Embark on your enchanting wine-infused adventure by flying into Lyon-Saint Exupéry Airport, the nearest gateway to the captivating Burgundy region. From Lyon, enjoy a serene train ride, included in your package, to the charming town of Chalon-sur-Saône. Enveloped in the picturesque landscapes of Burgundy, Chalon-sur-Saône offers a tranquil prelude to your upcoming cruise and invites exploration at your own pace. Unwind and refresh in your included hotel accommodations, allowing you to acclimate and embrace the serene allure of this quaint town before the festivities begin.

Things to Do in Chalon-sur-Saône:

• Uncover the historic charm and traditional architecture of the Old Town.
• Explore the vibrant local markets and savor authentic French pastries.
• Stroll along the Saône River, taking in the serene waterside views.
• Satisfy your culinary curiosities with a visit to local bistros or charming cafés.

Your accommodation in Chalon-sur-Saône is included in your vacation package, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming start to your experience. 

After a restful night, enjoy a leisurely morning exploring more of the delightful town of Chalon-sur-Saône. Immerse yourself in the local cultural treasures and flavors before heading to the dock. With your boarding time in the afternoon, you’ll have ample opportunities to wander the quaint streets or relax by the river before stepping aboard the elegant Avalon Poetry II. Your extraordinary 8-day cruise through the heart of Burgundy and Provence awaits.

Things to Do in Chalon-sur-Saône:

• Wander through local vineyards and wine cellars for a taste of Burgundy’s finest.
• Visit the Nicéphore Niépce Museum, celebrating the art of photography.
• Experience the rich history and architecture of Saint Vincent Cathedral.

With the enchanting French vineyards setting the stage, your journey effortlessly merges awe-inspiring wine regions with unparalleled onboard luxury. As you set sail from Chalon-sur-Saône, savor moments of relaxation and exploration, enveloped in world-class hospitality, laying the perfect foundation for the adventures that lie ahead. (Overnight docking in Tournus) 

Wake up to the serene landscapes of Southern Burgundy as you dock in the historic town of Tournus. Known for its rich monastic history and charming streets, Tournus invites you to explore its treasures and bask in the beauty of its surroundings.

Things to Do in Tournus:

• Classic: Discover the history of Tournus with a guided tour, exploring its quaint streets and learning about its significance as one of the oldest monastic centers in Burgundy.
• Discovery: Join an excursion to a local Chardonnay wine cellar for a tantalizing wine tasting, diving deeper into Burgundy’s prestigious winemaking heritage.
• Adventure: Visit the Adventure Center with your Adventure Host for today’s activities, ensuring an active day of exploration.

As the day turns to evening, set sail towards Mâcon while indulging in an enriching Discovery experience onboard. Join a lecture about wine hosted by your Certified Sommelier, enhancing your journey with deeper insights into the region's esteemed wine culture. (Overnight docking in Trévoux)

This morning, sail into the enchanting city of Lyon, renowned for its rich history and vibrant culture.

Activities in Lyon:

• Discovery: Begin your day with an onboard cheese and wine tasting hosted by your Certified Sommelier, offering delightful insights as you make your way to Lyon.
• Active: Explore Lyon's architectural district on a scenic bike ride with your Adventure Host. Traverse over bridges and along the banks where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet for an invigorating journey, OR:
• Classic: Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour from Fourvière Hill, taking in panoramic views and numerous historic churches. Delve into the Old Town's medieval alleys, bustling cafés, majestic monuments, and the renowned fountain of Place des Terreaux.

In the afternoon, broaden your historical knowledge with a Discovery lecture on board, focusing on WWII and the French Resistance. As night falls, enjoy live entertainment after a delicious dinner on board. (Overnight docking in Lyon)

Embrace the culinary wonders of Lyon, known as the gastronomic capital of France, with a day dedicated to food and wine exploration.

Activities in Lyon:

• Discovery: Embark on a Culinary Walk through the city, delving into the flavors which crown Lyon as France’s culinary heart. Discover an array of gourmet delights and local specialties sure to tantalize your taste buds.
• Discovery: Venture on a guided tour of the enchanting Beaujolais area. Learn about its renowned, light, and pleasant wines amidst beautiful vineyard landscapes, enhancing your appreciation of this acclaimed region.
• Discovery: As the day transitions to evening, indulge in an onboard food and wine pairing dinner hosted by your Certified Sommelier. Relish the expertly matched flavors and aromas as you sail towards your next destination.

Conclude your culinary adventures with an evening cruise towards Tournon, where more delights await. (Evening cruise)

Start your day in Tournon, one of France’s oldest medieval cities, known for its stunning 16th-century castle and sprawling vineyards.

Activities in Tournon:

• Active: Embark on a scenic hike through the vineyards, taking in the breathtaking vistas from the surrounding hills (weather permitting), OR:
• Classic: Enjoy a morning Guided Walking Tour of Tournon. Explore the historical charm of this medieval town, culminating in a delightful wine and chocolate tasting at the famed Cité du Chocolat at Valrhona.

Following your enriching morning in Tournon, savor a leisurely lunch before continuing your day of indulgence with an onboard wine and cheese tasting hosted by your Certified Sommelier as you sail to Viviers.

Viviers: World History in a Charming French Country Village

As you arrive in Viviers, step into a world of historic charm through a late afternoon Guided Walking Tour.

Activities in Viviers:

• Classic: Discover Viviers' pale-stone buildings and delve into its rich historical tapestry, marked by Christian, Roman, and medieval influences. Visit its Romanesque cathedral and navigate the captivating Old Town.

As the evening unfolds, relax and enjoy live entertainment onboard, enriching your experience of Viviers' storied past. (Evening/overnight cruise)

Immerse yourself in the historical grandeur of Avignon, famously known as the City of Popes, nestled within the enchanting landscapes of Provence.

Activities in Avignon:

• Classic: Embark on a Guided Sightseeing Tour of this fortress city. Explore Avignon’s impressive ramparts and delve into its storied past with a visit to the majestic Palace of the Popes, the largest Gothic fortress in the world.
• Discovery: Venture to the renowned wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Experience an authentic taste of the Rhône wine region, celebrated for its exceptional vineyards and rich winemaking tradition.

As the day transitions into evening, indulge in the vibrant atmosphere with live onboard entertainment, enriching your Avignon experience. (Evening cruise)

Discover the artistic allure and historical richness of Arles, a captivating city in the Provence region which inspired masterpieces by Vincent van Gogh. In your free time, stop by the enchanting Le Café van Gogh for a glass of wine, savoring the ambiance once inspiring Van Gogh himself. 

Activities in Arles:

• Active: Start your day with a revitalizing Power Walk through Arles led by your Adventure Host, taking in the city's charming streets and vibrant atmosphere, OR:
• Discovery: Channel your creativity at a Painting Workshop where you'll learn techniques inspired by Vincent van Gogh. Craft your own painting in the style of this legendary artist, OR:
• Classic: Explore the historical wonders of Arles on a Guided Walking Tour. Visit the awe-inspiring Roman Amphitheater, a testament to the city's rich cultural heritage.

Extend your exploration with a Discovery onboard wine and chocolate tasting hosted by your Certified Sommelier, pairing decadent flavors to create a sensory delight. (Overnight docking in Arles)

As your unforgettable journey draws to a close, savor a final breakfast aboard the Avalon Poetry II, taking a moment to reflect on the cherished memories and experiences from the past week. Prepare for disembarkation in Arles, with the rich history and vibrant culture of Provence providing a picturesque backdrop for your departure.

For those wishing to extend their adventure, consider opting for a post-cruise stay in Arles, at an additional cost. Simply mention your interest to your travel advisor to explore this option.

For smooth travel arrangements, please ensure any flights from Marseille airport are scheduled to depart after 10 a.m. to allow ample time for a relaxed transition. 

Things to Do in Arles:

• Explore the Roman Amphitheater
• Visit the Cloisters of Saint-Trophime
• Stroll through Le Café van Gogh
• Wander the Old Town
• See the Van Gogh Foundation
• Visit the Réattu Museum
• Walk along the Rhône River
• Delve into local culture at the Arles Market
• Visit the Luma Arles

Starting at $11,500*

Stateroom Size 200 SQ FT

Rise each day to your wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling Panorama Window creating the industry's only Open–Air Balcony®—with nothing between you and the view. 

Starting at $8,078* 

Stateroom Size 172 SQ FT

While flight options for 2026 are not yet available, Vibewell Voyages will notify you once dates are ready for booking, typically about 11 months in advance. We recommend booking your flights 5-7 months ahead to secure the best fares and maximize value for your travel experience. For your arrival, fly into Lyon, the nearest airport, or alternatively into Paris with a train to Lyon. For your departure, Marseille is the closest airport for a convenient return journey. Planning ahead ensures your travel experience is smooth and enjoyable.

We will provide updated hotel and transfer information closer to the cruise debarkation, as booking dates for 2026 haven't been released yet. Rest assured, your pre-cruise hotel stay in Chalon-sur-Saône is included in the package, along with a train ticket from Lyon to Chalon-sur-Saône, ensuring a seamless start to your journey.

For any additional pre-cruise days or post-cruise stays, arrangements would need to be booked separately. This gives you the flexibility to extend your adventure and explore more at your leisure. Let us know if you have specific preferences, and we can assist in finding the best options to suit your needs.

$500 per cabin (non-refundable)

*Price encompasses the cruise fare, port fees, taxes and pre-paid gratuities.

**$718-$878 per cabin - pricing dependent on cabin category.

**For protection covering preexisting conditions, coverage must be purchased prior to 14 days after the booking is made. 

Final due amount depends on cabin selection and any payments previously made. You may make payments at anytime to lower your final balance due. 

Approximate cost $300*

*Vibewell Voyages will guarantee hotel accommodations and train tickets once they become available, as well as provide updated pricing as necessary. This price is an estimate based on currently known pricing. Booking in advance is highly recommended to secure your room at the best rate. Vibewell Voyages will communicate with you regarding pricing when it is available.