Fly south for summer or autumn in Burgundy and Provence where the light is magical, the colours vibrant and the landscape as beautiful and mesmerising as it appeared to the great impressionist artists. A problem with being one of the loveliest places on earth is that you will not be alone in your wish to explore this magical area of France. However, travelling by river along the Rhone and Saone offers the opportunity to forget the traffic jams and experience the countryside in a marvellously peaceful way. The subtle changes of landscape, lifestyles and architecture can be appreciated fully and nowhere is this more relevant than on these two French rivers which offer a passage through some truly wonderful scenery and an ever-changing countryside dotted with cypress, umbrella pine and vines.
Our relaxing seven-night river cruise will introduce you to the natural and historical wonders of the region through interesting onboard lectures, expertly guided shore excursions and some time at leisure to explore independently. There will also be ample time spent on board sailing, allowing you to appreciate the wonderful scenery and absorb the subtle changes in landscapes along the river. There will be the opportunity to explore France’s gastronomic capital Lyon and visit Avignon, the great City of Popes which boasts a number of splendid museums, churches and palaces and the impressive Roman amphitheatre at Arles. We will also will visit the Camargue Natural Park to witness the stunning scenery and wildlife, including pink flamingos and the famous white horses. All this will be accomplished with ease from the comfort of the delightful 105-passenger MS Van Gogh.
Van Gogh
For our voyages along the Rhone we have chartered the delightful MS Van Gogh from our associates at Croisi Europe. The vessel accommodates a maximum of 105 passengers and offers spacious public areas and comfortable cabins. She is a charming vessel and joining you on board will be a Noble Caledonia team including a Cruise Director, Tour Manager and Guest Speaker.
Itinerary
Day 1 London to Lyon, France.
Fly by scheduled flight. Upon arrival transfer to the MS Van Gogh and embark. Meet your fellow travellers this evening during welcome drinks and dinner as we moor overnight.
Day 2 Lyon.
There will be a choice of tours this morning as we explore Lyon. Our city tour starts with a stop at the Fourviere Basilica where we can take in the breathtaking views. In 1168, a chapel was built by Olivier de Chavannes, the Saint Jean canon, over the ruins of the old Roman forum. The small chapel that was first dedicated to Saint Thomas and then to the Virgin Mary has been destroyed and rebuilt many times. Its current known form dates back to 1740 and its most recent renovation was in 2008. Later, we return to Lyon’s old town where a walking tour will discover the “traboules”, types of passageways that are typical of the city. Alternatively, join a food filled walking tour of this “Gastronomic Capital” which stops at several eateries to taste the local cuisine. We will discover the multitude of sweets and pastries made with pink praline, a delicious local confection, whilst those with a savoury tooth can enjoy a tasting of regional charcuterie. We will return to the ship for lunch and enjoy a leisurely afternoon on board as we cruise to Macon.
Day 3 Macon & Cluny Abbey.
From our berth in Macon, we have a choice of excursion this morning. Maybe visit Cluny Abbey which was founded in 910 by William the Pious. The abbey was under the direct protection of Rome and its abbot was granted the role of mediator between the political leaders and the pope. This ancient Benedictine Abbey extended a widespread influence on all of Medieval Europe. Its church was the largest in all of West Christianity until Saint Peter’s Basilica was built in Rome. In 1798, the abbey was sold as a national asset and thus dismantled, while its church was almost completely destroyed. Alternatively, spend the morning in the charming Burgundy town of Macon which has a wide range of striking monuments and beautiful old mansions in the old town. With their unique roof tiles and brightly coloured facades the city has a Mediterranean feel. Return to the MS Van Gogh for lunch as we sail this afternoon.
Day 4 Vienne.
We will spend this morning in the fine Roman town of Vienne, beautifully located in the Rhone Valley and surrounded by hills. During our walking tour, we will learn about its Roman era with a visit to the Temple of Augustus and Livia and the Roman theatre which was one of the largest in the Roman Empire with a capacity for 13,000 spectators. Our final visit will be the Romanesque-Gothic Cathedral St Maurice. Relax on board this afternoon as we continue our journey south.
Day 5 Avignon & Arles for The Camargue.
The great City of the Popes boasts a number of splendid museums, churches and palaces. Our guided walking tour will include the Palais des Papes, one of the wonders of Provence and the largest and most important Medieval Gothic buildings in Europe. We will also visit the Cathedral and have time to wander in the Place De L’Horloge which is built on top of the Roman Forum and the heart of Avignon. During lunch on board, we sail the short distance to Arles from where we make our way to the Camargue. Admire the scenery which is comprised of rivers, marshes and ponds, and see the pink flamingos, black bulls and the famous, indigenous Camargue horses. We will see the renowned salt and rice fields and also visit a manade (bull breeding farm) and learn about the work of a manadier as we watch a demonstration of how they work with the animals they raise. This evening, we will enjoy some Provencal entertainment on board as we moor overnight.
Day 6 Arles & Viviers.
Spend the morning exploring Arles. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Arles sits on a low hill where the Rhone River branches in two parts to the sea. The town dates back to the 7th century BC and was a major Gallo-Roman city. The Roman sites are unique in that they are integrated into the houses and buildings of the town. During our walking tour we will see the huge amphitheatre and the former Cathedral of St Trophime, a Romanesque Basilica constructed in the 12th century. Afterwards we drive to a farmhouse in nearby Tarascon to learn about the cultivation of olives and for a tasting of the famous Provencal olive oil. We will re-embark in Avignon where the ship will have sailed to meet us and have lunch on board as we sail to Viviers. Viviers has been a residence of bishops since the 5th century. This small town is like an open-air museum where on an evening walking tour we will find France’s smallest cathedral, the House of Knights with a superb Renaissance façade and the Tower of St Michel.
Day 7 Tournon.
Spend the morning cruising to Tournon, a pretty town located in the heart of the Rhone Valley. A walking tour will include the Chateau de Tournon, a castle dating back to the 16th century which is now a museum and where there will be the opportunity to discover the permanent collection on display which highlights the history of navigation on the Rhone River. This imposing castle was built on a high granite rock overlooking the town and was the domain of the Counts of Tournon. At the foot of the castle, enjoy a pleasant walk along the streets and alleys of the historic centre which will take you back to the Middle Ages. Our visit will end with a tasting of local food and wines.
Day 8 Lyon to London.
Disembark this morning and transfer to the airport for our scheduled flight to London.
Dates and Prices
SPECIAL OFFER - SAVE £200 PER PERSON FOR A LIMITED TIME ONLY
Prices per person based on double occupancy
| 22 to 29 June 2026 • 5 to 12 October 2026 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Category | Brochure Price | Special Offer Price |
| 1 Main Deck Twin | £3195 | £2995 |
| 2 Upper Deck Twin with French Balcony | £3395 | £3195 |
| 3 Main Deck Single | £3195 | £2995 |
Tour Reference Code: RCVG220626/RCVG051026
PRICE INCLUDES: Economy class scheduled air travel • Seven nights aboard the MS Van Gogh on a full board basis • All-inclusive drinks from 10am to 11pm daily (please note premium brands & sparkling wine are not included) • Shore excursions • Cruise Director • Tour Manager • Guest Speaker • Gratuities • Transfers • Port taxes • Airport taxes.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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.
Van Gogh
For our voyages along the Rhone we have chartered the delightful MS Van Gogh from our associates at Croisi Europe. The vessel accommodates a maximum of 105 passengers and offers spacious public areas and comfortable cabins. She is a charming vessel and joining you on board will be a Noble Caledonia team including a Cruise Director, Tour Manager and Guest Speaker.
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Ship Directory
SHIP DIRECTORY
Please find below further details pertaining to the vessel or click on the booklet to download.
We are delighted you have chosen the MS Van Gogh for your upcoming journey.
We have chartered the MS Van Gogh from our associates at Croisi Europe. The vessel accommodates a maximum of 105 passengers and offers elegant and spacious public areas along with comfortable and well-appointed cabins. She is a charming vessel with a relaxed and informal atmosphere on board and you will find yourself amongst like-minded fellow guests in an English-speaking environment. The friendly onboard staff will provide you with excellent service and do much to contribute to your enjoyment throughout your journey. We hope this information booklet answers any questions you may have pertaining to the vessel and wish you a pleasant voyage.
Vessel Technical Details
Passengers: 105
Cabins: 54
Crew: approx. 25
Length: 110 metres
Width: 11.4 metres
Built: 1999AIR-CONDITIONING
All cabins have individually controlled heating and air-conditioning.ALARM
An alarm will be sounded in the event of emergency. Please follow the instructions provided on board for what to do in the event of an emergency.BAR/BEVERAGES
All-inclusive drinks are provided on board (excluding premium brands and sparkling wine) between the hours of 10.00 am and 11.00 pm.CABINS
There are 54 spacious and well-designed cabins on board. The cabins are arranged over two decks and all feature en-suite bathroom with shower, television, telephone, hairdryer, closet and a safe. Cabins on the Main Deck feature picture windows, and those on the Upper Deck feature French Balcony style (floor to ceiling) sliding windows. Twin cabins measure 15 square metres and have twin beds that can be positioned separately or together as a double bed, whilst single cabins measure 11 square metres.DAILY PROGRAMME
A daily programme, detailing the following day’s arrangements as well as any specific information about the day’s activities, is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening.DRESS CODE
During the day, comfortable and casual attire is appropriate. Evening attire is smart casual though you may like to bring something a little dressier for the welcome and farewell dinners, for example, a jacket and tie for gentlemen and occasion wear for ladies.DINING & DRINKING
Breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner are served in the restaurant on board. Breakfast and lunch are buffet style with hot and cold items and dinners are a served set menu with a choice of main course or vegetarian option. Alcoholic and soft drinks are included in your holiday price (excluding premium brands) as are tea and coffee which are available throughout the day on a self-serve basis and with meals. 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. If you have any dietary requirements such as vegetarian, low salt, gluten free and low cholesterol, please notify the Reservations Department. We regret that not all dietary requirements can be guaranteed. If you have any specific or special foods that you require, we recommend that you take some with you although we will endeavour to accommodate your needs. Once on board please speak to the Chef or Maitre D’ at dinner on your first night on board to reconfirm your needs.ELECTRICITY
Voltage is 220v with 2-pin power outlets. We recommend that you bring an international adaptor. For safety reasons, the use of electrical irons or other devices such as kettles, are not permitted on board.EMERGENCY & SAFETY PROCEDURES
In the unlikely event of an emergency during your cruise, please remain calm and follow the instructions of the crew. We request that all guests carefully review the safety instructions on the inside of their cabin door.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 are fitted in all corridors. Should you detect fire or smoke please alert the reception desk immediately and await instructions from the crew.FIRST AID
A number of the crew members are fully trained and certified to provide First Aid. Should you require further medical attention, please contact the Hotel Manager or Cruise Director immediately. Further medical assistance can be sought from one of the hospitals along the river in the event of an emergency.GRATUITIES
Gratuities have been included in your holiday price.GIFT SHOP
There is a small gift shop selling various practical and souvenir items.HOUSEKEEPING
Your cabin will be cleaned once a day and you will be provided with an evening ‘turn down’ service.KEYS TO CABIN
Each cabin will receive their own cabin key. Before leaving the ship we kindly ask all passengers to swap the cabin key with a shore pass which will be provided to you by the ship’s reception desk. After your return to the ship, please return your shore pass back to reception in exchange for your cabin key.LAUNDRY
Please note there are no laundry facilities on board.LIFT
Please note there is no lift on board.LOST PROPERTY
Lost property can be handed into the ship’s reception. Please ensure you have all your belongings with you before you return home. Should you leave any 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.MOORING
Docking space is allocated by the local river authorities. Views from cabins may occasionally be restricted. On occasion other river cruise vessels may dock alongside the ship. This may restrict cabin views, and you may find that embarking and disembarking necessitates walking through another ship’s reception area, and/or for their passengers to do the samePAYMENTS ON BOARD
The ship offers a cash-free system during your cruise and purchases are charged to your onboard account. The day before your cruise ends you will receive an itemised invoice for any onboard charges incurred. Please review the invoice carefully before settling your bill. The currency on board is the Euro. While Visa and MasterCard are accepted, personal cheques and debit cards are not. 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 may sell 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 at every port of call, 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 use during the shore excursions. Further details shall be provided to you following your embarkation.RECEPTION
Reception can be contacted 24 hours a day, except when the crew member on night watch duty is doing their intermittent security round during which a sign will be replaced at Reception.SAFE
Your cabin is equipped with a small safe for your personal use. We recommend placing valuables in the safe whenever you are away from your room.SUN DECK
The ship has a Sun Deck which is available for guests to enjoy. Please note that the Sun Deck and its steps may become slippery if the weather is cool or dew forms. To ensure your safety, the Sun Deck area may be closed in the evenings and when sailing through sections of the river where bridges are low. Please listen carefully to the Captain and crew for instructions.SMOKING
Smoking within your cabin or any of the vessel’s public areas is strictly prohibited. Designated smoking areas are provided and will be advised by the ship’s reception upon embarkation.TELEPHONE
To make an internal call please dial the corresponding cabin number. To make an external call, please contact Reception who will advise of the rates.TOILETRIES
A selection of toiletries are provided including shampoo, shower gel, soap and facial tissues.WATER
Complimentary water is available during breakfast, lunch and dinner, and from the bar. A glass bottle of water will be provided in your cabin upon embarkation which you can replenish using the water dispenser in the lounge. We recommend that you bring a refillable water bottle for use whilst on board and during the excursions.WI-FI
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available in the cabins and public areas. There may also be times when the internet connection is slow or not available such as when the ship sails through rural areas or locks.PLEASE BE ADVISED: These details should be used as guidelines only. Information is subject to change.
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Deck Plan
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Travelling with You
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Olga Verstage
Olga Verstage is a versatile presenter, combining her skills as concert pianist, historian, art historian and classicist to make her talks entertaining, lively, informative, and unusual. Olga is an accredited lecturer for the Arts Society and has a PhD in Classics and a BA in Arts History. She was Head of Classics at King William’s College on the Isle of Man and teaches various history classes, Latin and Russian at the University College Isle of Man. Olga also worked as sessional Arts History lecturer for the University of Liverpool for 12 years, and for eight years was a history tutor for the University of Chester, lecturing on various art styles from Renaissance to 20th century, Medieval History and the Crusades. Olga was born in the Crimea and attended Conservatoire in Odessa, graduating with top marks in piano performance. She also has FTCL in Piano Performance, ATCL in Organ Performance and AMusTCL in music theory. Olga has a wide range of lectures on all aspects of art and history, including topics on European history covering the period from Classical times to World War I, on European art from the Classical period through Early Renaissance to Late Romanticism and early 20th century art, and on music.
Olga Verstage will be on the following tour dates: 5 to 12 October 2026
Tour Extensions
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If you would like to spend some time in France’s Haute-Savoie region before embarking the MS Van Gogh we are offering a three night extension in the charming lakeside city of Annecy.
Annecy
The Itinerary
Day 1 London to Annecy, France.
Fly by scheduled flight to Geneva. Arrive this afternoon and transfer to Le Pelican Hotel in Annecy. After check in enjoy free time before we meet for dinner this evening. (D)
Day 2 Annecy.
After breakfast in the hotel we will discover Annecy, the capital of Haute-Savoie and known as the “Venice of the Alps”. Stroll through the old town with its charming canals, flowery banks, adorable little bridges and beautiful houses with colourful facades. In the heart of the old town, admire the Palais de l’Île, a former prison and courthouse, and stroll along rue Sainte-Claire lined with pretty arcaded houses. Explore the quays, bridges and old pedestrian streets to discover the eventful history of the city built along the Thiou. After lunch we return to the hotel for a free afternoon and evening to explore at your own pace, you may wish to climb up to the Chateau d’Annecy for views over the town or take a wander on the lakeside. (B, L)
Day 3 Yvoire.
Depart this morning for a tour of Yvoire. On the shores of Lake Geneva, this charming Medieval village is considered one of the most beautiful villages in France. With over 700 years of history, we will see the ramparts, fortified gates and the impressive 14th century castle and garden. After lunch at a local restaurant, we make our way back to Annecy for an afternoon and evening at leisure. (B, L)
Day 4 Annecy to Lyon.
After breakfast in the hotel we will drive to Hautecombe Abbey located on the shores of Lac du Bourget, France’s largest natural lake. Here we will tour the abbey and enjoy a cruise of the lake. After lunch we continue our journey to Lyon to embark the MS Van Gogh. (B, L)
Prices per person based on double occupancy
19 to 22 June 2026 • 2 to 5 October 2026 Category Price Twin £1495 Single £1795 Price Includes: Three nights at Le Pelican Hotel in Annecy, meals as indicated including drinks (B - Breakfast, L – Lunch, D – Dinner), tours as described, Tour Manager, gratuities, transfers.
Not Included: Travel insurance.
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Book with Confidence
Speak to one of our advisors on 020 7752 0000