French Wine Country Cruise
June 6 thru 12, 2023
Join us OUTbound as we sail through the fabled wine country of Southern France. Explore ancient Roman influence and architecture, experience world-renowned vineyards and exquisite restaurants on our French Wine Region cruise. A culinary heritage few can match, a capital synonymous with romance, and a history packed with intrigue, it is little wonder that France welcomes more international visitors every year than anywhere else on Earth. Our OUTbound river cruise is the perfect way to explore the culture, history and beauty of this incredible part of the world, transporting you through the nation’s unspoiled beauty spots and culture-rich cities.
Come sail the French Wine Country with us!
Book today and choose a payment plan that fits your budget! Choose from either convenient quarterly payments or spread your payments out over monthly installments. Either way, OUTbound has a payment plan designed for any budget!
All Included, All Inclusive!
All Meals & Alcoholic Beverages Included
All Shore Excursions Included
MS Camargue
104 Passengers / 1 Suite / 49 Staterooms / 4 Single Staterooms
The MS Camargue is designed with a bright and spacious interior, a perfect match to the landscapes and wildlife in the Camargue region. Forward on the Upper Deck you’ll find the lounge and salon bar, perfect for enjoying the passing scenery in comfort. Aft on the Upper Deck is the main restaurant, providing breathtaking views while serving delicious cuisine. The Camargue is ready to offer our OUTbounders an unforgettable experience cruising the south of France and this fabled wine country. Mixed drinks, wine, beer, sodas, juices and coffee are all included anytime onboard.
Date | Port | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, June 6 | Martigues | board 4:00pm | docked overnight |
| Wednesday, June 7 | Marseille | 8:30am | 12:30pm |
| Martigues | 2:00pm | docked overnight | |
| Thursday, June 8 | Arles | 8:00am | docked overnight |
| Beaux de Provence | 2:00pm | 7:00pm | |
| Friday, June 9 | Avignon | 8:00am | docked overnight |
| Saturday, June 10 | Tain l’Hermitage | 2:00pm | 11:00pm |
| Sunday, June 11 | Lyon | 7:00am | docked overnight |
| Monday, June 12 | Lyon | 10:00am | disembark |
Today we’ll start our cruise in the charming little French town of Martigues. Once arriving, we’ll board our ship and settle into our staterooms. After boarding, head up to the Panorama Lounge to meet and greet your hosts and fellow OUTbounders. Later in the evening we’ll introduce our crew at a welcome cocktail before dinner. We’re docked overnight, so enjoy your first night in France however you like.
This morning we’ll visit Marseille, known as the oldest city in France, founded around 600 BC. It soon developed into an important port for the ancient Greeks and later the Romans. Located near the mouth of the Rhône, the greatest natural corridor between the Mediterranean and the lands to the north, it has long been one of the most important ports in France. Spend some time in the Old Port, now a large marina, flanked on three sides by restaurants, bistros cafés, and shops. This afternoon we’ll return to our ship docked in Martigues where you’ll have time to explore on your own.
The past is yours to discover in Arles, once an important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who peppered the city with iconic monuments. Visit the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre or of some of the impressive Roman ruins including Les Arènes, an arena that seats 20,000 and is still in use, or the Church of Saint-Trôphime, completed in the 15th century. You can also experience for yourself the city’s vibrant colors and striking quality of light that inspired Vincent van Gogh.
Listed as one of the most beautiful villages of France, Beaux-de-Provence attracts 1.5 million tourists a year, but only has a permanent population of only 400. The small village and its ruined medieval castle are the stars of the Alpilles, are one of the absolute “must sees” in Provence, embodying the harmony of an untamed natural environment and proudly preserved traditions. Set atop a rocky spur, Les Beaux-de-Provence provides panoramic views over the Crau plain, the Camargue and the city of Arles.
Sheltered by medieval walls, Avignon’s maze of narrow streets is filled with churches, museums and palaces tracing the history of this ancient, vibrant city. Walk through a forgotten past with a visit to Avignon’s grandest monument... the Palace of the Popes, the papal seat for 70 years in the 14th century. After, take a stroll along Pont d’Avignon, an ancient stone bridge crossing the Rhône. After the sun goes down, head back out & experience Avignon’s nightlife & one of France’s most renowned LGBTQ+ clubs, L’Esclave.
Today we venture into the heart of France’s fabled wine country. Here you’ll find hillsides and terraced vineyards (also called “chaleys”) which are the pride of the locals. Thirty-five winegrowers work on this land to produce the renowned Hermitage wine. This exceptional elixir is one of the three Appellations of Ardèche Hermitage. In the afternoon we’ll visit the Valrhona chocolate Cité, home of the gourmet the Valrhona chocolate factory. Prepare yourself to indulge in freshly made chocolates as you make your way through the tour.
Today we visit Lyon, France’s third-largest city and a former Roman capital. Lyon is rich in history and considered to be the culinary heartbeat of the country and the home of traditional Lyonnaise cuisine. Wander through the city and soak in its vividly illustrated history, as buildings from all time periods can be seen adorning narrow cobblestone streets. Above it all stands the Basilica of Notre-Dame de Fourvière, one of the city’s major symbols thanks to its dominant location on a hill overlooking the city.
Date | Port | Arrive | Depart |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, June 6 | Martigues | board 4:00pm | docked overnight |
| Wednesday, June 7 | Marseille | 8:30am | 12:30pm |
| Martigues | 2:00pm | docked overnight | |
| Thursday, June 8 | Arles | 8:00am | docked overnight |
| Beaux de Provence | 2:00pm | 7:00pm | |
| Friday, June 9 | Avignon | 8:00am | docked overnight |
| Saturday, June 10 | Tain l’Hermitage | 2:00pm | 11:00pm |
| Sunday, June 11 | Lyon | 7:00am | docked overnight |
| Monday, June 12 | Lyon | 10:00am | disembark |
Today we’ll start our time together in the South of France and it’s fabled wine region. After boarding our ship in Martigues and settling into your staterooms, we’ll introduce your OUTbound hosts and our ship’s crew during our welcome cocktail. We’ll enjoy dinner on board getting to know your fellow OUTbounders. We’re docked overnight, so feel free to head out and start exploring as you begin your incredible vacation in France.
This morning we’re headed to the French Riviera and a guided tour of Marseille. We’ll visit all the main sites, including La Canebière, the Old Port, the famous White Basilica, and Fort Saint Jean, perhaps the most impressive historic site in Marseilles... a 17th century fortress, built by King Louis XIV, that stands guard over the entrance to the Old Port. Included in the Fort Saint Jean are the 15th century Tour du Roi René (King René’s tower), and the Commandery of the Knights Templar. This afternoon we’ll return to our ship docked in Martigues where you’ll have free time to enjoy this coastal city.
This morning we’ll take a walking tour of Arles and explore its diverse architectural highlights including Les Arènes, an arena that seats 20,000, and the Church of Saint-Trôphime, completed in the 15th century. We’ll also learn a little about the city’s ties to Vincent Van Gogh, with its vibrant colors that inspired many of his works. For an extra special glimpse into the life of the artist, take time and stop by the world famous Café Van Gogh. We’re docked in Arles overnight, so you’ll have plenty of free time to enjoy this vibrant city at night with its charming restaurants, shops and taverns.
This afternoon we’ll travel to Beaux-de-Provence, known as one of the most beautiful villages in all of France. It is here where we’ll have a wine tasting in the ruins of an old castle perched high upon the side of a hill that overlooks the entire region of Provence. Afterwards, we will visit a local olive oil manufacturer and see the craftsmanship that goes into producing the second most famous delicacy the South of France produces. We’ll return to our ship in Arles after your tours where we will remain docked overnight.
Avignon has a rich history, from its Celtic beginnings to being the only residence in history of the Pope besides Vatican City. This afternoon we’ll take a guided tour of Avignon and the Papal Palace, one of the largest and most important Gothic buildings in Europe and the city’s most famous attraction. We’ll see this Palais des Papes up close, as well as Pont d’Avignon, an ancient stone bridge that crosses the Rhône. The afternoon and evening are yours to enjoy on your own. Be sure to hit one of France’s most famous LGBTQ+ clubs in the heart of Old Town Avignon since we are docked here overnight.
After a morning of sailing, we’ll discover the area of Tain l’Hermitage in the afternoon and enjoy a walking tour and tasting at one of the most famous local vineyards, Chapoutier. You’ll hear first hand how the local grapes are picked and then transformed in to one of France’s most famous labels. From there, we’ll walk to the region’s second most famous landmark, la Cité du Chocolat... the City of Chocolate, home to the The Valrhona chocolate factory and store. Learn about the complex manufacturing process and have a tasting of various chocolates along the way.
Today you’ll have your pick of excursions. First, enjoy a guided tour of Lyon, including the Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. Wander through the city and soak in its vividly illustrated history, as buildings from all time periods can be seen adorning narrow cobblestone streets. Alternatively, explore Lyon by bike and see its historic monuments and neighborhoods while riding before enjoying a tasting in the heart of the Old Town. We stay docked overnight, so head out and feel free to discover France’s third largest city as late as you like!
The tastefully decorated Panoramic Lounge, located at the front of the ship, was named for the superb views of the passing coastlines that guests will enjoy courtesy of the oversized windows. Intimate seating areas are peppered throughout the open floor plan, allowing you the choice of going all in with the group or enjoying a little private time between you and a smaller gathering of friends. Enjoy cocktails, dancing, games and nightly entertainment in this picturesque setting.
Enjoy a cocktail at the Salon Bar with us while cruising the south of France together. Located within the Panoramic Lounge, you’ll find originality and innovation. This is the place where you’ll spend an enjoyable evening nursing a cocktail with great friends, old and new! Whether you’re in the mood for a mixed drink or glass of wine, we invite you to join us and enjoy one of best bars on the water with your fellow OUTbounders. Sit back and order your favorite cocktail after a fantastic day with friends.
At your service, OUTbounders will find everything they need at the reception desk, located at the heart of the ship on the Upper Deck. It’s the perfect place to meet with friends before dinner or ask any questions you may have during our voyage. Here’s where you’ll leave each morning as we venture OUTbound to discover the treasures of the south of France, and where you will return at the end of each day... greeted by a friendly smile and warm drink.
Located on the Upper Deck, the restaurant comfortably seats all our OUTbounders at tables which vary in size with a panoramic view. The atmosphere is casual but elegant. The selection and presentation of the food is outstanding, and you’ll find the quality of service is unmatched.
The food is incredible, every meal every day. You’ll enjoy plenty of fish, fruits and vegetables with every meal and be impressed by how fresh everything is. In fact, the only frozen item is ice cream! You’ll have plenty of healthy choices to choose from, and loads of unhealthy ones, too!
For spectacular views of the passing landscape, head up to the Sun Deck to experience the full enjoyment of the view, even when passing under low bridges. The top deck features an all-weather seating area and a walking track for those who want to keep active. It’s the perfect place to visit with old friends and new during the day while enjoying complimentary refreshments with the stunning scenery of the fabled French wine country passing by.
Starting at $5,697 per person
The Upper Deck Suite features two large panoramic windows and a French balcony that let in the perfect amount of light. The Suite can accommodate up to three guests, with a couch that can convert into a twin bed. Light wood cabinets and local tones create a light, airy and comfortable environment. Storage space includes a full-length wardrobe closet with room for hanging clothes on one side and shelves and a cabinet (with a safe) on the other.
Starting at $3,297 per person
Staterooms located on the Upper Deck feature two large panoramic windows that let in the perfect amount of light, welcoming in the summer sun as we sail the south of France. Enjoy a shower complete with indulgent toiletries before settling into your queen or twin hotel-style bed as you enjoy your flat screen TV and infotainment system. Storage space includes a full-length wardrobe closet with room for hanging clothes on one side and shelves and a cabinet (with a safe) on the other.
Starting at $2,797 per person
Staterooms located on the Main Deck have two large windows that provide unspoiled views. Each Main Deck stateroom surrounds you with elegant décor comfortable furnishings. Enjoy a shower in your private bathroom before joining your friends for dinner. Storage space includes a full-length wardrobe closet and extra room under the bed for suitcases. The two twin size beds can be reconfigured into a single queen size bed if you prefer.
Starting at $4,897 per person
The single occupancy staterooms located on the Upper Deck offer a little privacy for the solo traveler, with two full picture windows that provide unspoiled panoramic vistas of Southern France. Lay back in your stateroom and watch a movie on your flat screen TV and infotainment system. Your bathroom features a shower complete with toiletries, perfect for unwinding after an unforgettable day OUTbound. Your twin hotel-style bed offers the perfect night’s sleep.
Starting at $4,597 per person
The single occupancy staterooms located on the Main Deck offer our solo traveler a space all their own, with windows that provide unspoiled panoramic vistas of the passing French countryside. Lay back in your stateroom and watch a movie on your flat screen TV and infotainment system. Your luxurious bathroom features a full shower, perfect for unwinding after an unforgettable day OUTbound. Your twin hotel-style bed, draped in quality linens, offers the perfect night’s sleep.