Paris & Normandy Wine Cruise

Michael Guerra is an Advanced Sommelier (a certification held by only about 1,000 people worldwide) and founder of Enoteca La Storia wine bar and Ancora Vino. With a background in psychology from UC Berkeley and Yale, Mike is as fascinated by people as he is by wine. He turns complicated wine ideas into something fun, approachable, and genuinely engaging—whether he's talking Champagne, French wines, or hidden gems from across the world. 

John Joy is a Sommelier and Wine Educator who loves helping people explore wine without pressure—just curiosity, good conversation, and delicious sips. Whether you're new to wine or a longtime enthusiast, he makes tastings and pairings relaxed, engaging, and memorable. A former corporate finance executive turned hospitality expert, John travels the world with his wife Kathy, always seeking great food and wine. 

Purpose-built to navigate France’s historic Seine River, the 140-passenger AmaLyra captures the essence of a floating boutique hotel by masterfully blending classic European elegance with contemporary luxury. Guests enjoy an intimate, highly personalized atmosphere where scenic connections thrive, courtesy of staterooms featuring floor-to-ceiling French balconies. The culinary journey celebrates the regions sailed, highlighting panoramic main restaurant dining and an exclusive multi-course tasting experience at The Chef’s Table, with fine local wines included. 

When you book a river cruise with us, Wendi and Debbie, you get exclusive discounts and our expert support from start to finish. We love traveling together—sharing memorable moments, making new friends, and exploring new places—and we’ll handle the details so you can focus on the fun. From personalized recommendations to on-the-ground assistance, we are here to make your trip effortless, enjoyable, and richly rewarding so you can relax and savor every moment.  We have the experience, the tools and the knowledge to create a remarkable experience for you every step of the way. 

Embark the ship in the City of Light. Tonight, gather on board for a “Welcome Aboard” Wine Toast as you commence your epicurean itinerary, celebrating fine wine, world-class pairings, and historic riverside regions on your journey to Normandy. 

• Meals today: Dinner.
   

Uncover the history of Château 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 for a scenic cruise.  

• Complimentary Excursions: 
• Morning: 
• Chateau Gaillard Tour
• OR Chateau Gaillard Hike
• OR Les Andelys Bike Tour
• Afternoon:
• Scenic Cruising 
• Meals today: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

During your time in Le Havre, set out on an excursion to the seaside town of Honfleur, renowned for its picturesque harbor, and for being an inspirational site for Impressionist painters. During the afternoon, you can join a city tour of the UNESCO-designated Le Havre or taste your way through the city sampling regional delicacies from a local boulangerie. Alternatively, you have the choice of a bike tour through Le Havre. 

• Complimentary Excursions:
• Morning:  
  Honfleur Excursion
• Afternoon:
• Le Havre "UNESCO City of Architects" City Tour
• OR Le Havre Market Tasting
• OR Bike Tour
• Meals today: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Experience the Normandy region with a variety of excursions. 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. Alternatively, you can set out on a full day excursion to the delicious Pays d’Auge region of Normandy, where apple cider, Calvados and pommeau outrank French wine. In the afternoon, if you wish to experience a different kind of inspiration in Caudebec-en-Caux, you can journey back in time with the interactive exhibits and vessels at the Seine Museum. 

• Complimentary Excursions: 
• Morning:   
• Full-day Normandy US Landing Beaches
• OR Normandy British and Canadian Landing Beaches
• OR Full-Day Pays d'Auges with Calvados Tasting
• Afternoon:  
• Seine Museum
• Meals today: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Spend the morning enjoying medieval Rouen with a choice of several excursions. Join a walking tour and see the square where Joan of Arc was martyred, as well as the Medieval Quarter and Great Clock. You also have the choice to go on the “Tastes of Normandy” tour, where you’ll be treated to the delicious flavors of the region, including chocolate, Norman cheese and cider; or get active by going on a guided bike tour. Then visit Château de Bonnemare, a 16th-century architectural treasure lined with picturesque poplar trees.     

• Complimentary Excursions:
  Morning: Medieval Rouen Walking Tour
• OR Rouen Bike Tour
• OR Tastes of Normandy 
• Afternoon:  
• Chateau de Bonnemare
• Meals today: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Enjoy scenic cruising around Vernon before disembarking the ship for your excursion. 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. Or visit the regal 18th-century Château de Bizy, inspired by the opulence of Versailles. Enjoy an escorted tour of the palace and gardens and be treated to a cider tasting. If you prefer a more active adventure, join a guided bike tour, taking in the beautiful French countryside along the way.   

• Complimentary Excursions: 
• Morning: 
• Scenic Cruising  
• Afternoon: Monet's Home and Gardens in Giverny
• OR Chateau de Bizy Tour with Calvados Tasting
• OR Giverny Bike Tour 
• Meals today: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

After a short orientation tour of the city, including a stop at the Eiffel Tower, visit Paris’s famous Musée du Vin. This wine museum is housed in what used to be crude limestone quarries, and it houses a permanent collection of more than 2,200 cultural objects that pay tribute to generations of winemakers, cellar masters, oenologists and coopers who have relentlessly perfected their craft to produce the most prestigious vintages. For a more active adventure, cycle along the Seine River, passing the city’s lauded landmarks on a guided bike tour. 

• Complimentary Excursions: 
• City Tour and Musee du Vin
• OR Paris Bike Tour  
• Meals today: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

 Bid farewell to Paris as you prepare for your flight home...or perhaps extend your vacation!

Meals today: Breakfast