Cruise Ship
Europe | AMAWaterways - AmaLyra
Departure Dates:
March - November, ask for details.
Ports of Call:
Paris, France; Les Andelys, France; Le Havre, France; Caudebec-En-Caux, France; Rouen, France; Vernon, France; Conflans, France
General Info:
Paris always sizzles while Normandy beckons with its stunning coastline, incredible food and artistic beauty. Blend a passion for the good life with culture, art, architecture and timeless landscapes, and you have Northern France.
TYPE OF VESSEL
Introduced in 2009, the 144-passenger AmaLyra quickly earned a "Best New River Cruise Ship" distinction in comfort and style. Relax in spacious, elegantly appointed staterooms, ranging in size from 170-225 sq. ft., or in a single stateroom of 140 sq. ft. You can always indulge even more in one of the suites at 255 sq. ft. Most staterooms have a French balcony.
ITINERARY
Day 1 | Paris, France - Embarkation: Welcome to Paris, the wondrous "City of Light," where you'll board your luxurious cruise ship. Day 2 | Les Andelys, France: Uncover the history of Chateau Gaillard, the former stronghold of Richard the Lionheart, situated on the chalk cliffs high above the Seine, on a morning tour. Or, if you prefer a more active adventure, you can hike there from the banks of the Seine, admiring the scenic views along the way. For those who wish to explore the area on two wheels, join a guided bike tour through the charming town of Les Andelys. After your adventures, set sail along the meandering Seine, enjoying the beautiful views of the Seine Valley's dramatic white cliffs and centuries-old half-timbered houses. Day 3 | Le Havre, France: There are several different choices of excursions, both during the morning and afternoon, depending on your interests. You can choose between a full-day excursion to the seaside town of Honfleur, renowned for its picturesque harbor, and for being an inspirational site for Impressionist painters; or enjoy a half-day excursion here that includes a Market visit and free time. You also can split your day between Honfleur and the delicious Pays d'Auge region of Normandy, where apple cider, Calvados and pommeau outrank French wine. This excursion includes a scenic coastal drive through Beamont-en-Auge and Pont l'Eveque with a Calvados tasting. During the afternoon, you can join a city tour of the UNESCO-designated Le Havre. Alternatively, you have the choice to visit Etretat, where nature has carved fabulous shapes out of the white cliffs and was the inspiration for many Impressionist artists. Should you wish to get more active, you can go on a bike tour to La Havre. Day 4 | Caudebec-En-Caux, France: Experience the Normandy region with one of three tours. For those wishing to go to the American sector of the historic Normandy Beaches, you will visit the cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, Omaha Beach, the artillery battery at Longues-sur-Mer and the village of Arromanches, where the remains of the floating harbor used during the WWII landings can be seen. If you prefer, you can tour the Gold and Juno beaches in the British and Canadian sectors, where you will visit Ranville Cemetery, Pegasus Bridge, the Canadian cemetery at Beny-sur-Mer, the WWII museum in Courseulle and finally Arromanches. As an alternative experience, spend your afternoon on the Route des Abbayes If you wish to experience a different kind of inspiration, the Romanesque Normandy Abbey Route will take you to the historic abbeys of the region. Or journey back in time with the interactive exhibits and vessels at the Seine Museum. Day 5 | Rouen, France: Spend the morning enjoying medieval Rouen with a choice of three excursions. Join a walking tour past the imposing Notre Dame Cathedral, painted numerous times by Monet, and see the square where Joan of Arc was martyred, as well as the Medieval Quarter and Great Clock. For those who wish to be more active, you can join a biking or hiking tour around the city. Later in the day, you can explore the Jewish area of Rouen; or go on the "Tastes of Normandy" tour, where you'll be treated to the delicious flavors of the region, including chocolate, macaron, Norman cheese and cider. Day 6 | Vernon, France: In Vernon, you will have a choice of three excursions, depending on your interests. Visit Claude Monet's home and gardens in Giverny. Art lovers will immediately recognize images immortalized in Monet's most beloved paintings-such as water lilies, Japanese bridges and graceful willow trees. Wander around his famous gardens and home where he lived for more than four decades. Alternatively, visit the regal 18th-century Chateau de Bizy, inspired by the opulence of Versailles and enjoy an escorted tour of the palace and gardens. If you prefer a more active adventure, go on a guided bike tour, taking in the beautiful French countryside. Day 7 | Conflans, France: Visit Chateau Malmaison, the former home of Napoleon and Josephine Bonaparte. You'll learn what life was like for the Bonapartes and how Josephine endeavored to transform the large estate into "the most beautiful and curious garden in Europe." Alternatively, travel to Auberge Ravoux in the heart of Auvers-sur-Oise, the last home of artist Vincent van Gogh. His spirit still lingers in his former attic rooms at the Ravoux Inn. The mere 70 days Van Gogh spent in Auvers-sur-Oise were astonishingly prolific as he painted more than 70 works here before his death. Or enjoy pedaling through the city of Conflans. Later in the day, set sail for Paris. Day 8 | Paris, France: Bid farewell to Paris and prepare for your flight home.
GUEST SERVICES
Amenities include personalized service from Cruise Manager during cruise and land programs and complimentary Wi Fi access.
FOOD AND DINING
AmaWaterways was invited to be a member of La Chaine des Rotisseurs - a prestigious international culinary society- and with good reason. The expert chefs craft menus that feature exquisite, locally-inspired cuisine as well as traditional Western offerings. This is the only river cruise line that has The Chef's Table, an intimate specialty restaurant where you can watch the chef prepare a lavish dinner right in front of you. Each meal is specially paired with premium local reds and whites from Europe's renowned wine regions, with new selections each night. There's also sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast, menu service during lunch, as well as delicious tapas and snacks in the Main Lounge between meals.
ONBOARD ACTIVITIES/EVENTS
Soak up some rays or take a dip in the refreshing pool with a swim-up bar as you pass by centuries-old castles, charming villages and other breathtaking scenery. Whether you'd like to dress up for the captain's special dinner or a night out on the town, you can complete your look by getting your hair styled in the salon. Whether it's traditional Bavarian music, a local quartet or contemporary piano favorites, you will enjoy an eclectic schedule of onboard entertainment every night.
SHORE EXCURSIONS
Every year, the staff seek out new opportunities for guests to experience local culture in a unique way. These tours are specially designed to give small groups the chance to be even more immersed in a destination. The beauty of Europe doesn't just lie in its architecture and landmarks - there are also breathtaking things to be seen when you venture out into nature. That's why we've designed special hikes that will take you a bit off the beaten path in some very beautiful destinations. Here are some examples of hiking opportunities. This is the first river cruise line to carry an entire fleet of complimentary bicycles on board, so you can experience biking alongside enchanting riverside pathways and in city centers. Whether you feel like joining one of the exclusive guided bike tours, or want to go discover on your own, there are many ways for you to explore on two wheels during your cruise.
STATEROOMS OR CABINS
Most of the staterooms on this fleet feature not just one, but two private balconies - a French balcony and a full outside balcony. Together, they provide a unique panoramic view of the beautiful sights along the river and maximize the natural light coming in. With twin balconies, you can enjoy the river however you like. All staterooms feature in-room temperature control, a deluxe hotel-style bedding, spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads, large wardrobe with a full-length mirror, hairdryer, safety deposit box, telephone, flat screen TV, On Demand system that provides complimentary TV as well as movies and music, mini fridge, complimentary bottled water replenished daily, and a desk and chair. Suites feature added enhancements, including a larger sitting area and an expansive bathroom complete with a bathtub and separate shower.
SPA
After a marvelous day of immersive shore excursions, return to the ship and treat yourself to a bit of pampering with a soothing massage.
FITNESS
Are you looking for a way to stay fit on vacation? Hit the treadmill or lift some weights while cruising from one destination to the next.
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