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Loire River Cruises

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10 best Loire cruises

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Melissa Loire travel expert at TourRadar

Christmas on the Loire (port-to-port cruise)

Christmas on the loire, beautiful brittany and royal opulence in the loire (port-to-port cruise), fall festival: the wild, majestic loire river, the loire valley, a royal legacy, châteaux of the loire valley chambord and chenonceau and cruise on the royal loire river (port-to-port cruise), discover the loire canal in the heart of france, charming cities reveal their secrets (port-to-port cruise) (10 destinations), the wild, majestic loire river, discover the loire canal in the heart of france, charming cities reveal their secrets (port-to-port cruise) (8 destinations), the loire valley, a royal legacy (port-to-port cruise) (7 destinations).

River Cruise
Christmas & New Year

“Amazing food and service, overall good value.”

Onboard presentation
Onboard contest: Win a gastronomic cruise on the Rhine with Marc Haeberlintop chef at the Michelin two-star restaurant L'Auberge de l'Ill(1)
ONLY WITH CROISIEUROPE! Vacation on our exclusive paddle riverboat—the zenith of elegant water travel.

“Life on board is excellent, the Croisi Europe crew is very good, but I would not recommend this specific (Loire River) cruise to any friend.”

Discover the Loire Canal In the heart of France, charming cities reveal their secrets (port-to-port cruise) (10 destinations)

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European river cruising holidays

Loire Cruises France

A Loire Valley River cruise is ideal to explore French history, France's scenic and untouched landscapes, and France's cultural heritage. CroisiEurope operates cruises on board a new revolutionary boat, the MS Loire Princesse , equipped with a paddle wheel , sailing the Loire river like never experienced before.

A Loire river cruise is also the unique opportunity to explore the Châteaux of the Loire Valley , including the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau , the Châteaux of Chinon , Villandry , and the Ussé Château . French national monuments, these estates comprise wonderful gardens, and will take you back to a time of legends and fairytales.

Explore the Loire , a royal legacy rich in diversity and history. Tour the area in comfort, experiencing the best in French cuisine and the ultimate in hospitality.

The Loire Valley, a Royal legacy (port-to-port cruise)

NANTES - SAINT-NAZAIRE - NANTES - ANCENIS - CHALONNES-SUR-LOIRE - The Châteaux of the Loire Valley - ANCENIS - NANTES

Embark on a cruise on the Royal Loire River whose beauty is legendary. Visit Nantes and The Machines of the Isle of Nantes, a gallery that recreates the imaginary world of the famous writer Jules Verne. Discover Saint-Nazaire and admire its shipyard and the Escal'Atlantic which immerses you in the world of steamships from the beginnings of their gigantic construction to life on board. Soak up the magical castles of the Loire such as Brissac, the highest castle in France whose monumental facades rise up from its large landscaped park.

NANTES - SAINT-NAZAIRE - NANTES - ANCENIS - CHALONNES-SUR-LOIRE - The Châteaux of the Loire Valley - ANCENIS - NANTES

Beautiful Brittany and Royal Opulence in the Loire (port-to-port cruise)

Nantes - Vannes - Quiberon - Carnac - Auray - Vannes - NANTES - SAINT-NAZAIRE - NANTES - ANCENIS - CHALONNES-SUR-LOIRE - The Châteaux of the Loire Valley - ANCENIS - NANTES

Begin your vacation with an exclusive three-day trip through Brittany, a proud French region with a more-than-thousand-year-old heritage that has spread its influence across the area. From the prehistoric megaliths in Carnac to the wave-beaten coasts of the Quiberon Peninsula, set off on a journey through a stunning region shaped by humans and nature alike. Top off your Breton experience with breakfast in a local crêperie and a visit to Auray, a charming village on the Gulf of Morbihan. Then climb aboard for a cruise on the Loire, the royal river with legendary scenery.

Fall Festival: The Wild, Majestic Loire River

NANTES - NANTES - CHALONNES-SUR-LOIRE - NANTES

Discover France's gentle autumn in the absolutely mesmerizing Pays de la Loire region. Discover the Royal Abbey of Fontevraud—listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the fairytale-like Château d’Ussé during a full-day excursion in the Loire Valley.

From the Châteaux of Chambord and Chenonceau to the Loire Valley

Paris - Châteaux of the Loire Valley - NANTES - SAINT-NAZAIRE - NANTES - CHALONNES-SUR-LOIRE - ANCENIS - NANTES

A taste of Paris linked with the history of France: discover the castles of the Loire between Chambord and Chenonceau before boarding the river boat for a cruise on the Royal Loire river whose beautiful landscapes are legendary. Visit Nantes and The Machines of the Isle of Nantes, a gallery that recreates the imaginary world of the famous writer Jules Verne. Discover Saint-Nazaire and admire its shipyard and the Escal'Atlantic which immerses you in the world of steamships from the beginnings of their gigantic construction to life on board. Soak up the magical castles of the Loire such as Brissac, the highest castle in France whose monumental facades rise up from its large landscaped park.

Loire River Cruises & Tours

Best loire river cruises for 2024-2025, european canal cruises, private charter - european classic cruise - upper loire & western burgundy, european classic cruise - upper loire & western burgundy, top france travel destinations.

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Loire Valley on the Cher River Cruises

Moulin de Nitray to Moulin de Nitray

Available july through october 2024.

The Loire is France’s longest river. It has been a major waterway since Neanderthal man fashioned boats from tree trunks to export their flint tools up and down the river. Then came the ancient Romans, who founded cities along its bank. From around 1500, French nobility fell in love with the stunning landscape of the Loire, building some of the most fabulous châteaux in the world. No surprise, the entire stretch of water between Angers, Blois, Orleans (associated with Joan of Arc), and Tours, known locally as the Valley of the Kings, has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Today, the Loire Valley offers tourists a voyage of discovery and delight. But to appreciate all the Loire has to offer, a compact vessel is essential — and the three-cabin, six-berth Nymphea is in a class of her own. No other Hotel Barge on the French Waterways can take you right underneath the most famous château in the world — the legendary Château de Chenonceau.

Welcome to Moulin de Nitray, an easy 55-minute high-speed rail journey from Paris!
Come aboard your home for the next week, Nymphea, and have a glass of champagne while you’re introduced to Nymphea’s fantastic crew.
Take the rest of the afternoon to relax and settle into your floating home. Tonight, you can look forward to the first of many gourmet meals on board created by your own personal chef — your taste buds are in for a treat this week!

Day 2, Monday: Moulin de Nitray to Larçay

We’ll cruise through two locks this morning before mooring at the quaint, picturesque town of Larcay, where we’ll lunch under the peaceful weeping willows.
Villandry is the last château of the Loire built during the Renaissance in the Loire Valley.
The château itself is stunning, but it’s the symmetrical gardens that truly steal the show. The gardens cover just over 20 acres and boast six distinct gardens, each with a different theme.
Take the afternoon to leisurely walk through the different gardens and truly appreciate the beauty of your surroundings.
Tonight, you’ll return to Nymphea for aperitifs and dinner on the water.

Day 3, Tuesday: Larçay to Amboise

Have your cameras ready as we cruise to the hamlet of Valet, with its classic Tourangeau architecture and 18 th -century watermill.
Construction began in the 15 th century, under the reign of Charles VIII, and 75% of the original château still survives to this day.
Built in 1471, the château also has a history of being a royal residence to the Kings of France.
You’ll make your way back to Nymphea for dinner tonight after a wonderful day of history and exploring.

Day 4, Wednesday: Amboise to Chisseaux

For many, today is the highlight of the week!
We’ll arrive at the private landing stage of Domaine de Fontenay for a tasting of their local Touraine wines — a perfect aperitif pre-lunch.
Only the dungeon remains of the original château built in the 12 th century. However, the current château looks like something straight out of a storybook.
The current château was built between 1513 and 1517 and has a history of prestigious residents. At different times this château was home to Diane de Poitiers, King Henry II’s Favourite, and Queen Catherine de Medici.
This evening, we’ll treat you to dinner at one of our favorite local restaurants specializing in regional cooking. You’re in for a true experience!

Day 5, Thursday: Chisseaux to Montrichard

The creamy-white limestone has also made some remarkable underground dwellings, as seen at Bourré. We’ll disembark here for a short walk to La Magnaneraie, where the owner’s family have lived a somewhat “troglodyte lifestyle” (underground) for many years in what has previously been a quarry, a wine cellar, and most recently, a silkworm nursery.
Named Château de Valençay, construction on the modern portions of this château were built over a period of 200 years starting in 1540.
The original structure was believed to have been built in 1220, with a large tower having been completed even earlier — in the 10 th or 11 th century.
The gardens and interior of this château are equally impressive as the domed towers and exterior architecture.
Back on board, we cruise down one more lock to the picturesque hill-top village of Montrichard, where we moor for dinner.

Day 6, Friday: Montrichard to Nitray

Take your time and wander around the 12 th century Château of Foulques Nerra, with its dungeon overlooking the medieval town square.
Called Château de Langeais, this château started as a fortress built by Foulques Nerra, the Count of Anjou around the year 1000.
Throughout its turbulent history, it has been occupied by the Counts of Blois and Anjou, the royal English House Plantagenet, and King Louis XII.
You’ll have the opportunity to tour all 15 rooms and the gardens.
Run by the Mérieau family for four generations, some of the vines on this estate are over 100 years old.
An authentic Touraine castle built of tuffeau stone, this historic château is also a winery.
Tonight will be your last dinner on board, and your captain will join you for a wonderful evening spent enjoying the food and wine of the region while telling stories.

Day 7, Saturday: Nitray

Enjoy your final morning on board with a final café to wake you up as our crew bids you farewell. We’ll help you with your transfer back to St. Pierre des Corps High-Speed Railway Station for your 9:30 AM train.
After a week of cruising and experiencing the Loire region on Nymphea, you’re sure to depart feeling renewed and rejuvenated.

À bientôt! See you soon!

Price per person includes:

Collection from, and return to St. Pierre Corps railway station
Accommodation in a double or twin cabin with private facilities
Breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks all cooked by our gourmet chef w/ local seasonal delicacies
Restaurant meals where required
Wine pairings of finest Loire valley vintages at lunch and dinner
Open bar 24/7 stocked with French champagne, fine wines and spirits
Use of the on-board library and stereo system
All ground transport in air-conditioned mini-bus for local sightseeing visits
Entry costs for sightseeing
Use of on-board bicycles

NYMPHEA DECK PLAN

Nymphea has three comfortable cabins providing two twin-bedded staterooms and one twin or double stateroom all with en-suite facilities. Nymphea is 81ft long by 14ft wide. The dining saloon is decorated in a warm classic decor of rich varnished hard woods, stained glass and brass light fittings which provides a welcoming country house atmosphere. There are six bikes aboard for independent exploring, and an air-conditioned minibus for daily excursions.

More itineraries aboard Le Papillon

Thank you for the wonderful week! We will long remember the food, the wine, the cruising, the tours, the walks, the lounging on the deck, the conversation and just plain fun!

A week of fabulous food, wonderful wines, terrific trips, comfy cabins, cheery company and most of all the super duper staff.

You made this a truly memorable week – great food, fabulous wine and such attention to detail.

The beautiful French countryside, amazing French cuisine & fabulous Burgundy wines surpassed all we had imagined!

I have traveled all over the world and this is by far one of the finest experiences of my life.

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The Loire Valley, a Royal legacy

NANTES - SAINT-NAZAIRE - NANTES - ANCENIS - CHALONNES-SUR-LOIRE - The Châteaux of the Loire Valley - ANCENIS - NANTES

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

Cruise on board a paddle steamer
EXCLUSIVE TO CROISIEUROPE the Loire from above(1)
Full-day excursion to the castles of the Loire Valley: guided tours of the castles of Ussé, Azay-le-Rideau and the gardens of Villandry
Wine-tasting in the cellars of the Brissac castle(3)
Secret courtyards and covered passageways in Nantes
The Saint-Nazaire shipyard, embodiment of French pride
The wine route of the Muscadet through the vineyards of the Nantes region

THE CROISIEUROPE DIFFERENCE

All meals included - DRINKS INCLUDED with meals and at the bar
Refined French cuisine - Gala dinner and evening - Welcome cocktail
Free Wi-Fi onboard
Headsets are included for excursions
Official welcome from the captain and crew
Onboard activities
Travel assistance and repatriation insurance
All port fees included

Passengers are welcome to board our ship at 6:00 p.m. After comfortably settling into your cabins, we'll introduce our crew at a welcome cocktail before dinner. The ship will sail towards Saint-Nazaire.

This morning, join us for the excursions for both package : tour of Saint Nazaire, a town on the sea. We'll visit Escal'Atlantic, a museum that explores the historic ocean liner experience, and the Saint-Nazaire shipyard, one of the largest shipyards in Europe (This excursion must be booked in advance through your travel agency. Each passenger will be asked to produce a valid passport in order to book the excursion and gain access to the shipyard).

In the evening, join us on an excursion for both packages: we'll board a local boat for a cruise on the Erdre River, one of the most beautiful in France.

This morning, join us for the excursions proposed : CLASSIC : Guided tour of Nantes and the Castle of the Dukes of Brittany. DISCOVERY: Nantes, the Machines de l'Île(2), secret courtyards and covered passageways.

This afternoon, join us for the excursions proposed :

CLASSIC : The Muscadet Wine Route and Clisson, a charming medieval town. DISCOVERY: Helicopter ride(1), the Loire from above (this excursion must be booked in advance through your travel agency).

We'll cruise towards Chalonnes-sur-Loire. Join us for the excursions proposed: CLASSIC : Guided tour of Angers, its historic districts and the famous Apocalypse tapestry(4). DISCOVERY : Tour of Brissac castle(3) and its cellars complete with a wine-tasting session. Enjoy an evening of entertainment.

Join us on a full-day excursion for both packages to discover the Castles of the Loire Valley. We'll return on board in Ancenis. Tonight's our gala dinner and evening. Our ship will start sailing towards Nantes.

Enjoy one last buffet breakfast before disembarking at 10:00 a.m. End of our services.

Sales Useful info

Included : What you need to know before your departure

Not included Useful info

Child discount (2-9 years) : - 20%

Shore Excursions

Mandatory information

Formalities Some administrative formalities to take into account in order to prepare your trip

The cruise schedule may vary according to tides and arrival times at ports of call may be subject to change. For the safety of our passengers, the captain and crew of the boat may decide to modify the navigational itinerary.

(1) Subject to availability and favorable weather conditions.

(2) The Machines de l'Île are closed on Mondays, it will be replaced by the classic excursion.

(4) The Brissac castle is closed on Tuesdays, it will be replaced by the Serrant Castle.

(4) Site closed on January 1st, May 1st, November 1st and 11th, and December 25th.

Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.

Loire Region

Loire River Cruise to explore French history

Explore the heritage,beauty and history of France’s regal regionwith aLoire river cruise. TheLoire valley is surrounded by a colorful tapestry of vineyards and villages, with hundreds of extravagant castles. A cruise in the Loire allows you travel to the medieval cities of Nantes, Clisson, and Angers, and explore the fairytalereferences of the Loire including Château d’Azay-le-Rideau. Don't miss this opportunity to discover one ofthe best region of France by Loire River Cruise.