Deckplan
Flowing from the heart of Paris through the picturesque Seine Valley, with its orchards, rolling countryside and striking chalk cliffs, the River Seine has witnessed the rise and fall of kingdoms, inspired some of the greatest Impressionist painters and has long been at the centre of Normandy’s history, connecting the castles, monasteries and historic towns of the region. Our voyage which we have timed to coincide with the 1000th anniversary of the birth of William the Conqueror offers the opportunity to explore the landscapes that shaped one of history’s most remarkable figures whilst discovering the region’s rich heritage from the comfort of our elegant river vessel, the MS R.E. Waydelich L.J.
Beginning in the enchanting city of Paris, we will moor in the heart of France’s capital before cruising through the Normandy countryside, a charming area of gently undulating woods, orchards, pastures and clear streams. Each bend in the river reveals something of interest: picturesque villages, monasteries, abbeys and architecture that spans from the Medieval to the ultra-modern. Highlights of our itinerary include a visit to Monet’s retreat at Giverny, where he lived for more than 40 years, exploring the historic streets of Rouen with their reminders of Joan of Arc and discovering the magnificent ruins of Jumieges Abbey and the birthplace of William the Conqueror at Falaise. We will explore Caen, one of the principal centres of his rule in Normandy and where he founded the magnificent Abbaye aux Hommes. There will also be the opportunity to discover the charming harbour town of Honfleur and the imposing Chateau Gaillard, Richard the Lionheart’s mighty fortress overlooking the Seine.
Throughout our journey, a knowledgeable Guest Speaker will bring the history of the region to life, exploring the story of William the Conqueror, the Norman legacy and the events that shaped both France and England. With the combination of fascinating history, beautiful landscapes and afternoons spent leisurely cruising along one of France’s most beautiful rivers, this promises to be a fascinating and rewarding voyage.
R.E Waydelich L.J.
For our journey we have chartered the delightful MS R.E Waydelich L.J. (formerly known as the MS Elbe Princesse II). Launched in 2018, the vessel accommodates a maximum of 74 passengers, providing a warm and intimate atmosphere on board. With plenty of light and a large Sun Deck, there is ample opportunity to watch the world gently pass by as you relax on board your comfortable floating hotel.
Itinerary
Day 1 London or Manchester to Paris, France.
Fly by scheduled flight from London or Manchester to Paris or join the Eurostar at St Pancras International Train Station. On arrival, transfer to the MS R.E. Waydelich L.J. moored in Paris. Meet your fellow guests during the welcome dinner on board and enjoy the evening ambience of the ‘City of Lights’.
Day 2 Paris.
This morning there will be a guided tour into the Medieval heart of Paris, with a visit to Isle de la Cite. This island in the centre of the Seine is one of the oldest districts of Paris, and home to some of its most famous landmarks. Visit Sainte Chapelle, one of the oldest surviving sections of the Medieval royal palace, and the private chapel of the royal family of France. Marvel at the intricate Gothic architecture and impressive stained-glass windows that once protected a collection of sacred Christian relics. We continue to the Cathedral of Notre Dame, one of Paris’s most well-known landmarks. Enjoy some free time here or cross the river to the Latin Quarter, where the famous Shakespeare and Company bookshop can be found on the opposite bank. Return to the ship for lunch and spend a relaxing afternoon on board as we sail toward La Roche Guyon, arriving this evening.
Day 3 La Roche Guyon & Giverny.
From our berth in La Roche Guyon, we have a choice of tours today. Discover the charm and beauty of this corner of Normandy with a visit to nearby Giverny. It was here that impressionist artist Claude Monet lived and worked from 1883 until his death in 1926. His beautifully laid out Norman and Japanese-inspired gardens became the subject of his famous Water Lilies series of paintings. Today the home has been lovingly maintained as a museum. Wander the garden pathways and visit the house where the great painter spent over half of his life. Alternatively, join a guided walk through the village of La Roche Guyon, known as one of the most beautiful in France, and visit the Chateau, which was partially carved from the chalk cliffs along the riverbank. The village was an important toll station for shipping along the Seine and was a key strategic location during World War II, when the occupying Germans set up a command centre in the tunnels behind the Chateau. Today the Chateau’s ornate frontage overlooks tranquil riverside orchards. Return to the ship this afternoon, and sail through the meandering Seine valley, admiring charming villages and steep chalk cliffs as we sail to Rouen.
Day 4 Rouen.
This morning, take a stroll ashore in Rouen, the ‘City of a Hundred Spires’. From its capture by Rollo, the first Duke of Normandy, to the execution of Joan of Arc during the Hundred Years War, the city has been pivotal to the combined history of both France and England, which is evident through the many historical monuments that can be found among its streets. Explore the cathedral, which contains the tombs of several prominent dukes and members of the Angevin Royal Family. Wander through the Medieval centre, along the Rue du Gros Horloge to see the 14th century astronomical clock, which remains in working order to this day. Our guided walk will conclude in the old market square, where Joan of Arc was famously burned at the stake in 1431. The square today is home to a church dedicated to Saint Joan and surrounded by original half-timbered Medieval buildings. Return to the ship for lunch and spend the afternoon sailing through green landscapes of the lower Seine.
Day 5 Caudebec-en-Caux.
Awake today in Caudebec-en-Caux, nestled in a bend of the river and surrounded by peaceful bucolic scenery. The town was once a wealthy trading port, and its charming streets and architecture reflect its prosperity during the Medieval and Early Modern periods. After breakfast enjoy a stroll through the Medieval streets and admire the town’s flamboyant Gothic church. Later we travel to the ruins of Abbaye Jumieges. This prominent Benedictine monastery was founded in the 7th century, and was visited by William the Conqueror in 1067, who consecrated a church on its grounds one year after the Battle of Hastings. The site was destroyed and rebuilt several times over the centuries, and eventually abandoned during the French Revolution, however its impressive limestone architecture still stands overlooking the river, leading Victor Hugo to describe it as ‘the most beautiful ruin in France’. Return to the ship for lunch and catch the scent of sea air from the sun deck as we make our way toward the Seine Estuary and Le Havre.
Day 6 Le Havre for Normandy.
This morning there will be a choice of tours from Le Havre into the heart of Normandy. Follow in the footsteps of William the Conqueror and discover his birthplace in the Norman town of Falaise, where he was born in 1027. Explore the 12th century castle, built atop the site of the original, and learn about William’s early life and the castle’s strategic importance through interactive exhibits throughout the keep. Continue to the nearby city of Caen, the former capital of Normandy. After lunch in a local restaurant, we will explore Caen’s Medieval city centre and learn of its importance during the Medieval period and its restoration and reconstruction after World War II. Visit the church of Sainte Etienne and the Abbaye aux Hommes, which was commissioned by William and his wife, Mathilde, and became his final resting place following his death in 1087. Alternatively, join a half-day tour to the nearby town of Honfleur, which is famous for its colourful houses lining the old harbour. Enjoy a walk through the town centre, visiting the old harbour, customs house and the St Catherine Church, the largest wooden church in France. Sail this evening.
Day 7 Les Andelys.
Enjoy a leisurely morning on board as we cruise upstream towards Paris. This afternoon we will moor in the picturesque town of Les Andelys. Nestled in a sweeping bend of the river, and surrounded by towering chalk cliffs, the town of Les Andelys has been an important waystation since the early Medieval period and was extensively fortified under the reign of Richard the Lionheart. The town was pivotal to the defence of English-held Normandy, and was protected by the imposing Chateau Gaillard, one of the most important castles of the Medieval period. This afternoon we will stroll through the charming Medieval streets and market squares of the town, before climbing to the promontory to visit the ruins of Chateau Gaillard. Return to the ship this evening and enjoy the farewell dinner on board as we return to Paris.
Day 8 Paris to London or Manchester.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for your return scheduled flight to London or Manchester. Alternatively transfer to Paris Gare du Nord Station to join the Eurostar to St Pancras International Train Station.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER – SAVE £300 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
| 11 to 18 October 2027 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| Main Deck Twin | £3295 | £2995 |
| Upper Deck Twin | £3795 | £3495 |
| Main Deck Twin for sole use | £4295 | £3995 |
Tour Reference Code: RCWAY111027
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel or travel by Eurostar • Seven nights accommodation aboard the MS R.E. Waydelich L.J. on a full board basis • All-inclusive drinks from 10am to 11pm (please note that premium brands & sparkling wines are not included) • Shore excursions • Noble Caledonia onboard team including Guest Speaker • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
NB. Ports and itinerary subject to change, water levels and weather conditions.
Please be aware that our website does not display real-time availability. As a result, the categories and prices listed above are subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please call us at 020 7752 0000 and speak with one of our experienced Travel Consultants.
R.E Waydelich L.J.
For our journey we have chartered the delightful MS R.E Waydelich L.J. (formerly known as the MS Elbe Princesse II). Launched in 2018, the vessel accommodates a maximum of 74 passengers, providing a warm and intimate atmosphere on board. With plenty of light and a large Sun Deck, there is ample opportunity to watch the world gently pass by as you relax on board your comfortable floating hotel.
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Ship Directory
Ship Directory
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
VESSEL TECHNICAL DETAILS
Year built: 2018
Length: 101 metres
Width: 10.5 metres
Tonnage: 800 Gross tonnes
Passengers: 74
Crew: 25AIR-CONDITIONING
All cabins have an individually controlled heating and cooling system. We recommend you keep your cabin’s windows and balcony door closed for optimal performance of the unit.
BAR/BEVERAGES
All-inclusive drinks are provided on board (excluding premium brands) between the hours of 10.00 am and 11.00 pm daily.
CABIN DIMENSIONS
All twin cabins measure 14 square metres with two beds measuring 80 x 190 cm each and pushed together.
CABIN FACILITIES
Each cabin features air-conditioning, hairdryer, safe, in-cabin telephone, television, en-suite bathroom with shower and toiletries.
DAILY PROGRAMME
Each evening the next day’s programme will be delivered to your cabin.
DRESS CODE
Comfortable and practical attire is recommended during the day for excursions and something dressier for the evening. More formal dress is required only for welcome drinks/dinner (black tie is not necessary).
ELECTRICITY
Electricity on board is 220v with 2-pin power outlets. We recommend you take an adaptor with you. In the interests of safety, please note that the use of electrical irons on board is strictly prohibited.
EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
Full details of the ship’s emergency and safety procedures will be provided following your embarkation. Please note there is no doctor on board the vessel.
FIRE SAFETY
On your cabin door is a deck plan displaying your closest (and all other) emergency exits. Emergency exits are marked in green and fire extinguishers fitted in all corridors.
FIRST AID
A number of crew are fully trained and certified to provide First Aid. Further medical assistance can be sought from one of the hospitals along the river in the event of emergency.
GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.
GIFT SHOP
A small gift shop selling various practical and souvenir items is available by Reception.
HOUSEKEEPING
Your cabin will be cleaned once a day and you will be provided with a ‘turn down’ service at night.
LAUNDRY
There are no laundry or dry cleaning services on board.
LIFT
There is no lift on board.
LOST PROPERTY
Lost property can be handed in to the ship’s Reception. Should you leave items on board the ship, please contact Noble Caledonia. If we are able to recover your item(s) we will contact you to arrange delivery or collection and to advise of any associated costs.
MEALS
Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are served on board. Breakfast and lunches are buffet style with hot and cold items and dinners are a served set menu with a choice of main course or vegetarian option. Certain dietary requests can be catered for (on request), however please note that due to galley restrictions, Croisi Europe is unable to offer a choice at each course. Please provide any such requests in writing to Noble Caledonia at the time of your reservation and please reiterate these requests to the ship’s Hotel Manager upon your embarkation.
MOORING
Docking space is allocated by the local river authorities. On occasion other river cruise vessels may be required to dock alongside our ship. This may result in restricted cabin views and may also entail us being required to embark and disembark the ship through another vessel’s public area and/or for the other ship’s passengers to do the same.
PAYMENTS ON BOARD
The currency on board is the Euro. All passengers will have their own ship account, which allows you to sign for all purchases and services throughout your cruise. You may then settle your bill by Visa, Mastercard or cash (Euros only) at the end of the cruise. Personal cheques and debit cards are not accepted. Regrettably, the ship is not able to offer a money-changing service on board as this would be contravening official regulations.
POST
The vessel’s gift shop sells postcards and stamps for you to purchase (subject to availability) and items can be posted on your behalf by the ship’s crew (although as they are unable to do so each day, this could take longer than if you were to post yourself).
QUESTIONNAIRES
We are always looking for ways to improve our holidays and the services provided and in order to do this we welcome feedback from our guests. Your comments are important to us therefore we request that you complete the questionnaire that will be provided to you on board.
QUIETVOX/AUDIO SYSTEM
Noble Caledonia has arranged for all passengers to have access to a ‘Quietvox’ audio system for shore excursions. Further details shall be provided to you following your embarkation.
RECEPTION
Reception is staffed throughout the day. A member of crew can be contacted 24 hours a day.
SAFE
All cabins are fitted with a safe and we recommend you place your valuables inside the safe whenever you are away from your room. Please remember to remove all items from your safe prior to you departing the vessel at the end of the cruise.
SMOKING
Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and can be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation.
SUN DECK
The ship has a Sun Deck which is available for guests to enjoy. There may be times, for example at periods of inclement weather or low bridges (when sailing), whereby it is necessary to close the Sun Deck. Please listen carefully to the Captain and Crew for instruction. Please also note that the Sun Deck and its steps may become slippery if the weather is cool or dew forms.
WATER
Complimentary water is available during breakfast, lunch and dinner. Bottled water is available within your cabin and is replenished once a day.
WI-FI
Wireless internet connection is available in the ship’s public areas without charge. There may be times when internet connection is slow or not available.
PLEASE NOTE: The information contained in this booklet should be used as a guideline only. Information is subject to change.
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Deck Plan
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Deckplan
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000