ITINERARY

Day 1 An early pick up by taxi is required to meet our coach and transfer to Portsmouth for the morning crossing to Caen. We sail through the day arriving mid afternoon and transferring to Honfleur for embarkation. After settling into our cabins there will be an introduction to the crew in the lounge and a welcome cocktail before this evening’s dinner.

Day 2 This morning we travel by coach along the Côte Fleurie visiting Trouville and Deauville, where you can explore the pretty harbour sides. Lunch is taken on board and the afternoon is free to explore the picturesque fishing town of Honfleur. Stroll along the narrow streets lined with quaint houses, sip coffee in the many cafés, or visit the Church of St Catherine, the largest wooden church in France. Return on board for dinner and an evening sailing.

Day 3 This morning we travel by coach to explore the Abbey Trail – the church at Caudebec en Caux, which dates from the 15th Century, to Jumièges to see the ruin of one of the most beautiful abbeys in France, and the Church of St Peter, a wonderful example of 10th Century Norman architecture. After lunch on board we cruise through a landscape of steep cliffs, at the foot of which are charming little villages typical of the region. We arrive in Rouen at around 4pm for a little free time before dinner on board.

Day 4 We wake in Rouen with free time to explore this former capital of Normandy. Visit the cathedral, the historic quarters and the Place du Vieux Marché where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake. Return on board for lunch and spend the afternoon cruising through broad limestone cliffs toward Vernon. This evening we have the Gala Dinner on board.

Day 5 A wonderful relaxing day as we cruise from Vernon to Mantes-la-Jolie and Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, through beautiful countryside while getting closer to Paris. We pass the futuristic La Défense District which will impress with its concrete and glass architecture. After dinner on board we continue into the beautifully illuminated capital.

Day 6 This morning enjoy a coach tour of Paris taking in the Place de la Concorde, Champs Elysees, Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower. After lunch on board, we transfer by coach to the Palace of Versailles, a treasury of art and architecture and glorious gardens. Our ticket allows entrance to both the Chateau and the gardens. We return for our final evening’s dinner on board.

Day 7 We disembark after breakfast and make our way to Calais for the short sea crossing to Dover. We return to the local area and our taxis in the evening.