Art & Impressionism on the Seine
This thoughtfully organised River Cruise invites Irish holidaymakers to explore the cultural heart of France. Sailing from Paris to the coast of Normandy, this journey is designed for those who appreciate fine art, heritage, and the relaxed pace of life along the water. Over five nights, you will follow the winding curves of the river that inspired a generation of Impressionist painters, from the urban elegance of the capital to the timber-framed charm of Honfleur and the medieval history of Rouen.
Your home for this Seine River Cruise is the 5-star MS Renoir, a vessel known for its hospitable service and comfortable surroundings. The holiday is offered on a full-board basis, meaning your meals from the first dinner to the final breakfast are included. You will also enjoy a selection of drinks on board, making this a straightforward and great value choice for your next getaway. The itinerary is enriched with expert-led lectures that provide historical context to the sights you will see, covering everything from the development of Impressionism to the grand traditions of French royalty.
Key highlights include the opportunity to visit the Château de Martainville, a stunning example of Norman Renaissance architecture, and the Eugène Boudin Museum in Honfleur. For those with a taste for local flavours, a fresh oyster tasting at the port of Honfleur offers a true sense of the region’s maritime heritage. Each evening on board brings something different, from a gala dinner to a traditional Parisian cabaret show and a lively Norman theme night. Throughout the trip, you will be treated to the spectacular scenery of the Seine Valley, characterised by dramatic chalk cliffs and peaceful riverside villages. With flights from Dublin and all transfers included, this Seine River Cruise offers a seamless way to experience the very best of French art and culture in the company of fellow travellers.
Are drinks included on the ship?
Is this cruise suitable for people with limited mobility?
What is the baggage allowance for the flights?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Flight from Dublin to Paris
- 10kg check-in bag per person
- Transfer from the Airport to the River Quay
- 5 nights accommodation onboard the 5* MS Renoir based on two sharing
- Full Board basis from dinner on the first evening to breakfast on the morning of departure
- Excursions as outlined in itinerary
- Welcome Cocktail
- Drinks included
- Gala evening
- Cabaret Show
- Transfer from the River Quay to the Airport
- Flight from Paris to Dublin
Itinerary
1Arrival and Welcome in Paris+
Upon arrival in the French capital, you will be transferred to the river quay to board your ship, the MS Renoir, from 6:00 pm. This vessel serves as your floating hotel for the duration of the trip. After being welcomed by the onboard hostess and settling into your cabin, you will enjoy dinner followed by a traditional 'Titi Parisien' cabaret show to start your holiday in style.
2Art and History in Les Andelys+
The morning begins with an insightful onboard lecture focusing on art and Impressionism. You will learn about the history of the movement and the landscapes that inspired legendary artists like Monet and Renoir. In the afternoon, excursion to the 16th-century Château de Martainville, which now houses the Museum of Norman Traditions and Arts, showcasing over 15,000 works of local history.
3Honfleur Heritage and Coastal Flavours+
Spend your morning in the picturesque town of Honfleur. Excursion to the Eugène Boudin Museum, which celebrates the artists who found inspiration in this coastal region. The visit is followed by a fresh oyster tasting at the port. In the afternoon, an optional trip to the André Malraux Museum of Modern Art (MuMa) in Le Havre is available. The day concludes with a festive Norman-themed evening on board featuring local produce and traditional music.
4Honfleur to Rouen on your Seine River Cruise+
As you cruise towards Rouen, enjoy the stunning scenery of the Seine Valley, including chalky cliffs and hilltop châteaus. On board, you can participate in a fun interactive game focused on the Impressionist masters. In the afternoon, we visit to the Rouen Museum of Fine Arts allows you to see prestigious collections from the Middle Ages to the modern era. The evening features a formal Gala event on board as the ship sails back toward Paris.
5Parisian Splendour and Royal History+
Morning activities include an onboard lecture regarding French royalty and its lasting legacy on national culture. In the afternoon, a guided tour takes you to the Petit Palais, an architectural landmark created for the 1900 World’s Fair which now houses the Museum of Fine Arts of the City of Paris. Your final night on board is celebrated with a 'Winter Guinguette' dance evening, recreating the atmosphere of traditional Parisian riverside festivities.
6Homeward Bound from Paris+
After a final buffet breakfast on the ship, it is time to disembark. You will be transferred from the quay to the airport for your return flight to Dublin, bringing your artistic journey through Normandy to a close.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 16 Feb 2027 | Main Deck | €1,339 | Enquire Now |
| 16 Feb 2027 | Upper Deck | €1,539 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: CR
