We won’t be beaten on price...
5★ Boutique Ships
Butler Service
Free Transfers
ABTA protected
Ultimate France
Scroll to sail
Ultimate France
A trio of Uniworld’s most-loved French cruises, Ultimate France, showcases three of the best regions of this delightful country – Paris and the Normandy coast, vineyard-strewn Bordeaux, and the picturesque rural delights of Burgundy and Provence.
Enjoy the excitement of France’s capital city, explore quintessential French towns and historic villages, and savour the delectable cuisine and wines of some of the world’s best vineyards. Discover the ultimate French menu of culture, history, and heritage.
This cruise is served by three Uniworld Super Ships, each unique and personally appointed, with the smaller S.S. Joie de Vivre able to dock in the heart of Paris. Enjoy elegant accommodation, five-star leisure facilities, and award-winning dining.
4.45
from
53 reviews
-
Cruise Line: Uniworld -
Ship: S.S. Bon Voyage + 2 more -
Duration: 21 Nights
-
Departure: Mar - Oct
Ultimate France Cruise Prices
Ultimate France Gallery
Ultimate France Cruise Itinerary
A blend of three of our most popular French cruises, Ultimate France, is a 21-night voyage blending Paris with the Normandy coast, Bordeaux, and Burgundy. Enjoy tranquil pastoral landscapes, quaint villages, and historic towns with the luxury of a mooring in central Paris on the Seine. This cruise blends quintessential French culture and heritage with more than a generous helping of award-winning wines and gourmet cuisine. Three Uniworld Super Ships service the journey, each unique, but all sharing a blend of five-star comfort and amenities with award-winning dining.
Day 1
Bordeaux
Arrive at Bordeaux-Mérignac International Airport and receive a warm welcome from your Uniworld representative. Transfer to your luxury cruise ship.
Day 2
Cadillac
Explore the 14th-century Château Royal de Cazeneuve on a private tour perfectly finished with a glass of sauterne, a delicious dessert wine with the castle’s owners. Tonight, enjoy a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner.
Day 3
Cussac Fort Médoc
This region needs no introduction; renowned for its wines, historic vineyards, and magnificent châteaux. Enjoy a panoramic tour of the Médoc peninsula with a private tour of a chateau and wine tasting, or cycle through the iconic Médoc vineyards.
Day 4
Blaye, Bourg Sur Gironde
Drive to Blaye Fortress, a UNESCO-designated landmark on the Route de la Corniche Fleurie, one of the most picturesque roads in France. There is also a Masterpiece Collection tour to Rémy Martin’s distillery, the iconic brandy producers.
Day 5
Libourne (Saint-Émilion)
From Libourne, travel to medieval Saint-Émilion and immerse yourself in the region’s history and viticulture. There is a walking tour of the town, vineyards, and a famous 12th-century underground church plus a winery excursion and tasting.
Day 6
Libourne / Bordeaux
Stroll around Libourne’s lively farmer’s market with an amazing array of cheeses and bread. Later, enjoy an after-hours visit to Bordeaux’s Port de la Lune, a former submarine base, and watch the Bassins des Lumières, a stunning and immersive light show.
Day 7
Bordeaux
Enjoy a ‘do as the locals do’ walking or cycle tour with an expert guide around the beautiful 18th-century architecture of Bordeaux, the inspiration for Napoleon III’s redesign of Paris. Guests can choose a Masterpiece Collection retro sidecar tour.
Day 8
Bordeaux (Disembark), Transfer to Paris on High-Speed TGV Train (Embark)
Disembark the S.S. Bon Voyage and take the high-speed TGV train direct to Paris. Embark the S.S. Joie de Vivre moored on the Seine in the heart of the city.
Day 9
La Roche-Guyon, Vernon, Giverny
In the morning, choose between a scenic hike through the landscape that inspired the artist Claude Monet or a visit to the hilltop Château de La Roche-Guyon with stunning views over the Seine. Later, explore the beautiful gardens at Monet’s home.
Day 10
Rouen
Rouen is Normandy’s medieval capital, with a remarkable historic quarter and a treasure trove of culture and antiquities. Guests can enjoy a private concert at Rouen Cathedral, a hotch-potch of architectural styles from Gothic to Renaissance.
Day 11
Caudebec-En-Caux (Honfleur or Étretat)
From the pretty town of Caudebec-en-Caux, guests drive through the picturesque Calvados countryside to Honfleur, a stunning coastal location, or travel to Étretat for a game of golf. There is also a Masterpiece Collection tour to the Abbey of St. Wandrille.
Day 12
Rouen (Normandy Beaches)
Visit Normandy’s historic beaches, the location of the Allied Landings in 1945, marking the beginning of the end of the Second World War. Visit the British Commonwealth or Canadian beaches with a private ceremony at the Omaha Beach Memorial.
Day 13
Mantes-la-Jolie (Versailles)
Experience the private rooms, the royal apartments, and the iconic Hall of Mirrors in the Palace of Versailles with exquisite interiors, textiles, and furniture from the 18th century. Enjoy a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner tonight on board ship.
Day 14
Paris
Join a local expert for a walk through two famous neighbourhoods or cycle along the Left Bank. There is also a panoramic bus tour of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Pont Alexandre Bridge, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower.
Day 15
Paris (Disembark), Transfer to Lyon via High-Speed TGV Train (Embark)
Transfer from the S.S Joie de Vivre in Paris via high-speed TGV train to the S.S Catherine moored in Lyon. Guests have time this afternoon to explore Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France and a paradise for foodies.
Day 16
Lyon
Enjoy a tour of Lyon with its Roman origins and beautiful Renaissance houses. Visit ‘Les Traboules,’ the city’s historic quarter, or explore further afield with a cycle ride along the banks of the Rhône and the Saône. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner tonight on board ship.
Day 17
Macon (Beaune)
Peaceful Beaune, the former home of the Dukes of Burgundy and the capital of the region’s wine trade, is full of history and interesting architecture. Explore the medieval Hospices de Beane with its world-famous wine auction.
Day 18
Tain-L’Hermitage (Tournon)
Stroll the historic twin villages of Tournon and Tain-L’Hermitage, located on the riverside in the heart of the Côtes du Rhône. Visit local wine cellars and taste famous vintages. Guests can opt instead to hike through the peaceful terraced vineyards with river views.
Day 19
Viviers
Viviers has a fascinating history dating back more than 1,600 years with architectural gems providing a visual timeline on a guided tour. Guests can also enjoy a Masterpiece Collection tour of a truffle farm and Chateauneuf du Pape wine tasting.
Day 20
Avignon
The walled city of Avignon is one of the most beautiful in southern France. On a walking tour, visit the Palace of the Popes and the Clock Tower Square. There is an excursion to the Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct. Enjoy the Captain’s Farewell Dinner.
Day 21
Arles
Arles inspired Van Gogh, who painted 200 pictures in the town, famous for its remarkable Roman ruins. There is also a Masterpiece Collection tour to a digital exhibition in a unique quarry setting, followed by a visit to an olive farm.
Day 22
Arles
Disembark the ship and transfer to Marseille Airport for flights back to the UK.
Day 1
Arles
Arrive at Marseille Airport and receive a warm welcome from your Uniworld representative. Transfer to your luxury cruise ship.
Day 2
Arles
Arles inspired Van Gogh, who painted 200 pictures in the town, famous for its remarkable Roman ruins. There is also a Masterpiece Collection tour to a digital exhibition in a unique quarry setting, followed by a visit to an olive farm.
Day 3
Avignon
The walled city of Avignon is one of the most beautiful in southern France. On a walking tour, visit the Palace of the Popes and the Clock Tower Square. There is an excursion to the Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct. Enjoy the Captain’s Farewell Dinner.
Day 4
Viviers
Viviers has a fascinating history dating back more than 1,600 years with architectural gems providing a visual timeline on a guided tour. Guests can also enjoy a Masterpiece Collection tour of a truffle farm and Chateauneuf du Pape wine tasting.
Day 5
Tain-L’Hermitage (Tournon)
Stroll the historic twin villages of Tournon and Tain-L’Hermitage, located on the riverside in the heart of the Côtes du Rhône. Visit local wine cellars and taste famous vintages. Guests can opt instead to hike through the peaceful terraced vineyards with river views.
Day 6
Macon (Beaune)
Peaceful Beaune, the former home of the Dukes of Burgundy and the capital of the region’s wine trade, is full of history and interesting architecture. Explore the medieval Hospices de Beane with its world-famous wine auction.
Day 7
Lyon
Enjoy a tour of Lyon with its Roman origins and beautiful Renaissance houses. Visit ‘Les Traboules,’ the city’s historic quarter, or explore further afield with a cycle ride along the banks of the Rhône and the Saône. Enjoy a Welcome Dinner tonight on board ship.
Day 8
Paris (Disembark), Transfer to Lyon via High-Speed TGV Train (Embark)
Transfer from the S.S Joie de Vivre in Paris via high-speed TGV train to the S.S Catherine moored in Lyon. Guests have time this afternoon to explore Lyon, the gastronomic capital of France and a paradise for foodies.
Day 9
Paris
Join a local expert for a walk through two famous neighbourhoods or cycle along the Left Bank. There is also a panoramic bus tour of the city’s most famous landmarks, including the Pont Alexandre Bridge, the Arc de Triomphe, and the Eiffel Tower.
Day 10
Mantes-la-Jolie (Versailles)
Experience the private rooms, the royal apartments, and the iconic Hall of Mirrors in the Palace of Versailles with exquisite interiors, textiles, and furniture from the 18th century. Enjoy a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner tonight on board ship.
Day 11
Rouen (Normandy Beaches)
Visit Normandy’s historic beaches, the location of the Allied Landings in 1945, marking the beginning of the end of the Second World War. Visit the British Commonwealth or Canadian beaches with a private ceremony at the Omaha Beach Memorial.
Day 12
Caudebec-En-Caux (Honfleur or Étretat)
From the pretty town of Caudebec-en-Caux, guests drive through the picturesque Calvados countryside to Honfleur, a stunning coastal location, or travel to Étretat for a game of golf. There is also a Masterpiece Collection tour to the Abbey of St. Wandrille.
Day 13
Rouen
Rouen is Normandy’s medieval capital, with a remarkable historic quarter and a treasure trove of culture and antiquities. Guests can enjoy a private concert at Rouen Cathedral, a hotch-potch of architectural styles from Gothic to Renaissance.
Day 14
La Roche-Guyon, Vernon, Giverny
In the morning, choose between a scenic hike through the landscape that inspired the artist Claude Monet or a visit to the hilltop Château de La Roche-Guyon with stunning views over the Seine. Later, explore the beautiful gardens at Monet’s home.
Day 15
Bordeaux (Disembark), Transfer to Paris on High-Speed TGV Train (Embark)
Disembark the S.S. Bon Voyage and take the high-speed TGV train direct to Paris. Embark the S.S. Joie de Vivre moored on the Seine in the heart of the city.
Day 16
Bordeaux
Enjoy a ‘do as the locals do’ walking or cycle tour with an expert guide around the beautiful 18th-century architecture of Bordeaux, the inspiration for Napoleon III’s redesign of Paris. Guests can choose a Masterpiece Collection retro sidecar tour.
Day 17
Libourne / Bordeaux
Stroll around Libourne’s lively farmer’s market with an amazing array of cheeses and bread. Later, enjoy an after-hours visit to Bordeaux’s Port de la Lune, a former submarine base, and watch the Bassins des Lumières, a stunning and immersive light show.
Day 18
Libourne (Saint-Émilion)
From Libourne, travel to medieval Saint-Émilion and immerse yourself in the region’s history and viticulture. There is a walking tour of the town, vineyards, and a famous 12th-century underground church plus a winery excursion and tasting.
Day 19
Blaye, Bourg Sur Gironde
Drive to Blaye Fortress, a UNESCO-designated landmark on the Route de la Corniche Fleurie, one of the most picturesque roads in France. There is also a Masterpiece Collection tour to Rémy Martin’s distillery, the iconic brandy producers.
Day 20
Cussac Fort Médoc
This region needs no introduction; renowned for its wines, historic vineyards, and magnificent châteaux. Enjoy a panoramic tour of the Médoc peninsula with a private tour of a chateau and wine tasting, or cycle through the iconic Médoc vineyards.
Day 21
Cadillac
Explore the 14th-century Château Royal de Cazeneuve on a private tour perfectly finished with a glass of sauterne, a delicious dessert wine with the castle’s owners. Tonight, enjoy a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner.
Day 22
Bordeaux
Disembark the ship and transfer to Bordeaux-Mérignac International Airport for flights back to the UK.
ULTIMATE FRANCE CRUISE SHIPS
ULTIMATE FRANCE RIVER CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS
Visit some of Europe’s most treasured cities on your Ultimate France Cruise River Cruise
Bordeaux
Avignon
Saint-Émilion
Paris
Lyon
Arles
Ultimate France Deals
Enjoy the Delights of Paris, Bordeaux, and Burgundy with Crui.se
FROM PER PERSON*
£
8,519
FROM PER PERSON*
£
2,474
FROM PER PERSON*
£
2,099
Ultimate France Cruise Review
Ultimate France FAQ
Where will the ship dock?
The local harbour authorities determine where Uniworld ships can dock, and this can depend on how busy the port is and the river conditions. The S.S. Joie de Vivre is a smaller vessel specifically designed to dock in the heart of Paris.
Is there a laundry service available on board the ship?
The Grand Suites and Suites on all three Uniworld Super Ships that service this cruise offer a free in-suite laundry service.
Can you accommodate special diets on board the ship?
Uniworld appreciates that some guests have specific dietary requirements for medical reasons or due to food intolerances. You can record your particular needs on the Passenger Information Form; our chefs will strive to accommodate these. All food is prepared fresh daily. A ‘Travelling Lite’ menu for guests who want low-calorie options and vegan and vegetarian meals is available.
Join the Crui.se Club
Points That Pay
Earn 25 points (£25) just for joining — and collect more on bookings, reviews, and referrals.
Exclusive Member Deals
Unlock off-market offers reserved only for Crui.se Club members.
Early Access Perks
Be the first to book with pre-launch notifications and special member-only booking windows.
Cruise With Confidence
Our mission at crui.se is to help you and your loved one’s book and experience the best cruise holiday imaginable. We’re different in that, our customers come first, not our suppliers or profit margins. Get in touch and let us help you set sail.
Over 20 cruise brands to choose from
Low deposits from £500
All Inclusive cruises
Best deals & discounts
Community driven
Brand agnostic
We take care of everything
Custom built cruise holidays
