Paris Shore Excursions - Princess Cruises
Paris Highlights
Take in the city's major landmarks, including the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame, on a tour that offers a superb overview of the City of Lights.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Cathedral of Notre Dame - The cathedral's foundations were laid in 1163. This supreme example of Gothic architecture boasts a façade divided into three levels. The first level features three portals or main entrances, each adorned with intricately carved figures and biblical scenes. The cathedral's last great rose window, located above the Galerie des Rois, anchors the façade's second level; the cathedral's soaring towers form the third level. Notre Dame's interior, colored by light from the stained glass windows, inspires awe.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
Eiffel Tower - Detested by all Paris upon its completion for the Exposition of 1889, celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Revolution, the tower was nearly razed in 1909 but was saved by the development of wireless radio. The first wireless telephones were tested on the tower in 1916. Today, the Eiffel Tower is a beloved landmark.
Place de la Concorde - Flowers and chestnut trees surround this beautiful square - the scene of execution for thousands who perished during the terror of the French Revolution. Marie Antoinette and more than 1,000 other Frenchmen met their fate at the guillotine. The famed Obelisk and the gates to the Tuileries make for two more photo possibilities.
SHOPPING
You have time to browse for souvenirs among the shops near Notre Dame.
LUNCH
Lunch with wine is served in a charming Parisian restaurant.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Board your motorcoach for the drive via motorway to Paris. During your tour of Paris, you drive along the elegant, tree-lined Champs-Elysees and past the Arc de Triomphe, viewing several perspectives of the Eiffel Tower. Your tour passes the Place de l'Opera and the Pont Neuf - Paris' ancient "New Bridge" - on your way to the Ile de la Cite.
SPECIAL NOTES
The drive between Le Havre and Paris is approximately three-hours each way.
Paris & Seine River Cruise
A delightful lunch of French treats, a glass of wine, plus a leisurely cruise down the Seine past some of the most inspired structures in the entire world. What a romantic way to spend your day in the City of Lights.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
Eiffel Tower - Pause for a superb photo stop near this famed structure. Originally, built for the Exposition of 1889 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the French Revolution, the Eiffel Tower was due to be torn down in 1909, but was saved by the development of the wireless. The first wireless telephones were operated from the tower in 1916. Today, it stands as Paris' most recognizable landmark.
Galeries Lafayette - The department store has a beautiful glass and steel dome, and Art Nouveau staircase built in 1912 by the architect Cahnautin. The store is classified as an historic monument.
SEINE RIVER CRUISE WITH LUNCH & ENTERTAINMENT
One of the most memorable ways to see Paris is on a leisurely cruise along the scenic Seine; combined with a typical French lunch and musical performance. For your special day, sit back and relax with a glass of wine, taking in such famous sites as the Palais de Chaillot, the Eiffel Tower, the Musee d'Orsay, the Louvre, the Ile de la Cite, the Conciergerie, the Palais de Justice and Notre Dame Cathedral.
SHOPPING
You will have some time to browse for souvenirs at Paris' popular department store.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Drive from Le Havre to Paris via France's motorway. During your fascinating tour of Paris, you will drive along the elegant, tree lined Champs-Elysees past the 164-foot-high Arc de Triomphe. You will also pass in the Opera House, Tuileries Gardens, the Louvre, Pont-Neuf and the Champ de Mars.
SPECIAL NOTES
The drive between Le Havre and Paris is approximately 3-hours each way.
Galeries Lafayette is closed on Sundays and public holidays. As an alternative, time will be spent at Notre Dame Cathedral for a visit and shopping for souvenirs.
Normandy Landing Beaches
This full-day tour of the Normandy beaches visits the historic sites of D-Day, the Museum of the Landing Day, and the American Cemetery at Colleville-Saint Laurent.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Museum of The Landing Day - Located in the small village of Arromanches, the museum commemorates the D-Day landings. Models, dioramas and a short film depict the monumental exploits and heroic sacrifices of Allied forces in Operation Overlord.
American Cemetery - The cemetery occupies a plateau overlooking Omaha Beach and is the final resting-place for 10,000 American soldiers. Walk between the rows of stark white crosses that cover the greensward. A memorial and a chapel flank the sea of graves.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
Arromanches Beach - The remains of Mulberry, the artificial harbor where thousands of troops came ashore, are still visible on the beach.
Pointe Du Hoc - Three companies from the 2nd Ranger Battalion scaled the 100-foot (30 m) cliffs to capture this strategic position on D-Day. The Ranger Memorial towers above the 30-acre battlefield where, one inscription reads, "Soldiers lie forever united in the chaos of war."
Omaha Beach - The most ferocious resistance to the Allied landings was encountered on Omaha Beach.
LUNCH
Lunch with wine is served at a local restaurant.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
From Le Havre, drive to Ouistreham and along the coast, passing the Sword, Juno and Gold landing sites. Continue on to Arromanches and the remains of the Mulberry artificial harbor.
SPECIAL NOTES
The drive between Le Havre and the Landing Beaches is approximately 2 1/2-hours each way.
A Taste Of Normandy: Calvados & Honfleur
Normandy has a rich tradition in the production of brandy. Experience a taste of this tradition before visiting the perfectly preserved 13th-century Norman fishing village of Honfleur.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Chateau du Breuil - The apples of the Normandy area are used to produce brandy called Calvados, as well as the aperitif Pommeau and delicious cider. Built in the 16th and 17th centuries and the former home of various noble families, the Chateau du Breuil today specializes in the creation of these products. Your guided tour of the historic site will include the apple press, bright copper stills and the cellar where the Calvados is aged in oak casks.
Honfleur - The base for France's 17th-century voyages of colonization and the birthplace of the Impressionist and Romantic art movements, Honfleur is a picturesque fishing port. During your guided walk, take in the Vieux Bassin or old harbor and pass the Lieutenance and the town's ancient gate, before visiting the 15th-century wooden Church of Sainte Catherine.
TASTING AND REFRESHMENTS
Be treated to a special tasting of famous Normandy products including Calvados, cheeses and a traditional apple tart with fresh cream and cider.
SHOPPING
Purchase some of the Normandy products in the boutique at Chateau du Breuil.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAYY
From Le Havre, travel through the heart of the Normandy countryside towards the village of Le Breuil en Auge and the stately castle of Chateau du Breuil. Continue to Honfleur, today considered the birthplace of the Impressionist and Romantic art movements. Your return drive to Le Havre crosses the new Normandy Bridge spanning the Seine estuary.
Versailles Palace & Gardens
Louis XIV transformed a royal hunting lodge into the greatest palace complex ever built. Your tour visits the palace's most famous places, as well as Le Notre's elaborate, formal garden.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Versailles Palace - Louis XIV intended Versailles to represent the physical and ceremonial majesty of a divine king. Your guided tour visits the king's state apartments, seven suites overlooking a courtyard devoted to royal audiences and court entertainment. See the Hercules Drawing room with its elaborate painted ceiling and the Hall of Mirrors, scene of lavish court receptions. Finally, tour the Queen's Apartments, four rooms decorated in a variety of styles by several queens, including Marie-Antoinette. Versailles is filled with grandiose furnishings, gilded décor, and an embarrassment of riches.
Versailles Gardens - The great Le Notre laid out the palace gardens between 1661 and 1700. The epitome of the formal style beloved by the French, the gardens feature meticulously planted parterres, bronze and lead statues, vases and ornamental ponds sprouting a multitude of superbly sculpted fountains.
SHOPPING
There is time to browse the Palace's gift shop for mementos of your visit.
LUNCH
A restaurant located within Versailles' park is the setting for luncheon with wine.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Board your motorcoach, for the drive to Versailles along the motorway. During your trip, your guide recounts the history of the region and, of course, the palace and its gardens.
SPECIAL NOTES
This tour is not available on Mondays, when the Versailles is closed.
Monet'S Giverny Home & Rouen
Visit Monet's famous home and garden in the town of Giverny, then explore Normandy's ancient capital on a guided walking tour.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Monet's Home at Giverny - Claude Monet spent the last four decades of his life creating a magnificent garden at his home in Giverny - and memorializing it in oil on canvas. Approach the house through the garden entrance, and then explore the interior, seeing the blue salon, the painter's bedroom and studio, the yellow dining room and the tiled kitchen. Stroll to the water garden after your tour. The pond and its Japanese bridge were the subjects of one of Monet's late masterworks.
Rouen - Travel the old section of Rouen with your guide, walking down narrow cobbled lanes lined with ancient, timbered houses. Rouen boasts over 700 of these medieval structures. Stroll down the bustling Rue Saint Romain and the Rue du Gros Horloge, passing Rouen's old fortified clock tower. Pass the law courts, housed in a superb Renaissance building.
Notre Dame Cathedral of Rouen - A superb example of French Gothic architecture, the cathedral took 300 years to complete. The cast iron spire is the largest in France; the central portal features an elaborately painted "Tree of Jesus." Your guide escorts you into the interior, which features a Lady Chapel, the tombs of Rouen's archbishops, secure behind wrought iron gates, and impressive 15th-century stained glass windows.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Place du Vieux Marche - Pause during your walking tour to admire Rouen's old market square. It was here in 1431 that the English burned Joan of Arc at the stake. Today, the square boasts the Great Cross of Rehabilitation erected in tribute to the Maid of Orleans; a daring modern church is dedicated to her memory.
LUNCH
Stop for luncheon at a picturesque restaurant in the village of Fourges. The restaurant is housed in a restored barn on the banks of the Seine.
SHOPPING
Approximately 45-minutes of free time is allowed to shop in Rouen. The busy streets are lined with boutiques, jewelers, perfumeries and modern department stores such as Printemps. Also, during your visit to Monet's home, you will have time to shop in the gift boutique which offers books, cards, reproductions, souvenirs and more.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Depart Le Havre and travel through the Norman countryside on the motorway to Monet's home at Giverny. Continue on to Fourges for lunch, and then drive to Rouen. Upon arrival, disembark near Saint Maclou Church for your walking tour.
SPECIAL NOTES
This tour is not available on Mondays, when Monet's home is closed.
On Sundays, the majority of the boutiques and shops remain closed, however, souvenir stores, restaurants, cafes and bakeries remain open.
Charming Montmartre Walking Tour
This excursion is perfect for guests familiar with Paris. Enjoy a full day in the city for independent sightseeing and shopping amidst the city's legendary landmarks.
YOUR WALKING TOUR
Montmartre Paris' Bohemian district occupies a steep hill - the "Mount of Martyrs." (Christians were martyred here in the 3rd century AD.) Your guided walking tour climbs the hill and travels the narrow streets and cobbled lanes to Paris' sole remaining vineya rd, the Place de Tertre, and the famed Lapin Agile cafe. After lunch on your own, see the Sacre-Coeur Basilica.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Moulin Rouge Toulouse Lautrec and Bonnard designed the posters for the "Red Mill," an old mill turned cabaret during the golden days of Paris' Belle Époque.
Bateau Lavoir The 20th century art movement called Cubism was born at these old studios, once the work place of artists Pablo Picasso, Georges Braque, Juan Gris and Amadeo Modigliani.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITIES
Clos de Montmartre - The last remaining vineyard in Paris produces a thin and stony wine that's available in the local cafes.
St. Peter's Church - Paris' oldest church, St. Peter's is located atop the hill of Montmartre and offers superb views of the city.
Sacre-Coeur - Completed in 1910, this white Byzantine-style cathedral offers stunning views of the city and Montmartre.
LUNCH & FREE TIME
Lunch is on your own among the cafes and brasseries of the Place de Tertre. After lunch, browse the local shops for souvenirs.
SPECIAL NOTES
The drive between Le Havre and Paris is approximately three-hours each way.
Visit To Rouen
Explore Normandy's ancient capital on a walking tour of one of France's premier tourist cities.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Rouen - Travel the old section of Rouen with your guide, walking down narrow cobbled lanes lined with ancient, timbered houses. Rouen boasts over 700 of these medieval structures. Stroll down the bustling Rue Saint Romain and the Rue du Gros Horloge, passing Rouen's old fortified clock tower. Pass the law courts, housed in a superb Renaissance building.
Notre Dame Cathedral of Rouen - A superb example of French Gothic architecture, the cathedral took 300 years to complete. The cast iron spire is the largest in France and the central portal features an elaborately painted "Tree of Jesus." Your guide escorts you into the interior, which features a Lady Chapel, the tombs of Rouen's archbishops, secure behind wrought iron gates, and impressive 15th-century stained glass windows.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Place du Vieux Marche - Pause during your walking tour to admire Rouen's old market square. It was here in 1431 that the English burned Joan of Arc at the stake. Today, the square boasts the Great Cross of Rehabilitation, erected in tribute to the Maid of Orleans; a daring modern church is dedicated to her memory.
SHOPPING
An hour of free time is allowed to shop in Rouen. The busy streets are lined with boutiques, jewelers, perfumeries and department stores such as Printemps.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Depart Le Havre and travel through the Norman countryside on the motorway, heading inland to Rouen. Upon arrival, disembark near Saint Maclou Church for your walking tour. Return to Le Havre on the same route.
SPECIAL NOTES
The drive from Le Havre to Rouen is approximately 1 1/2-hours each way.
On Sundays, the majority of the boutiques and shops remain closed, however, souvenir stores, restaurants, cafés and bakeries remain open.
Paris On Your Own
This excursion is perfect for guests familiar with Paris. Enjoy a full day in the city for independent sightseeing and shopping amidst the city's legendary landmarks.
PARIS ON YOUR OWN
Your motorcoach takes you to the city center, where you disembark at the Place de la Concorde - a favorite place for shopping and sightseeing on the Right Bank. Spend the day as you please and have lunch on your own. City maps are provided for your convenience. Rejoin your motorcoach at the predetermined time in front of the entrance to the Tuileries for the drive back to Le Havre.
SIGHTSEEING AND SHOPPING TIPS
Local currency is required for lunch and entrance fees to popular attractions. Plan to exchange your currency onboard the ship or at a currency exchange.
The Eiffel Tower is open daily, 9:30am-11:00pm.
The Louvre is closed Tuesdays; all other days the Louvre is open 9:00am-6:00pm.
The majority of shops are open Monday, 2:00pm-7:00pm; and Tuesday to Saturday, 10:00am-7:00pm; and closed Sunday. Some shops close during lunchtime.
SPECIAL NOTES
The drive between Le Havre and Paris is approximately three-hours each way.
Tour Of The Louvre Museum In Paris
Make the most of your time in Paris - an experienced guide introduces you to the highlights of the Louvre, then take a break for luncheon at Altitude 95 on the Eiffel Tower.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Louvre - The former royal palace is perhaps the greatest repository of fine art in the world. It would take years to see all the masterpieces on display. Fortunately, your experienced guide offers highlights of the Louvre, including the Venus de Milo, the Winged Victory, Leonardo de Vinci's immortal Mona Lisa, and other paintings by such masters as Delacroix and Gericault.
PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Pause along the Champ de Mars for a photograph of the Eiffel Tower.
LUNCH AT THE EIFFEL TOWER
Detested by all Paris upon its completion for the Exposition of 1889, which celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Revolution, the tower was nearly razed in 1909. Today, the Eiffel Tower is Paris' beloved landmark. Take the elevator to the first level, and then climb the short staircase to Altitude 95. The restaurant's large windows offer charming views of Paris.
SHOPPING
A short amount of time is available to browse the lovely museum shops during your visit to the Louvre.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
Board your motorcoach for the drive via motorway to Paris. Your route passes the Place de la Concorde, the Tuileries, the Orsay Museum and the Champ Elysees. Return to Le Havre via the same route.
SPECIAL NOTES
This tour is not available when the Louvre Museum is closed on Tuesdays. The tour is also not available on public holidays and on the first Sunday of each month as the Louvre is closed to groups.
Etretat & Fecamp
The high cliffs and beaches at Etretat inspired the Impressionist painters Monet and Isabey. Explore this quaint seaside town and then visit the home of Benedictine liqueur in Fecamp.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Etretat - Famous as an inspiration to the Impressionists, this quaint village also boasts a colorful marketplace.
Fecamp - Tour the Palais Benedictine, the 19th-century factory where Benedictine liqueur is produced. The owner's deep interest in religious art led to his discovery of the old Benedictine recipe. Tour the museum rooms of the Palais, a repository of art from the Abbey of Fecamp that includes statues, monastic charters, art and books from the monks' library. And of course, tour the cellars, visit the distillery and sample the delicious liqueur.
SHOPPING
Time is allowed to shop for unique gifts and mementos in Etretat and at the Palais Benedictine's boutique in Fecamp.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
From Le Havre, drive through the Norman countryside to the seaside resorts of Etretat and Fecamp.
Princess Golf: Golf D'etretat
YOUR GOLF GAME
Destroyed during the war, it was reconstructed in 1947 and renovated in 1992 under the direction of French golf architect Didier Fruchet, who placed his unmistakable stamp on this historic course, with meandering fairways, strategically placed water hazards, lush foliage and a host of other interesting features. Par 72, 6,616 yards.
Romantic Honfleur
Walk the narrow streets of this charming, perfectly preserved 13th-century Norman fishing village, considered the birthplace of the Impressionist and Romantic art movements.
WHAT YOU VISIT
Honfleur - The base for France's 17th-century voyages of colonization and the birthplace of the Impressionist and Romantic art movements, Honfleur is a picturesque fishing port. During your guided walk, take in the Vieux Bassin or old harbor and pass the Lieutenance and the town's ancient gate before visiting the 15th-century wooden Church of Sainte Catherine.
SHOPPING
Honfleur's charming cobbled streets are lined with galleries, craft and souvenir shops and sidewalk cafés; spend an hour exploring at your leisure.
WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
From Le Havre, your tour begins with a pleasant drive past vistas of the Normandy countryside on your way to Honfleur. Drive across the new Normandy Bridge spanning the Seine estuary on your return to the ship.
Le Havre By Private Vehicle - Van Class
A private vehicle is the perfect solution for guests who wish to tour privately, or who want the flexibility of designing their own itinerary.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Vehicles with an English-speaking driver/guide combination, or with driver only, are offered on a half-day (4 1/2 hours; morning or afternoon) or full-day (10 hours) basis. No deviations to duration, departure or return time can be made. If you choose the driver-only option, keep in mind that the drivers' command of English varies and that drivers cannot act as tour guides. This is a private arrangement; those accompanying you are the family or friends with whom you agree to share costs. We do not match groups of passengers to form a private group for the vehicle. Vehicles and guides are of extremely limited availability; reserve early. These tours are ordered per vehicle. One person in your party places the order for the vehicle; the entire cost of the vehicle is charged to that person's shipboard account and cannot be divided among the party. Once onboard, you will receive a letter requesting details about your travel plans. Please complete this information and return to the Tour Office as soon as possible.
For your guidance, we suggest that half day private tours are appropriate for Honfleur or Fecamp only. All other sites or combinations will require a full day to visit.
LEH-U1/U2 - Half Day with Guide / Driver combination (4 1/2 hours) - One to seven (1-7) passengers maximum
$1299 per vehicle
LEH-U3 - Full Day with Guide / Driver combination (10 hours) - One to seven (1-7) passengers maximum
$1,850 per vehicle
LEH-W1/W2 - Half Day with Driver Only (4 1/2 hours) - One to seven (1-7) passengers maximum
$999 per vehicle
LEH-W3 - Full Day with Driver Only (10 hours) - One to seven (1-7) passengers maximum
$1499 per vehicle
Please be sure to request this tour by indicating the number of vehicles you wish to have - not the number of guests.
SPECIAL NOTES
* All private vehicle bookings are non-refundable.
* Actual vehicle type may vary depending on final number of passengers and availability.
* Visiting more than one site often requires a full day.
* Vehicles are air-conditioned.
* Vehicles are available with English-speaking driver/guide combination (Foreign language guides may be requested once on board).
Private Vehicle Bookings do not include:
* Entrance fees (We suggest you use local currency for entrance fees).
* Meals, gratuities and refreshments.
Paris Shore Excursions - Royal Caribbean
Paris, the capital city of France, is a beautiful, artistic city, situated in the north-central part of France. The city lies on both banks of the River Seine. The north bank was historically the area where Royalty and the wealthy merchant-class lived, and today it is the government and commercial district. While the south bank, with its image of an intellectual and bohemian playground, is the site where the university was founded.
The One Thing You Don't Want to Miss
Paris and the Eiffel Tower are synonymous. You see it from almost everywhere in the city. But don't miss the chance to go to the top. The view is breathtaking.
Other Fun Things to Do
Spend a day getting lost in the Louvre. This fabulous, maze-like museum is home to one of the greatest art collections in the world, including the Mona Lisa.
Sail down the Seine in the shadow of the Notre Dame Cathedral. This famous cathedral is a beautiful example of gothic architecture and is where Napoleon and Josephine were crowned in 1804.
Stroll along the Champs Élysées, stopping in some of the world's finest shops.
Visit the Arc de Triomphe, built in 1806 to commemorate Napoleon's victories.
Get a Taste of Local Flavor
The French are known for their cuisine, and Paris has many delicious examples. But to many, the true taste of Paris is sold on street corners throughout the city. Crepes are available everywhere, and with cheese or chocolate they're a terrific snack and a fun way to sample local fare.
Local Currency
The Euro (EUR), the currency of the European Union, is the official currency of France. Many stores and restaurants also accept major credit cards, which usually offer you a good exchange rate. When shopping, remember there is a Value-Added Tax added to most purchases.
Paris Shore Excursions - Holland America
A Taste of Normandy: Cheese & Cider
This journey into the heart of the Auge region leads to the town of Lisieux, offering timber-framed houses and a 12th-century cathedral. You will pass by Saint Peter's Cathedral where Saint Theresa had the revelation and visit the chapel of Carmel where Saint Theresa is interred. High atop a hill stands the Basilica of Lisieux, one of the most popular pilgrimage places in Normandy. Dedicated to Saint Theresa, the church, consecrated in 1954, hosts many items from the Saint. Next you will drive to a farm to observe the production of Norman cheeses such as Pont Lévêque, Livarot and Petit Pavé d'Auge. Enjoy a fine taste of the finished product, served with a traditional Normandy cider.
Caen & Peace Memorial
Begin this eventful tour with a relaxing drive through the rolling French landscape. Near the landing beaches of D-Day lies the historic town of Caen. The Caen Memorial is located on the site of one of the bloodiest battles in history. You will follow the sights and sounds of Europe's downward spiral into depression and war--Hitler's unbelievable rise to power and the inevitable fall of the Third Reich. In the museum's stunning visual presentation of Victory in Europe, you'll be a part of the D-Day action as the Allied troops liberate France. The mysterious underground world of the famous French Resistance will be revealed to you--"secret armies" that moved service personnel through escape lines sabotaged hundreds of enemy missions, their homes and streets as the battlefield. Jacques Perrin's moving film, Hope for the Future, is truly a fitting end to this visit to the Memorial.
D-Day Landing Beaches
Of the 3.1 million Allied troops ultimately sent into action during the Battle of Normandy, more than half were Americans. Today's tour honors the Allied troops, beginning with a motor coach drive from Le Havre to Caen and then to the "English" beaches at Arromanches. Here, the Landing Museum tells you the story of the D-Day assault and the incredible courage of this remarkable mission. You'll stop at a local restaurant for lunch, then at Omaha Beach, where some of the U.S. troops landed. A stop at the American Cemetery at St Laurent-sur-Mer allows time to wander among the rows of white crosses, then you'll reboard the coach and return to the ship in the late afternoon.
NOTES:
This tour includes a meal--lunch on daytime tours, or dinner on evening tours.
Historic Rouen
Flamboyant architecture and a tumultuous history beckon the visitor to Rouen, the capital of Upper Normandy. This age-old city is a historic enclave located approximately 1 1/2 hours from the port. The central part of Rouen is a living tribute to the will of the people and the power of restoration, having been faithfully rebuilt and lovingly maintained after several World War II bombings. Reserved for pedestrian traffic only, this core area is where you'll find the highlights of your visit. Begin with a visit to the Gothic cathedral--its imposing and striking architecture dates back to 1201 and has been completely immortalized by Monet and his fellow impressionists. Strolling the unmistakably French cobblestone lanes, you will pass the elegant, arched Gros Horloge clock tower, a landmark symbol for Rouen. 15th- and 16th-century timbered houses line the streets leading to the Vieux Marché (Old Market), and you will see the very spot where Joan of Arc was sentenced to death and burned at the stake in 1431. Then, it's back to the motor coach by way of the 15th-century Saint Maclou church, where you will complete your walking tour and enjoy some time at leisure before returning to the ship.
Land of Impressionism-A Day with Claude Monet
The inspiration for Claude Monet's impressionist genius began here in Normandy, in the tiny village of Giverny. Travel about 2 1/2 hours by motor coach through rural France to the famous garden and farmhouse that are so memorably captured in the works of the master. Discover for yourself the lily ponds, the footbridge, the winding paths and the immaculately-tended, landscaped gardens of the artist's home and studio. Inside the house, you will see pastel-colored rooms and rustic furniture, as well as the Japanese engravings which Monet himself hung on the colorful walls. Before leaving Giverny, you will have a chance to wander through the American Museum where the works of famous American impressionists are on display. After this interesting visit, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. The final stop on your tour is in Rouen, the capital of Normandy and an important historic city. The cathedral here is a splendid example of Gothic architecture and was painted more than thirty times by Monet. You will walk through the historic center of the town before reboarding your coach to return to the ship.
NOTES:
This tour includes a meal--lunch on daytime tours, or dinner on evening tours.
Landmarks of Paris & Views from the Seine
It is a three-hour motor coach ride from Le Havre to the timeless city of Paris via the autoroute Normandie. Upon arrival in Paris, you will stop at the Eiffel Tower and Trocadero area for a photo opportunity, and then pass Notre Dame Basilica. Transferring to the Trocadero Dock, you will board a bateau mouche-style riverboat and cruise through Paris along the River Seine. Enjoy lunch along the way. Continuing with your tour in the afternoon, you will drive past many of Paris' famous landmarks, including the Arc de Triomphe, the Champs Elysées and l'Opéra. On the way back to Normandy, you can simply relax and take in the rural scenery.
NOTES:
It is a three-hour motorcoach ride each way to Paris. Due to traffic congestion in Paris it may not be possible to stop at certain sights. Rest stops will be made en route to and from Paris.
This tour includes a meal--lunch on daytime tours, or dinner on evening tours.
Paris Highlights
Depart from Le Havre with a drive to Paris by freeway. Upon arrival in Paris, see the main sights during an orientation tour by motor coach: Place de la Concorde designed by Ange-Jacques Gabriel in 1755 and completed over a period of 20 years; the Eiffel Tower, Paris' most famous symbol opened in March 1889 for the World's Fair; la Madeleine; the Louvre, one of the world's greatest museums; the Pyramid, the Trocadéro and the Arc de Triomphe. Lunch will be served in a French brassérie. After lunch, you will continue with your orientation tour. Stops for photos and shopping will be made as traffic conditions allow. Drive back directly to Le Havre via the motorway.
NOTES:
THis tour includes a meal--lunch on daytime tours, or dinner on evening tours.
Signature Collection - Full Day Private Car
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private car, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters.
The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests.
NOTES:
Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private car reservation as early as possible.
Capacity: 2 guests
Signature Collection - Full Day Private Minivan
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private minivan, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters.
The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests.
NOTES:
Private minivans are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the whole vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private minivan reservation as early as possible.
Capacity: 7 guests
Your private party may be of any size up to the maximum capacity.
Signature Collection - Half Day Private Car
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private car, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters.
The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests.
NOTES:
Private cars are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. Entrance fees for attractions are not included. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private car reservation as early as possible.
Capacity: 2 guests
Signature Collection - Half Day Private Minivan
Explore at your own pace with a private vehicle, driver and English-speaking guide at your service. This exclusive tour is designed to allow you the chance to customize your time ashore and discover the most interesting sights in the comfort and privacy of your own vehicle. With your private minivan, and the personalized attention of your driver and English-speaking guide, you will have the flexibility and independence to design your itinerary ashore according to your own interests, and take in the sights at your own pace. See the famous sights, or go beyond to create your own intimate connections and unique cultural encounters.
The Signature Collection is recommended for the single/solo traveler, couples, family, friends, and special interest groups traveling together. It can also be an excellent choice for physically challenged guests.
NOTES:
Private minivans are ordered per vehicle (not per person), so only one person in the party need order the vehicle. The price shown is the total cost for the vehicle, driver, and English-speaking guide. In many destinations, the number of vehicles available is extremely limited, so guests are encouraged to secure their private minivan reservation as early as possible.
Capacity: 7 guests
Transfer to Honfleur
This transfer is intended for those who would like to explore Honfleur on their own. Your motor coach departs Le Havre and makes the approximately 30- to 45-minute trip to Honfleur with a guide on board to answer your questions. You will be dropped off at a central location, and your escort will advise you of the pick-up time for the return journey. You will have approximately two and a half hours to shop and explore on your own.
NOTES:
Guide service, taxi transfers, entrance fees and lunch are not included in the transfer price. It will be your responsibility to be at the drop-off point at the given return time.
Transfer to Paris
This transfer is intended for those who would like to explore Paris on their own. Your motor coach departs Le Havre and makes the three-hour (each way) trip to Paris with a guide on board in the morning to answer your questions. You will be dropped off at a central location, and your escort will advise you of the pick-up time for the return journey. You will have approximately four hours to shop and explore on your own.
NOTES:
Guide service, taxi transfers, entrance fees and lunch are not included in the transfer price. It will be your responsibility to be at the drop-off point at the given return time.
Paris Shore Excursions - Seabourn
DEAUVILLE & CALVADOS TASTING
Transfer by motorcoach to Deauville, where this famous sea resort is highlighted by "The Planches," a wooden plank promenade, which runs the length of the beach. The Planches is lined by elegant buildings including the Pompeian Baths and The Soleil Bar, where celebrities are often seen. Upon arrival in Deauville, enjoy an orientation tour that acquaints you with this delightful town. Free time follows to explore on your own. Reboard your coach for a scenic drive through villages and "bocages," small fields delineated by hedges and trees creating a pastoral setting. Discover local products by visiting the distillery of Château du Breuil, which dates from the 17th century. From the apple press, continue on to the distillery with its bright copper stills followed by the castle's cellar where the renowned Calvados ages in oak casks. You are then invited to sample the products in the tasting room and delight in the perfection of this outstanding brandy. Following your tasting, reboard the coach for the return drive back to Rouen.
LANDMARKS OF PARIS & VIEWS FROM THE SEINE
Discover the sights of Paris during this introductory tour by motorcoach. From the pier in Rouen, join the motorway for the drive to the City of Lights. Arriving in the city, begin your exploration with the world renowned Place de l'Etoile, the Triumph Arc and the Champs Elysées. At the end of this elegant avenue is the Place de la Concorde with its legendary obelisk from the ruins of Luxor in Egypt. Continue to the Rive Gauche, or Left Bank, where the most impressive monuments are located. Les Invalides offers centuries worth of majestic architecture, including the dome that houses the tomb of Napoleon, and its Champ de Mars, the favorite park of the locals. At the foot of the Eiffel Tower, the stately symbol of Paris built in 1889 for the Universal Exhibition, a bateau mouche-style riverboat awaits to take you for a cruise through Paris along the River Seine. During your lunch onboard, you not only discover the "quais" and the monuments of Paris, but also the districts where the nobility and bourgeoisie live. Back on land, pass by the Cathedral Notre-Dame de Paris, which represents the beginning of Gothic style in Europe and the power of the church, before commencing the return drive to Rouen via the motorway.
MONET'S GIVERNY Departing from Rouen via motorcoach, drive along the motorway to Giverny. Situated on the right bank of the Seine, this charming city is known all over the world for the famous paintings of Claude Monet, who lived in the village from 1883 to his death in 1926. Monet's house and gardens are now a museum, and a guided visit of the museum reveals the life and works of the artist. Inspired by the lily pond he created, Monet produced the huge canvases of the Nympheas series, The Garden, and The Cathedral of Rouen among others. Restored to its original pink and green, this long low house contains reproductions of the painter's works, his collection of 18th and 19th-century prints, and pieces of china. The dining room with its yellow painted wooden furniture, the bedroom, the "blue" reading room, and the kitchen with its attractive wall tiles, are especially noteworthy. Replanted according to Monet's original design, the garden is a spectacular array of color. On the opposite side of the road under a tunnel is the water garden. Japanese in inspiration, the water garden features a lily pond, gracefully curved bridges, and is bordered by bamboo trees, rhododendrons and a majestic weeping willow. Free time is afforded to explore further on your own before reboarding your coach for the return drive to Rouen and your ship.
OVERNIGHT IN THE CITY OF LIGHTS
Enjoy an interlude in the fabulous "City of Lights" - a day of seeing its famous landmarks, followed by a delightful evening of entertainment and an overnight stay. Depart the Rouen pier in the morning and transfer by deluxe minicoach to Paris. On arrival, begin an introductory tour starting at the world renowned Place de l'Etoile and the Arc de Triomph. At the other end of the Champs Elysées is the Place de la Concorde with its legendary obelisk coming from the ruins of Luxor. After lunch, continue your tour past the cathedral of Notre-Dame de Paris, which represents the beginning of the gothic style in Europe. Next visit the 'Rive Gauche', or Left Bank, to view its impressive monuments including Les Invalides and its Champ de Mars, a favorite park with the locals and site of the tomb of Napoleon. The Eiffel Tower will be the last stop, the fascinating symbol of Paris built in 1889 for the Universal Exhibition. After seeing the city sights, transfer to the Hotel Frontenac in the late afternoon, allowing some time at leisure before a captivating evening of dinner and entertainment at the legendary Moulin Rouge. After dinner and the revue, return to the hotel. After breakfast the next morning, enjoy a few hours of independent exploration before checking out of your hotel for the return journey to Rouen and your Seabourn yacht.
PARIS ON YOUR OWN
Spend a delightful afternoon in the City of Lights on this comfortable transfer to Paris. Depart the port city of Rouen by air-conditioned motorcoach for the journey to Paris. En route a helpful guide is onboard to distribute information and answer questions to help you make the most of your day. Once in Paris, revisit favorite places, discover new treasures, shop in legendary boutiques, or visit famous museums - the day is yours to do as you please. The drop off point is Palace de la Concorde, the 21-acre square crowned by the 2,300-year-old obelisk of Luxor, site of many beheadings and offering an excellent view of the "royal perspective." Upon arrival in the city, your escort advises the pick up time at the same location, affording approximately 6 hours of free time before rejoining the coach for the return to Rouen.
ROUEN ACQUAINTANCE
One of France's most historic cities, Rouen is a treasure trove of beautiful churches, towers, fountains and houses awaiting your discovery. From the pier, proceed by motorcoach directly to St. Catherine's Hill for fine panoramic city views. Founded at the lowest point where the Seine could be bridged, Rouen has prospered through maritime trade and industrialization to become a rich and cultured city. Debarking your coach, continue on foot to the Place du Vieux-Marche, the Old Market Square, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake in 1431. The modern Joan of Arc Church was completed in 1979 and includes a statue of her leaning against the church, facing the stake. Your guided walking tour of approximately 1½ hours leads you down Rue du Gros-Horloge, the most evocative district of old Rouen. Once busy with tradespeople during the Middle Ages, it has successfully recaptured the original commercial role as a bustling pedestrian street with its large cobblestones and attractive 15th to 17th-century half-timbered houses. Admire the Gros-Horloge, the gilt Renaissance clock that still indicates the time of the day, the weekday and the phase of the moon, before viewing the Law Courts of Normandy's Parliament, the cathedral, St. Maclou Church and the Aitre St. Maclou. Before reboarding your coach for the return to port, enjoy some free time to further explore on your own the narrow, cobbled streets and their delightful quaint shops.
THE LANDING BEACHES OF NORMANDY
Veterans or history enthusiasts of World War II do not want to miss this journey to the settings of great events that took place in Normandy during June 1944. A drive by motorcoach first takes you directly from Rouen to Arromanches-les-Bains, where memories are evoked of D-Day - June 6, 1944, when the assault landing of the Allies took place on these shores. The Allied strategy is revealed during your guided visit of the fascinating Landing Museum. Arromanches owes much of its fame to the "Mulberry" operation, the establishment of an artificial prefabricated port. Witness the remnants of these foundations, which served as critical elements of part of the Normandy invasion. Proceed to Port-en-Bressin where lunch is served at a wonderful restaurant located in the heart of a sprawling golf course. A profoundly moving experience next ensues as you visit the American Cemetery at Colleville St. Laurent, where over 9,000 soldiers are laid to rest. Marble crosses stand aligned and at rest as they eternally gaze out over Omaha Beach. Reminiscing heavily on this experience you are sure to treasure forever, reboard your coach for the journey back to Rouen and your ship.
THE OLD TOWN OF HONFLEUR
An important stronghold until the 15th century, Honfleur acquired true glory through the role its mariners played in the 17th-century Norman voyages of discovery. Through all of its glorious past, the town has continued to be a center of the arts as painters, writers and musicians draw inspiration from its charming character and ambience. Today, Honfleur offers visitors a unique heritage that can be best glimpsed by strolling along the picturesque narrow streets that are lined with timber-framed houses. From Rouen, your drive by motorcoach crosses one of Europe's longest and most beautiful bridges, the 7,024-foot-long Normandy Bridge with towers that reach over 700 feet high. On arrival in Honfleur, your guide leads you on a walking exploration beginning with St. Catherine's Church. A rare sight in western Europe, this 15th-century church is constructed entirely of wood by carpenters from a local shipyard. Stroll past the tile-covered salt warehouses, the Old Port and its picturesque quayside, and the Lieutenance, a 16th-century house in which the King's lieutenant, Governor of Honfleur, once resided. Approximately 1½ hours of free time is afforded to stroll on your own and enjoy the artists, craftsmen and charming boutiques, before reboarding your coach for the return drive to Rouen and your ship.
Paris Shore Excursions - Costa
None.
Paris Shore Excursions - Carnival
None.
Paris Shore Excursions - Celebrity
A Taste of Paris
For guests who would like an orientation to Paris and then time to explore independently this full day excursion is provided. The tour begins as your guide greets you at the pier. A 2.5-hour drive via the highway will take you across the Seine Valley, past Rouen and through the rich dairy country of Normandy. Entering the gates of Paris, begin with a drive down the Champs-Elysées, the principal thoroughfare of the city. See the 164-foot Arc de Triomphe, and then pass the Opera House and Madeleine Church. Drive past the world famous Louvre Museum with its recently added glass pyramid, to proceed to the River Seine and the island of La Cité to pass by the Notre Dame Cathedral. The coach will continue down the left bank, past the Hotel des Invalides, burial place of Napoléon and the Latin Quarter.
The coach will drop you off in the city center and the guide will inform you when and where to meet the coach for the return trip to the ship. The tour includes approximately 3.5 hours on your own and does not include lunch or entrance fees.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 50 yards over even and uneven surfaces with 2 to 5 steps. Walking during the free time is at the guests' discretion. Guests should be on time for the return coach as a courtesy to their fellow participants. If guests should miss the coach, the return to the vessel is their own responsibility and at their own expense.
Alabaster Coast - Etretat & Fecamp
The northwest coast of Normandy, known as the Alabaster Coast, has dramatic scenery with sheer cliffs and wide beaches, interspersed with seaside resorts.
The scenic drive along the coast takes approximately 45 minutes to reach the beautiful resort of Etretat. From the beach, you can see the two impressive chalk cliffs known as the "Arch and Needle." These famous landmarks are one of the most photographed landmarks in France. The bravest and fittest can walk the cliff for a truly spectacular view, while others may elect to stay in town and shop in the old streets or quaint market. Participants will have approximately one hour to walk the cliffs or explore the town.
The next stop is at the town of Fecamp, situated at the foot of some of the highest cliffs in Normandy. Fecamp is the home of the famous Benedictine Liquor, invented there by the monk Bernardo Vincellio in 1510. The Benedictine Abbey and Museum devoted to its production and rebuilt in 1892 after a fire, is one of the most popular attractions in Normandy. During the visit, you have the opportunity to see, smell and touch most of the 27 plants and herbs, which are blended together to produce the liquor. At the end of the visit, you will be given a taste of this famous liquor.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 0.25 mile over even surfaces with 10 to 15 steps at each venue. Extensive walking is involved for those that elect to walk the cliffs at Etretat. Tour sequence may vary in order to avoid congestion at the venues.
D-Day Beaches & Bayeux Tapestry
At 9:15 p.m. on June 5th, the BBC announced to the French Resistance that the landing was imminent, signaling to the underground to start dynamiting the railways. By midnight, Allied planes had begun bombing the Normandy Coast and by 1:30 a.m., June 6th, members of the 101st Airborne were parachuting onto German-occupied French soil. The "longest day," also called D-DAY - June 6, 1944 had started. The day soldiers, sailors, warship, landing craft, tugboats and jeeps that had been assembled along the southern coast of England set out for the Normandy Coast, for the landing on the beaches of Juno, Gold, Sword, Utah and Omaha.
Your tour will start with a visit to the nearby city of Bayeux, capital of the Normandy region called Bessin. It was the first French town to be liberated after D-Day and was fortunate not to have been damaged during the war. The town has been miraculously preserved through all these years and offers to visitors the charm of its old streets bordered by typical timber framed houses. There you will admire the world famous Tapestry of Bayeux, known as Queen Mathilda's tapestry. It is embroidery on a 70-meter (230 feet) length of linen cloth. It narrates the causes and the beginning of the conquest of England by William the Conqueror, the Duke of Normandy, who became King of England after the battle of Hastings in 1066. The tapestry is considered as one of the most accurate and lively documents to survive from the Middle Ages and provides detailed information on the clothes, ships, arms and general lifestyle during this period. You then have some time to discover the old town on your own, before enjoying a typical local lunch in a restaurant that used to be a fortified farm dating back to the 13th century.
After lunch you will drive along the beaches to Arromanches, a modest seaside resort famous for having the remains of Mulberry Harbour. You will go to Longues sur Mer, where you will see the only German artillery battery to have kept its guns, giving an impressive picture of what the Atlantic Wall gun emplacement was really like. You will then visit the American Cemetery of Coleville. Overlooking Omaha Beach, it contains 9,387 perfectly aligned white crosses on a 170-acre plot. The last stop will be at Omaha beach, where the American troops suffered heavy casualties in one of the most costly of the D-Day battles. The austere and desolate appearance of the eastern part of the beach makes the invasion scenes easy to imagine, even today.
Note: Participation on this tour is extremely limited. Guests must be able to walk approximately 1.5 miles over uneven cobblestone surfaces, loose gravel and 10 to 15 steps. Time permitting; guests will have approximately 30 minutes at leisure while in Bayeux.
Giverny & Rouen
Learn about the famous French Impressionist painter, Claude Monet, who made his home in Giverny, just outside of Paris. Also, trace the history of medieval France in the ancient town of Rouen, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.
This tour will take you along the River Seine, the most important waterway of France. Begin with a visit to Giverny where the leader of the Impressionist School, the famous painter Claude Monet, lived from 1883 to 1926. The house, with its pink crushed brick façade, has a colorful décor keeping the intimate charm of former times. During the visit, you will see reproductions of Monet's main works, as well as a precious collection of Japanese engravings. The garden offers visitors the "Painting from Nature," which is considered as one of the painter's masterpieces. With its famous Japanese Bridge, its wisteria, azaleas and its ponds, it has once more become that casket of sky and water, which inspired the pictorial universe of the water lilies.
You will then continue your tour through the rich dairy country of Normandy to arrive in Rouen. As the capital of Upper Normandy, this city has a large number of well-preserved historic sites, including entire streets of timbered medieval houses and a rich collection of monuments.
Lunch will be served in Rouen, before beginning your walking tour of the old Market Square and the modern church "Saint Jeanne d'Arc," with its 15th century stained glass windows. The windows were retrieved from the fire that destroyed St Vincent's Church, and were dedicated to Joan of Arc, who was burned at the stake in 1431. On your way to the Great Cathedral of Rouen, you will pass the impressive Gros Horloge with its 14th century belfry and the Justice Hall, one of the finest Renaissance styled buildings in France. The stonework of Notre Dame Cathedral best exemplifies this city's flamboyant Gothic architecture. Continuing along the cobblestone streets, you will see the Aitre St Maclou. You'll have some free time for browsing and shopping in the city center before returning to the ship.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 1.25 miles over cobblestone and even surfaces with 5 to 10 steps. Tour sequence may vary in order to control congestion at the venues. Photography and video are not permitted in Monet's home. The drive between Le Havre and Giverny is approximately 2 hours while the return drive from Rouen is approximately 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions.
Honfleur
This tour along the "Cote Fleurie" will show you why this beautiful area attracted many celebrities and artists such as the writer Baudelaire and the Impressionist painters Boudin, Monet and Dufy. You will visit the charming fishing port of Honfleur, dating back to the 14th century and renowned for its role in the discovery voyages to Canada. You will enjoy a walking tour along typical Norman streets and discovering the Old Dock and Lieutenancy, which is the former house of the Governor appointed by the King. You will visit the Saint Catherine Church, the largest wooden church of France dating back to the 15th century, with a separate belfry. After the orientation tour, you will have free time for shopping and browsing.
Note: Tour involves approximately 2.5 miles of walking over cobblestone and even surfaces with 5 to 10 steps. The drive between Le Havre and Honfleur is approximately 45 minutes each way, depending on traffic conditions. Time permitting; guests will have approximately 1 hour at leisure while in Honfleur. Tour sequence may vary in order to control congestion at the venues.
Mont Saint Michel
Take a pilgrimage through the Normandy countryside to explore the Abbey of Mont Saint Michel, a UNESCO World Heritage site, built on a rock perched above the ocean. Connected to the mainland by a permanent causeway, Mont Saint Michel became a holy place of pilgrimage and worship in the Middle Ages following the appearance of Archangel Saint Michel to the bishop of the region in his dreams.
You will pass through Normandy's fertile dairy country before arriving in the region of Brittany, and the Bay of Mont Saint Michel. The Bay is well known for its spectacular tidal variance. You will return to the ship via the same route. Restroom stops will be made en route to and from Mont Saint Michel. Once there, you will journey uphill through the twisted cobblestone walkways, passing old houses to the top of the rock crowned by the Abbey Church. Legend says there are 365 steps from the bottom to the top of the Mont! Completing this 30-minute walk, you will view the Abbey Church whose spire soars more than 500 feet. The Abbey is a masterpiece of Norman architecture. Inside you'll discover the ways of the monks by visiting their famous dining hall and the beautiful gothic cloister, which appears to be suspended between sky and sea.
After the guided portion of the tour, you will have free time in the charming village of Mont Saint Michel to explore the twisted passageways, old houses and shops. Lunch with French Sauvignon and Bordeaux wines will be served at a restaurant offering a panoramic view of the Mont Saint Michel Abbey.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 1 mile over even and cobblestone surfaces with 365 steps to reach the Abbey. Driving time from Le Havre to Mont St. Michel is 3 hours each way, dependent upon traffic conditions. A strict dress code is enforced in the Abbey Church. Short pants and tank tops are not acceptable. Flash photography is also not permitted inside the Abbey.
Paris On Your Own
If you have already been to Paris, you may want to explore this historic city at your leisure. In Le Havre, you will board a coach for a 2.5-hour drive to Paris. An escort will answer any questions you may have while en route. You will be dropped off in the city center and informed of when to meet the coach for your return to the ship. You will have the day to sightsee at your own pace, shop, or dine.
Note: This tour involves approximately 5.5 hours on your own. An escort will be on the coach to Paris. Please be mindful that this excursion is non-guided and does not include lunch or entrance fees. If guests should miss the return coach, transportation back to the vessel is their own responsibility and at their own expense.
Paris Sightseeing With Lunch Cruise
This is a full day excursion to the "City of Lights," Paris. A 2.5-hour drive, via the superhighway, will take you across the Seine Valley and through the dairy country of Normandy to Paris. Entering the gates of Paris, drive down the famous Champs-Elysées, the principal thoroughfare of the city. You will see the 164 foot Arc de Triomphe, planned by Napoléon to celebrate his military successes. It was not completed until 15 years after his death. Drive past the world famous Opera House, Madeleine Church, Concorde Square, Louvre Museum, Notre Dame Cathedral and the Latin Quarter.
The coach will arrive at the Pont d'Iéna where guests board one of the famous riverboats for a two-hour luncheon while cruising down the River Seine. While dining, the cruise offers a unique viewpoint of many of the city's prominent sights including Notre Dame Cathedral, the French Statue of Liberty, the Eiffel Tower and the Islands of La Cité, Saint Louis and the Conciergerie.
At the conclusion of the river cruise, you will rejoin the coach for additional touring of Paris. You will drive past the Trocadéro and Pont de l'Alma, down the left bank, past the Hotel des Invalides, burial place of Napoléon, and to the foot of the Eiffel Tower for a brief stop. There you will have time for photos and souvenir shopping. (Admission to the upper levels of the monument is not included in this photo/shopping stop.) Your guide will leave you in Paris before your coach departs for the return journey to the ship.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 0.5 mile over even and cobblestone surfaces with at least 20 steps. Admission onto the upper levels of the Eiffel Tower is not included due to time constraints.
The Beaches Of Normandy
Veterans of World War II and history buffs will appreciate this opportunity to visit the sites of the Allied landing of 1944 and to pay homage to the brave soldiers who fought and died on French soil. You'll pass over the "Pont de Normandie," the new bridge crossing the mouth of the River Seine, as you depart Le Havre and make your 2-hour drive through the fertile dairy countryside of Normandy. You will stop at Arromanches at the southern end of Gold Beach. You will see the fantastic remains of the artificial harbor constructed to land the huge masses of men and materials. Continuing along the coast, a photo stop will be made at Omaha Beach. There, at dawn on June 6, 1944, one of the first two bridgeheads of landing American troops was established.
You will visit the American Cemetery of Colleville located near Omaha Beach in the village of Saint Laurent. The cemetery stands as an eternal witness to the sacrifices made along these shores. You will see the American Memorial and grounds of the cemetery dedicated to those soldiers who fought and died on the beaches. Further, along the coast, a brief photo stop will also be made at Pointe du Hoc where three companies of the 2nd Ranger Battalion climbed the 100-foot cliffs on D-Day to capture this strategic position.
Continuing to the town of Caen, you will visit the Caen Memorial Museum. With its audio/visual effects and exhibits, you will trace the course of history from the causes of the two World Wars, to the Normandy landing and the collapse of the Third Reich and Imperial Japan. A full buffet lunch will be served at the memorial.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 0.5 mile over even surfaces, loose gravel and 10 to 15 steps. Steps are not required to enter the venues listed. The tour sequence may vary due to traffic conditions and timing.
The Louvre & Da Vinci Code
The Book, The Da Vinci Code by Dan Brown is a publishing phenomenon, selling more then 7 million copies and on the New York Times bestseller list for more then 50 weeks. The Da Vinci Code has caused many to rethink their whole concept of Christianity, and inspired thousands of literary pilgrims to travel to Paris and retrace the steps of the central character, Robert Langdon. During the tour, the accuracies of the novel are highlighted as well as the discussions on the veracity of Brown's conjectures and the reasons that lie behind the extraordinary success of the book. It is a novel that juggles with fiction and a certain historical vision, with your collective memory and the questions of your times. It also provides an amazing interpretation of Western history and most of all; it allows you to rediscover the Louvre and Paris that are possibly the true heroes of the book.
Your full-day excursion to Paris will begin in Le Havre with a 2.5-hour drive, via the highway to Paris. An English-speaking escort will be onboard the coach to Paris and entering the gates of Paris, you will be led by the guidance of an Art Historian. Your tour begins with a panoramic drive through Paris, following the steps of the characters: Saint-Sulpice Church, the Palais-Royal, the Champs-Elyses, the Tuileries Garden, the Ritz Hotel and the Gare Saint-Lazare train station.
You will proceed to the prestigious Louvre Museum, guardian of a large part of the memory of Mankind and witness of the most striking chapters in the history of the civilization of the world. Following the steps of the characters of the book, you will see in real life the magnificent rooms of the Louvre, the masterpieces and works of art exposed in the book. Lunch will be served in a restaurant located under the famous glass pyramid.
In the afternoon, from the Great Gallery to the Inverted Pyramid, the topics developed by Dan Brown are explored through his extraordinary study of the first centuries of the History of Religion. The Antic cult to the Great Goddess and the collapse of the Pagan World, the origins of Christianity and its illustration through the art of the Renaissance, the various interpretations of the masterpieces of Leonardo Da Vinci (the Mona Lisa and the Virgin with Rocks), the place of symbols and hidden patterns in Italian paintings, the history and iconography of the character of Jesus and Mary Magdalene. The tour also allows you to discover "in situ" elements of the Louvre referred to by Dan Brown including the patterns on the floor of the Great Gallery, the medallions of the Paris Meridian and the security systems of the museum. At the conclusion of the guided visit, you will have some time approximately 30 minutes on your own in the Louvre for shopping in the gift shop or browsing before driving back to Le Havre.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 2 miles over even and cobblestone surfaces, inclines and 20 to 40 steps. Guests should be on time for the return coach as a courtesy to their fellow participants. If guests should miss the coach, the return to the vessel is their own responsibility and at their own expense.
Versailles Palace & Gardens
Versailles is known as the largest and most luxurious palace ever built. The names of Louis XIV and Marie Antoinette immediately come to mind, making the palace and gardens a visual journey through centuries of amazing history and art.
Start from the pier in Le Havre, with a 2.5-hour drive via the modern speedway along the Seine River valley, to Versailles. The layout of the city, its palace, and gardens reflect the will of one king, Louis XIV, known as the Sun King. The chateau and its gardens are counted among the most prestigious monuments of the world's artistic heritage and are considered by some to be the finest achievement of 17th century French art.
Begin your visit with a walking tour in the famous French Gardens designed by the Royal Gardener artist André le Nôtre. Beyond the formal gardens arranged in the Petit Park (185 acres), the extensive Grand Park provides opportunities for pleasant strolls or long walks. Every turn of a pathway presents new vistas, new fountains and new statues. Part of the grounds near the Trianon were chosen by the Queen Marie Antoinette as the site of a lakeside village, featuring landscape gardens then so fashionable among Europe's aristocracy. At the conclusion of the garden walk, you will enjoy lunch with wine in a local restaurant.
In the afternoon have a look out from the Grand Staircase of the chateaux, over the Latone Pond, Green Carpet and Appolon Pond over to the Grand Canal, before starting the interior visit of the chateaux. You will be given a guided tour of the luxurious state apartments of the King, consisting of seven suites overlooking the north gardens that were exclusively used for audiences and court entertainment. The 79-yard long Hall of Mirrors, symbolizes the power of the absolute monarch, and is considered the chief masterpiece of Versailles. There, seventeen arcaded mirrors along the wall match seventeen windows overlooking the garden. Throughout the palace, you will see very grandiose furnishings, gilded décor, incredible paintings and numerous riches. At the conclusion of the day, you will have seen a glimpse of the life of the kings, before driving back to Le Havre.
Note: Guests must be able to walk approximately 3 miles over even and cobblestone surfaces with 15 to 30 steps. Most of the walking (approximately 1 hour) will occur while in the Versailles gardens. The interior visit of the Versailles Chateaux is limited to 30 guests per party so your group may be split between several guides. Flash photography is not permitted inside the Palace. Time permitting; guests will have approximately 30 minutes for souvenir shopping at Versailles. The drive between Le Havre and Versailles is approximately 2.5 hours, dependent upon traffic conditions. |
