Magical Paris & Festive Seine River Cruise - MS Jane Austen
Magical Paris & Festive Seine River Cruise - MS Jane Austen
$1749
Tour Overview
Embark on the "Magical Paris & Festive Seine River Cruise" aboard the MS Jane Austen for an enchanting journey through France's cultural and festive highlights. Begin your adventure in Paris, exploring the grandeur of Vaux-le-Vicomte, adorned with breathtaking Christmas displays. Sail to Vernon for a tour of Bizy Castle, known as "Little Norman Versailles," and enjoy an immersive tasting of Normandy's finest ciders. Marvel at the masterpieces in Chantilly Castle, transformed into a Christmas wonderland, and explore the Living Museum of the Horse. Delight in a walking tour of Paris, soaking in the festive atmosphere of its iconic streets and Christmas markets. With all-inclusive amenities, expert guides, and a special Chef's Dinner, this cruise offers a luxurious and festive experience, perfect for celebrating the holiday season in style. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
DAY 1
Location: Paris
Accommodation Name: MS Jane Austen
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrival in Paris
DAY 2
Location: Vernon
Accommodation Name: MS Jane Austen
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Vernon & Bizy Castle - As you enjoy breakfast, the landscape passes by serenely, and you quickly get used to this luxurious sightseeing experience. Rounding a sweeping bend typical of the Seine, villages slip by, and birds glide down from the surrounding cliffs. It's an ideal opportunity to join new friends for a chat or squeeze in a spot of reading in the lounge with a cosy cup of tea.
This remarkable château, built in 1740, has evidently drawn inspiration from the grandeur of Versailles and is lovingly referred to as "Little Norman Versailles." It has served as a residence for pivotal figures in French history, including the Dukes of Belle-Isle and Penthièvre, the last King of the French, Louis-Philippe, and Joseph-Napoléon Bonaparte, the elder brother of Napoleon.
In small groups, we'll enjoy a tour of the castle's salons, adorned with homely Christmas decorations, as well as carved wood panelling and souvenirs from the Bonaparte Family that offer a glimpse into life as the owner of this historic château.
We'll taste the magic of Normandy as we discover the 750 diverse apple varieties that thrive in this region, ideal for crafting exceptional cider. Our interactive tasting experience celebrates the artistry of local producers, teaches us more about their meticulous production and the prestigious Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée that honours their quality.
As we travel back to our ship, you’ll enjoy an orientation tour of Vernon, introducing you to the town before time at leisure to relax on the ship or explore.
After dinner this evening, join us for an organ recital in the atmospheric Vernon Cathedral. Built between the 11th and 16th centuries, the cathedral is considered one of the most beautiful examples of medieval architecture in France. Bask in its unique blend of architectural styles - Romanesque, Gothic - and let the lovely organ music wash over you as the talented musicians delight us with a mix of Christmas and choral music.
Please note: on some departures, days 2 and 4 will be swapped around.
DAY 3
Location: Chantilly, Paris
Accommodation Name: MS Jane Austen
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Conflans & Chantilly Castle - This morning, we'll visit the home of Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Aumale, son of the last King of France, Louis-Philippe. Chantilly is truly a remarkable gem within the rich tapestry of France's cultural heritage, celebrated for its exquisite beauty and historical significance. The prince was the greatest collector of his time and under his stewardship, he made Chantilly the showcase for his vast array of masterpieces and invaluable manuscripts. We'll marvel at the intricate artwork and literary treasures that reflect the artistic brilliance of the time, each piece telling its own unique story.
During the Christmas season, Chantilly transforms into a magical wonderland, enchanting all who visit. The estate is adorned with twinkling lights that illuminate the grounds, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Tasteful Christmas decorations enhance the elegance of the surroundings.
The surrounding parkland hosts the Grandes Écuries (Great Stables) - a magnificent palace for horses - where the Living Museum of the Horse invites you to explore the profound bond between humans and horses throughout history.
Returning to our ship for lunch, we’ll spend the afternoon sailing back towards Paris. This is the perfect opportunity to make the most of the ship’s facilities. You could head to the sun deck for a warming mug of mulled wine as we watch the sights of Paris, like the Eiffel Tower, glide into view.
This evening, we'll enjoy a culinary highlight of the trip, our special Chef's Dinner. The chef serves up his signature dishes, influenced by many flavours of France. Tonight, we remain moored in Paris.
DAY 4
Location: Vaux-le-Vicomte, Paris
Accommodation Name: MS Jane Austen
Meals Included: Lunch
Paris - Built for Nicolas Fouquet, Louis XIV’s Superintendent of Finance, Vaux-le-Vicomte is one of the largest châteaux in France and was a source of inspiration for the Château de Versailles. Its grandeur is the result of the collaboration of some of the most renowned artists of the 17th century: architect Louis Le Vau, decorator Charles Le Brun, and gardener André Le Nôtre. Although it was built to honour the king, the château was so magnificent that when King Louis XIV saw it, he suspected that Fouquet must have been stealing from the treasury. Fouquet enjoyed only three weeks in his splendid residence before he was arrested and ultimately exiled.
A testament to Le Vau’s genius (and Fouquet’s wealth) the palace captivates visitors right from the front steps by the delicacy of its façade, with a pediment sculpted with squirrels – Fouquet’s emblem - and the sweeping views of the gardens. Inside, is one of the great 17th-century abodes with perfectly preserved panelling, paintings and sculptures ornamenting the rooms.
At Christmas, it's another world. The chateau is adorned not just with lights but with breathtaking displays in every room, even the stables. Each fireplace crackles warmly, wrapping the space in a cosy embrace. The gardens sparkle with illumination, and the estate buzzes with joyful activities, culminating in a mesmerising projection light show on the chateau's facade. The only thing they can't control is whether it snows! Each year, the castle chooses a different theme, ensuring a completely new experience every year. It's the place to go in Paris at Christmas time and you’ll have the morning to enjoy a self-guided tour.
This afternoon, after a late lunch on board, we'll head back to Paris for a walking tour through its iconic streets admiring the yuletide decorations along Paris’ grand boulevards. Accompanied by a local guide, we'll take a look at some of the city's sights while hearing more about the daily life of an average Parisian. Our tour ends at the Christmas markets, where you can sip hot mulled wine, snack on roasted chestnuts and sample delicious sausages, cheese and chocolates as you browse the beautiful displays of arts and crafts, decorations, fine wines and other gifts.
Paris is everything you imagine it to be – romantic, inspiring, vibrant and, at this time of year, festive. It's a fitting finale to our French river cruise.
Please note: on some departures, days 2 and 4 will be swapped around
Personalise your holiday -
Bateaux Parisien sightseeing cruise
Price: £17pp
Duration: 1 hour
This evening, you could choose to join us for a sightseeing tour along the Seine to discover why they call Paris the City of Lights. Every bend of the Seine, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site, reveals a new view of the city's thousand-year-old history. Equipped with an audio guide in English, you'll be taken on a journey through the stories and anecdotes that have shaped the French capital and see the city's magnificent sites, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Musée d'Orsay and more, light up the skies.
Please contact us for more information and to add the above experience to your booking before departure.
DAY 5
Location: Paris
Meals Included: Breakfast
Return home
Ship Details
MS Jane Austen

Ship Overview
Launched in 2015 and built to the most exacting standards, the MS Jane Austen is truly one of the finest ships of its type afloat anywhere in the world.
Every single aspect of the MS Jane Austen is designed to the highest possible specification and our own exacting standards to bring you the very best and most enjoyable river cruising experience, in the most luxurious comfort. We have worked tirelessly with our Swiss partner, Scylla AG, one of the world’s most experienced luxury river ship builders with a pedigree stretching back over 50 years, to design the perfect vessel, with virtually no expense spared.
Ship Details
Ship Name:
MS Jane Austen
Adults Only Areas:
adults only
Ship Children Facilities:
none
Ship Nursery:
none
Smoking Areas:
some
Ship Size:
boutique
Ship Style:
luxury
Ship Type:
river
Ship Currency:
EUR
Ship Language:
en
Ship Capacity:
140
Ship Crew Count:
36
Number of Decks:
3
Number of Cabins:
74
Ship Launch Year:
2015
Ship Length (Meters):
110 M
Ship Width (Meters):
12 M
Deck Plans
Diamond Deck
BarPanorama Lounge & BarDeluxe SuitesSuperior SuitesSuperior Stern SuitesDiamond Deck Cabins
Emerald Deck
Wellness CentreSuperior SuitesEmerald Deck Cabins
Ruby Deck
RestaurantKitchenSuitesRuby Deck Cabins
Sun Deck
Viewing AreaOutdoor Chairs/Sun LoungersDeck GamesSplash Pool
Cabins
Air conditioned cabins
Standard Cabin (Diamond and Ruby Decks) (Grade D,R)
At 15 square metres (161 square feet), your luxuriously appointed cabin is amongst the largest, most comfortable and best appointed on any European river cruise vessel - with all the high quality facilities you would expect from a top hotel, and more.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFloor to ceiling windows with French style balconyTwin beds which can be configured as doubleTea and coffee making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerLuxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryerEU plug socketsTable and chairsTelephone, radio and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridgeTurn down service
Deluxe Suite (Diamond Deck) (Grade DL)
For the ultimate in space and river cruise luxury, on the Diamond (top) deck there are four deluxe suites, at 22.5 square metres (242 square feet) a full 50% larger than a standard cabin, beautifully appointed and incredibly comfortable, plus for a final homely touch, soft cotton bathrobes and slippers. You will love them.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFloor to ceiling windows with French style balconyTwin beds which can be configured as doubleTea and coffee making facilitiesSpacious ensuite bathroom with walk-in showerLuxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryerEU plug socketsTable and chairsTelephone, radio and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridgeTurn down service
Standard Cabin (Emerald Deck) (Grade E)
At 15 square metres (161 square feet), your luxuriously appointed cabin is amongst the largest, most comfortable and best appointed on any European river cruise vessel - with all the high quality facilities you would expect from a top hotel, and more.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFixed windowTwin beds which can be configured as doubleTea and coffee making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerShampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryerEU plug socketsTable and chairsTelephone, radio and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridgeTurn down service
Superior Suite (Emerald Deck) (Grade ES)
For more space you can upgrade to a suite available on all decks, featuring the same facilities as standard cabins but being larger at 18.5 square meters (199 square feet). The extra space is purely devoted to the living area, so you really notice the difference.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFixed windowTwin beds which can be configured as doubleTea and coffee making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerLuxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryerEU plug socketsTable and chairsTelephone, radio and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridgeTurn down service
Superior Stern Suite (Diamond Deck) (Grade DDSS)
For more space you can upgrade to a suite available on all decks, featuring the same facilities as standard cabins but being larger at 18.5 square meters (199 square feet). The extra space is purely devoted to the living area, so you really notice the difference.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFloor to ceiling windows with French style balconyTwin beds which can be configured as doubleTea and coffee making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerLuxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryerEU plug socketsTable and chairsTelephone, radio and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridgeTurn down service
Superior Suite (Diamond and Ruby Decks) (Grade DS,RS)
For more space you can upgrade to a suite available on all decks, featuring the same facilities as standard cabins but being larger at 18.5 square meters (199 square feet). The extra space is purely devoted to the living area, so you really notice the difference.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFloor to ceiling windows with French style balconyTwin beds which can be configured as doubleTea and coffee making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerLuxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryerEU plug socketsTable and chairsTelephone, radio and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridgeTurn down service
Dining
The restaurant is on the Diamond Deck serving early bird breakfast, light lunch and dinner (to be reserved on board subject to availability)
Main Restaurant - on the Ruby Deck serving buffet breakfast, buffet lunch and dinner
Lido Bar & Restaurant
Found on the Diamond Deck, the Lido Bar & Restaurant serves up early bird breakfasts, light lunches and, with onboard reservations, dinner. It's the perfect place to relax and while away an hour or two in comfort and take in the sights and sounds of some of Europe's finest rivers.
Main Restaurant
On the Ruby Deck is the main restaurant. Here, against a breath-taking scenic backdrop through the magnificent tinted panoramic windows, the chefs will amaze you with fine dining of the highest order, using freshly prepared seasonal produce to create the very best of European cuisine. The sumptuous breakfast buffet, with omelettes and fresh eggs prepared to order, ensures a great start to the day and at lunchtime the salad and dessert buffet allows you to opt for something lighter, or choose a hearty lunch from the pasta station or the à la carte soup and main courses – just as you desire. A four-course dinner is excellently executed with silver service, whilst our ‘open seating’ policy ensures a relaxed dining experience which you will always look forward to. (complimentary)
Entertainment
The Sun Deck is the hub for entertainment onboard. The forward viewing area is perfect for watching the historic riverside villages, steep vine-clad valley sides and other scenic wonders glide serenely by. It’s well equipped with plenty of comfortable outdoor chairs and sun-loungers, deck games including shuffleboard and giant chess, a small splash pool where you can cool off, and a full bar service. Sometimes barbecues are held here too, weather dependent of course – a great way to meet new people over a glass of wine.
Observation Lounge and Bar
On the Diamond Deck is the magnificent panoramic observation lounge, the heart of the ship with wonderful views through floor to ceiling windows of the ever-changing landscape as you move along the river. This is where the ships superb design really is so evident. You’ll love the quality feel, the genteel ambience, the rich carpeting, the marble-tiled bar and the choice of sumptuous leather armchairs and soft modern settees. What could be better than to lose yourself in conversation with like-minded new friends, sip a coffee, perhaps play chess or bridge, or just relax whilst admiring the incredible scenery? And after a delicious dinner, appreciate our pianist, a gentle dance on the purpose-designed dance floor, or just enjoy a quiet read in the peaceful La Brasserie at the rear of the ship, ideal to while away an hour on a comfortable terrace absorbing the sights and sounds of Europe’s great rivers.
Panorama Lounge and Bar
After a delicious dinner, appreciate our pianist, a gentle dance on the purpose-designed dance floor, or just enjoy a quiet read in the peaceful Lido Bar at the rear of the ship, ideal to while away an hour on a comfortable terrace absorbing the sights and sounds of Europe’s great rivers.
Enrichment
Excursions
On our river cruises we love to take you right into the heart of each town or city you visit along the way, and during your cruise local guides will offer a variety of guided walking tours, panoramic coach tours and/or visits to museums and local cultural favourites such as a wine tasting in Burgundy and a train journey through the Swiss mountains. You will have a good mix of touring and free time to learn about the history and the little quirks of each place, with plenty of time to explore at your own leisure. Please check the itinerary of the cruise for more specific details.
Excursions and activities
A daily programme is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening, detailing the following day’s activities.On our river cruises we love to take you right into the heart of each town or city you visit along the way, and during your cruise local guides will offer a variety of guided walking tours, panoramic coach tours and/or visits to museums and local cultural favourites such as a wine tasting in Burgundy and a train journey through the Swiss mountains.You will have a good mix of touring and free time to learn about the history and the little quirks of each place, with plenty of time to explore at your own leisure. Please check the itinerary of the cruise for more specific details.Optional excursionsVisits to places of interest are organised for most of the days of your holiday, but it it is not compulsory that you go on all the included experiences that have been arranged.Please note: entrance fees to museums are not usually included in the price of your holiday.
Tours and Excursions
Riviera Travel cruise on the majestic Rhine and Danube - Europe’s essential arteries studded by atmospheric cities like Koblenz and Vienna. Standing guard, guests will see astonishing ‘fairytale’ castles whilst learning about mystical legends, historic strife and triumph. Plus there is the magical, meandering Moselle with its impossibly steep riverside vineyards and the lesser known, yet equally beautiful River Main, twisting through Germany’s rural heart. The Elbe, meandering though ‘Saxon Switzerland’, connects historic Berlin and baroque Dresden. In France, the Rhone flows majestically from almost the Burgundy vineyards to Avignon and Van Gogh’s Arles, in the heart of sun-kissed Provence. Finally there is the Seine, from iconic Paris through countryside beloved by impressionist painters to medieval Rouen and historic Bayeux. Guests will see it all.
Kids and Teens
Please note: MS Jane Austen does not provide facilities to accommodate Kids/Teens.
Health & Fitness
Wellness area with sauna and steam room
Wellness Area
The Emerald Deck boasts a very special feature of the Jane Austen - its purpose-designed and extensive spa and wellness area You can reserve the spa for your private use to take a sauna or use the steam room, or perhaps visit the on-board hairdresser (small additional fee).Please note: The Emerald Deck is only accessible by stairs.
Gratuities
Giving a gratuity is entirely at your discretion, so we have not included these in your holiday cost, and we don't add it as a set percentage.
If you would like to tip the staff, a good guideline is to give €8-12 per person per day should you feel that is appropriate.
If you do choose to give a gratuity, there will usually be an envelope is left in your cabin on the final evening. This is for you to be able include any tips, and you can then drop it off at reception the following morning. The tips are divided equally between the crew.
Should you also wish to give a gratuity directly to your Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge, this is also at your discretion.
Useful Information
Age Restrictions
The minimum age limit is 12 years old at the date of departure. We reserve the right to limit the number of children on any particular cruise. Any minor must be accompanied by and share a cabin with an adult aged 21 or over. If the adult is not the minor’s parent, a ‘Parental Consent Guardianship Form’ must be signed by a parent or legal guardian prior to sailing.
Air Conditioning
Our ships are fully air-conditioned throughout. Each cabin has individual air-conditioning and heating controls.
Children
The minimum age limit is 12 years old at the date of departure.We reserve the right to limit the number of children on any particular cruise.Any minor must be accompanied by and share a cabin with an adult aged 21 or over.If the adult is not the minor’s parent, a ‘Parental Consent Guardianship Form’ must be signed by a parent or legal guardian prior to sailing.
Dietary Requirements
We cater for most dietary requirements, please ensure you advise our sales team when making the booking.
Disabled Facilities
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us or call us on 01283 688 518 to discuss these concerns.MooringDue to the popularity of river cruising at some mooring places, or where our ship is moored alongside another vessel, access to the ship may be via the sun deck and require the navigation of steps so passengers must be able to walk on and off the ship themselves, without the use of crutches or other aids, as gangplanks can be positioned at a steep angle.On boardOur ships are not adapted for wheelchair access; if you are intending to take a wheelchair or mobility scooter with you, it is essential that you please contact us to let us know. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be used on excursions however cannot be used on board the ships due to safety reasons and must not be left in corridors, the lounge or restaurant or any other public areas, but must be stored at reception.River cruises operate with a smaller crew than ocean cruises and do not have the crew available to personally attend to passengers with reduced mobility; therefore, a travelling companion would need to be able to help with any physical needs.Whilst most of our ships have a lift on board, it does not operate to all decks.River cruising on European rivers offers the opportunity to take in the scenery from the comfort of the ship. If you are unable to do some of the shore excursions, your river cruise can still be enjoyable and worthwhile, so please contact us with any concerns or questions you may have.Shore ExcursionsFor our river cruises which include an extension and feature a hotel stay, the hotels we use have been chosen due to their location and standard, the facilities offered can differ, it is therefore important that we make the appropriate enquiries with our suppliers on your behalf to ensure any special needs or requests can be catered for.AccommodationFor our river cruises which include an extension and feature a hotel stay, the hotels we use have been chosen due to their location and standard, the facilities offered can differ, it is therefore important that we make the appropriate enquiries with our suppliers on your behalf to ensure any special needs or requests can be catered for.Overseas Transport ArrangementsAll of our tours involve coach travel. The coaches we use have not been adapted for wheelchair access.Air TravelWe are able to arrange airport assistance, from the check-in desk to the plane, for anyone with reduced mobility. This is a free service which must be arranged with the airline prior to travel. If you would like us to arrange this assistance for you it needs to be pre-booked more than 48 hours before your flight departs.EurostarIf you have reduced mobility and are travelling by Eurostar to your cruise, please contact us. Should you need to travel in your own wheelchair, Eurostar does have specially adapted wheelchair spaces which need to be pre-booked. If you would like assistance at St. Pancras, we can provide you with information and contact details for Eurostar Assist, although we cannot reserve this service for you directly.
Dress Code
There is no requirement to bring formal dress - smart/casual is acceptable for both day and evening as there is no dress code enforced.However, men are requested not to wear shorts for dinner or vest tops at any time in the dining room. You may wish to wear a jacket and tie for dinner.The Chef's Dinner offers the opportunity, should you wish, for more special attire.
Drinks Packages
We have a drinks package included for all European river cruises in 2024, 2025 and 2026.Superior Drinks PackageFor all 2024 and 2025 European river cruises:Over lunch in our restaurants enjoy unlimited drinks from a choice of:Red, white, rosé and sparkling house wine, including non-alcoholicDraught beer, including non-alcoholicA selection of soft drinks and juicesThen from 6 pm until midnight in our bar and restaurants, enjoy all of the above, plus unlimited drinks from a choice of:Our cocktail and mocktail of the dayHouse spirits and mixers (including gin, vodka, rum and whisky)A recommended regional wine during dinnerMartini & Sherry pre-dinnerPort & Brandy after dinnerAll-inclusive drinks packageAvailable on 2026 European river cruise departuresAvailable from 10am to midnight each day:Red, white, rosé and sparkling house wine, including non-alcoholic?A choice of draught beer, including non-alcoholic?A selection of soft drinks and juices??Our cocktail and mocktail of the day?House spirits and mixers including vodka, gin, rum, whisky, martini, sherry, brandy, port and Baileys (excluding liqueurs)Daily recommended wines ?Tea and coffee from the bar
Laundry Service
A limited laundry service is available on board, except on the day of disembarkation. A dry cleaning service is not available.
Medical Facilities
If you have any concerns about your health whilst on tour, please see your Cruise Director or Concierge. They will be able to advise you about chemists and availability of doctors, etc. In an emergency you could always phone our emergency number as issued on your itinerary. There are no on-board medical personnel, although specific crew members will have basic first aid training. However, the ship can stop at any time to transfer any passenger requiring emergency medical attention to local medical facilities.
Passengers with reduced mobility
Do the coaches have wheelchair access?The coaches we use have not been adapted for wheelchair access.Please note: all of our tours involve coach travel. Can I arrange airport assistance?We are able to arrange airport assistance for anyone with reduced mobility.This is a free service which must be arranged with the airline prior to travel.If you would like us to arrange this assistance for you, it needs to be pre-booked more than 48 hours before your flight departs.Eurostar accessibilityIf you have reduced mobility and are travelling on one of our Eurostar tours please contact us.Should you need to travel in your own wheelchair, Eurostar does have specially adapted wheelchair spaces which need to be pre-booked.If you would like assistance at St. Pancras we can make Eurostar Assist aware of this requirement, you would then need to make your way to the Eurostar Assist desk at St. Pancras at least 60 minutes prior to your departure.Are the hotels accessible?The hotels we use have been chosen due to their location and standard, the facilities offered can differ, it is therefore important that we make the appropriate enquiries with our suppliers on your behalf to ensure any special needs or requests can be catered for.How do I make a special request regarding my mobility?We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us.If you have any concerns or special requests you would like to make regarding your reduced mobility, we encourage you to contact us 01283 688 206 to discuss these concerns. Will there be lots of walking required?We include guided tours, however due to the natural terrain of the locations we visit these may be a challenge for anyone with reduced mobility.Are there any accessibility challenges on the excursions?We also sometimes use different modes of transport to complete our itinerary which includes, though not limited to: boats, trains and jeeps. These may also pose a challenge for anyone with reduced mobility.Can I take my own wheelchair with me on board?Our ships are not adapted for wheelchair access. If you are intending to take a wheelchair or mobility scooter with you, it is essential that you contact us to let us know.Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be used on excursions but they cannot be used on board the ships due to safety reasons and must not be left in corridors, the lounge or restaurant or any other public areas.They must be stored in your cabin.Will I be able to get on and off the ship with ease?Due to popularity of river cruising when there is more than one ship in port, the ships could be moored alongside each other.If our ship happens to be moored away from the landing pier disembarking could involve walking across gang planks and the sun deck of other ships.Passengers must be able to walk on and off the ship themselves, without the use of crutches or other aids, as gangplanks can be positioned at a steep angle.Will there be assistance available on board?River cruises operate with a smaller crew than ocean cruises and do not have the crew available to personally attend to passengers with reduced mobility, therefore a travelling companion would need to be able to help with any physical needs.Are there any accessibility challenges on the excursions?The itinerary we include with our river cruises involves shore excursions visiting places with cobbled streets which can be on an incline making navigation of these streets difficult for anyone with reduced mobility.If you can’t do many shore excursions, river cruising in Europe can still be very enjoyable and worthwhile. Cruising down the Rhine, Danube or any of the European rivers we offer gives you the opportunity to take in the spectacular scenery and there is a lot to enjoy from the comfort of the ship. Please contact us with any concerns you may have.Are there lifts between decks?Whilst most of our ships have a lift on board, it does not operate to all decks.We include mobility information regarding lifts between decks on each ship under the deck plan section of the page. You may wish to view all of our ships before booking.
Smoking and E-Cigarette Policy
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted anywhere on board except for designated areas on the sun deck.More and more countries in Europe are adopting a stricter legislation on smoking in public places. Smoking is not allowed on any public transport and there may be other restrictions in hotels, bars and restaurants.
Special Dietary Requirements
In the morning a full breakfast is served which includes healthy options and your choice of eggs made to order. For lunch enjoy salads from the buffet, soup and a choice of main courses, including local dishes, plus dessert. The four course a la carte dinners include a selection of international and regional specialities. We cater for most dietary requirements, please ensure you advise our sales team when making the booking.
Water level impact on itineraries
Water levels on rivers can fluctuate on a daily basis. In serious cases it is possible that the itinerary can be affected with little or no warning. Should the ship be unable to follow the planned itinerary, we will do all we can to ensure all places are visited by alternative means, usually by coach.
What's Included
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Full board during your cruise from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day
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All-Inclusive drinks package
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Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi (connection speeds may vary)
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All visits and excursions as mentioned
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Return flights or Eurostar with regional rail options
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Coach travel as mentioned
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Transfers from the airport / station to and from the port of embarkation
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English-speaking expert guides
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The services of a Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge
What's Not Included
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Optional sightseeing cruise
The Bateaux Parisien sightseeing cruise is optional and not included in the base package.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with return flights or Eurostar options, coach travel, and transfers from the airport or station to the port of embarkation, ensuring a seamless journey throughout your festive Seine River cruise.
Accommodation
Enjoy a luxurious stay aboard the MS Jane Austen, where you'll experience full board from dinner on your arrival day to breakfast on your final day, with an all-inclusive drinks package and complimentary on-board Wi-Fi.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of tasting experience is included at Bizy Castle?
At Bizy Castle, you will enjoy an interactive tasting experience that celebrates the artistry of local producers. You will learn about the 750 diverse apple varieties in Normandy, ideal for crafting exceptional cider, and the meticulous production process that honors their quality. ...more ...less
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What can I expect during the organ recital at Vernon Cathedral?
During the organ recital at Vernon Cathedral, you will bask in the unique blend of Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles while enjoying a mix of Christmas and choral music performed by talented musicians.
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What makes Chantilly Castle special during the Christmas season?
During the Christmas season, Chantilly Castle transforms into a magical wonderland with twinkling lights and tasteful Christmas decorations that enhance the elegance of the surroundings. The estate creates a warm and inviting atmosphere for visitors.
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What is unique about the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte during Christmas?
During Christmas, the Château de Vaux-le-Vicomte is adorned with breathtaking displays in every room, including the stables. The gardens sparkle with illumination, and the estate features joyful activities and a mesmerizing projection light show on the chateau's facade.
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What activities are available during the walking tour in Paris?
During the walking tour in Paris, you will admire yuletide decorations along the grand boulevards, hear about the daily life of Parisians from a local guide, and end at the Christmas markets where you can enjoy hot mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and browse arts and crafts.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For almost 40 years
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I have reduced mobility; can I still travel?
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us to discuss these concerns
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Do I require travel insurance?
It is a condition of booking that you carry suitable travel insurance.
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What is my luggage allowance?
You will receive details of your luggage allowance with your final travel documents, which are sent approximately 10 days prior to your date of departure.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Tuesday - Saturday
Dec 01, 2026 - Dec 05, 2026Saturday - Wednesday
Dec 05, 2026 - Dec 09, 2026Sunday - Thursday
Dec 13, 2026 - Dec 17, 2026Thursday - Monday
Dec 17, 2026 - Dec 21, 2026Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Riviera Travel requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 101 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of riviera travel charges.
Up to 101 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 100 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Enquire for Extra Savings
Rated 5* on Trust Pilot & ABTA Protected.
Magical Paris & Festive Seine River Cruise - MS Jane Austen
5 Days Starting and ending in Paris, France
Visiting: Paris, Vernon, Chantilly, Vaux-le-Vicomte
Tour operator:
Ship Name:
MS Jane AustenGuide Type:
Fully Guided
Ship Capacity:
140
Age range:
18-99