Europe’s largest river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, is launching the first-ever paddlewheel cruises on the Seine with the introduction of two brand new itineraries onboard its elegant paddlewheel ship, the MS R.E. Waydelich L.J. in 2026.   The five-night Little Gems of the Seine cruise round trip from Paris passes through picturesque villages and includes visits to the majestic Château de Fontainebleau, the residence of kings and emperors; the Île de la Cité at the heart of Paris; the enchanting gardens of Claude Monet in Giverny; and La Roche- Guyon, ranked among the most beautiful villages in France, where a fascinating château stands nestled between the Seine and a chalk cliff.  With calls in Melun, Saint Mammes, Corbeil-Essonnes and La Roche Guyon, the cruise costs from £1,158 per person including all meals and drinks, Wi-Fi, port fees and repatriation insurance. Departures between March and November 2026.   The seven-night The History of France from Paris to Normandy cruise round trip from Paris offers a fascinating blend of heritage, nature and art with visits to royal castles, charming Norman villages and vibrant and historic cities. From the Île de la Cité to Rouen and visits to the majestic estates of Versailles and Fontainebleau, Monet’s gardens in Giverny, the MuséoSeine to discover the history of navigation and the beautiful village of La Roche Guyon, this itinerary offers an immersion into history and culture along the Seine. With calls in Melun, Mantes-La-Jolie, Caudebec-en-Caux, Rouen and La Roche Guyon, the cruise costs from £1,639 per person including all meals and drinks, Wi-Fi, port fees and repatriation insurance. Departures between April and September 2026.   The cruises take place onboard the MS R.E. Waydelich L.J., a modern paddlewheel ship that accommodates 81 guests in 42 comfortable cabins and features a restaurant, lounge bar with dancefloor and a spacious sun deck.

  Europe’s largest river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, has revealed details of its three brand new itineraries on the Amazon which are set to launch in 2027 aboard the luxury 32-guest Brasilian Dream, and will offer a unique eco-tourism experience.   Featuring an exclusive exploration of the meandering Rio Negro, the clear blue waters and sunny banks of the Tapajos and adventures all the way to the Colombian border, each itinerary highlights a unique facet of this fascinating region. The itineraries have been designed for discerning travellers seeking unique eco-tourism experiences, and combine high-end comfort, interaction with indigenous communities, exciting wildlife encounters and immersion in the heart of tropical biodiversity.   Along the Amazon & the Rio Negro   This ten-night cruise round trip from Manaus provides access to rarely visited areas and explores the protected regions around Jaú National Park, one of the richest biodiversity reserves in the world, and the freshwater Anavilhanas archipelago. Highlights include exploration of the forest; sunrise boat trips; the observation of dolphins, caimans, monkeys and tropical birds in their natural habitat; an introduction to indigenous medicinal plants; and a view of life along the Amazon including stilted villages, floating markets and an unparalleled wealth of flora and fauna. Departures between January and August 2027 with cruise prices from £4,756 per person.   The Gentle Amazon & the Tapajós River   This ten-night cruise between Santarém and Manaus includes stops along the Tapajós River and the Arapiuns River which are renowned for their pristine white sand banks, crystal-clear waters and rich aquatic and forest ecosystems. On every excursion, guests can observe the diverse plant and animal life, including colourful birds, giant trees and stingless bees, and enjoy  encounters with artisanal communities. Departures in September, October and December 2027 with cruise prices from £4,756 per person.   The Original Amazon   This ten-night cruise between Manaus and Tabatinga explores the most remote regions of the Amazon along the borders of Brazil, Colombia and Peru. Along the way, visit the less-visited areas of the Mamirauá Reserve and observe abundant wildlife including Uacari monkeys, herons, fish eagles, caimans and pink dolphins. There are also meaningful encounters with the Ticuna people and a chance to learn about their shamanic rituals, as well as fascinating insights into Amazonian biodiversity. Departures in April and May 2027 with prices from £5,782 per person.   More information about the itineraries can be found here -  www.croisieurope.co.uk/destination/amazon-cruises   The cruises will take place on the 32-guest RV Brasilian Dream, a four-deck ship featuring plenty of wood, vibrant colours and local arts and crafts inspired by Amazonian culture. bAccommodation will comprise 16 suites with private balconies including two presidential suites suspended between the sky and water. There will also be a gourmet restaurant serving Brazilian inspired dishes, a spa, fitness room, sun deck and conference room.

  Europe’s largest river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, has launched a brand new wine-themed cruise along the Saône and Rhône rivers, taking guests to renowned vineyards, many of which are considered to be among the most beautiful in France.   Launching in 2026, the seven-night cruise combines wine, art and history and offers an immersion into some of the country’s greats vineyards including the renowned Beaujolais, the sun-drenched terraces of Condrieu and Côte-Rôtie, the grand crus of Tain l'Hermitage and the southern flavours of Saint-Rémy-de-Provence. There will also be visits to the Papal Palace in Avignon, the ancient city of Arles to follow in the footsteps of Van Gogh, the medieval village of Viviers - home to France’s smallest cathedral, and Lyon for a tasting at the remarkable indoor food market, Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse. All excursions are included within the cost of the cruise.   The cruise departs 21^st October 2026 on the MS Rhône Princess and is round trip from Lyon with calls in Mâcon, Vienne, Avignon, Arles, The Camargue and Tournon. Prices are from £1,899 per person including all meals and drinks, excursions, WiFi, port fees and repatriation insurance.   For further information call CroisiEurope on 01756 691269 or visit www.croisieurope.co.uk

  Europe’s largest river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, has launched a brand new cruise taking guests to some of the most magical Christmas markets along the Belgium canals.   The four-day cruise, which launches in December 2025, is between Bruges and Ghent and includes visits to the Christmas markets in Bruges and Ghent. There are two Christmas markets in Bruges – a large one in Grote Markt which is known for its traditional chalets, ice skating rink and festive decorations, and a smaller, more intimate one near Simon Steyinplein which focuses more on artisanal crafts. Ghent’s Christmas market extends out from Sint-Baafsplein along the Botermarkt and Klein Turkije to the end of the Korenmarkt. Known as ‘Winter in Ghent’ or ‘Gentse Winterfeesten’, it features over 150 wooden stalls selling gifts as well as seasonal food and drink.   Other highlights include a guided tour of Bruges and a tasting of traditional Flemish beer at the Bourgogne des Flandres brewery; a tour of Ghent with a tasting of local specialities; and onboard tastings of hot chocolate, bredeles (Christmas cookies) and sweet Belgian waffles.   The cruise takes place on the MS Raymonde which features just 11 en-suite outward facing cabins, restaurant, lounge bar, sun deck and relaxation area with Jacuzzi. And, with six crew members including a talented chef serving up a variety of mouth-watering dishes, guests are guaranteed a truly personalised service.   The cruise will operate between Bruges and Ghent on 6^th and 14^th December 2025, and between Ghent and Bruges on 2^nd and 10^th December 2025. Prices start from £987 per person for the cruise with all meals and drinks onboard, excursions and port fees. Fly/cruise prices are also available.

  Europe’s largest river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, has revealed details of its new Amazon itineraries which will launch in 2027 onboard luxury newbuild, the RV Brasilian Dream, and offer a unique eco-tourism experience along the Amazon River, the Rio Negro, the Solimões, the Arapiuns and the Tapajós up to the Colombian border.   There will be three 11-day itineraries to choose from –The Amazon & Rio Negro round trip from Manaus, The Amazon & Rio Tapajos between Manaus and Santarém, and Cruise Along the Amazon Between Brazil & Colombia between Manaus and Tabatinga.   Highlights of the cruises will include visits to major parks and UNESCO-type protected areas; observing wildlife  on foot, in dinghies and from dugout canoes; meetings with indigenous communities; night time excursions; visits to villages on stilts and along the river banks; learning about local crafts, plants and produce; and a variety of onboard lectures.   The cruises will take place on the 32-guest RV Brasilian Dream, a four-deck ship featuring plenty of wood, vibrant colours and local arts and crafts inspired by Amazonian culture. Accommodation will comprise 16 suites with private balconies including two presidential suites suspended between the sky and water. There will also be a gourmet restaurant serving Brazilian inspired dishes, a spa, fitness room, sun deck and conference room.   As part of its commitment to protecting and preserving the Amazon, CroisiEurope is implementing the latest eco innovations including engines that meet the strictest environment standards, an advanced wastewater treatment system and solar panels which will allow the ship to shut down its generators at night and operate on batteries. Sustainable practices will be observed onboard while ashore, respectful tourism will benefit local communities through meetings with Amazonian communities in order to share knowledge and stories, supporting local initiatives and protecting bio-diversity and ensuring that each guest uses their experience to become an ambassador for the Amazon.   Further details including dates, prices and when bookings will open will be announced at the beginning of July 2025.   https://croisiere.croisieurope.com/amazonie-en https://croisiere.croisieurope.com/brasiliandream-en

River cruise operator CroisiEurope has introduced a brand new cruise itinerary through Belgium and the Netherlands. Cruising between capitals Brussels and Amsterdam, the Treasures of the North cruise calls at Antwerp and Rotterdam with visits to the port villages of Volendam and Zaanse Schans as well as The Hague, the Netherlands’ administrative capital which also has a rich history. Optional excursions include: A tour of Amsterdam by riverboat A guided tour of Brussels including a visit to a chocolate museum and tasting A guided tour of The Hague including three of its most fascinating courtyards Visits to the fishing village of Volendam and Zaanse Schans noted for its wooden windmills, barns and houses as well as the clog museum  The cruise takes place onboard the 82-guest MS Lafayette with departures on 4 June; 16 July; 6 and 17 August; 25 September; and 6 October 2025. Prices from £968 per person including all meals and drinks, port fees and repatriation insurance.

  Europe’s largest river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, has introduced a brand new cruise through Belgium and the Netherlands taking in striking landscapes, remarkable architecture and the unique traditions of these two countries. Cruising between Brussels and Amsterdam (and in reverse), the Treasures of the North cruise calls in Antwerp and Rotterdam with visits to the charming port villages of Volendam and Zaanse Schans as well as The Hague, the administrative capital of the Netherlands with a rich history.   Optional excursions include:  

• A tour of Amsterdam by riverboat
• A guided tour of Brussels including a visit to a chocolate museum plus a tasting
• A guided tour of The Hague including three of its most fascinating courtyards
• Visits to the pretty fishing village of Volendam and Zaanse Schans with its wooden windmills, barns and houses as well as an impressive clog museum

  The cruise takes place onboard the 82-guest MS Lafayette with departures on 4^th June; 16^th July; 6^th and 17^th August; 25^th September; and 6^th October 2025. Prices from £968 per person including all meals and drinks, port fees and repatriation insurance.

River cruise operator, CroisiEurope is setting its sights on Egypt with the introduction of a brand new Nile cruise. The new seven-night Cruise on The Nile: The Land of the Pharaohs voyage will take place on the fully-chartered RV Star of Luxor. The itinerary is round trip from Luxor and takes in the iconic temples, tombs, pyramids and lively villages dotting the Nile Valley landscapes. Highlights include: The Karnak Temple Complex, one of the largest and most important religious complexes in ancient Egypt. The Temple of Horus, one of the best-preserved ancient monuments in Egypt. The Temple of Kom Ombo which was dedicated to the gods Sobek (the crocodile god) and Haroeris (Horus the Elder). It was cleaned and restored by Jacques de Morgan in 1893. The Philae Temple Complex which is dedicated to Isis and dates back to 380 BC. The Aswan Dam, one of the largest dams in the world. A local boat tour between the granite islands and natural reserves, passing close to the island of Elephantine. There is also an optional excursion to the rock temples of Abu Simbel which were built by King Ramses II and are some of the most impressive and unique temples in Egypt. Once the Grand Egyptian Museum in Cairo has officially opened, CroisiEurope will offer a four-day optional pre-cruise programme featuring historic Cairo and its Coptic district. Operating between March and December 2025 and February and December 2026, the cruise takes place on the fully-chartered RV Star of Luxor which can accommodate 106 guests in 45 exterior cabins and eight suites. There is also a restaurant, a lounge/bar, a library and a large sun deck as well as a swimming pool and a jacuzzi. Onboard, guests will enjoy full board with beer, wine and soft drinks during meals, an Egyptologist lecturer and traditional Egyptian entertainment. To celebrate the launch, CroisiEurope is offering savings of £380 per person on select Nile cruise departures between March and December 2025 if booked before 30 April 2025. Prices from £1,012 per person for the cruise with all meals, drinks with lunch a dinner, excursions, port fees and repatriation insurance.

  In response to the increase of multi-generational groups on its ships, CroisiEurope has launched a brand new multi-generational offer which will appeal to families wanting to spend time together while cruising on some of the most beautiful waterways in the world.   This new offer is available during the school holidays across the entire river and ocean fleet. On the rivers, while the first generation of travellers in the group pay the full price, there is a 20% discount for the second generation and the third generation (aged 16 and under) can cruise for free. On its ocean cruises, CroisiEurope is offering a 30% discount for those aged 16 and under. This new offer does not cover the cost of  excursions, flights, transfers and taxes.   CroisiEurope has also introduced a selection of family-friendly excursions which will be available on various cruises during the summer holidays and means that there are now three types of excursion package to choose from:  

• Family – excursions that can be enjoyed by guests of all ages
• Classic – excursions that combine the culture, architecture and history of each destination
• Discovery – slightly more unusual tours, perfect for those who are more active

  CroisiEurope will continue to offer its Family Club programme on the Douro, Guadalquivir, Pô, Rhine and Rhône, as well as on coastal cruises in Croatia and Montenegro, with free child places for children aged 16 and under. On these Family Club sailings, families can enjoy adjoining cabins, a single cabin at no extra charge for single-parent families travelling with two children, child-friendly excursions and specially-adapted menus.

CroisiEurope has launched new fly/cruise packages for the festive season. The Christmas cruises take in the Alsace Yuletide markets, along the picturesque Rhine and Alsace canals. They include convenient flights from the UK to either Basel or Strasbourg. The brand new fly/cruise packages include: Four-day Christmas Markets in Alsace cruise round trip from Strasbourg taking in the famous Strasbourg markets and illuminations, the Alsatian Wine Route and picturesque villages. It also visits Colmar. Departures between 29 November and 20 December 2023. Four-day A Bountiful Christmas in Alsace & The Black Forest cruise round trip from Strasbourg including the Christmas market in Freiburg – one of the most beautiful in Germany. Departures between 4 and 17 December 2023. Four-day Alsatian Christmas Traditions & Navigation Through the Heart of Strasbourg cruise round trip from Strasbourg that includes excursions to Alsatian Christmas bakeries, Christmas markets in Eguisheim, Obernai and Strasbourg, and the secret wine cellars in the Hospices de Strasbourg. Departures on 7 and 11 December 2023. Four-day Christmas in Alsace & Show at the Royal Palace cruise round trip from Strasbourg that includes the famous Strasbourg markets and illuminations, a tour of the traditional Potter Villages in Soufflenheim and Betschdorf, and musical performance at the Royal Palace Music Hall in Kirrwiller. Departures between 2 and 20 December 2023. Four-day Alsatian Christmas Traditions & Navigation Through the Heart of Strasbourg hotel barge cruise round trip from Strasbourg that follows the Alsatian Wine Route and visits the Alsatian capital and surrounding villages. Highlights include excursions to Christmas bakeries, markets in Eguisheim, Obernai and Strasbourg, and the secret wine cellars in the Hospices de Strasbourg. Departures on 7, 11 and 15 December 2023 on the 22-guest MS Madeleine. All Christmas cruise prices include return flights from London Gatwick to either Strasbourg or Basel. The are inclusive of private overseas transfers, some excursions, port fees and repatriation insurance.

CroisiEurope has launched two new coastal itineraries operating later this year. Aboard La Belle de l'Adriatique, the two sailings will operate ahead of the ship’s deployment in the Red Sea. It begins with the seven-night 'The Best of the Mediterranean' cruise round trip from Catania. It visits Pozzallo, Valletta and Syracuse. Highlights include tours of Catania, Regusa and Modica, Valletta, Mdina and Rabat, as well as a visit to Mount Etna. There are three departures on 10, 17 and 24 November 2023 with fly/cruise prices from £1,995 per person for return flights from London. Also, a seven-night 'La Dolce Vita along the Italian Coastline' cruise sails round trip from Naples. It calls at Milazzo, Vibo Marina and Sorrento or Salerno, There are optional excursions to Naples, Pompeii and Herculaneum plus Mount Etna with a wine tasting. There are three departures on 5, 12^h and 19 December 2023 with fly/cruise prices from £1,995 per person.

CroisiEurope has invested in the UK cruise market with a call centre partnership. Beginning next month, it enables the selling of CroisiEurope flight-inclusive packages in the UK for the first time. The Strasbourg based company is increasing its UK sales team and is currently recruiting for a business development manager for the Midlands, the north of England and Scotland. It teamed up with Blue Water Holidays which will manage the call centre operations. “Now is the perfect time to invest in the UK,” says John Fair, UK sales director. CroisiEurope is also targeting growth in its coach and group travel business which is headed up in the UK by Gabrielle Alam. CroisiEurope is Europe's largest river cruise operator with over 50 ships in service offering more than 180 itineraries.