Reflections on the Seine
A Photographer's Delight! What better for photographic inspiration than France in spring?
Book by Mar 05, 2020
What better place than France to capture the light, landscapes, and legendary inspiration? Join us for a Seine River cruise designed for photography enthusiasts and aspiring shutterbugs alike. You’ll cruise with seasoned photographers of international backgrounds to inspire and instruct you - no matter your photography skill level. Cruise through the perfect backdrops for your subject matter - the beauty and scenes of France. Enjoy a photo contest for feedback by expert photographers and share the fun with like-minded traveling companions with a passion for capturing the perfect shot.
Your home away from home – Avalon Tapestry II
The Avalon Tapestry II is a true haven on the river - two full decks of Panorama SuitesSM with Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows that transform the living space into a unique Open-Air BalconySM. With 200 square feet, Panorama Suites are more than 30% larger than the industry standard, giving you the rare opportunity to wake each morning to enchanting scenery and fresh breezes. Onboard amenities and services include complimentary computer use in public areas and free Wi-Fi access, a Fitness Center with state-of-the-art equipment, an elevator, and a spacious Sky Deck with shade system, whirlpool, deck games, and the delightful Sky Bistro for al-fresco lunches of light grill fare.
May 4 - 13, 2020 | 8 Nights
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INCLUSIVE FEATURES
• Transfers to/from Toronto Airport from pre-arranged locations in Grey & Bruce Counties
• Non-stop flights to/from Paris
• Private group transfers from Paris Airport to the Port and back to the airport from your hotel in Paris
• Many excursions & photographic technique practice opportunities
• Accommodations in a Panorama Suite with Open-Air Balcony
• All meals and snacks onboard
• Exclusive everyday onboard entertainment
• Complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and select wine, beer and spirits
• Complimentary WiFi Onboard
• Private moderated Facebook group for updates, additional trip tips and ideas, photo sharing and more fun
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PRICE FROM
$7,412.22 CAD PP
Based on double occupancy, and category. Taxes included.
ITINERARY
Day 1 | May 4
Depart TorontoThe Journey Begins! Depart Toronto with transfer to Toronto Airport and non-stop flight to Paris.
Day 2 | May 5, 2020
Paris, France | Tapestry IIYour day is free to explore the world’s most romantic city before embarking on your cruise on the Seine. Get acquainted with the City of Lights today with some shopping, strolling, or with a croissant and café au lait to watch the world go by amid the Parisian cityscape. (D)
Day 3 | May 6
Paris, France | Tapestry IIToday discover photography onboard with the expert introduction. Explore the ancient heart of Paris on a captivating Guided Walk featuring the Palais-Royal, Louvre pyramid, ancient sites on Île de la Cité, the Left Bank, bustling Latin Quarter, and more, OR join a Guided City Tour, that shows you the iconic sites of Paris, such as the Louvre Museum, the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Opéra Garnier, and the famous Champs-Élysées. (B,L,D)
Day 4 | May 7
Conflans, France | Tapestry IIYou may go for an early Morning Jog with your Avalon Adventure Host. Then join a Guided Tour of Auvers-sur-Oise, and walk in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh, who lived, worked, and is buried here. See the landscapes and village scenes captured in his paintings, OR take a Guided tour of the opulent Château de Malmaison—home of Napoléon Bonaparte and his wife Josephine. Enjoy an afternoon sailing to Vernon. This evening, enjoy onboard live entertainment after dinner. (B, L, D)
Day 5 | May 8
Vernon, France | Tapestry IITake a Guided Tour of Giverny, home and inspiration of the master impressionist painter Claude Monet. Walk the grounds and see Monet’s charming residence, and the flower and water gardens captured in his masterpieces, OR join a Guided Visit to Bizy Castle—“Normandy’s Versailles”—with its magnificent courtyard, water garden, and stables. While sailing, enjoy a traditional French luncheon of authentic French crêpes, followed by a Pastry Demonstration. This afternoon, enjoy a beautiful cruise to the picturesque town of Les Andelys. Once arrived you can take a Guided Walking Tour of Les Andelys—one of France’s most picturesque spots on the Seine. Visit the Saint Sauveur’s Church of Le Petit Andely, OR join a Guided Hike up to the castle ruins of Château Gaillard—historic home of King Richard the Lionheart and a masterpiece of medieval military architecture. (B, L, D)
Day 6 | May 9
Rouen, France | Tapestry IIStart the day with your Avalon Adventure Host on a Morning Walk. Then take a Guided Walking Tour of Rouen—site of Saint Joan of Arc’s martyrdom—and see the medieval quarter with its 16th-century Astronomical Clock, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. Later, enjoy live entertainment on board your ship. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | May 10
Caudebec, France | Tapestry IIJoin a Guided Visit to the WWII landing beaches of Normandy, visit significant U.S. sites, including Omaha Beach, the Pointe du Hoc monument, and the American Cemetery, OR take a full-day Guided Tour of the British and Canadian commemorative sites, including the British cemetery, Pegasus Memorial, the seaside town of Arromanches, the Juno Beach Center, and the Bény-sur-Mer Canadian War Cemetery, OR join “A Taste of Normandy” Guided Tour for an in-depth look at this rich agricultural region. See the famous Bayeux Tapestry, visit the beautiful village of Beuvron en Auge and taste Calvados apple brandy at a local distillery. Re-join your ship in Le Havre after your excursion. (B,L,D)
Day 8 | May 11
Le Havre, France | Tapestry IITake a Guided Tour to Le Havre and discover the modern architecture of its city center, rebuilt by Auguste Perret and part of the World Heritage of Humanity. This afternoon, you may choose a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the old seaside town of Honfleur. With its 16th- to 18th-century townhouses, half-timber houses, and cobbled streets, Honfleur inspired the works of master artists Monet and Boudin. Participate to the Awards Ceremony to reward the most beautiful photo taken during the cruise. Don’t forget that you are the one choosing it! (B,L,D)
Day 9 | May 12
Paris, FranceAu Revoir, River Seine. Bonjour, Paris! Bid farewell to your ship’s crew and take a transfer to your Paris hotel. Take the night to linger in a sidewalk café, shop for mementos, or take photographs of the city’s picturesque bridges. (B)
Day 10 | May 13
Depart ParisYour vacation ends with breakfast this morning and a private transfer back to the airport for your flight back to Toronto. Upon arrival you will be returned to your pre-arranged drop off near home. (B)
If you want to see the world, cruise down its legendary rivers. If you want to see more of the world, look no further than Avalon Waterways. Avalon’s Suite Ships feature one-of-a-kind Panorama Suites, with the widest opening windows in river cruising, the industry’s only Open-Air Balcony, and beds facing the incredible views. Beyond the wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows is a world waiting to be explored—your way. Whether you want to enjoy a guided walking tour of one of Europe's great cities, join a cooking class or paddle a canoe, the Avalon Choice® selections of Classic, Discovery and Active excursions offer a wide range of possibilities. When you prefer to explore on your own, Avalon can help you with all the recommendations, information and gear you need with the new Adventure Center and AvalonGO Mobile App. And when it's time to refuel, your dining options on board are as wide open as your views, with the new FlexDining® choices.
Terms & Conditions
All fares are in Canadian dollars, per person, based on double occupancy and subject to availability at time of booking. Fares include all taxes and fees. Airfare taxes & fees and schedule subject to change. Single Supplement fares are available. A Non-refundable deposit of $1000 per person is due at time of booking. Final payment is due February 1, 2020. Insurance and vacation extensions are available at additional cost. Further terms and conditions apply.