RHONE RIVER CRUISE
FEATURING SHOW OF HANDS, SETH LAKEMAN,
GEOFF LAKEMAN & ROB MURCH
18 - 25 JULY 2024
Join us in 2024 on this unforgettable music filled , seven-night Rhone river cruise with some of the most phenomenal acts in folk music - Show Of Hands and Seth Lakeman plus Geoff Lakeman and Rob Murch.
Show of Hands have unequivocally become one of the leading forces in British folk. Steve Knightley and Phil Beer are respectively recognised as one of the UK’s best singer songwriters and one of its finest multi-instrumentalists. They recently announced their retirement from touring and this cruise will be the last chance to see Show of Hands play together before their retirement.
Widely regarded as the UK’s foremost folk singer-songwriter, Seth Lakeman takes the established folk orthodoxy and turns it on its head. The spirit of the rock band meets the timeless and heartfelt subject matter of the folk tale in a blur of fiddle, acoustic guitar and foot-stomping rhythms, with Seth’s unmistakable vocals riding the wave.
Geoff Lakeman and Rob Murch have impressed audiences at Costa Ibiza - Billed as The “Titan of Twang” and the “Concertina Crooner”- Geoff Lakeman (patriarch of a folk dynasty as dad of Seth, Sean and Sam and father-in- law of Cara Dillon and Kathryn Roberts) teases English and Irish folk, Americana and jazz songs out of his vintage duet concertina while Rob Murch brings the wow factor to the banjo, with his unique, punchy, fingerstyle playing.
But of course there is the Rhone river cruise itself on the five-star Amadeus Provence!
Experience picturesque villages, world famous wine regions such as the Côte d'Or, unforgettable stretches of land in the regions of Provence and Burgundy, and impressive views of historic cities and monuments.
Food, wine, art, architecture, scenery and history - it all comes together in glorious harmony in the South of France.
Travelling in comfort and style the Roman emperors would have envied, you'll find yourself falling under the timeless spell of southern France on a journey that is nothing less than "magnifique"!
With a maximum of only 140 guests on board, you really don't want to miss out on this very special experience.
WHAT'S INCLUDED
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7 night cruise onboard MS Amadeus Provence
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Luxury accommodation in an outside river-view stateroom of your choice: Spacious Mozart Suites with a walk-out balcony, stateroom cabins on Mozart and Strauss Decks with drop-down Panorama Retractable Windows offering a wide-open view
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Individual climate control and in-room safe
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Choice of bed configuration in all categories (double or twin bedding)
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Bottled water in cabin
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Gourmet dining featuring breakfast, multi-course lunches and dinners with menu choices (including vegetarian options*), afternoon tea and late-night snack *
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Free-flowing hand-selected wines from the best wine regions, draft beer, soda as well as coffee and tea with every lunch and dinner
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Coffee and tea available 24 hours a day in the Amadeus Club
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Welcome Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner and Captain’s Farewell Dinner
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Services of your onboard Harmony Voyages Tour Manager and an experienced English-speaking Cruise Director
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Onboard entertainment
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In-stateroom infotainment center
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On board fitness centre
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Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout including cabins
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Complimentary use of onboard bicycles
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Complimentary state-of-the-art audio headsets for use on optional excursions
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All local taxes & port charges
*All dietary requirements can be catered for, however please do let us know in advance of your cruise
ITINERARY
THURSDAY 18 JULY - LYON
Welcome to your cruise holiday! Your Rhone river cruise begins in Lyon with afternoon embarkation. After settling into your cabin, join us in the bar for a ‘welcome cocktail and introduction from your Cruise Director & Harmony Voyages Tour Manager. After a specially prepared welcome dinner take the chance to relax in the lounge and meet your fellow sailors. We depart Lyon at 10pm
FRIDAY 19 JULY- MACON
Stay Macon 6:00 to 18:00
In the morning your ship will arrive in Mâcon, located in southern Burgundy.
This historic region has a history stretching back over 2000 years and produces some of the finest and most expensive wines in the world. Take our optional excursion to city, and perhaps visit the wine museum, dedicated to the history and production of Burgundy wines. Near the city of Macon is the Cluny Abbey, dedicated to St Peter. This afternoon offers the opportunity to visit the ‘spiritual heart of medieval Europe’. Founded in 910 by Guillaume d’Aquitaine, the abbey is comprised of three abbey churches. At its height, it was home to over 10,000 monks. We depart 18:00
SATURDAY 20 JULY - CHALON-SUR-SAON > TOURNUS
Continue to explore the wine region with a stop in the town of Chalon sur Saône. Half-timbered houses overlook the square, and it offers art galleries, speciality shops as well as a museum dedicated to photography. The morning brings the option to take a bus tour through the Burgundy Wine route with a wine tasting stop at Beaune. After lunch on board take time to admire the scenery as the vessel continues along the Saone or join the afternoon excursion to the medieval towns of Brançion and Comartin before rejoining the ship at Tournus. There is time to take a look around Tournus before we depart at 19:30
Excursions:
Beaune and the Burgundy
After breakfast, take a scenic drive along France’s Burgundy wine route through Pommard, Volnay and Meursault. In Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy, you will enjoy a guided tour of the beautiful Hôtel-Dieu, founded as a hospice in 1443. Today, it covers a large area of the town with its museum, three courtyards, outbuildings, 15th-century bastion and hundreds of meters of cellars, which are notable for containing the personal reserve of the Hospices. The four buildings open to the public are situated around the Court of Honor and represent the Hôtel-Dieu of former times.
The great Salle des Pauvres (”hall of the poor”), is decorated with multi-colored beams which are unique in the world. Serenity reigns here which will leave no one unmoved. The rooms overflow with treasures: statues, furniture, pottery, paintings, tapestries and more. The kitchen has been restored to look exactly as it did in the 19th century. The polyptych of “The Last Judgement”, a masterpiece by the Flemish painter Rogier Van Der Weyden, is particularly well presented. Later, enjoy a wine tasting experience at one of Beaune’s famous cellars.
Duration approx. 4 hours
Walking grade Level 2: The excursion by bus is followed by a moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
Medieval Brancion And Cormatin
Medieval Brancion and Cormatin
We leave Chalon-sur-Saône and drive to Brançion for a short photo stop before continuing to the Castle of Cormatin. Behind its understated exterior lies inestimable splendor. The castle is undoubtedly one of the most sumptuous castles in Burgundy, and, in addition, it boasts a Renaissance garden. The sculpted yews break up the symmetry as you enter this moated château. The rich, colorful interior reflects the French and more particularly, the Parisian fashion during the reign of Louis XIII. Built between 1605 and 1629 by the du Blé family, it chronicles the history of the arts at this time in France. The formal Renaissance garden has the “fountain of life” at its center. Beyond this is a maze with a charming wrought-iron aviary. From the top of this you can get an overview of the park.
Duration approx. 4 hours
Walking grade Level 2: The excursion by bus is followed by a moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
SUNDAY 21 JULY - LYON
Stay Lyon 07:00 - 12:00
Today we return to Lyon, known for its architectural beauty and gastronomic excellence. Today brings two options for excursions; a guided tour to discover this UNESCO world heritage site with its famous landmarks, or head to the covered food markets of Paul Bocuse and sample local delicacies. We leave Lyon at midday and you can relax this afternoon as we sail through the picturesque countryside.
Excursions:
Lyon - Gastronomic Capital Of France
Lyon - Gastronomic Capital Of France
Lyon not only marks the meeting of the Saône and Rhône Rivers, but it is also the gastronomic capital of France. Its rich, ancient history includes Roman ruins and early Christian sites. The city tour begins with a coach trip to the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière. The well-known pilgrimage church stands on a hill, offering an unforgettable view of the city. After you’ve had a look around on your own and enjoyed a drive along the banks of the Sâone, with views of various sights including the Cathedral of St. John and the Palace of Justice, you will have the opportunity to explore Lyon’s Old Town.
Take a gentle stroll through the Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with the famous Roman theatre and buildings showing the influence of the Italian Renaissance.
Duration approx. 3 hours
Walking grade Level 2: The excursion by bus is followed by a moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
Les Halles Du Paul Bocuse With Tasting
Les Halles du Paul Bocuse With Tasting
LLyon, thanks to its many local specialties, is known for its gastronomy. In 1859 the first covered market in Lyon 'Les Halles de Lyon' was created. Throughout the centuries, the marketplace in Lyon has evolved, been re-built to today's standards, and gained a reputation for its high-quality gourmet goods. Michelin starred Chef Paul Bocuse, enjoyed shopping for his restaurants in this marketplace and in 2006, lent his name to Les Halles de Lyon, giving the final stamp of approval to the gastronomic excellence of the goods available. We invite you to explore the best producers of Lyon in Les Halles Paul Bocuse. The three-level market is made up of 56 traders - cheese makers, bakers, pastry chefs, delicatessens and wine merchants just to name a few. Follow your guides through this maze of merchants and taste the emblematic products of the world capital of gastronomy: wine, cheese, cooked mixed meats and pastries.
MONDAY 22 JULY - AVIGNON
Stay Avignon 09:00 - 19:00
Spend the day exploring the Provençal city of Avignon, home to the Papal Palace, once the seat of Western Christianity in the 14th century. Provence is also home to the Pont du Gard, a three-level aqueduct constructed over 2000 years ago by the Romans and is one of the architectural masterpieces of the ancient world. After lunch, you can join the excursion to the hilltop town of Uzès and visit the Pont du Gard. We depart for Arles at 18:30.
Excursions:
Avignon Walking Tour With Papal Palace
Avignon walking tour with Papal Palace
Today’s excursion is a guided walk through Avignon, also known as the “City of Popes” due to the role the city played in the Avignon conspiracy of the 14th century, when a pope abandoned Rome and fled to Avignon. Avignon’s lavish Palais des Papes (Palace of the Popes), is a fortress, church and palace all in one and was considered the center of the Christian world during the 14th century. From 1309 to 1377, seven popes resided in this impressive building, one of the world’s most fascinating examples of Gothic architecture. Another must-see is the Pont d’Avignon, a ruined 12th-century bridge that once spanned the Rhône and is immortalized in a folk song about dancing on the bridge.
Duration approx. 2 hours
Walking grade Level 4: Moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
TUESDAY 23 JULY - ARLES
Stay Arles 12.01 - 18:30
Arles captured the imagination of the brilliant Impressionist painter, Van Gogh. Walking through the town, many of the settings may seem familiar as some of Van Gogh’s best known pieces reflect the beauty of the town. Your optional tour this morning is a two hour city walk taking in many ancient or Roman sights and monuments and a visit to the Roman arena.
Outside Arles is Camargue Nature Park which covers 86,000 hectares and is known for its unique flora and fauna as well as its astonishing range of wildlife including the renowned Camargue bulls and white horses.You can also visit Saintes Maries de la Mer, located on the Mediterranean Sea where the Rhone joins the ocean. Depart Arles at 18:30 to continue cruising the Rhône River
Excursions:
Arles Walking Tour With Roman Arena Visit
Arles Walking Tour With Roman Arena Visit
Arles boasts a rich history. It was founded by the Gauls, who made it their capital. During the course of centuries, Arles was home to archbishops, became part of the Kingdom of the Franks and, later on, capital of the Kingdom of Burgundy. During our two-hour city walk, pass many ancient or Roman sights and monuments and see why UNESCO has chosen to declare Arles a World Heritage Site. A visit to the Roman arena is a must while in Arles. Why not take a break in the café that served as the model for Vincent Van Gogh’s “Café Terrace at Night”? While strolling through the city, you might even meet pilgrims walking the Way of St. James, which begins in Arles!
Duration
approx. 2 hours
Walking grade
Level 4: Moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
Camargue Nature Reserve
The Camargue is like a little country in its own right. Once you’re a few minutes south of Arles, you enter the unique atmosphere of the area, with its series of long, level roads criss-crossing the marshes and farmlands. For the protection of the exceptional fauna and flora, part of the Camargue was listed as a nature reserve as early as 1927. In 1970, the whole Island of Camargue (the delta of the Rhône River) was listed as the Regional Nature Park of Camargue. It is home to an astonishing range of wildlife, including the renowned Camargue bulls and horses that live in semi freedom, and many hundreds of species of birds. You will also visit Saintes Maries de la Mer, located on the Mediterranean Sea where the Rhône joins the ocean. This village is steeped in history and boasts stunning beaches which meet the blue waters of the Mediterranean Sea.
Duration approx. 4.5 hours
Walking grade Level 2: The excursion by bus is followed by a moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
WEDNESDAY 24 JULY - CHATEAUNEUF-DU-RHONE/LE POUZIN
This morning your optional excursion offers the opportunity to view the Ardeche Gorge, another natural wonder of the area. Visit the ‘Grand Canyon of Europe’ and re-join the ship in time for lunch. Alternatively try the excursion to Grignan where you can explore the world of truffles with a. Visit and tasting at a local truffle farm. Join the vessel at Le Pousin in time for lunch. We stay in Le Pouzin from 12:30 to 14:00, after which we make our way back up the waterways of Provence. Those who do not want to participate in excursions can stay and relax on board. The evening brings the Captains Farewell Dinner
Excursions:
Valley Of The Ardeche Gorge
The Ardèche Gorge is often referred to as the Grand Canyon of Europe, its spectacular limestone cliffs tower up to 1,000 ft above the meandering river below. The entrance to the Ardèche Gorge is through the famous Pont d’Arc near Vallon which, at 192 feet is, according to the Natural Arch and Bridge Society, “the largest natural bridge in Europe”. You will take the famous Gorge Trail, from which you can see the harmonious meanderings of the river. Beautiful viewpoints such as the Pont d’Arc and Serre de Tourre offer the greatest views onto the canyon and the river Ardèche.
Duration approx. 4.5 hours
Walking gradeLevel 2: The excursion by bus is followed by a moderate walking tour. You may need to climb some stairs.
THURSDAY 25 JULY - LYON - FAREWELL
After a generous breakfast it's time to disembark and join your transfer to the airport.
Enhance your Rhone river cruise holiday with a choice of carefully curated selection of inspiring excursions and adventures! Our excursions can be booked with us in advance to ensure your place, or on board if you would rather keep your itinerary flexible. Booked excursions include a packed lunch. Excursions are subject to a minimum number of bookings and may be cancelled if there is not enough interest.
| EXCURSION | PRICE PER PERSON |
|---|---|
| Macon And The Beaujolais | £77 |
| Cluny Abbey | £66 |
| Beaune And The Burgundy | £76 |
| Medieval Brancion And Cormatin | £66 |
| Lyon - Gastronomic Capital Of France | £43 |
| Les Halles By Paul Bocuse With Tasting | £52 |
| Avignon Walking Tour With Papeal Palace | £43 |
| Roman Aqueduct Pont Du Gard And Uzes | £51 |
| Arles Walking Tour With Arena Visit | £30 |
| Camargue Nature Reserve | £50 |
| Valley Of The Ardeche Gorge | £50 |
| Grignan With Truffle Farm And Tasting | £71 |
ACCOMMODATION
Dive into an unforgettable adventure and enjoy the typically provincial feel aboard the AMADEUS Provence. On this Premium cruise ship, you can expect the most modern fittings that blend masterfully with the architecture of the ship and the typically luxurious design that is the hallmark of the AMADEUS fleet. The generous interior planning and design provides comfortable room for 140 passengers and offers all the luxuries of a floating 5-star hotel on your Rhone river cruise.
The extensive restaurant and the Panorama-Bar offer divine views of the passing riverscapes, and the outdoor, glass-shielded River Terrace allows you to relax in the open regardless of the weather. In addition, the AMADEUS Provence is the first ship of the AMADEUS fleet to include a pool deck with a swimming pool and the Lido Bar, where you can enjoy hours relaxing on board in the sun.
Music Themed Rhone River Cruise with Show of Hands, Seth Lakeman, Geoff Lakeman & Rob Murch
AMADEUS Suite (284.2ft²) with walk-out exterior balcony
Comfortable corner sofa, luxurious bathroom, walk-out exterior balcony, mini-bar, walk-in wardrobe, choice of bed configuration (double or twin bed), flat-screen television, individual climate control, en-suite bathroom with shower/WC, bathrobe, hair dryer, direct dial telephone and in-room safe.Mozart Deck
Cabin A-1 (188.4ft²) with drop-down panoramic window
Spacious bathroom, drop-down panoramic window, mini-bar, walk-in wardrobe, choice of bed configuration (double or twin bed), flat-screen television, individual climate control, en-suite bathroom with shower/WC, hair dryer, direct dial telephone and in-room safe.Mozart Deck
Cabin B-1 (188.4ft²) with drop-down panoramic window
Spacious bathroom, drop-down panoramic window, mini-bar, walk-in wardrobe, choice of bed configuration (double or twin bed), flat-screen television, individual climate control, en-suite bathroom with shower/WC, hair dryer, direct dial telephone and in-room safe.Strauss Deck
Cabin B-4 (188.4ft²) with drop-down panoramic window
Spacious bathroom, drop-down panoramic window, mini-bar, walk-in wardrobe, choice of bed configuration (double or twin bed), flat-screen television, individual climate control, en-suite bathroom with shower/WC, hair dryer, direct dial telephone and in-room safe.Strauss Deck
Cabin C-1 (172.2ft²) with panoramic window
Spacious bathroom, small panoramic window (cannot be opened), spacious wardrobe, choice of bed configuration (double or twin bed), flat-screen television, individual climate control, en-suite bathroom with shower/WC, hair dryer, direct dial telephone and in-room safe. Cabins with connecting doors are available on request.Haydn Deck
Cabin C-4 (172.2ft²) with panoramic window
Spacious bathroom, small panoramic window (cannot be opened), spacious wardrobe, choice of bed configuration (double or twin bed), flat-screen television, individual climate control, en-suite bathroom with shower/WC, hair dryer, direct dial telephone and in-room safe. Cabins with connecting doors are available on request.Haydn Deck
PRICES
Please note: a deposit of £200pp is required to secure your booking.
Prices are per person and do not include flights. Please contact us if you require assistance with your travel arrangements.
| Cabin Grade | Deck | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Suite | Mozart Deck | £3,600 - SOLD OUT |
| A1 | Mozart Deck | £3,199 - 1 available |
| B1 | Strauss Deck | £2,899 - 1 available |
| B1 Solo Occupancy | Strauss Deck | £3,649 - SOLD OUT |
| B4 | Strauss Deck | £2,699 - SOLD OUT |
| C1 | Haydn Deck | £2,299 - SOLD OUT |
| C1 Solo Occupancy | Haydn Deck | £2,999 - SOLD OUT |
| C4 | Haydn Deck | £1,999 - SOLD OUT |
GETTING THERE
COACH TO CRUISE WITH HARMONY VOYAGES
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Hostess service on board
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Regular, off-motorway comfort breaks
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Comfortable 4* hotels
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Outbound journey - visit to Arras and Dijon
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Overnight B&B stays: 2 pre-cruise and 1 post cruise
Forget about long queues at the airport, pulling heavy suitcases, frustrating flight delays - why not extend your cruise holiday, sit back and unwind on board our luxury coach and take in some of the most sought-after sights and enjoy many beautiful towns along the route.
Once your suitcase is loaded, no need to remove liquids, electrical items or empty your pockets, board the coach, relax and enjoy your land tour to the ship. Let your driver do the hard work whilst you sit back with a cuppa or a glass of something cold, as you travel through the beautiful French countryside.
TUESDAY 16 July 2024
Depart Manchester Airport *06:00am /Birmingham Airport *08:00am /London Heathrow *10:30am with motorway service pick-ups on request. Arrive Dover for a lunchtime channel crossing to Calais. *Times are approximate.
On arrival in France, continue to overnight hotel in Arras B&B
WEDNESDAY 17 JULY 2024
After a continental breakfast, depart 9:00am and drive to Reims for a visit to Champagne cellar with tasting. Free time near Reims Cathedral for Lunch and/or sightseeing before departure at 2:00pm. Continue to Dijon arriving c.6:00pm and our overnight hotel B&B Evening transfer to the UNESCO historic centre if required.
THURSDAY 18 JULY 2024
After a continental breakfast, depart 9:30am for Lyon, arriving c.1.00pm
Free time in the Old Town prior to boarding if required (subject to time allowing)
THURSDAY 25 JULY 2024
Disembark after breakfast and travel to Burgundy wine region for lunch stop and/or wine tasting. Continue to Paris hotel for late afternoon check-in. Evening tour of ‘Paris by night’ including Seine River cruise and free time for dinner.
FRIDAY 26 JULY 2024
Transfer to Calais/Dunkerque for return sailing to Dover.
Motorway service area stop en-route.
Return arrival at Manchester Airport by 11.00pm
Price per person sharing a twin/double: £549.00
Price per person sole occupancy: £699.00
FAQS
We look after you every step of the way
We are a small experienced team who look after you from first enquiry, right through to the end of your holiday. The same people who help you with your booking, will be in the resort or on the cruise to look after you. We are extremely proud of the personal service that we provide and when you need to get in touch, there are no call centres, just the same people you've always being dealing with. Need help with flights, care hire or extra nights? ...we are just a phone call away.
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