Saône River Cruises
The Saône River is a picturesque waterway that flows through eastern France, connecting with the Rhône River. A delightful journey through some of France's most charming regions, including France’s famous Burgundy wine region. Explore quaint villages, historic towns, and vineyard-covered landscapes with a blend of cultural experiences, wine tastings, and scenic views for travellers looking to immerse themselves in the beauty and heritage of the French countryside.
Popular River Cruises
14 Days Geneva to Paris
Operator: AmaWaterways
From
7,669pp
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623pp
8 Days Lyon to Dijon
Operator: AmaWaterways
From
5,576pp
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472pp
8 Days Dijon to Lyon
Operator: AmaWaterways
From
3,033pp
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1,116pp
8 Days Dijon to Lyon
Operator: AmaWaterways
From
3,495pp
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1,384pp
The Saône River
Where does the Saône start & finish?
The Saône River originates in the Vosges Mountains in northeastern France, near the commune of Vioménil. It flows generally southwards and eventually merges with the Rhône River in the city of Lyon. The Saône has a total length of approximately 473 km's (294 miles).
Do cruises travel the length of the Saône?
Most river cruises on the Saône take place between Lyon and Chalon-sur-Saône or Mâcon to the north. The Saône is known for its tranquil waters and scenic landscapes, including lush vineyards and quaint villages. It offers a more relaxed pace compared to other European rivers, making it perfect for travellers looking for a serene escape.
Lyon Confluence
The Saône meets the Rhône River in Lyon, creating a confluence that has given birth to a vibrant culinary and cultural scene. Many river cruises on the Saône start or end in Lyon, offering travellers the chance to explore this gastronomic capital.
Mâcon’s Wine Heritage
The Saône runs through Mâcon, a town famous for its wine, particularly its Chardonnays. Many cruises offer excursions to the local vineyards for tastings and vineyard walks.
Saône River Cruise Lines Featured Operators
One of our favourite sayings that describes Avalon Waterways is ‘the possibilities are as wide open as the views’. From Europe to the Galapagos and Asia, more you can cruise in relaxed luxury with Avalon Waterways, with choices as unique as you. Avalon offers you a range of choices from excursions, dining options, activities that help you tailor your experience.
Just imagine gliding away down the world’s most spectacular rivers, all while enjoying a unique vantage point from your own private oasis. Our floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in our suites blur the line between where the world ends, and your suite begins; allowing you to experience the world less seen from the comfort of your bed. This is river cruising from a unique point of view.
Just imagine gliding away down the world’s most spectacular rivers, all while enjoying a unique vantage point from your own private oasis. Our floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in our suites blur the line between where the world ends, and your suite begins; allowing you to experience the world less seen from the comfort of your bed. This is river cruising from a unique point of view.
From culture-rich cities to world-famous wine regions, Emerald Cruises represents a new chapter in the world of river cruising. Our deluxe fleet of revolutionary more Star-Ships promise contemporary comfort and unique on-board innovations, while our generous offering combines affordability with great dining, exceptional service and immersive itineraries across Europe and Asia.
With return flights, transfers, all on-board meals, complimentary drinks, tips and much more included in the price of an Emerald Cruises river cruise, we’ve taken care of everything. Our attentive team of crew, sommeliers and personal butlers are available day and night to ensure every minute on-board the Emerald Cruises fleet is as enriching, enjoyable and relaxing as possible.
With return flights, transfers, all on-board meals, complimentary drinks, tips and much more included in the price of an Emerald Cruises river cruise, we’ve taken care of everything. Our attentive team of crew, sommeliers and personal butlers are available day and night to ensure every minute on-board the Emerald Cruises fleet is as enriching, enjoyable and relaxing as possible.
Whether you're experiencing the Rhine or the Danube, the Douro, the Rhône, Seine, Maas or Moselle... the magic of Tauck's award-winning European river more cruises goes far beyond the riverboat you're aboard or the landmarks you'll visit. It's in the intimate ambiance and personalized service... the places you'll discover off the beaten path... and in the uncommon access to local culture and exclusive destination driven experiences you can't get on your own, as you experience a true slice of European life and return home transformed.
Discover The Saône
Must Do Experiences and Highlights along the Saône
Hospices De Beaune 
Chalon-sur-Saône 
Mâcon 
Chateau de Cormatin 
Cluny Abbey Latest Reviews
What our clients are saying about their journeys along the Saône
River Cruise through South of France
Burgundy & Provence (Southbound)
Norman and Gloria, ON, Canada, Oct 2025
We greatly enjoyed our river cruise. The staff on Poetry II were top-notch. We thank those who were especially helpful, like Matheus in reception, Marya in the dining room, and Carmen in housekeeping. Some really went out of their way to help me when I got sick during the cruise, such as Adrian who was super-accommodating in adjusting local tour arrangements, read more and Margarida who diligently served me a special medicinal drink using a very effective Portuguese recipe. This was a very positive experience and we look forward to joining another Avalon river cruise in the not too distant future.
Historic South of France by River Cruise
Nice to Paris & Sensations of Lyon and Provence
Ros and Gayle, QLD, Australia, Sep 2025
This river cruise with Emerald, through the south of France, was most enjoyable and very good value. It was not as inclusive as previous river cruises I have taken, but it did allow me to question if the unlimited alcohol and extra tours included in the fully inclusive cruises, are really worth the extra cost. The trip was chosen, due to the Nice read more extension at the start and the Paris extension at the end. The ship was spotlessly clean; staff was extremely attentive and obliging and the food was excellent. The daily programme and excursions were well organised and ran to schedule. Also included, was an evening performance by a small orchestra, at a local cathedral. The bathrooms were smaller than usual, but the facilities around the ship were spacious and well maintained.
A special feature was a small, infinity pool at the rear of the ship, that converted to a movie theatre at night. The ship was fully booked, with 134 passengers from USA, Canada, UK, NZ and Australia. Thanks again to the ever efficient, knowledgeable and pleasant Georgie for handling our booking. As usual, Georgie delivers the highest service. Well done!
A special feature was a small, infinity pool at the rear of the ship, that converted to a movie theatre at night. The ship was fully booked, with 134 passengers from USA, Canada, UK, NZ and Australia. Thanks again to the ever efficient, knowledgeable and pleasant Georgie for handling our booking. As usual, Georgie delivers the highest service. Well done!
Magnificent back to back river cruises from the South of France to Normandy
Grand France (Northbound)
Denise, QLD, Australia, Jul 2025
It was my first experience of visiting Europe and booked with Avalon River Cruises - Grand France doing back to back from Arles to Paris then Paris to Normandy and back to Paris. It was the most wonderful experience from being welcomed onto the Avalon vessels, the spacious suites, the tours provided, the exception food and wine, lovely group of travelling read more companions, entertainment but most of all the exceptional Crew on both vessels their service was a step above. Thank you to you all you were amazing. I will certainly be recommending your Company and book another river cruise soon.
Scenic South of France river cruise
Spectacular South of France
Bill and Yvonne, NSW, Australia, May 2025
We were very impressed with Scenic & would definitely travel with them again. All staff were excellent, professional as well as fun. The cabin was well designed with ample storage space. The meals were first class. It was fabulous to have great “freedom of choice” options & we really enjoyed the ones we chose. Entertainment was mostly good, bearing read more in mind we all have different tastes. Excellent coordination of disembarkation.
Wonderful first Scenic River Cruise - Spectacular South Of France
Spectacular South of France
Sonja and Anthony, QLD, Australia, May 2025
This was our first river cruise and it exceeded our expectations. The food was exceptional (taste and presentation) and the service from the staff was outstanding, they couldn't do enough for you. The balcony cabin was surprisingly spacious, we had no problem storing our luggage and belongings. Having previously done bus tours we appreciated having read more to unpack only once and that everything was included (food, drinks, excursions, tips). We had fantastic weather and the excursion options were varied, to accommodate moderate and active walkers. We had a wonderful relaxing time and will certainly book another cruise with Scenic. The booking process with Hannah from Global Journeys was fantastic, great communication all the way from making the booking to the start of the cruise and a good price. We would not hesitate to book another trip with Global Journeys.
Très bon! Cruising through the south of France was one highlight of our trip!
Paris & Sensations of Lyon and Provence
Mary, TAS, Australia, May 2024
This was our second river cruise with Emerald and we had high hopes! In spite of the email a couple of days before we were to leave Paris, that said the cruise might not be able to go ahead because of high water, we barely noticed a glitch in the itinerary. We enjoyed the pre-cruise tour of Paris and then were taken to the ship at a different location read more and were bussed to the scenic spots. Once again, we could not fault the service of the wonderful staff on the Emerald. The attention to detail by the housekeeping staff, the kitchen and dining room staff and the activity staff was commendable. Of course, French foods and wine were fabulous and we also enjoyed being given 30 euro to spend on lunch in Lyon. Canoeing at Avignon, the Pont du Gard and the hospital at Beaune were also highlights! C'est la vie!
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Your guide to traveling along the Saône
