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OVERVIEW

Solos Mix

 

France River Cruise Solo Travel 

Arles to Paris, France – A Luxurious River Journey for Solo Travellers  

 

Cruising with Uniworld Boutique River Cruises; 5 Star All-Inclusive Elegance Embark on an unforgettable river cruise from Arles to Paris, France. This is where luxury meets all-inclusive ease. Renowned for their impeccably styled vessels, personalised service, and fine dining, Uniworld offers an indulgent cruising experience with all the trimmings – from premium wines and spirits, curated excursions, and entertainment, to locally inspired cuisine and elegant décor.

A meticulously planned itinerary tailor-made for the culturally curious. For Francophiles in love with the culture, history, cuisine, and romance of France, this grand voyage is a dream come true. Soak up the joie de vivre that makes France one of the most adored countries in the world. Experience France from north to south, sailing three rivers and embarking upon in-depth shore excursions. Walk through Monet’s beloved Giverny, seeing the enchanting grounds that he made famous; travel back in time and enjoy a Village day in charming Viviers; visit Lyon’s famous secret passageways, the Traboules; and have a chance to golf high above the cliffs of Étretat; one of the most spectacular courses in France.

From the beaches of Normandy and the verve and romance of Paris to the sun-drenched vistas of Burgundy and Provence, this itinerary in France is truly sans pareil!

Grand France is a combination of Paris & Normandy and Burgundy & Provence. This is more than a cruise – it’s a rich cultural immersion for discerning solo travellers.

Make the most of your time in Europe with the option to extend.

 

 

PACKAGE DETAILS
  • Ages:
    45+
  • Duration:
    15 Days
  • Status:
    Bookings open
  • Region:
    EuropeUK
  • Destinations:
    France
  • Travel Style:
    On The Water, Discovery
  • Accommodation:
    Boat cabins
  • Prices from:
    $13495 own cabin
  • Transport:
    Train, Cruise
  • Pace:
    1
  • Max Group Size:
    10
REVIEWS

'I would highly recommend a holiday with Encounter Travel. My trip was well organised and the co-ordinator was fun and helpful and full of energy. I met some great people of all walks of life. There is a good mix of organised activities and free time. I had a blast.'

Linda, Victoria

'Thank you for your organisation of a great holiday. As a first time traveller with Encounter, I didn't know what to expect. The Red Centre is indescribably beautiful and should be on every Australians' bucket list. We saw every sensational attraction in just the right order - each new experience was more incredible than the last. Thank you for recruiting such a great group of people for my travelling companions. The hotels were clean and very comfortable and it was a pleasure to be transported across such an amazing landscape so comfortably. I learnt so much about our wonderful country and wished I had done such a trip years earlier.'

Sarah, 52 years, Sydney, Australia
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INCLUSIONS

ACCOMMODATION

  • 14-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the alluring SS Joie de Vivre and the striking SS Catherine
  • Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites have handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, high thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and European duvets, and a menu of pillow options
  • Free Wi-Fi

DINING

  • All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
  • 14 breakfasts, 10 lunches, 14 dinners
  • 2 Captain's Welcome and 2 Captain's Farewell Receptions
  • 2 Welcome and 2 Farewell Gala Dinners
  • Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water

EXCURSIONS

  • 12 days of excursions, all fully hosted by English-speaking local experts
  • Guided programs
  • State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
  • Use of bicycles and Nordic walking sticks 

EXPERIENCES

  • 1 country: France
  • 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites
  • Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
  • Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour
  • TGV train between Paris and Lyon
  • Cultural enrichment, including captivating onboard local entertainment

Not included: 

  • Airfares 
  • Airport transfers (unless stated)
  • Travel insurance
  • Excess baggage
  • Visa fees if applicable
  • Any tips or porterage at airports, hotels, drivers & local staff
  • Meals and beverages not specified on itinerary
  • Encounter Travel host is not included
  • Items of a personal nature such as laundry & medical expenses
  • Incidental expenses such as taxi fares, telecommunications 

Itinerary

HIGHLIGHTS

  • Cruise with a solo traveller group
  • 14 nights on board with luxury cabin
  • All meals on board from dinner on your day of arrival through to breakfast on your day of departure, including welcome drinks and the Captain’s Dinner 
  • Five-star service from an English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides
  • Complimentary on-board tea and coffee
  • Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi
  • Services of the ship’s onboard cruise director and concierge

Cruising with Uniworld

Surrounded by the ambiance of an elegant, destination-inspired ship and embraced by their passionate staff, you’ll notice the Uniworld difference immediately. This is what the absolute best in luxury river cruising feels like. Where every expectation is exceeded, every destination is uniquely experienced, and every instance of delight is quickly followed by another inspiring moment. 

Inclusive Cruising; from free-flowing fine wines and liquors to delicious cuisine and daily included experiences.

A Boutique Hotel Experience on the Water; inspired by their destinations, each ship in the fleet has a uniquely beautiful design.

Curated Experiences; Uniworld goes the extra mile to craft immersive and memorable onshore excursions, with a variety of activities that speak to the diverse interests of our guests.

Culinary Excellence; fresh local ingredients and a masterful culinary team come together to create an incredible dining experience that brings the flavours of your destinations onboard.

River Heritage Club; travel with Uniworld once, and you are welcomed into our River Heritage Club loyalty program. Members receive exclusive perks and savings

 

DAY 1
Arles (Embark)

Arrive at the Marseille Airport. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship docked in Arles.

Encounter Travel River Cruise

DAY 2
Arles

Explore a sun-drenched Provençal town today with an allure all its own. Known for its remarkable Roman ruins, Arles so inspired Van Gogh that he painted some 200 paintings there. Arles has existed since the sixth century BC, when the ancient Greeks founded it and named it Theline. It was here that the Romans built their first bridge across the Rhône River, creating a vital overland route between Italy and Spain.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Arles Walking Tour
Van Gogh paid tribute to Arles’ atmospheric beauty in some 200 paintings, including Starry Night...

Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences

Olive Oil Tasting and Immersive Art Experience
Immerse yourself in art of a special kind - a digital exhibition devoted to a major artist, projected...
Masterpiece Collection · $150 per person 

 

DAY 3
Avignon 

The walled city of Avignon is one of the most fascinating towns in southern France, with a host of historic gems to explore—including the fortress residence of rebellious popes who broke from Rome and once lived and ruled here. You’ll see the Palace of the Popes and much more today, or have the chance to visit a 2,000-year-old Roman aqueduct.

A special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey (Select 1) 

  1. Avignon Walking Tour with Palace of the Popes 
  2. Pont du Gard Roman Aqueduct Visit 
  3. Let's Go: Biking to the Chartreuse  

Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences

Cooking Lesson at La Mirande
Masterpiece Collection · $380 per person 

Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Tasting
A highly celebrated appellation in a region already known for producing great wines,
Masterpiece Collection · $130 per person 

Let's Go: Kayak Ride on the Gardon River
Slather on some sunscreen and plan to get wet as you spend a couple of fun and relaxing hours on the clear, tranquil waters of the Gardon.
Masterpiece Collection · $100 per person 

Encounter Travel River Cruise

Cezanne Restaurant, S.S Catherine

DAY 4
Viviers 

An enchanting village where time seems to have stopped centuries ago, Viviers has a long and storied past that goes back more than 1,600 years—and a splendid architectural heritage to match. At one time, Viviers was divided along religious lines—the clergy lived in the upper part of the town, the laity in the lower part. Your exploration of the town will take you through both parts, as you begin at the crest and make your way to the riverbank.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey 

Village Day: Ardèches
Sycamores line some of Viviers’ stone-paved streets (planted, so they say, to provide shade for...

Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences

Truffle Hunting & Village of Grignan
Beautiful Renaissance châteaux dot the hillsides as you travel to the medieval village of Grignan.
Masterpiece Collection · $115 per person  

DAY 5
Tain-l’Hermitage (Tournon) 

If you love fine wine, you’ll love the twin villages of Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage. Tournon may be a small town, but stirring events took place here: A castle was raised on the hilltop in the 10th century to protect the region, and new fortifications were added over the centuries, including two “new” towers built to defend against Protestant attacks in the 16th century. You’ll see the handsome houses constructed by wealthy merchants and garrison officers when you walk through the Rue de Doux area, and you’ll pass the 14th-century church and the oldest secondary school in France. 

Select your choice of these carefully curated excursions, which operate at the same time.

Tournon and Tain-l’Hermitage Twin Villages Stroll with Wine Tasting
Nestled on opposite sides of the river in the heart of the Côtes du Rhône, the twin cities...

Let's Go: Hermitage Terrace Vineyards Hike with Wine Tasting
Are you ready to explore the steepest vineyards on the Rhône?  

Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences

Premium Wine Tasting on the Hermitage Hill 
Embark on drive through Tain-l'Hermitage and up to its hilltop vineyards for an excellent vista.
Masterpiece Collection · $365 per person

Encounter Travel River Cruise

Bar Du Leopold, S.S Catherine

DAY 6
Lyon

Ancient Lyon is a city of tantalizing contrasts, from Roman roots to stunning modern architecture and plenty of Renaissance flair in between. There's much to explore here, from the city's bike paths to the silk weavers' secret passageways. While you're in town, you might like to have lunch on your own at one of the many traditional bouchons that proliferate in the epicenter of French gastronomy.

A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.

Select your choice of these carefully curated excursions, which operate at the same time. 

Lyon Panoramic Tour with Traboules Visit
You'll fall in love with Lyon today as you take in the view from the top of Fourvière Hill

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences
Silk Weavers Walking Tour
Lyon’s history is entwined with silk 

Let's Go: Lyon Peninsula Bike Tour
Get out and about with a bike ride along the river.  

DAY 7
Mâcon (Beaune)

The pace of life is decidedly more relaxed in Burgundy, where endless rows of grapes hang heavy on the vine. The capital of the region’s wine trade, Beaune is renowned for its history, beauty, and highly prized wine, as well as its medieval-era hospital—the Hospices de Beaune. 

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Burgundy Landscapes, Beaune, and the Hospices
Beaune may not be a large town, but it brims with history, a wealth of splendid regional architecture 

Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences

Château de Rully Wine Tasting & Lunch
Drive through picturesque hamlets and pristine vineyards to a Burgundy wine estate
Masterpiece Collection · $230 per person 

 

DAY 8
Lyon (Disembark), Transfer to Paris via High-Speed TGV Train (Embark)

Disembark the striking S.S. Catherine and transfer to Paris via high-speed TGV train.
Your next ship, the magical S.S. Joie de Vivre, waits to carry you along the Seine on the next leg of your adventure.

 

Day 9
La Roche-Guyon, Vernon, Giverny 

Today is a celebration of northern France’s natural beauty, with an excursion to a splendid château and gardens situated in an equally grand setting, plus a chance to immerse yourself in the very landscapes that inspired Impressionist master Claude Monet. In the morning, choose between a scenic hike or a visit to the hilltop Château de La Roche-Guyon, which is surrounded by beautiful gardens and offers sweeping views over the Seine. Later, explore the beautiful gardens of Monet. You'll have the opportunity to take in the French countryside on your way there with an invigorating bike ride, or opt to arrive by coach instead. 

Note: Giverny will be closed during the March and November cruise departure dates.

This evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.  

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey (Select 1) 

  1. Château de La Roche-Guyon 
  2. Let's Go: Hike on the Crests Trail 
  3. Monet’s Gardens at Giverny 
  4. Let's Go: Bike Ride from Vernon to Giverny

Day 10
Rouen

Walk in the footsteps of greatness in Normandy’s medieval capital, a city with a historic quarter that remains amazingly intact. From the cathedral Monet painted dozens of times to the cross marking the spot where Joan of Arc was martyred, Rouen is a treasure trove for the culturally curious. The roll call of famous people who lived or died in Rouen is long and varied—Richard the Lionheart, Joan of Arc, Gustave Flaubert, and Claude Monet are among them. 

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey

Nights Out: Private Concert at the Rouen Cathedral
Tonight, walk through the streets of Rouen with your Cruise Manager to see this charming medieval city.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey (Select 1)

  1. Rouen Walking Tour, the Dukes of Normandy’s Capital
    Victor Hugo called Rouen the city with a hundred bell towers.  

  2. MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences
    Camembert Cheese Farm
    Cheese is a product integral to French heritage and culture, with hundreds of beloved varieties.


Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences 

Mont Saint Michel - Wonder of the Western World
One of France's most iconic sights
$280 per person

Day 11
Caudebec-en-Caux (Honfleur or Étretat)

Caudebec-en-Caux, a lovely little town on the right bank of the Seine Estuary, is your base for one of two very different excursions. You could drive through the beautiful Calvados countryside to Honfleur, a delightful seaside harbor and city of painters, or head to the windy cliffs of Étretat for a game of golf

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey (Select 1)

  1. Honfleur Walking Tour
    Transfer to Honfleur, where our walking tour of the fishing village begins

  2. Let's Go: Golfing in Étretat
    It would be hard to find a more spectacular location than Étretat’s clifftop course. 

 

Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences 

St. Wandrille - Silent Monks & Monastery
$100 per person

Day 12
Rouen (Normandy Beaches)

There are moments when we travel that move us on an otherworldly level—experiences that stir a profound emotional connection. The Normandy beaches certainly have that effect. On your full-day outing, you’ll visit Normandy’s beaches, with a choice to venture to either the American, British and Commonwealth, or Canadian beaches. After, partake in a private memorial ceremony for a sentimental remembrance of Operation Overlord.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey (Select 1) 

  1. Normandy Beaches: Highlights of British & Commonwealth Sites 
  2. Normandy Beaches: Highlights of Canadian Sites 
  3. Normandy Beaches: Highlights of American Sites 

Day 13
Mantes-la-Jolie (Versailles)

How did France’s rulers live over the centuries? Step into the private rooms of the Palace of Versailles, the lavish palace built by the Sun King, to find out. 

A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey 

Versailles Palace Secret Apartments 

Day 14
Paris 

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to the “City of Light” or you’ve been here many times before, there’s something for everyone today in Paris. Enjoy a panoramic overview of the city, or join a local expert for a walk through two much-loved neighbourhoods. 

Included excursions designed to enhance your journey (Select 1) 

Paris City Tour
If you are experiencing Paris for the first time

Paris Walking Tour of the Latin Quarter
As a true Parisian would, take the Métro to the Latin Quarter. 

Masterpiece Collection add-on experiences

Moulin Rouge
Montmartre's Moulin Rouge is the most famous cancan cabaret in the world
$495 per person

Retro Sidecar Montmartre Discovery
Buckle up, don't forget your safety gear and get ready to explore Paris' architecture and history.
$495 per person 

Parisian Gourmet Tour
Paris is a city that must be experienced- its gastronomy, its sophistication and its savoir-vivre.
$215 per person

Musée du Louvre
The Louvre is the world's largest art museum and a historic monument in Paris
$165 per person 

Retro Sidecar Illuminations Tour
Hop into a retro sidecar for a thrilling ride through Paris
$625 per person  

Day 15
Paris (Disembark)

Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Charles de Gaulle Airport for your flight home.

Itineraries may be subject to change, due to circumstances outside of our control. If there is any itinerary change prior to departure of significance we aim to inform you prior to travel.  Itinerary changes while on tour will be informed by your tour leader/guide while on tour.

 

View Full Itinerary

ACCOMMODATION

CRUISE
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Two stunning luxury ships across one incredible journey through France.

S.S. Catherine
The S.S. Catherine, continues this proud tradition of excellence with sumptuous materials and meticulous attention to detail.
VIEW YOU TUBE VIDEO OF SHIP

The vessel’s opulent interiors include a two-story lobby with a specially commissioned Murano glass chandelier and whimsical life-size glass horse.

AND

S.S. Joie de Vivre
S.S. Joie de Vivre brings the “joy of living” to the rivers of France.  
VIEW DECK PLAN 

VIEW YOU TUBE VIDEO OF SHIP

Step aboard your floating pied-à-terre in France, featuring handcrafted furniture and fine antiques, original artwork, and signature accents inspired by 20th-century Parisian design from the Golden Twenties to the free-spirited Sixties, all blending seamlessly with modern conveniences.

Joie de Vivre French Balcony

French Balcony, Joie de Vivre

SS Catherine Uniworld

French Balcony, S.S Catherine

Joie de Vivre French Balcony Encounter Travel

French Balcony, Joie de Vivre

Encounter Travel

Classic Cabin, S.S Catherine

Joie de Vivre Classic Cabin

Classic Cabin, Joie de Vivre Classic Cabin

 

Classic Cabins

  • windows in these staterooms are situated at the water line

French Balcony Cabins

  • windows floor to ceiling (windows open)


More About Accommodation

PRICES

 ** INCREDIBLE SAVINGS - Limited Time Only **

Cabin

Regular Price

Promotion Price

SAVING

Classic Cabin (1 cabin left)

AUD $25699

AUD $13494

AUD $12205

French Balcony Cabin  (7 cabins left)

AUD $31599

AUD $16444

AUD $15155

Read cruise cancellation terms

2026 Gold Seal Protection

For only $249 per person

The cruise is with Uniworld River Cruises (Australia) Pty. Ltd. They administer the Gold Seal Protection Program “the GSP Program”.

  • This program is available for purchase for $249 per person. Under this program Uniworld River Cruises (Australia) Pty. Ltd will provide guests with 100% of the Uniworld River Cruises (Australia) Pty. Ltd cancellation penalties in the form of a future cruise credit certificate, should a guest need to cancel their cruise/tour for any reason at time prior to 90 days before scheduled cruise/tour date.
  • Cancellation penalties are reimbursed in the form of a Uniworld Cruise Certificate allowing guests a two (2) year credit to travel with Uniworld River Cruises (Australia) Pty. Ltd at a later date. Please note that to be eligible for the “Gold Seal Protection”, guests must enrol and pay for the program at the time the original deposit is paid.
  • The certificate is issued in the event of cancellation and is valid for travel within two years from the date of issue, is non-transferable, non-refundable and may not be redeemed for cash. Uniworld River Cruises (Australia) Pty. Ltd “Gold Seal Protection” does not cover rail components of itineraries or airfares purchased through Uniworld River Cruises (Australia) Pty. Ltd or independently.

GETTING THERE

Starts In: Arles, France
Ends In: Paris, France

Arrival: Marseille, France
Departure: Paris, France

Cruise Embarkation, Day 1 - Sunday 9 August 2026
All aboard 9PM

Hotel Check In/Out Times
For pre or post cruise stays consider the hotel check in time on arrival and the hotel check out time on departure. If you arrive prior to the check in time, the hotel will store your luggage until the check in time and can also store your luggage until you are ready to depart for your onward journey.  

Hotel check in:  from 3PM
Hotel check out: by 12 midday 

Always check your destination country for their Customs policies for prohibited or restricted items. Products or legal medications in your country may not always be permitted in other countries.

ARRIVAL TRANSFER OPTIONS, ARLES, FRANCE

Private Transfer
The most convenient choice. Travel time about 55 minutes. 

Shuttle Bus + Train
A simple public transport option. Airport shuttle to Vitrolles Aéroport train station, about 5 minutes. Then a regional TER train to Arles, roughly 50 -55 minutes. Services run regularly through the day. Best for confident travellers who don’t mind a change of transport.
Tip: and pre cruise stay Marseille, refresh and then travel on cruise embarkation day to Arles.

Taxi or Car Ride Service

FLIGHT INFORMATION
As an Australian travel company we can provide flight assistance for flights originating from Australia. If joining the tour from outside Australia, we recommend making your own flight arrangements or to use the service of a travel advisor located within your country of residence for access to best fares. 

VISA/ENTRY INFORMATION
See 'VISA/ENTRY' information in our MORE INFORMATION section below.

DETAILS

TRIP AVAILABILITY
Bookings close: 3PM Monday 8 December 2026


Read on for other key trip information that you should know before you decide on joining the group.

If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to book early and secure your place with a deposit.  Tour space is limited. Also, many services on this tour must be booked well in advance. To ensure your place, please check trip availability at your earliest convenience 

FELLOW TRAVELLERS 
You will enjoy this group experience with a likely maximum of 12 solo travellers.  You are welcome to join with a friend, but couples do not join our group. 

SOLOS MIX
Our group is only for solo travellers however, there’s a mix of travellers onboard, solo travellers and couples travelling together – this is our SOLOS MIX offer.  From our ‘know-how’ these are trips popular with solo travellers.

THE PACE [1 out of 5]
Travellers of 75 years or over may be required to return a Fit to Travel form that is completed by their doctor. 

More Information > Visit Travel Fitness 

GROUP ARRANGEMENTS
Best suited to independent solo travellers. The group is not hosted.

MORE INFORMATION

TRAVELLER REVIEWS

'I would highly recommend a holiday with Encounter Travel. My trip was well organised and the co-ordinator was fun and helpful and full of energy. I met some great people of all walks of life. There is a good mix of organised activities and free time. I had a blast.'

Linda, Victoria

'Thank you for your organisation of a great holiday. As a first time traveller with Encounter, I didn't know what to expect. The Red Centre is indescribably beautiful and should be on every Australians' bucket list. We saw every sensational attraction in just the right order - each new experience was more incredible than the last. Thank you for recruiting such a great group of people for my travelling companions. The hotels were clean and very comfortable and it was a pleasure to be transported across such an amazing landscape so comfortably. I learnt so much about our wonderful country and wished I had done such a trip years earlier.'

Sarah, 52 years, Sydney, Australia

'Did a Red Centre solo 7 day tour absolutely fantastic, Uluru and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), Kings Canyon, Palm Valley you have to see it and experience it. The coach drivers were professional, excellent knowledge and with a great sense of humor.'

David, Eschol Park, Sydne, New South Wales
Since 2006
Since 2006 leading the way for solo travellers. As a boutique tour operator, we delight in detail, delivering personal service and finding your next best memory.©
Australian Owned
100% Australian, created by Australians for Australians; we 'get' the Australian travel style. And, better still, our arms are open to welcome our friends from other countries around the world, who'd like to travel with friendly Aussies.©
Small Group Tours
Travel solo, not alone when you join one of our small group tours. Share your journey, without the drawbacks of big coach tours or the solitude of being alone.©
Age-Matched Tours
From our traveller feedback we know that our age-matched holidays are one of the main reasons that solo travellers choose to join us. All our 'Solos Only ' tours are age-matched, making for a better chance that you'll be travelling other like minded single travellers. ©