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
8 Days Dijon to Lyon
Operator: AmaWaterways
From
6,583pp
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947pp
14 Days Paris to Geneva
Operator: AmaWaterways
From
14,545pp
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429pp
8 Days Dijon to Lyon
Operator: AmaWaterways
From
10,976pp
Save
321pp
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
Saône Rivers
Budget
Premium
Known For
Panorama Suites and flexible cruising
All-Inclusive Level
Inclusive
Saône Rivers
Budget
Premium
Known For
River cruising and wellness
All-Inclusive Level
Inclusive
Saône Rivers
Budget
Affordable & Premium
Known For
Premium travel at exceptional value
All-Inclusive Level
Highly Inclusive
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
Wonderful double Scenic River Cruises in France
Normandy & Gems of the Seine & Spectacular South of France
Elizabeth and Neil, NSW, Australia, Jul 2026
We loved both cruises with Scenic: Normandy & Gems of the Seine plus Spectacular South of France. Tracey Standing from Global Joirneys was very helpful and efficient in organising this Scenic package and always ready to answer any questions we had or information we needed to know. There was a great collection of people on each cruise from the U.K., read more USA, Canadians, New Zealanders and Australians. The food was magnificent, the wine and other drinks flowed, the Excursions all enjoyable and the entertainment on board was wonderful. I would highly recommend both these cruises, especially together, to anyone considering river cruising in France.
Great experience
Spectacular South of France
Elizabeth and David, QLD, Australia, May 2026
The highlight of the tour was Viviers where our tour guide took us to her hour which wad used as a Resistance house during WW2.
Wonderful South of France River Cruise with Emerald
Sensations of Lyon & Provence
Jen and Brad, NSW, Australia, Apr 2026
We have recently returned from a river cruise on Emerald. It was a fabulous trip, and we would not hesitate to travel with them again. We particularly enjoyed the active aspect of this company and their offerings.
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.
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Your guide to travelling along the Saône
