charges and onboard entertainment
- Roundtrip airport transfers to and from the cruise ship
- Gratuities for onboard personnel
Dining & bars
- Bistro
- Vista Upper Deck
- Waterside Restaurant
- Vintage Room
- Coffee and tea station
Entertainment
- Fitness centre
- Counter-current pool
- Jacuzzi
- Spa
- Bicycles
- Jogging track
- Finnish sauna
- Steam bath
- Salon
- Library
Other services
- Butler service
- Laundry service
- Elevator
- Wi-Fi
Surcharges may apply to select facilities and services
Southbound and northbound cruise packages are available. Please choose your packages carefully.
Northbound: Your cruise begins in Arles and ends in Chalon-sur-Saone, with roundtrip airport transfers.
Southbound: Your cruise begins in Chalon-sur-Saone and ends in Arles, with roundtrip airport transfers.
For northbound departures, your cruise boards in Arles at 12pm on Day 1, departs on Day 2, and docks in Chalon-sur-Saone at 8am on Day 8. For southbound departures, your cruise boards in Chalon-sur-Saone at 12pm on Day 1, departs at 5.30pm, and docks in Arles at 11am on Day 8. Please ensure you arrive to your departure port in time for boarding.
Return international economy-class flights from Melbourne, Sydney, Brisbane and Perth are included in your package. Surcharges to depart from other cities will apply. Please see the Fine Print for more details.
A transfer from either Marseille Airport (MRS) or Lyon-Saint Exupery Airport (LYS) to the ship is included on the first day only. A transfer from the ship to either Marseille Airport (MRS) or Lyon-Saint Exupery Airport (LYS) is included on the last day only. Please ensure your flights arrive in time for embarkation.
A visa may be required for the destination you are visiting. It is each traveller’s responsibility to ensure they are holding a current visa. Please take the time to visit our preferred vendor website Visas Direct to assist you with any visa application requirements and processes. If you require any supporting documentation when applying for your visa, please let us know and we would be more than happy to assist. Click here to visit the website.
Need flights? Our dedicated flights concierge can assist with all your flight requirements (subject to availability). Contact sales@luxuryescapes.com.
NORTHBOUND
Day 1: Arles
Enjoy a comfortable flight from Australia before touching down in Arles, a historic and artistic hub renowned for its rich cultural heritage, Provencal architecture and vibrant arts scene. Upon arrival at Marseille Provence Airport (MRS), you will be greeted by a Riverside Luxury Cruises representative and transferred to the ship, where you will embark and settle into your cabin before ascending to the Vista deck to admire the remarkable Rhone River. Enjoy the rest of the day familiarising yourself with the opulent Riverside Ravel, before enjoying a gourmet meal and settling in for your first restful night on board.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 2: Arles – Avignon
Following a sumptuous breakfast, venture ashore to this pearl of Provence, where you’ll indulge in the magic of art, history and culture. Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and experience the city’s enchanting beauty, as you follow in the footsteps of the legendary Vincent van Gogh. Arles boasts a rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture, with many landmarks recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Roman Amphitheatre and the Arles Amphitheatre.
Marvel at the grandeur of the historic buildings and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and artistic heritage or opt for a more active adventure with a visit to one of the picturesque national parks that surround this divine city. Return to the ship to sail towards Avignon where you will dock overnight. Optional excursions include guided walking tours, a journey to the majestic city of Nimes, discovering the Perle de Camargue organic producer, experiencing a traditional Camargue ranch or visiting the Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer commune.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 3: Avignon
Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast onboard, before venturing ashore for a full day at leisure in Avignon. Start your day by exploring the stunning Palais des Papes, the largest medieval Gothic palace in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you wander through the vast halls and grand rooms, you’ll be transported back to the 14th century and the time when Avignon was the seat of the Catholic Church.
Visit the famed Pont Saint-Benezet and Sur le Pont d’Avignon bridges to uncover their fascinating history, including the legendary dance and the tragic fate of its builder, before continuing your exploration along the cobblestone lanes of the historic town centre. Enjoy a leisurely lunch or local tipple in the charming Place de l’Horloge, the main square of Avignon, before ending your day at the Jardin des Doms, a beautiful garden offering stunning views of the Rhone River and surrounding countryside.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 4: Roquemore – Viviers
Relax on board today as you take in the tranquil scenery of the Roquemore as you glide north towards Viviers. Nestled in the heart of the Rhone Valley, this enchanting town is a hidden gem just waiting to be discovered. A stroll through the charming cobblestone streets will transport you back in time to the medieval era, as you discover historic churches, elegant mansions and hidden squares. Be sure to visit the stunning Cathedral of St. Vincent, a masterpiece of Romanesque and Gothic architecture that dates to the 12th century.
As you explore the town’s fascinating history and cultural heritage, you’ll be enchanted by the warm hospitality and charming atmosphere of this captivating destination. Today’s optional excursion includes a visit to a truffle farm and architectural gem, Chateau de Grignan or a hike or kayak through the National Nature Reserve of the Ardeche Gorges. Alternatively, you may choose to be beguiled by the intense scent of lavender in Drome Provencale, enjoy a wine cave adventure in Saint-Marcel-d’Ardeche visit the Chauvet Cave or take part in various pottery, bakery and petanque workshops.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 5: Tournon-sur-Rhone – Chavenay – Vienne
Located on the banks of the Rhone River, Tournon-sur-Rhone is a quaint and charming French town that boasts a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the town’s history and tradition as you discover the imposing Chateau de Tournon, a medieval fortress that has stood watch over the town for centuries.
Explore the winding streets and hidden alleys of the old town, where you’ll discover Renaissance architecture and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and vineyards. This afternoon you will glide past the postcard-worthy town of Chavenay before arriving in Vienne, where you will have the remainder of the day to explore at leisure.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 6: Lyon
Arrive in Lyon today, the gastronomic capital of France – defined by its beauty and rich cultural heritage. Explore the winding streets and hidden alleyways of the cobbled old town, where you’ll discover stunning Renaissance architecture, charming cafes and artisanal boutiques. Take in the breathtaking views from the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourviere — a magnificent hilltop church that overlooks the city or visit the Gallo-Roman Museum, a unique Roman amphitheatre that chronicles five centuries of the city’s history. Make time to wander along the banks of the Saone River and sample local cuisine at one of Lyon’s renowned Bouchon before re-boarding your luxurious vessel.
Optional groups excursions include an old town walking tour, cooking and pastry-making classes, a day trip to Perouges (which will catapult you back to the Middles Ages), a visit to the medieval town of Val d’Oingt, vegan food walk, e-biking tour or experience at the magical Cirque Imagine.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 7: Lyon – Macon – Chalon-sur-Saone
A new day brings new experiences as you bid farewell to Lyon en route to Macon. Following a fulfilling breakfast, glide into the idyllic town of Macon, steeped in history and tradition. Resting on the western bank of the Saone, Macon is classically quaint, with charming squares, colourful facades and round-tiled roofs, all framed by farmland and crisscrossed by biking and hiking paths.
An important part of the trade route, Macon boasts a prosperous 2000-year history that is begging to be explored. Join an expert local guide to the historic centre and discover the surprising wooden 16th-century house, the impressive Gothic towers of the Old Saint-Vincent Cathedral and the Louis XV-era apothecary shop at the Hotel-Dieu. If time allows, visit the 17th-century Chateau de Cormatin featuring lavishly gilded rooms, extensive gardens and a moat.
This afternoon, continue to Chalon-sur-Saone, characterised by its half-timbered facades and Art Nouveau style. Take a guided tour to Beaune in the heart of the Burgundy wine region for a tasting or follow in the footsteps of Julius Caesar, who left his mark in this pretty town before returning to the marvellous Riverside Ravel for your final evening onboard.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 8: Chalon-sur-Saone
It’s time to say farewell to France. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight back to Australia.
Meals: Breakfast
SOUTHBOUND
Day 1: Chalon-sur-Saone – Tournus
Enjoy a comfortable flight from Australia before touching down in Chalon-sur-Saone ready for your awe-inspiring river cruise. Upon arrival at Dole Airport (DLE) you will be greeted by a Riverside Luxury Cruises representative and transferred to the ship, where you will embark and settle into your cabin. Ascend to the Vista deck to watch the beautiful scenery as you sail towards Tournus, where you will dock overnight.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 2: Tournus – Macon
After your included breakfast, make the most of your morning in Tournus. Visit the town’s historic centre, home to beautiful Romanesque and Gothic architecture, charming cafes and artisanal boutiques. You may also like to take a stroll along the riverfront and enjoy the breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and countryside. In the afternoon, you’ll sail towards Macon where you will dock for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 3: Macon – Lyon
Wake up in the idyllic town of Macon steeped in history and tradition. Resting on the western bank of the Saone, Macon is classically quaint, with charming squares, colourful facades and round-tiled roofs, all framed by farmland and crisscrossed by biking and hiking paths.
An important part of the trade route, Macon boasts a prosperous 2000-year history that is begging to be explored. Join an expert local guide to the historic centre and discover the surprising wooden 16th-century house, the impressive Gothic towers of the Old Saint-Vincent Cathedral and the Louis XV-era apothecary shop at the Hotel-Dieu. If time allows, visit the 17th-century Chateau de Cormatin featuring lavishly gilded rooms, extensive gardens and a moat.
This evening you will sail towards Lyon as you enjoy a sumptuous dinner on board.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 4: Lyon
Spend the morning at leisure exploring Macon before arriving in Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France and defined by its beauty and rich cultural heritage. Explore the winding streets and hidden alleyways of the cobbled old town, where you’ll discover stunning Renaissance architecture, charming cafes and artisanal boutiques.
Take in the breathtaking views from the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourviere – a magnificent hilltop church that overlooks the city or visit the Gallo-Roman Museum, a unique Roman amphitheatre that chronicles five centuries of the city’s history. Make time to wander along the banks of the Saone River and sample local cuisine at one of Lyon’s renowned Bouchon before re-boarding your luxurious vessel.
Optional groups excursions include an old town walking tour with a visit to the Fourviere Basilica, a cooking and pastry-making class, a day trip to Perouges – which will catapult you back to the Middles Ages – a visit to the medieval town of Oingt and the Beaujolais region, a vegan food walk, e-biking tour or experience at the magical Cirque Imagine.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 5: Tournon-sur-Rhone
Located on the banks of the Rhone River, Tournon-sur-Rhone is a quaint and charming French town that boasts a rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty. Immerse yourself in the town’s history and tradition as you discover the imposing Chateau de Tournon, a medieval fortress that has stood watch over the town for centuries. Explore the winding streets and hidden alleys of the old town, where you’ll discover Renaissance architecture and breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and vineyards.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 6: Avignon
Enjoy a sumptuous breakfast onboard, before venturing ashore for a full day at leisure in Avignon. Start your day by exploring the stunning Palais des Papes, the largest medieval Gothic palace in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. As you wander through the vast halls and grand rooms, you’ll be transported back to the 14th century and the time when Avignon was the seat of the Catholic Church.
Visit the famed Pont Saint-Benezet and Sur le Pont d’Avignon bridges to uncover their fascinating history, including the legendary dance and the tragic fate of its builder, before continuing your exploration along the cobblestone lanes of the historic town centre. Enjoy a leisurely lunch or local tipple in the charming Place de l’Horloge, the main square of Avignon, before ending your day at the Jardin des Doms, a beautiful garden offering stunning views of the Rhone River and surrounding countryside.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 7: Port Saint Louis – Arles
Sail past the scenic Port St. Louis as you enjoy a sumptuous breakfast en route to Arles, where you’ll indulge in the magic of art, history and culture. Stroll through the charming cobblestone streets and experience the city’s enchanting beauty, as you follow in the footsteps of the legendary Vincent van Gogh.
Arles boasts a rich cultural heritage and stunning architecture, with many landmarks recognised as UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Roman Amphitheater and the Arles Amphitheatre. Marvel at the grandeur of the historic buildings and immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and artistic heritage or opt for a more active adventure with a visit to one of the picturesque national parks that surround this divine city.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Riverside Ravel
Day 8: Arles
It’s time to say farewell to France. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight back to Australia.
Meals: Breakfast