The new European river cruise brand VIVA Cruises (owned by Scylla) is set to launch a series of new Seine River voyages in November and December 2024, featuring excursions to iconic landmarks such as the Palace of Versailles (from Poissy) and Chateau de Chantilly (from Compiegne).
The upcoming offerings will include 7 distinct itineraries, comprising 6-day Advent cruises, a 7-day Christmas cruise, and a luxurious 7-day New Year’s cruise, each boasting enriching excursions including panoramic city tours of Paris and optional outings.
Serving as the host ship for these winter journeys is the freshly renovated riverboat VIVA GLORIA, a premium vessel accommodating up to 152 passengers in 76 cabins across 3 decks.
Most staterooms are with French balconies, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscapes.
The ship’s amenities include the main restaurant, Riverside, serving gourmet breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus, as well as the newly designed VINO wine bar located at the stern, providing guests with an opportunity to savor the finest French wines. Additional onboard facilities include a cozy lounge, wellness area, and a spacious sundeck featuring a heated pool.
Passengers embarking on the “winter magic” cruises will embark on enriching itineraries beginning and ending in Paris, strategically mooring near the Eiffel Tower for an overnight stay amid the iconic landmarks of the city. The journey continues into Normandy, visiting historic towns like Poissy, Les Andelys, and Rouen, renowned for its cultural heritage and notable landmarks such as the Rouen Cathedral and Joan of Arc Museum. Excursions also include visits to picturesque towns like Vernon and Conflans, offering guests a deeper immersion into the region’s rich history and charming landscapes.
During the festive season, guests will have the opportunity to explore Paris illuminated by dazzling light festivals and embark on excursions to the opulent Palace of Versailles. The cruises will also feature traditional Christmas market visits, museum tours, ice-skating, and French wine tasting sessions at VINO, adding to the seasonal charm.
Onboard entertainment aboard VIVA GLORIA will capture the essence of French flair with themed evenings evoking the ambiance of 1930s clubs in Montparnasse and Montmartre, complete with lively tap-dancing and Parisian melodies. For those welcoming the New Year, a special 6-night cruise will ring in 2025 with champagne and confetti.
Travelers looking to experience Paris before the bustling Christmas season can opt for the Paris Intense itinerary on VIVA GLORIA, offering exclusive all-inclusive experiences within the city. All VIVA itineraries feature the VIVA All-Inclusive product, ensuring guests enjoy high-quality amenities including full board, beverages, minibar, beauty products, Wi-Fi, and gratuities throughout their voyage.