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Active & Discovery on the Rhone

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Our Price From 4,172 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 2,137 Per Person
 Trip Length
8 Days
 Trip Starts
Lyon
 Trip Finishes
Arles
8 Day Active & Discovery on the Rhone Itinerary (Avalon)
Countries Explored: France
Cruise Line
Avalon
Ship
Departures
Passengers
128
Crew
37
Launched
2014
Cruise Code
WYL

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on Avalon's 8 Day Active & Discovery on the Rhone. Provence presents the ultimate field of dreams with row upon row of bursting purple haze. With its abundant menu of immersive experiences from Lyon to Arles, an Avalon Active & Discovery cruise along the Rhone presents the ultimate holiday of dreams.

Bird watching from the seat of a bicycle. Gorge gorging from the perspective of a kayak. Wine tasting from the cool depths of a cave. These are just a few of the ways our wide array of Classic, Discovery and Active excursions lets you choose how to...read more interact with the scenery, the artistic, and the culinary scenes of France. Whether you admire ancient masterpieces or join a painting workshop – devour haute cuisine or gobble up a French cooking class – the world is your oyster on an Active & Discovery cruise along the Rhone. Activate your senses and discover a world of wonder in all-new, entirely “you” ways on your personal, passion-packed cruise along the Rhone.

Itinerary

Welcome to France. Your Suite Ship is Ready for Boarding. Flights into Lyon must arrive by 3:30 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LYON (D)

A Festival of Colors, Aromas, and Taste

Visit the Adventure centre for today's activities with your Adventure Host.

  • Active: Take a Guided Urban Hiking through Lyon's secret passageways (Traboules) for a glimpse into the city's 19th-century silk trade, OR:
  • Discovery: Take a Guided Culinary Walk through Lyon to discover architecture and local specialties in a festival of colours, aromas and taste - exclusive for Avalon guests, OR:
  • Discovery: Join our Cooking Class to learn to make your own Lyonnaise specialty.

This afternoon, you might take an off-the-beaten-path Guided Optional Tour (Avalon exclusive) through private and public terraces for panoramic views of Lyon, starting on the roof of the Basilica de Fourviere.

EVENING CRUISE TO TAIN L'HERMITAGE/TOURNON (B/L/D)

Chocolatiers and Railway Engineers in the Twin City Gorge

  • Active: For a unique experience and panoramic views, join a Guided Excursion this morning on a rail-bike along the descent of the Gorges du Doux, OR:
  • Active: Join a Guided Hike in the picturesque vineyards surrounding the twin cities of Tournon and Tain-l'Hermitage, OR:
  • Discovery: Have a true "chocolate experience" with a tour of the Valrhona Chocolate Factory and Museum, OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Tournon - twin city to Tain-l'Hermitage and one of France's oldest medieval cities. You'll see its imposing 16th-century castle.
  • Discovery: Join a Cooking Demonstration and learn how to prepare a Lyonnaise treat while sailing to Viviers.

VIVIERS: Fascinating History, and Nighttime Ghost Stories

  • Discovery: For a different perspective on the town, join us on a nighttime Guided Tour of Viviers, discovering the legends, tales and ghost stories of this enchanting town.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN VIVIERS (B/L/D)

River Gorge Kayaks, Underground Wines, and Ghost Stories

  • Active: Immerse yourself in the scenery with a Guided Kayak Trip in the Gorges de l'Ardeche on the spectacular canyons of this Rhone tributary, OR:
  • Active: Find inspiration from the amazing landscape of the region with a Guided Hike through the Natural Reserve of Cirque d'Estre, OR:
  • Active: Join a Guided Visit for a surprising underground Wine Tasting - under the direction of an expert Speleologist (cave guide) and an oenologist (wine-making expert), OR:
  • Classic: Visit the awe-inspiring water facility at Bollene and tour the power plant of this immense lock along the Rhone.

Cruise through the soaring walls of the Lock Bollene on your way to Avignon this afternoon.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AVIGNON (B/L/D)

Bike Pedals, Papal Palaces, and Perfumes in Provence

  • Active: Join a leisurely Guided E-Bike Ride through Gard region; after all, no need to pedal on the way back, OR:
  • Discovery: Visit an authentic Provencal farmhouse for a delightful experience to fill your senses as you see how essential oils are created,OR:
  • Classic: Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Avignon, including a visit to the world's largest gothic fortress - the 14th-century Palace Of the Popes. Also, explore Les Halles' covered market.

This afternoon, you may choose to join a Guided Optional Tour of the famed wine cellars of Chateauneuf-du-Pape for a wine tasting, , or you may opt for a Guided Optional Excursion on a kayak through the waters of Pont du Gard - the highest of all elevated Roman aqueducts. You may choose to spend free time to explore Avignon - known as the heart of Provence. Take a leisurely stroll or a bike ride through the tree-lined streets and leafy squares within Avignon's medieval walls.

EVENING CRUISE TO ARLES (B/L/D)

A Master Painter and a Matador in Provence

Join your Adventure Host for today,s special activities.

  • Active: Experience the legends of Val d,Enfer with a Guided Hike; an area taking its name from the unique white limestone rock formations. The excursion includes an unforgettable audio/video experience of light, images, and music at the Carrieres de Lumieres, OR:
  • Discovery: Attend a Painting Workshop to learn techniques of Vincent van Gogh. Create your own painting in the style of the legendary artist, OR:
  • Classic: Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Arles to get to know this charming town, including a visit with a local bullfighter to learn about the secrets and traditions handed down through generations.

This afternoon, enjoy free time to shop, stroll, or just relax in a lovely park along Arles, Boulevard des Lices. Alternatively, feel free to choose one of the optional excursions on offer.

Later, enjoy onboard live entertainment.

OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ARLES (B/L/D)

Oysters and Flamingos in the Rhone Delta

Enjoy a morning cruise to Port-Saint-Louis on the Sky Deck of your ship.

  • Active: Take a Guided Bike Ride through the Camargue Natural Park with an eye out for more than 400 bird species - including pink flamingos - along the trails of the Mediterranean's Rhone delta, OR:
  • Discovery: Enjoy a taste of local life with a visit to an oyster farm in the Camargue Natural Park on a Guided Tour to enjoy an oyster tasting and learn how this delicacy is farmed, OR:
  • Discovery: Visit one of France's most popular and pristine nature reserves on this memorable visit to a traditional black bull ranch in Camargue Regional Nature Park!

OVERNIGHT DOCKING PORT-SAINT-LOUIS (B/L/D)

Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning. Flights should not leave Marseille airport before 10 am. (B)

Life Onboard

Avalon Poetry II
Avalon Poetry II

Float along Europe's most famous waterways in relaxed luxury aboard one of Avalon's award-winning Suite Ships.

Our Vision. Your View.
Our Vision. Your View.

With the only Open-Air Balconies in river cruising, experience Europe with a view like no other in a Panorama Suite. Read more

Exclusive Meets Inclusive
Exclusive Meets Inclusive

Avalon features all the right inclusions which compliment your luxurious river cruise experience. Read more

Avalon Choice
Avalon Choice

Personalise your cruise to make it your own with Avalon Choice. Select whichever included excursions interest you the most. Read more

Active & Discovery
Active & Discovery

Avalon's Active & Discovery river cruises offer activities for travellers with varying interests & for all energy and fitness levels. Read more

From View to Table
From View to Table

Savour regional cuisine and familiar favourites using the freshest local ingredients throughout your river cruise. Read more

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Deck Plans

Ship Profile
 
Deluxe Stateroom
Category E
 
Deluxe Stateroom
Category D
Indigo Deck (Level 1)
 
Panorama Suite
Category B
 
Panorama Suite
Category A
Sapphire Deck (Level 2)
 
Panorama Suite
Category P
 
Royal Suite
Royal Deck (Level 3)

Cabins

Deluxe Stateroom (Cat. E & D)

  • Deluxe Stateroom (172 sq ft)
  • Twin Windows
  • Comfort Collection Bed with Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, woolen blankets & European style duvets
  • Private bathroom featuring full shower, hairdryer & premium L'Occitane bath amentities
  • Spacious three-door closets and easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Flatscreen satellite with movie channel
  • In-room safe, writing Desk/Vanity & direct-dial telephone
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access
  • Individual thermostat
  • Bathrobes & slippers

Panorama Suite (Cat. B, A & P)

  • Wall-to-wall Panoramic Window measuring 11'- 50% larger than industry standard (200 sq ft)
  • Wall-to-wall Panoramic Window opens to transform the living space into a large Open-Air-Balcony
  • Open-Air-Balcony with spacious sitting area
  • Comfort Collection Bed with Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, woolen blankets & European style duvets
  • Private bathroom featuring full shower, hairdryer & premium L'Occitane bath amentities
  • Spacious three-door closets and easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Flatscreen satellite with movie channel
  • In-room safe, writing Desk/Vanity & direct-dial telephone
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access
  • Individual thermostat
  • Bathrobes & slippers

Royal Suite

  • Wall-to-wall Panoramic Window measuring 11'- 50% larger than industry standard (300 sq ft)
  • Wall-to-wall Panoramic Window opens to transform the living space into a large Open-Air-Balcony
  • Open-Air-Balcony with spacious sitting area
  • Comfort Collection Bed with Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, woolen blankets & European style duvets
  • Private bathroom featuring full shower, hairdryer & premium L'Occitane bath amentities
  • Spacious three-door closets and easy under-bed luggage storage
  • Flatscreen satellite with movie channel
  • In-room safe, writing Desk/Vanity & direct-dial telephone
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access
  • Individual thermostat
  • Bathrobes & slippers

Brochure

River Cruises

Avalon River Cruises (2023-24)

Embark with Avalon on your choice of over 70 cruises on 10 rivers through 24 countries in Europe, Asia, South America, and Egypt. Discover the European continent on its legendary rivers from the North Sea to the Black Sea. From the English Channel to the Mediterranean Sea, discover timeless tradition and beauty on the Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhône, and...more Saône—to name a few.

Availability

Tuesday 21 May 2024
Tuesday 28 May 2024
Ship Name Avalon Poetry II
From: $6,448
  N/A
Exclusive DealDouble Qantas Points
Tuesday 30 Jul 2024
Tuesday 06 Aug 2024
Ship Name Avalon Poetry II
From: $6,309 $4,172
Save $2,137 Enquire
Earlybird OfferDouble Qantas Points
Tuesday 06 May 2025
Tuesday 13 May 2025
Ship Name Avalon Poetry II
From: $6,812 $4,918
Save $1,894 Enquire
Earlybird OfferDouble Qantas Points
Tuesday 17 Jun 2025
Tuesday 24 Jun 2025
Ship Name Avalon Poetry II
From: $6,812 $4,918
Save $1,894 Enquire
Earlybird OfferDouble Qantas Points
Tuesday 29 Jul 2025
Tuesday 05 Aug 2025
Ship Name Avalon Poetry II
From: $6,666 $4,773
Save $1,893 Enquire
Exclusive SavingsDouble Qantas Points
Tuesday 09 Sep 2025
Tuesday 16 Sep 2025
Ship Name Avalon Poetry II
From: $6,958 $6,830
Save $128 Enquire
Tuesday 21 May 2024
Tuesday 28 May 2024
Ship Name Avalon Poetry II
From: $9,735
  N/A
Exclusive DealDouble Qantas Points
Tuesday 30 Jul 2024
Tuesday 06 Aug 2024
Ship Name Avalon Poetry II
From: $9,520 $7,351
Save $2,169 Enquire
Earlybird OfferDouble Qantas Points
Tuesday 06 May 2025
Tuesday 13 May 2025
Ship Name Avalon Poetry II
From: $10,262 $8,333
Save $1,929 Enquire
Earlybird OfferDouble Qantas Points
Tuesday 17 Jun 2025
Tuesday 24 Jun 2025
Ship Name Avalon Poetry II
From: $10,262 $8,333
Save $1,929 Enquire
Earlybird OfferDouble Qantas Points
Tuesday 29 Jul 2025
Tuesday 05 Aug 2025
Ship Name Avalon Poetry II
From: $10,036 $8,110
Save $1,926 Enquire
Exclusive SavingsDouble Qantas Points
Tuesday 09 Sep 2025
Tuesday 16 Sep 2025
Ship Name Avalon Poetry II
From: $10,488 $10,289
Save $199 Enquire
Note
Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.

Cabin Upgrades Optional cabin upgrades. Upgrades priced per person

Category E  (Prices Shown) $ 0
Category D From $ 199
Category B From $ 1,799
Category A From $ 1,899
Category P From $ 1,949
Category S From $ 3,499
Note
Upgrade prices shown are per person. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will confirm and include the upgrade price in your quote.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Avalon. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Avalon. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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