Welcome to Paris! After claiming your luggage and clearing customs, you will meet your Vantage Representative and transfer to the Viva Beyond, your home for the next 7 nights.
We recommend flights arrive in Paris on or before 3PM today.
Begin your day with a delightful breakfast served onboard as your ship gently glides away from the City of Light in the soft, golden hues of early morning. Relax on deck or in the lounge as the tranquil Seine River carries you past rolling hills, quaint villages, and postcard-perfect scenery on your way to the charming riverside town of Conflans.
After a leisurely lunch, step ashore for an enchanting afternoon excursion to Auvers-sur-Oise, nestled in the heart of the serene Oise Valley. This peaceful village has long inspired generations of artists, most notably Vincent van Gogh, who painted more than 70 works here during the final weeks of his life. Walk in the footsteps of the Impressionists as you explore cobbled streets, scenic lanes, and fields immortalized on canvas by Van Gogh, Cézanne, Corot, and Daubigny.
Pay your respects at the simple, poignant graves of Vincent and his brother Theo, resting side by side in the hilltop cemetery overlooking the village. Then, choose between two captivating experiences: visit the Château d’Auvers, a beautifully restored estate now home to an immersive multimedia exhibition devoted to the Impressionist movement, or step into history at the Auberge Ravoux, where Van Gogh lived out his final days, a site that still resonates with his creative spirit.
Afterwards, we return to the ship and relax with a drink as the sun sets over the Seine. Savor a gourmet dinner crafted by our culinary team as we set sail toward the storied medieval city of Rouen.
Awaken in the storied city of Rouen, the capital of Normandy and one of Europe’s most strikingly preserved medieval gems. Following breakfast onboard, we set out to explore this remarkable city, rich in culture and steeped in history, where every corner reveals tales from the past.
Our guided tour begins with the majestic Rouen Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture that once held the title of the tallest building in the world. Its intricate façade, famously captured by Claude Monet in a series of 28 Impressionist paintings, transforms with the light, offering a different impression at every glance. Inside, you’ll discover centuries of spiritual and artistic heritage, including a tomb believed to contain the heart of Richard the Lionheart.
Wander through Rouen’s atmospheric cobblestone streets, lined with half-timbered houses, charming antique shops, and elegant boutiques. The city exudes a timeless charm, blending medieval character with vibrant modern culture. It’s also a paradise for food lovers, with cozy bistros and brasseries serving up the rich flavors of Normandy’s celebrated cuisine.
A moving moment awaits at Place du Vieux-Marché, the historic market square where Joan of Arc was martyred in 1431. A simple cross marks the exact location of her execution, offering a powerful and emotional connection to the city’s profound past.
After the tour, return to the ship for a relaxing lunch onboard. This afternoon, enjoy scenic cruising along the tranquil bends of the Seine. As evening falls, the ship makes a brief operational stop in Caudebec-en-Caux before continuing its graceful journey downriver, inviting you to unwind and take in the peaceful Normandy countryside.
The ship docks in the early morning and you awaken in Le Havre, a city where resilience and creativity come together in a striking blend of history and modernity. Begin your day with a delicious breakfast onboard as you prepare for a morning of discovery. Rebuilt after World War II with bold architectural vision, this remarkable coastal city is now recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and stands as a powerful symbol of renewal and innovation.
Your guided tour begins with some of Le Havre’s most iconic landmarks. Admire the towering spire of St. Joseph’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of modernist design and a beacon of hope for the city. Explore the vibrant port district and visit the MuMa Museum of Modern Art, which houses one of France’s most extensive collections of Impressionist art. Each stop offers time to take in the atmosphere, snap photos, and connect with the creative energy that defines this unique destination.
The journey continues with a scenic drive to one of Normandy’s most treasured coastal towns, Étretat. This breathtaking seaside resort is famed for its dramatic white chalk cliffs and soaring natural arches, which have captivated artists for generations. Impressionist painters like Monet and Courbet found endless inspiration in the striking landscape, and their legacy still echoes in the beauty of the scenery.
Your guided visit includes panoramic views of Étretat’s most iconic formations, including the slender Needle rock rising from the sea. Following the tour, enjoy free time to wander the town’s charming streets, relax with a drink on the terrace of the seaside casino, or explore the imaginative Gardens of Étretat, where sculpted greenery blends with sweeping sea views in an artistic celebration of nature.
"If I wanted to show a friend the sea for the first time, I would choose Étretat to do it" - Alphonse Karr
Before returning to the ship, take a moment to visit the peaceful Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde chapel, perched high above the cliffs and offering panoramic views of the coast and the sea beyond.
Back onboard, the rest of the afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy at your own pace. Unwind on the ship or take the opportunity to further explore Le Havre’s lively waterfront, local shops, and cafes as the ship remains docked overnight.
After breakfast, we set out for a morning of exploration and discovery in one of Normandy’s most enchanting destinations. Often described as the most picturesque town on the northern French coast, Honfleur exudes charm at every turn. Its historic harbor, where fishing boats and elegant yachts bob gently in the water, is surrounded by a perfect tableau of pastel-colored houses dating from the 16th to 18th centuries. Many of these timeless buildings now host welcoming seafood restaurants that offer the region’s finest coastal cuisine.
As you stroll along the waterfront, you may spot local artists painting the ever-changing light and reflections that have long inspired creative minds. Venture beyond the harbor into a maze of narrow cobblestone lanes lined with tall, half-timbered houses. Their eaves nearly touch overhead, creating a cozy atmosphere that invites exploration. These winding streets are home to traditional boutiques offering antiques, books, and gourmet treats, adding to Honfleur’s irresistible appeal.
The town holds a special place in the history of art as the birthplace of Eugène Boudin, one of the early pioneers of Impressionism and a close friend of Claude Monet. It is easy to see how the light and scenery of Honfleur stirred their imaginations and gave rise to countless masterpieces.
Please note that while the paths are smooth, there are slight inclines and cobblestone walking surfaces along the way.
After a delightful morning in this storybook setting, we return to the ship in time for a delicious lunch onboard. As the afternoon unfolds, the ship continues its graceful journey along the Seine, offering another relaxing and scenic cruise through the heart of Normandy.
One of the great joys of river cruising is waking up in a new and beautiful place, and today the ship is moored in the charming town of Vernon. From here, it is a short and scenic drive to the village of Giverny, where Claude Monet lived and worked for over forty years.
A visit to Monet's home is like stepping into one of his paintings. The artist famously described his garden as his most beautiful masterpiece, and it remains one of the most photographed and painted gardens in the world. In the soft glow of morning light, the garden comes alive with color and texture, creating an atmosphere that feels both serene and inspiring.
Wander through the vibrant flowerbeds of the Clos Normand and stroll beneath the trellised walkways. Then discover the peaceful water garden, inspired by Japanese design and framed by weeping willows, bamboo, rhododendrons, and azaleas. This is where Monet painted his beloved Water Lilies series, capturing the ever-changing reflections on the pond’s surface. As you take in the quiet beauty of this iconic site, you will understand why he returned to it again and again in his work.
After this unforgettable experience, we return to the ship with time to relax onboard or venture into Vernon to explore its quaint streets and riverside charm at your own pace. Later in the day, the ship sets sail once again, gliding gently along the Seine as you prepare for a delicious dinner onboard and look forward to the next destination on your journey.
After breakfast, we embark on an unforgettable city tour of Paris, one of the most celebrated capitals in the world. Alive with culture, history, and romance, Paris is the largest city in France and the beating heart of its artistic and intellectual life.
Your guided tour begins at the grand Place de la Concorde, where the ancient Obelisk of Luxor rises above the city’s largest square. From there, continue down the world-famous Champs Élysées, a boulevard lined with elegant shops and cafes, leading to the monumental Arc de Triomphe. This powerful symbol honors those who fought and died for France, and beneath its arch lies the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Next, admire the impressive Cathedral of the Invalides, crowned by its gleaming dome and home to the tomb of Napoleon I. No visit to Paris would be complete without seeing the Eiffel Tower, the beloved iron landmark that has come to define the city’s skyline. Standing beneath this towering marvel, you can feel the enduring spirit and ambition that have shaped Paris through the centuries.
Paris is everything you dream it to be, romantic, artistic, bold, and unforgettable. It is a city of light and life, where every street corner seems to tell a story and every view invites admiration.
Following your tour, the afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. Wander the charming neighborhoods, indulge in a café lunch, or simply soak in the ambiance of the city one last time. This evening, join us onboard for the Captain’s Gala Farewell Dinner, a festive celebration of the memories made throughout your journey. Raise a glass with newfound friends and toast to the magic of Paris and the adventure you shared.
Savor your final breakfast onboard as the ship gently sways at its mooring, the aroma of fresh croissants and brewed coffee filling the air one last time. Take a quiet moment to reflect on the beauty, history, and moments of wonder that shaped your journey. Afterward, bid a warm and heartfelt au revoir to the crew who have made your voyage so memorable with their care and hospitality. Transfer to the airport, carrying with you not just souvenirs, but a collection of unforgettable memories from an extraordinary adventure along the Seine.
Please Note: Disembarkation begins at 9:30AM. To allow time for disembarkation, traffic and checking in at the airport 3 hours before your flight, we recommend you reserve your flight at 2:00PM or later on this day.
Note: While we make every effort to offer you the excursions mentioned in the itinerary, please note that changes may occur with little or without notice that are outside of our control, and we thank you in advance for your understanding and flexibility.
