AmaWaterway's Impressions of the Seine & Paris river cruise is sure to surprise and delight any guest who enjoys experiencing new destinations through the local culture and cuisine, those who appreciate art, especially the work of the great Impressionists, and so many more. As AmaWaterways’ Director of European Operations, Wade Korzan has had the pleasure of a sneak peek into all of the enriching new experiences that are offered on this itinerary on France’s Seine River. Read Wade's thoughts below. 

First Impressions

Having sailed the Seine River many times, I was surprised by the distinctive experience this new itinerary offers in the picturesque Normandy countryside and among stunning gardens memorialized by the Impressionists. I can never get enough of Paris, but we also enjoyed sampling French cheese and wine, our small-group biking tour through Le Havre, and lovely châteaux such as the palatial Champ de Bataille with its unique fountain.

Glorious Gardens

This sailing is a must-do for those with a deep appreciation for all things that bloom and grow. From Monet’s famously painted gardens at Giverny to the well-manicured Gardens d’Acquigny to the 200-year-old Harcourt Arboretum, I found many lovely moments to “stop and smell the roses.”

Camembert, Cider and Calvados

I also celebrated French culinary delights with “beaucoup d’enthousiasme”. The sweet aroma of Norman apple orchards, the rich taste of local specialty cheeses paired with Calvados (apple brandy) at a local farm in La Roche-Guyon, and Rouen’s finest chocolates made for a truly mouthwatering journey.

A Must-See

Not to be missed was our unforgettable post-river cruise land package in Brittany – I was fascinated by the swash-buckling history of St. Malo. But what awed me the most was Mont St. Michel. Much like Egypt’s pyramids or the Great Wall of China, Mont St. Michel is a highlight of life. I’ve traveled all over the world and come face to face with many iconic monuments, but this site truly took my breath away.

Optional Land Packages

Our Impressions of the Seine & Paris river cruise is best reserved with our optional pre- and post-river cruise land packages in Paris and St. Malo, France. These packages can be added to your reservation by your travel advisor and allow you to indulge your wanderlust alongside an intimate group of fellow cruisers. Best of all, they include stays at 4- and 5-star hotels, daily breakfast, guided excursions, convenient transfers to and from the ship, and the services of one of our extraordinary Cruise Managers throughout your journey – unique in the industry.

Two Nights in Paris

Rest and allow yourself to recharge in your luxurious hotel after your flight into Paris. The following day, take in all the “hidden sights” of the romantic “City of Lights” on your guided tour, including Montmartre, long known as the city’s premier artists’ enclave and home to the Basilica du Sacré-Coeur. Prior to embarkation, you will also explore the Atelier-Lumieres, Paris’s “Workshop of Lights,” a uniquely immersive digital art experience.

Three Nights in St. Malo

After disembarking the ship, visit Fourgères in Brittany, known for its medieval fortress, en route to your hotel. The following day, explore the walled city of St. Malo, which boasts a unique history steeped in piracy. Later, venture to Dinard, with its Belle Epoque villas, and Dinan, one of Brittany’s best-preserved towns. Enjoy the rest of the evening at your leisure, then wake up for what many may consider the highlight of this package, Mont St. Michel, one of the most scenic places for amateur photographers to hone their craft in all of Brittany.

Extend Your Journey Further

A majority of our France sailings offer departures on the same day of the week, making it easy and convenient to reserve combination sailings on up to three different rivers. Your travel advisor can help you customize your ideal longer river cruise vacation. Best of all, with our crew taking care of you throughout your journey, you will experience a seamless train or plane transfer between sailings.

Recommended Combination River Cruise

Discover timeless vineyards and iconic châteaux with idyllic scenery at every turn when you combine our 7-night Taste of Bordeaux with your 7-night Impressions of the Seine & Paris sailing. These itineraries are a must for anyone interested in the best of French lifestyle, and will conjure beautiful memories for years to come.