Scenic Sapphire, 8 Night Idyllic Rhône ex Marseille to Lyon ex Marseilles, France to Lyon, France

Day 1
Upon arrival in Marseille, transfer to Tarascon, where you’ll board your Scenic Space-Ship.Spend this afternoon exploring the luxurious Scenic Sapphire. Relax in your spacious suite or take a beverage to the Sun Deck and admire the magnificent views across the city. Tonight, join your fellow guests for a welcome reception.

Please book your flight to arrive into Marseille prior to 04:30 PM.

Day 2
Wake this morning in the ancient city of Arles. Founded around 56BC by Julius Caesar, the city has a rich Roman heritage and is thought to have the largest number of Roman ruins outside the Eternal City itself. The ruins of ancient monuments, theatres, baths and administrative buildings are strewn along the river’s left bank. It was also the home of Vincent van Gogh in 1888 and he drew inspiration from the landscape for many of his paintings and drawings, including his infamous work ‘The Yellow House’.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore the city with one of this morning’s Scenic Freechoice:Guided tour of Arles: Join a local guide for an insightful walking tour. Departing from the ship, you’ll visit the heart of Arles to see impressive Roman ruins, including Las Arenas, a 20,000-seat arena dating back to 90 AD that is still in use today. Experience the vibrant colours and striking quality of light that has inspired many artists.Les Baux & olive farm visit: The Alpilles region is famed for its olives, known locally as green gold. Visit an olive farm to see how olive oil is made and enjoy a tasting of their fine products. Then take a tour of the medieval city of Le Baux, with its charming old town filled with cobblestone streets and dominated by an 11th century castle.Following Vincent – Van Gogh’s Arles: Step into the vibrant world of Vincent van Gogh on a walking tour. Trace the artist’s journey through the stunning streets and historic sites that inspired some of his most famous works during his 15 months in this charming Provençal town, experiencing the colours and atmosphere that shaped his genius.Discovery of lavender – from field to perfume: Provence region is renowned for aromatic herbs, particularly lavender. At certain times of the year (typically from late June to mid-August), fields are transformed into a breathtaking sea of purple. Visit a local organic farm specialising in the production of essential oils from lavender, thyme, rosemary, and other herbs. Discover the health benefits of these plants, learn the process of essential oil extraction, and create your own natural and fragrant lavender mist, made with organic essential oil.

After lunch, your Scenic Space-Ship will cruise towards Avignon. Admire the rolling landscapes from the comfort of your suite or perhaps relax with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar.

Day 3
Known as the ‘City of the Popes’, Avignon is rich in history and astounding medieval architecture. At the same time, it also has a youthful energy and a buzzing arts scene. Circled by fortified walls, the former papal capital is home to the World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes (Pope’s Palace), one of the largest surviving Gothic palaces in Europe, and the remaining four arches of the famous Pont d’Avignon bridge, which was once the only way to cross the Rhône between Lyon and the Mediterranean Sea.

Scenic Freechoice: Take your pick from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice:Walking tour of Avignon including visit to Popes Palace: From the ship, you will be guided on a walk through Avignon, visiting the historic city walls and the Pope’s Palace, home to the Papacy and seat of Western Christianity in the 14th century. Avignon is filled with cobblestoned streets and the palace has numerous steps, so a moderate degree of fitness is required for this tour.Excursion to Pont Du Gard: Visit the ancient Roman aqueduct, Pont du Gard, on a guided tour. Dating to the middle of the first century, this engineering masterpiece was designed to carry water to the city of Nîmes.Shop with a chef & Scenic Culinaire: Join your on board chef to visit the local market where you will shop for and sample the best ingredients this region has to offer. Return to the ship for an interactive cooking demonstration at Scenic Culinaire. (Please note: Avignon Market is closed on a Monday).Wine tasting in Châteauneuf du Pape: The fertile banks of the Rhône are peppered with Côte du Rhône vineyards, including at the village of Châteauneuf-du-Pape AOC, where centuries of wine production make for a fascinating history. Take this opportunity to sample some of the region’s most celebrated wines that was once known as the wine of popes.

This afternoon is at your leisure to further explore Avignon at your own pace. If you’re feeling energetic, wander up Le Rocher des Doms. Set 30 metres above the river, it offers excellent views over the city as well as a pretty English-style garden with shady trees, fountains and ponds.

Scenic Classical concert at the Palais des Papes: When the doors are closed to the general public, step inside Palais des Papes, one of the most visited sites in France which you will have to yourself. Upon arrival, you will be ushered into the grandiose palace for an exclusive classical concert from a trio of musicians accompanied by dinner in the very banquet hall popes once dined. Be immersed in the beauty of famous classical pieces, which gain a new fascinating dimension inside the palace’s walls.

Day 4
Arrive today in Viviers, often described as an open-air museum thanks to its rich medieval heritage and architecture. The town was founded in the fifth century, and as you walk down the narrow, zig-zagging lanes, you will feel as though little has changed in the past 1,600 years. At its peak in the Middle Ages, Viviers was home to 30,000 people, today less than 4,000 people live here, happily secluded in their own world.

Scenic Freechoice: The choice is yours with this morning’s Scenic Freechoice:Walking tour of Viviers: Join a local guide to explore Viviers on foot. Admire its many monuments and architectural treasures such as the Cathedral of St. Vincent – first built in the 11th century, it is now resplendent in 18th century Gothic style with a Renaissance facade. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Viviers at your leisure.French Resistance Walking Tour: On a walking tour of Viviers, hear stories of the French Resistance, who fought bravely against the Nazi Occupation of France during World War II. Learn local stories of heroism and daring missions as you explore the historic town.Excursion to Grignan de Provence: Join your local guide on an exploration of the beautiful provincial town of Grignan. See the mighty castle that dominates the town as well as the Collegiate Church of the Holy Saviour before enjoying some time at leisure.

Day 5
Your Scenic Space-Ship will arrive in Vienne today. Boasting a 2,000-year history, this city is brimming with Roman history, including a terraced theatre, first century temple, ancient baths and the Vienne Pyramid, which was the site of the Roman circus where chariot races would have been held.

Scenic Freechoice: Discover your way with today’s Scenic Freechoice:Walking tour of Vienne with Roman theatre: Uncover the fascinating history of this quaint riverside town, once conquered by Julius Caesar. You will visit one of the best-preserved Roman theatres, which was built against the steep slopes of a hill and could hold more than 10,000 spectators.Cycling tour of Vienne: Discover the city’s glory days on two wheels. Cycle past a marvellously preserved Roman temple, a monument to Emperor Augustus, and see the ruins of a once-thriving district complete with bath houses, villas and workshops. Nature lovers will enjoy the detour to the lush Ile Barlet River Island.

Day 6
Arrive in Lyon today. You may like to arrange for your butler to deliver a coffee to your suite so you can enjoy it in your private Scenic Sun Lounge before you venture out for the day.France’s third largest city is its gastronomic capital, promising a blend of fascinating history and a sophisticated dining and shopping scene. Sitting at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers, the city was founded by the Romans in 43BC. Since the mid-1500s it has been a financial and industrial powerhouse and today is recognised as France’s culinary centre. The city is home to more than 4,000 restaurants – including 20 that hold Michelin stars – and eating well is a way of life.

Scenic Freechoice: Explore Lyon with this morning’s range of Scenic Freechoice:Guided tour of Lyon: Discover Lyon’s historic significance as you traverse its hidden traboules, secret passageways that date back to the fourth century. Then visit the Basilica of Notre Dame of Fourvière, offering a fabulous vantage point for views across Lyon.Excursion to Pérouges: Visit this medieval walled village, located atop a hill overlooking the Ain River. It has been beautifully preserved, featuring vine-covered stone buildings, cobbled laneways and a market square centred around a centuries-old lime tree. Please note: Due to uneven surfaces and a lot of walking both up and down hill, this tour is recommended only for guests with a high degree of fitness.Silk painting workshop: Lyon has a rich heritage of silk production that dates back almost five centuries to when Louis XI chose the city as a potential base for the silk weaving industry. During this workshop, you’ll learn about the history and process of silk painting.Guided cycling tour to Tête d’or Park: With a local guide, cycle along one of Lyon’s many bike lanes to charming Tête d’or Park. At 105 hectares, it is one of France’s largest urban parks and features a sprawling lake with Souvenir Island at its centre, a botanical garden, rose garden and greenhouse, and a zoo.

A late departure gives you more opportunities to explore Lyon’s restaurant scene.

Day 7
You’ll wake this morning in the town of Mâcon, which will be your base for exploring the surrounding south Burgundy. Mâcon sits right on the edge of the river, with stunning pastel-hued buildings, ancient churches and picturesque quays. It is close to the Burgundy wine region, one of the most famous in France, which produces exceptional Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Gamay and Sparkling Wines.

Scenic Freechoice: Choose from this morning’s Scenic Freechoice activities:Beaujolais wine region: Drive through the rolling hills of the world-famous Beaujolais wine region and meet a local vintner. Discover how this wine is produced and enjoy the privilege of sampling some of the region’s best drops.Excursion to Cluny and Cluny Abbey: Step back in time to the medieval town of Cluny, which is famous for its Benedictine Abbey, once the largest Christian buildings in the world. Tour the impressive town, learn about its history and soak up its charm during some free time.Excursion to Château de Cormatin: Transfer by coach to the historic Château de Cormatin, built in 1606. The castle boasts a fascinating history and has been lovingly restored back to its original glory. Admire the castle’s gilded rooms, moat, water features and more than 10 hectares of manicured gardens on a guided tour.

Day 8
Depart after a wonderful farewell breakfast. From here, you will be transferred to Lyon airport for your onward journey, taking away a lifetime of wonderful memories with you.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. Please refer to our terms and conditions.

Enjoy the ultimate France river cruise experience on board a luxury Scenic Space-Ship. Scenic recently upgraded Scenic Sapphire and Scenic Diamond to meet the same unrivaled standards set by our newest ships on the European waterways.

The upgrades include luxury suites boasting large private balconies fitted with Scenic Sun-Lounges, 32 inch Samsung HD TVs linked to Mac mini computers and complimentary internet access enhanced by an upgraded Wi-Fi system.

The two new spectacular dining areas, River Café and Table la Rive, are welcome additions, and all public areas feature new artwork, carpet, soft furnishings and designer furniture. Even the bar in the new Panorama Lounge of each ship has been upgraded and is made from sophisticated Port Laurent marble.

Scenic Sapphire and Scenic Diamond feature the finest of interiors and amenities including a vitality pool, fitness centre and spa complete with an innovative Salt Therapy Lounge. Our Royal Owner’s Suite boasts a luxurious 47 square metres and will surpass all expectations.

Another highlight of these ships is Scenic Culinaire, a bespoke cooking area where guests are able to participate in a series of cooking demonstrations.

The Scenic Story Established in 1986, for 40 years Scenic have been taking their guests to the most fascinating destinations in over 100 countries and every continent.

Uniquely, Scenic Group is now the only cruise company to design, build and operate its own ships through its in-house shipbuilding division, MKM Yachts. This fully integrated model ensures exceptional quality and a consistently elevated guest experience.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours sets the benchmark in truly all-inclusive, ultra-luxury travel. The Scenic Discovery Yachts including Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II, with Scenic Ikon set to launch in 2028, offer unrivalled exploration across all seven continents, visiting more than 100 countries and 600 ports. Scenic’s river fleet is also expanding, growing from 13 to 16 ships with new additions planned for 2027 and 2028 in Europe, the Mekong and India, further strengthening their leadership in all-inclusive river cruising. Their handcrafted land journeys and extensions compliment the cruise experience, with immersive, seamlessly curated experiences around the world.

Cherish the Planet Scenic’s Cherish the Planet initiative is more than sustainability. It’s a commitment to creating positive change, from sustainability practices to rich community partnerships. They aim to leave as small a footprint as possible.

Award-Winning They are consistently recognised as the leading luxury cruise line and tour operator by respected consumer publications and industry groups. Scenic Eclipse was also named the Best Cruise Ship for Dining, Asia’s Best River Cruise Ship and Europe’s Best River Cruise Line at the inaugural World Cruise Awards in 2022.

Select the Deck to view detail.

Scenic Sapphire - Jewel Deck

Scenic Sapphire - Sapphire Deck

Scenic Sapphire - Diamond Deck

Scenic Sapphire - Sun Deck

Select the Cabin to view detail.

Cat RJ - Junior Balcony Suite

These spacious Suites (250ft²), located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.

Cat RS - Royal Panorama Suite

At 325ft², this suite is the largest on the ship. At the rear of the Diamond Deck, enjoy panoramic views of the breathtaking passing scenery through floor to ceiling windows across two walls of the cabin.

Cat RO - Royal Owners Suite

One bedroom suite including Scenic Sun Lounge – 47m2/510ft2. These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (510ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Cat E - Standard Suite

15m2/160ft2. Staterooms are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.

Cat C - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat BS - Single Balcony Suite

Scenic Tours staterooms are amongst the largest in Europe, 15.6 sqm (170 sq ft) for a standard stateroom. The luxurious fittings and amenities have been planned with the total comfort of our guests in mind. Suites and staterooms are fitted with a modern flat screen TV, superior air conditioning system, internet access, minibar, hairdryer, personal safe, power points suitable for Australian appliances and a state-of-the-art inroom entertainment system offering a choice of over 1000 movies on demand. Exclusive to Scenic Tours, 82% of our staterooms are Private Balcony Suites, complete with a large teak balcony furnished with outdoor chairs and a table. This unique feature gives our guests the freedom to retire to their suite with a glass of fine wine and watch Europe’s spectacular scenery pass by from the comfort and privacy of their own balcony.

Cat B - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat A - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat P - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat BJ - Junior Balcony Suite

These spacious Suites (250ft²), located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.

Cat RA - Royal Balcony Suite

These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (300-315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Cat BA - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat BB - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat PA - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat PP - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat D - Standard Suite

15m2/160ft2. Staterooms are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.