River cruise on the Seine
The Norman coast overlooks one of the world’s busiest and most strategic waterways, and the River Seine is a sort of aquatic expressway, through Rouen to Paris. It meanders through the stunning Norman countryside. The length of the river between Paris
and the sea is nearly 385 kilometres, but the distance as the crow flies is only 177 kilometres. Some of France’s most beautiful locations are in this northern region of France.
The Seine River is the most-used inland river in France, carrying the bulk of commercial traffic because the country’s other rivers are too shallow or have strong and unpredictable currents. The river is navigable for about 560 of its 775 total kilometres, and its gentle “fall” has made it relatively easy to canalize. Only six weirs and locks had to be built on the river between Paris and the English Channel to make a Seine cruise possible.
The Seine runs right through Paris; historically it was quite shallow in the city, but reservoirs and locks help to maintain a constant water level. Boats pass under many beautiful bridges along the river, each one unique, offering fabulous views of iconic Parisian landmarks such as Notre Dame Cathedral and the Eiffel Tower. From the Louvre to the Eiffel Tower, from the Place de la Concorde to the Grand and Petit Palais, the evolution of Paris and its history can be seen from the River Seine
One of the major highlights of any cruise on the Seine is the regional food. Onboard, the chef is a master whose gastronomic creations are often rated better than those in fine restaurants. A river cruise pantry is supplemented with fresh produce bought from lock-keepers’ gardens or local markets. Each morning, the crew go ashore to collect fresh breads, croissants and pastries while the coffee brews. Lunch will be a selection of salads, pâtés, quiches and cheeses, with a four or five-course dinner each night. Enjoy regional specialities such as magret de canard and foie gras and each course is usually accompanied by the finest wines handpicked from the cellar.
Excursions allow you to combine the magic of Paris with the beauty of France’s Norman countryside. Experience history firsthand at the Normandy beaches, site of the famous Allied invasion on D-Day in 1944; walk the cobblestone streets in Gothic Rouen and Vernon; see where Joan of Arc was tried and executed; visit the exquisite gardens of Giverny and delight in the splendour of Paris.
As any visitor to France who travels this spectacular waterway on a Seine River cruise will experience a fantastical journey through French history and culture.
