Burgundy, the River Rhône and Provence River Cruise for solo travellers - MS Thomas Hardy
Burgundy, the River Rhône and Provence River Cruise for solo travellers - MS Thomas Hardy
8 Days Starting in Lyon, France and ending in Avignon, France
Visiting: Lyon, Beaune, Vienne, Ardèche Gorges, Arles, Avignon
Tour operator:
Ship Name:
MS Thomas HardySpecialist Group:
Singles Solo
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Ship Capacity:
167
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a captivating solo river cruise through the heart of France aboard the luxurious MS Thomas Hardy. This journey takes you from the historic city of Lyon, with its Roman heritage and culinary delights, to the wine-rich landscapes of Burgundy, where you'll savor exquisite local wines in Beaune. Explore the breathtaking Ardèche Gorges and the ancient wonders of Arles, including the Roman amphitheater and the iconic Pont du Gard aqueduct. Discover the medieval charm of Avignon, home to the magnificent Palace of the Popes. With guided tours, wine tastings, and cultural experiences, this cruise offers a perfect blend of history, nature, and gastronomy, all while enjoying the comforts of a five-star floating hotel.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1
Location: Lyon
Accommodation Name: MS Thomas Hardy
Meals Included: Dinner
Arrive in Lyon, where your five-star floating hotel is moored in the picturesque historic center. The dedicated English-speaking crew will welcome you on board and help you to your cabin. After settling in to your spacious and tastefully furnished accommodation, there’s time to familiarise yourself with this five-star floating hotel.
Day 2
Location: Lyon
Accommodation Name: MS Thomas Hardy
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lyon
After our first splendid breakfast, we’ve a leisurely start enjoying a guided tour of Lyon, one of France’s most fascinating cities. The Rhône Valley had been the route of choice for marauding armies and peaceful traders for centuries, and Lyon’s current site, at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, cried out to be fortified. In 43 BC the Romans founded the city, which subsequently grew in importance; the Emperor Claudius, conqueror of Britain, was born here. There are many Roman remains to see, but it was the production of silk that brought Lyon to prominence during the Middle Ages, and throughout the city you can see signs of the wealth that poured in – Renaissance buildings, imposing churches and Europe’s largest pedestrian square, Place Bellecour, with a statue of
Louis XIV as its focus. The Old Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is crammed with antique shops and intriguing traboules – narrow covered passageways enabling silk merchants to transport their wares to the river without getting wet – that today are a joy to amble through. As well as its glorious architecture, Lyon is generally acknowledged as France’s (and to locals the world’s) gastronomic capital. In fairness it has much to commend it: nouvelle cuisine was invented near here and the city boasts a huge array of speciality food shops and eateries, including 20 restaurants with one or more Michelin stars and countless little places to eat.
Cruise on the Saône
While you enjoy your first lunch the ship quietly slips its mooring. Cruising upstream, we catch the first glimpses of the vine-clad slopes of the hazy green Beaujolais hills as we approach one of the world’s most revered red-wine-producing regions. On our left we see the picturesque villages of Morgon, Fleury, Juliénas, Chénas and many more, while on the right you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of snow-capped Mont Blanc – Western Europe’s highest mountain. As the afternoon drifts into evening and we cruise past the town that gives them their name, the white wines of Mâcon hold sway – and what could be better than a cool, crisp glass in the lounge before enjoying this evening’s culinary delights in the restaurant, prepared by our outstanding chef.
Included experience:
Guided tour of Lyon.
Day 3
Location: Beaune
Accommodation Name: MS Thomas Hardy
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Beaune
Rising this morning we’re berthed in Chalon, gateway to Burgundy and home of Nicéphore Niépce, the inventor of photography. On this morning’s tour we see some of the pretty yet surprisingly small villages that produce some of the world’s most sublime wines – Meursault, Volnay, Pommard, Gevrey-Chambertin and many more.
Nearby is medieval Beaune, Burgundy’s wine capital, which is wonderful to wander around. At its centre is the Hospices de Beaune, also known as the Hôtel-Dieu. Originally built in the 15th century as a hospital for the disadvantaged, it’s a jewel of High Gothic architecture, instantly recognisable for its colourful glazed roof tiles arranged in dazzling geometric patterns. A prestigious annual wine auction takes place here each November, with proceeds going to benefit the Hospices and its charity work. Of course you can’t visit Burgundy without sampling its amazing wines, so we visit the cellars of a leading traditional winemaker for a tour and tasting before returning to the ship for lunch.
Cruise towards Vienne
This afternoon relax on board as we retrace our steps back towards Lyon where we join the river Rhône on our way to Vienne.
Included experience:
Tour of Beaune with wine tasting.
Day 4
Location: Vienne
Accommodation Name: MS Thomas Hardy
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Vienne
Overnight the ship has cruised almost imperceptibly downstream and we enjoy breakfast in Vienne before our guided tour. Strikingly located in a narrow section of the Rhône where the river meanders dramatically around a steep bluff, Vienne is a treasure trove of historic remains, including the stunning Roman Temple of Augustus and Livia, one of only two edifices of this type in the whole of the country.
From the ship, we head to the top of the city, the Mont Pipet hill, where the view onto the Rhône will inspire keen photographers. It’s also where the Romans chose to build the spectacular amphitheatre in the 1st Century AD, which could accommodate 13.500 spectators. Weavings through the charming, narrow streets of the old town, soak up the history of this fascinating place.
We wander back to the ship for another superb lunch, during which we enter perhaps the most picturesque section of the Rhône as the river squeezes and twists past Condrieu, Saint-Rambert-d’Albon and Saint- Vallier, with wooded cliffs rising high on both sides.
Tain l'Hermitage
Later we moor in Tain l'Hermitage, surrounded by steep vine-covered hillsides, where another of the world’s most revered wines is produced. After dinner, prehaps take a stroll along the river and wander across the oldest suspsension bridge in France to the pretty provincial town of Tournon on the opposite bank of the river, with its imposing castle and tree-lined avenues.
Included experiences:
Guided tour of Vienne & visit to Tain l'Hermitage.
Day 5
Location: Ardèche Gorges
Accommodation Name: MS Thomas Hardy
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cruise to Le Pouzin
This morning we cruise effortlessly downstream. In the distance you’ll catch glimpses of the Alps and, as we approach Valence, the landscape gradually becomes less green with more ochres and magentas, the houses have sloping terracotta roofs typical of the Mediterranean and the air carries heady aromas of pine and cypress. You can only be in the Midi or – as we call it – the south of France. It’s so relaxing to catch up on some reading or just laze in the sun.
Ardèche Gorges
After lunch we explore one of France’s most outstanding landscapes – the Ardèche Gorges, whose scale is a fitting reminder of Mother Nature’s awesome power. Sheer limestone cliffs plunge almost 1,000 feet to the river’s blue waters, which elegantly snake their way through stupendous rock formations, culminating in a huge natural arch, the Pont d’Arc. Caves, grottoes and natural sculptures create marvellous views at every turn before we return to the gentler slopes of the Rhône Valley, where our ship is moored in charming Viviers, a medieval town clustered around its 12th-century cathedral. We slip our mooring and proceed through the famous lock at Bollène, one of the deepest in France, as you relax over dinner.
After dinner, delight in a ballroom dancing performance in the lounge with the opportunity to learn some basic steps of a French madison line dance!
Included experiences:
Guided tour of the Ardèche Gorges & live ballroom dancing performance.
Day 6
Location: Arles
Accommodation Name: MS Thomas Hardy
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Arles
You awake under the azure skies of deepest Provence and amid the warm stone colours of Arles, many of whose historic monuments are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Although small in size, it was the key stronghold on the Roman road to Spain, one of the empire’s richest possessions. Seagoing ships could reach here and the city became a regional capital, briefly ruling over Gaul, Spain and Britain. Our guided tour will help you appreciate the finer points of Arles’s magnificent Roman remains, including the splendid amphitheatre, one of the best preserved in the world, the earlier theatre built during the reign of Augustus and the Alyscamps, the ancient necropolis with its extraordinary atmosphere.
The disturbed but great genius of an artist Van Gogh lived in Arles for just over a year, from February 1888. It was his most prolific period and, inspired by Arles and the light and beauty of the Provençal countryside, he produced around 300 works, including The Night Café, The Sower and, of course, Sunflowers.
Pont du Gard
After lunch we visit the amazing Pont du Gard Roman aqueduct, one of the wonders of the ancient world. No amount of fame can diminish the first sight of this 2,000-year-old structure, which was the highest bridge built in the Empire –the Romans themselves considered it the most important testimony to their greatness. Its statistics are staggering: over 900 feet long and almost 160 feet high, with its stones each weighing up to six tons. To put this in perspective, the span of the Pont du Gard is greater than the width of the River Thames at London Bridge – and no mortar was used in its construction! The situation is lovely too, with pine- and cypress-covered hills adding to the harmonious setting. Rejoining the ship, we cruise along the Rhône and, during dinner, pass the imposing 15th-century castle at Tarascon standing guard on the river bank.
Included experiences:
Guided tour of Arles and visit to the Pont du Gard.
Day 7
Location: Avignon
Accommodation Name: MS Thomas Hardy
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Avignon
The light catching the red roofs of Avignon’s majestic skyline is a sight to behold over breakfast, after which we embark on a guided tour of one of the most extraordinary and intriguing cities in France. Avignon’s destiny changed during the 14th century, when the Pope’s court moved here to avoid strife in Rome. Igniting a century of prosperity, the Pontiff commissioned a host of ambitious building projects, and today the city is immaculately preserved, nestling behind its almost-intact 14th-century walls and boasting more remarkable monuments, superbly decorated buildings, churches, chapels and convents than you can possibly count. Most important is the stunning Popes’ Palace, made up of two buildings that together form the largest Gothic palace in the world. With turrets, towers, parapets and other fortifications, its exterior resembles a mighty fortress, while the interior is a tour de force of medieval architecture and ornamentation, adorned with priceless frescoes, Gobelin tapestries and graceful sculptures. The ceremonial hall, chapels, cloisters and private apartments are all unmissable. But to truly embrace the feel of papal Avignon, imagine yourself here during the Middle Ages amid the Palace’s rich furnishings and extravagant decoration, with cardinals, princes and ambassadors milling about its candle-lit halls and corridors, while in the streets below countless pilgrims eagerly anticipate benediction. This was Avignon’s brief golden age, when it was truly the centre of Christendom.
After lunch you’re free to explore as you wish, perhaps visiting the nearby Petit Palais, the former home of the archbishops of Avignon, to cast a critical eye over the remarkable collection of over 300 paintings and sculptures from the Middle Ages and Renaissance, including works by Botticelli and Carpaccio. Or take a stroll on the iconic Pont d’Avignon, which, dramatically, ends halfway across the river, made famous by the melody we all recall from our first French lessons. It’s our final afternoon so you may wish to do some shopping, or just find a charming café in a shady Provençal square to watch the world go by. Perhaps though, return to the luxurious surroundings of our ship, finding a quiet spot to contemplate the many wondrous places you’ve seen and experienced over a cup of tea!
This evening we enjoy the sumptuous Chef’s Dinner, featuring some of their signature dishes - a truly memorable experience. Afterwards, sit back and relax to the sounds of a talented local pianist who'll entertain us with French songs on board.
Included experiences:
Guided tour of Avignon & on-board piano performance.
Day 8
Location: Avignon
Meals Included: Breakfast
Disembark in Avignon
After breakfast we wave goodbye to the ship and crew and begin the journey home.
Ship Details
MS Thomas Hardy
Ship Overview
It is extremely difficult to convey just how extraordinary this outstanding ship really is and exactly what distinguishes the MS Thomas Hardy from similar vessels. It would be very easy to just say ‘luxurious’ but it’s much more than that; we have deliberately avoided the current trend for a minimalist style where you could be anywhere in the world, creating instead a unique yet exquisite blend of understated taste, style and elegance at the highest level. Immediately striking is just how exceptionally spacious this new vessel is as you enter a gleaming, richly coloured marble-floored lobby flooded with natural light from a stunning atrium above. Moving inside, exceptional creativity from Europe’s finest design studio has produced a superbly balanced masterpiece of onboard style, utilising sustainable rich hardwoods, gleaming brass and polished copper, sparkling glass and intricate wrought iron. The ship is beautifully illuminated throughout – including the exterior and imaginatively furnished with harmonious colour schemes, all designed to create the serene atmosphere reflective of the golden age of cruising which time after time you tell us you adore.
The restaurant rivals the finest on shore establishments taking fine dining to another level complemented by delicate European porcelain, gleaming glassware and the intuitive service in which the Swiss excel. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 167 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels.
Furthermore your suite will easily exceed your expectations for not only will you enjoy the most discerning décor, so too the ship’s dimensions afford the ultimate in space and comfort - a minimum 17 square metres (183 square feet), with upgrades available to ‘Superior’ and ‘Deluxe’ accommodation.
Ship Details
Ship Name:
MS Thomas Hardy
Adults Only Areas:
adults only
Ship Children Facilities:
none
Ship Nursery:
none
Smoking Areas:
some
Ship Size:
boutique
Ship Style:
ultra_luxury
Ship Type:
river
Ship Currency:
EUR
Ship Language:
en-GB
Ship Capacity:
167
Ship Crew Count:
44
Number of Decks:
4
Number of Cabins:
88
Number of Large Cabins:
0
Number of Wheelchair-Friendy Cabins:
0
Ship Launch Year:
2017
Ship Length (Meters):
135 M
Ship Width (Meters):
12 M
Ship Speed (Knots):
13 Kn
Deck Plans
Diamond Deck (Upper Deck)
Panorama Lounge & BarBistro RestaurantReceptionSouvenir ShopTravel DeskDiamond Deck SuitesSuperior SuitesSuperior Stern SuitesDeluxe Balcony Suites
Emerald deck (Lower)
Fitness CentreHair & Beauty SalonGuest Suites
Emerald Deck (Lower)
Fitness CentreHairdressersWellness AreaEmerald Deck Suites
Ruby Deck (Middle)
RestaurantKitchenRuby Deck SuitesSuperior Suites
Sun Deck
Seating AreaSplash PoolPutting GreenTerraceCaptain's Wheelhouse
Cabins
Cabins
A gleaming wood door opens revealing your exceptionally appointed suite. At 17 square metres (183 square feet), its generous dimensions are amongst the largest you will find on a cruiser gracing any European river. Imaginatively designed and appointed to the highest specification, with all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel, your comfort definitely won’t be compromised on any level!
The sparkling marble bathroom features a powerful fully glazed shower with a large ‘rainshower’ head, superbly refreshing after a hard day’s sightseeing. Clever design allows for ample space, and contemporary lighting, complimentary quality cosmetics and fluffy towels, makes preparing for the day ahead an absolute pleasure.
The chic styling of a talented designer’s eye extends to the entire suite with generous use of hand-crafted tropical hardwoods blended with premium fittings, discreet thoughtful lighting and a colour scheme of calming neutral tones, creating an ambience to put you in the most relaxed frame of mind from the very first minute! A full size bed assures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen of the finest quality - a turndown service each evening adds the finishing touch. Please note all suites have two twin beds with individual bedding which can be moved together or separated accordingly.
Deluxe Balcony Suites (Grade DBS )
If you’re looking to really spoil yourself, at a staggering 25 square metres (269 square feet), the world-class Diamond (upper) Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites are for you. Fifty percent larger than standard suites, they allow for an even more generous living area for the ultimate in space and comfort. In addition you will enjoy a private exterior balcony complete with table and chairs - perfect for an ‘al fresco’ breakfast should you wish or just a quiet morning coffee or a pre-dinner ‘sundowner’ whilst watching the world drift by. With the same fittings as standard suites, exquisitely and lavishly appointed to the very highest standard, plus complimentary soft cotton bathrobes and slippers adding the final little touch, this really is the epitome of river cruise luxury!Indulge in the luxury of?Riviera Plus?when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFloor to ceiling windows with outside balconyTwin beds which can be configured as doubleNespresso machine and tea making facilitiesSpacious ensuite bathroom with walk-in showerLuxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryerUK plug sockets & 2 USB charging pointsTable and chairsTelephone, radio and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridgeTurn down service Riviera Plus (2024 and 2025 only)10% off spa treatment or massage10% off hairdresser servicesLuxury toiletriesLocally inspired giftsBottle of champagne10% off onboard laundry services
Suites (Grade D ES E R )
Standard cabins on the Emerald Deck are slightly smaller, measuring approximately 16 square metres (172 square feet) and have smaller fixed windows. Some are available for sole occupancy (supplements may apply) and are subject to availability.Standard Suites are 17 square metres (183 square feet) and feature full floor-to-ceiling glass doors and a French balcony.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFloor to ceiling windows with French style balconyTwin beds which can be configured as doubleNespresso machine and tea making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerLuxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryerUK plug sockets & 2 USB charging pointsTable and chairsTelephone, radio and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridgeTurn down serviceRiviera Plus (2024 and 2025 only) 10% off spa treatment or massage10% off hairdresser servicesLuxury toiletriesLocally inspired giftsBottle of champagne10% off onboard laundry servicesIndulge in the luxury of?Riviera Plus?when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.
Superior Suites (Grade RS DS DSS )
Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite. Substantially larger at 23 square metres (247 sq. feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings. Of course the identical high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard suite are evident throughout, again with stunning views from the panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors.FeaturesIndividual climate controlFloor to ceiling windows with French style balconyTwin beds which can be configured as doubleNespresso machine and tea making facilitiesEnsuite bathroom with walk-in showerLuxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soapTowels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryerUK plug sockets & 2 USB charging pointsTable and chairsTelephone, radio and flat-screen TVSafe & mini fridgeTurn down serviceRiviera Plus (2024 and 2025 only)10% off spa treatment or massage10% off hairdresser servicesLuxury toiletriesLocally inspired giftsBottle of champagne10% off onboard laundry servicesIndulge in the luxury of?Riviera Plus?when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.
Dining
Stunning restaurant on the Main Deck serving buffet breakfast, buffet lunch and four-course dinner.
Bistro with open kitchen, large panoramic windows and al fresco seating.
Bistro Restaurant
At the Bistro with its open kitchen, large panoramic windows and al fresco seating, enjoy a more intimate dining experience whilst taking in the fantastic views. Here in the evenings the chef presents his personal signature dishes to a small number of diners with menus varying according to the seasons; this intimate dining experience can be reserved on board at no extra charge. When the weather allows the panoramic windows may be fully opened on to the terrace to allow a delightful al fresco dining experience. (complimentary)
Main Restaurant
The restaurant rivals the finest on shore establishments taking fine dining to another level complemented by delicate European porcelain, gleaming glassware and the intuitive service in which the Swiss excel. This superb vessel carries 44 in-house trained crew members serving just 167 guests (similar size vessels may carry well over 190 passengers) giving the ratio which our experience proves is concurrent with our first class service levels.The ship’s main restaurant is located on the Ruby (middle) Deck and here you will experience not only exceptional first class cuisine, but also the most attentive yet discreet service from the ship’s highly professional crew. So just sit back with a well-deserved glass of wine from the carefully selected wine list and delight in the wonderful elegance of your surroundings; beautifully laid tables for just 4 or 6 guests, crisp linen, deep wool carpets and warm wood panelling abound to offer a delectable dining experience of the highest order. (complimentary)
Entertainment
The Diamond Deck is where you will find the very heart of the ship - the superb panoramic observation lounge and bar; a lounge in every sense of the word, complete with plenty of comfortable leather armchairs and sumptuous sofas where you can sink into warmly colourful cushions in beautiful quality fabrics with a freshly made cup of tea. A thick wool carpet feels lovely underfoot and the tasteful contemporary lighting above creates a welcoming and refined ambience, further complemented by the discreet and intuitive service resplendent of the finest five-star hotels. So just sit back with your favourite cocktail and take in the truly mesmerising view.
Boutique
The Boutique can be located on the Diamond Deck.
Panorama Bar
After a superb dinner in the restaurant perhaps it’s time for a digestif accompanied by the soothing tones of the ship’s pianist or unwind with a book from the smartly wood panelled library.
Enrichment
Excursions
On our river cruises we love to take you right into the heart of each town or city you visit along the way, and during your cruise local guides will offer a variety of guided walking tours, panoramic coach tours and/or visits to museums and local cultural favourites such as a wine tasting in Burgundy and a train journey through the Swiss mountains. You will have a good mix of touring and free time to learn about the history and the little quirks of each place, with plenty of time to explore at your own leisure. Please check the itinerary of the cruise for more specific details.
Kids and Teens
Please note: there are no dedicated kids or teens facilities onboard.
Health & Fitness
Head on up to the truly spectacular deck and watch life ashore slip by from the comfort of a sun lounger, perhaps under shade if the weather gets too hot! There’s always the refreshing splash pool too or why not try your hand on the putting green.
Simply put, these world-class ships, elegant and refined in the truest sense, take the idea of river cruising to another level – it really doesn’t get better than this!
Fitness Centre & Spa
On the Emerald Deck is the fitness centre, perfect for working off all those delicious meals or for something less strenuous treat yourself to a relaxing massage. So you will always look your best there is a hairdressers too which also offers manicure and pedicure treatments.
Sun Deck
The magnificent and unique Sun Deck illustrates our considered depth of design with a second staircase amidship affording convenient Sun Deck access. Head on up to this truly spectacular deck and what could be better than watching life ashore slip by from the comfort of a sun lounger, perhaps under shade if the weather gets too hot! There’s always the refreshing splash pool too or why not try your hand on the putting green. Please note: The Sun Deck is only accessible by stairs.
Gratuities
Tips are not charged at a set percentage and are not included in the holiday cost, as we understand that giving a gratuity should be entirely at your discretion.
As a guideline we would recommend giving €8-12 per person per day should you feel that is appropriate. Usually, an envelope is left in your cabin on the final evening, for you to drop off at reception, if you choose to, the following morning. The tips are divided equally between the crew.
Should you also wish to give a gratuity directly to your Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge, this is also at your discretion.
Useful Information
Age Restrictions
The minimum age limit is 12 years old at the date of departure. We reserve the right to limit the number of children on any particular cruise. Any minor must be accompanied by and share a cabin with an adult aged 21 or over. If the adult is not the minor’s parent, a ‘Parental Consent Guardianship Form’ must be signed by a parent or legal guardian prior to sailing.
Air Conditioning
Our ships are fully air-conditioned throughout. Each cabin has individual air-conditioning and heating controls.
Disabled Facilities
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us or call us on 01283 688 518 to discuss these concerns.MooringDue to the popularity of river cruising at some mooring places, or where our ship is moored alongside another vessel, access to the ship may be via the sun deck and require the navigation of steps so passengers must be able to walk on and off the ship themselves, without the use of crutches or other aids, as gangplanks can be positioned at a steep angle.On boardOur ships are not adapted for wheelchair access; if you are intending to take a wheelchair or mobility scooter with you, it is essential that you please contact us to let us know. Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be used on excursions however cannot be used on board the ships due to safety reasons and must not be left in corridors, the lounge or restaurant or any other public areas, but must be stored at reception.River cruises operate with a smaller crew than ocean cruises and do not have the crew available to personally attend to passengers with reduced mobility; therefore, a travelling companion would need to be able to help with any physical needs.Whilst most of our ships have a lift on board, it does not operate to all decks.River cruising on European rivers offers the opportunity to take in the scenery from the comfort of the ship. If you are unable to do some of the shore excursions, your river cruise can still be enjoyable and worthwhile, so please contact us with any concerns or questions you may have.Shore ExcursionsFor our river cruises which include an extension and feature a hotel stay, the hotels we use have been chosen due to their location and standard, the facilities offered can differ, it is therefore important that we make the appropriate enquiries with our suppliers on your behalf to ensure any special needs or requests can be catered for.AccommodationFor our river cruises which include an extension and feature a hotel stay, the hotels we use have been chosen due to their location and standard, the facilities offered can differ, it is therefore important that we make the appropriate enquiries with our suppliers on your behalf to ensure any special needs or requests can be catered for.Overseas Transport ArrangementsAll of our tours involve coach travel. The coaches we use have not been adapted for wheelchair access.Air TravelWe are able to arrange airport assistance, from the check-in desk to the plane, for anyone with reduced mobility. This is a free service which must be arranged with the airline prior to travel. If you would like us to arrange this assistance for you it needs to be pre-booked more than 48 hours before your flight departs.EurostarIf you have reduced mobility and are travelling by Eurostar to your cruise, please contact us. Should you need to travel in your own wheelchair, Eurostar does have specially adapted wheelchair spaces which need to be pre-booked. If you would like assistance at St. Pancras, we can provide you with information and contact details for Eurostar Assist, although we cannot reserve this service for you directly.
Dress Code
There is no requirement to bring formal dress - smart/casual is acceptable for both day and evening as there is no dress code enforced. However, men are requested not to wear shorts for dinner or vest tops at any time in the dining room. You may wish to wear a jacket and tie for dinner. The Chef's Dinner offers the opportunity, should you wish, for more special attire.
Drinks Packages
We have a drinks package included for all European river cruises in 2024, 2025 and 2026.Superior Drinks PackageFor all 2024 and 2025 European river cruises:Over lunch in our restaurants enjoy unlimited drinks from a choice of:Red, white, rosé and sparkling house wine, including non-alcoholicDraught beer, including non-alcoholicA selection of soft drinks and juicesThen from 6 pm until midnight in our bar and restaurants, enjoy all of the above, plus unlimited drinks from a choice of:Our cocktail and mocktail of the dayHouse spirits and mixers (including gin, vodka, rum and whisky)A recommended regional wine during dinnerMartini & Sherry pre-dinnerPort & Brandy after dinnerAll-inclusive drinks packageAvailable on 2026 European river cruise departuresAvailable from 10am to midnight each day:Red, white, rosé and sparkling house wine, including non-alcoholic?A choice of draught beer, including non-alcoholic?A selection of soft drinks and juices??Our cocktail and mocktail of the day?House spirits and mixers including vodka, gin, rum, whisky, martini, sherry, brandy, port and Baileys (excluding liqueurs)Daily recommended wines ?Tea and coffee from the bar
Laundry Service
A limited laundry service is available on board, except on the day of disembarkation. A dry cleaning service is not available.
Medical Facilities
There are no on-board medical personnel, although specific crew members will have basic first aid training. However, the ship can stop at any time to transfer any passenger requiring emergency medical attention to local medical facilities.If you have any concerns about your health whilst on tour, please see your Cruise Director or Concierge. They will be able to advise you about chemists and availability of doctors, etc. In an emergency you could always phone our emergency number as issued on your itinerary.
Smoking and E-Cigarette Policy
Smoking, including e-cigarettes, is not permitted anywhere on board except for designated areas on the sun deck.More and more countries in Europe are adopting a stricter legislation on smoking in public places. Smoking is not allowed on any public transport and there may be other restrictions in hotels, bars and restaurants.
Special Dietary Requirements
Breakfast: In the morning a full breakfast is served which includes healthy options and your choice of eggs made to order.Lunch: For lunch enjoy salads from the buffet, soup and a choice of main courses, including local dishes, plus dessert.Dinner: The four course a la carte dinners include a selection of international and regional specialities.We cater for most dietary requirements, please ensure you advise our sales team when making the booking.
What's Included
-
Full board during your cruise
Enjoy full board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day.
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Free Superior drinks package
Benefit from a complimentary Superior drinks package during your cruise.
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Complimentary on-board tea and coffee
Enjoy complimentary tea and coffee on board throughout your cruise.
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Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi
Stay connected with complimentary on-board Wi-Fi, though connection speeds may vary.
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All visits and excursions
All visits and excursions mentioned in the itinerary are included.
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Coach travel
Coach travel as mentioned in the itinerary is included.
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English-speaking expert guides
Benefit from the knowledge of English-speaking expert guides during your excursions.
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Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge
The services of a Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge are included.
What's Not Included
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Personal expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs and additional activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included and should be arranged separately.
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Gratuities
Gratuities for the crew and guides are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style on the MS Thomas Hardy, a luxurious river cruise ship. Enjoy seamless coach travel for excursions, and relax with a free Superior drinks package as you cruise through the picturesque landscapes of France.
Accommodation
Experience the luxury of a five-star floating hotel aboard the MS Thomas Hardy, offering spacious and tastefully furnished cabins. Enjoy full board from arrival dinner to final breakfast, with complimentary on-board tea, coffee, and Wi-Fi.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of dining experience can I expect on the cruise?
During the cruise, you will enjoy full board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day. The ship offers a variety of culinary delights prepared by an outstanding chef, including a special Chef's Dinner featuring signature dishes. Complimentary on-board tea and coffee are also available.
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Are there any special performances or entertainment on board?
Yes, there are special performances on board. On Day 5, after dinner, you can enjoy a ballroom dancing performance in the lounge with the opportunity to learn some basic steps of a French madison line dance. On Day 7, a talented local pianist will entertain guests with French songs.
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What kind of guided tours are included in the itinerary?
The itinerary includes several guided tours: a tour of Lyon, a tour of Beaune with wine tasting, a guided tour of Vienne, a visit to Tain l'Hermitage, a guided tour of the Ardèche Gorges, a guided tour of Arles, a visit to the Pont du Gard, and a guided tour of Avignon.
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Is there Wi-Fi available on the cruise?
Yes, complimentary on-board Wi-Fi is available, although connection speeds may vary.
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What kind of accommodation is provided on the cruise?
The cruise offers spacious and tastefully furnished accommodation on a five-star floating hotel. The dedicated English-speaking crew will assist you upon arrival to help you settle into your cabin.
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What is the focus of the wine-tasting experience in Beaune?
In Beaune, you will visit the cellars of a leading traditional winemaker for a tour and tasting, allowing you to sample some of Burgundy's amazing wines.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
For almost 40 years
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I have reduced mobility; can I still travel?
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us to discuss these concerns
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Do I require travel insurance?
It is a condition of booking that you carry suitable travel insurance.
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What is my luggage allowance?
You will receive details of your luggage allowance with your final travel documents, which are sent approximately 10 days prior to your date of departure.
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
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We look after you every step of the way.
