France & Spain with the River Seine

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

Gateway to Bilbao, Getxo has a number of impressive beaches and fascinating buildings, including the UNESCO-listed Vizcaya Bridge. Bilbao itself is home to the famous Guggenheim Museum, a feat of construction, housing a magnificent display of modern art. This region is also renowned for the popular Rioja wine, which was awarded DOC status in 1991, and accompanies the local Pintxos savoury treats perfectly.

Renowned as the world’s wine capital, the beautiful city of Bordeaux is located on the banks of the Garonne River in France. The climate in Bordeaux makes it perfect for winemaking, and many of the wines produced here are highly collectable. Along the waterfront is the spectacular Miroir d’Eaux, creating a mirror effect and misting effect, with the outstanding backdrop of the historic Place de la Bourse, and close to the contemporary Pont Jacques Chaban-Delmas vertical bridge.

Some of the best moments of cruising are the days spent at sea where you can relax and enjoy the wonderful programme of events and activities we have planned for you.

Flowing through the lush-green countryside of Normandy’s Parc naturel régional des Boucles de la Seine, the route Fred. Olsen’s smaller ships sail along the River Seine – connecting the historic cities of Honfleur and Rouen – presents guests with simply unforgettable views to enjoy in comfort on board. Simply sit back, relax and take in scenes of rolling valleys, floral fields and charming communes dotted with historic churches and traditional houses that have inspired many famous artists over the years, including Claude Monet and Henri Matisse.

The beautiful city of Rouen – known as the ‘City of a Hundred Bells’ is a hugely significant and historical destination, particularly prominent in both the Roman times and Middle Ages. Home to the imposing Cathédrale Notre-Dame, painted by Claude Monet, who grew up in Normandy; Rouen is also gateway to the French capital of Paris and its plethora of well-known cultural sights.

Originally occupied in the 9th century by the Vikings, the charming town of Honfleur has attracted artists for many years, with masterpieces housed in its museums and art galleries. Under the guidance of Eugène Boudin, a young Claude Monet and his friend Alfred Sisley began studying light effects and painting landscapes outdoors, rather than from memory, trailblazing for artists of the future.