River Cruising in the city of lights
I was lucky enough earlier this year to be invited on a Uniworld river cruise in the beautiful city of lights- Paris. This was a 2 night/3 day experiece on board the phenomenal Joie de Vivre…essentially a boutique hotel floating on the water. Experiencing the enchanting Seine River aboard Uniworld's S.S. Joie de Vivre was truly unique and an experience in a class of its own.
The S.S. Joie de Vivre: French Elegance Redefined
Custom-designed to reflect the glamour and chic of 20th-century Paris, the S.S. Joie de Vivre brings together sophisticated décor, handcrafted furniture, and vibrant artwork to create a floating boutique hotel experience. With just 54 staterooms and suites, this ship delivers an intimate, personalised atmosphere, where every detail feels curated for your client’s comfort and delight.
On board, guests can indulge in:
Le Salon Toulouse: Relax with a cocktail and watch the Seine drift by in a stylish bar inspired by Paris’s golden age.
Le Restaurant Pigalle: Savour farm-to-table French cuisine each day, complemented by fine regional wines.
Le Club l’Esprit: Start the day with yoga, unwind in the spa, or take a dip in the resistance pool that transforms into a cinema by night.Immersive, All-Inclusive Experiences
Uniworld stands out for its dedication to truly all-inclusive luxury. All guests enjoy included excursions, fine wines, premium spirits, gourmet dining, gratuities, WiFi, airport transfers, and more – all arranged seamlessly, leaving them free to immerse themselves in the joys of the journey.
We had a shortened journey as this was an educational trip so did not venture too far out of the centre of Paris however, highlights of a typical Seine itinerary aboard Joie de Vivre might include:
Paris: Experience the magic of the City of Light, from iconic landmarks to hidden bistros.
Versailles: Step back in time at the opulent palace and gardens with exclusive guided tours.
Giverny: Marvel at the water lilies in Monet’s gardens, the inspiration behind his most beloved paintings.
Normandy: Reflect at the poignant D-Day beaches and absorb the lush countryside immortalised by the Impressionists.
Honfleur & Rouen: Explore mediaeval streets, bustling markets, and riverside charms in historic towns.
What Makes a Uniworld Cruise Special?
Boutique Luxury: No two Uniworld ships are alike, and Joie de Vivre’s Parisian chic delivers a sense of place at every turn.
Exceptional Service: With a high staff-to-guest ratio, attentive crew anticipate every need.
Curated Excursions: Hand-picked local guides, exclusive “Choice Is Yours” excursions, and curated cultural experiences bring each destination to life.
Culinary Excellence: Menus showcase French gastronomy at its finest, prepared using locally sourced ingredients.
The Travel Counsellor Touch
Booking through a Travel Counsellor ensures your clients’ river cruise is elevated with personal touches, tailored advice, and true peace of mind. From the perfect stateroom to pre- or post-cruise Parisian stays and seamless transfers, our service is as bespoke as Uniworld’s riverside journeys.
Feeling inspired?
I went in to this experience with some reservations, having never been on any sort of cruise, I was not sure what I would think however, The S.S. Joie de Vivre is more than a river cruise – it’s a celebration of France’s joie de vivre, where every detail immerses guests in the finer side of travel. It’s perfect for discerning guests seeking romance, culture, and relaxation in unsurpassed style. I am truly a convert and new found enthusiast and would recommend a river cruise to anyone.
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