France river cruises

Sail the awe-inspiring Rhône and Saône rivers through France and experience a world of elegant culture.

Sail the rivers of Southern France

Discover the sensations of Southern France during a Rhône and Saône river cruise. Historic cities, sleepy villages, and sun-soaked vineyards await you as you sail along these waterways on board our innovative Star-Ship, Emerald Liberté.

Uncover France along the Rhône and Saône rivers.

A world of experiences

Enlightening experiences await on your France river cruise. Sample fine wines while exploring the delights of Burgundy, indulge in the culinary sensations of Lyon, and follow in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh as you amble the charms of Arles. 

Hospice de Beaune wine auction centre in Burgundy

Hospice de Beaune Wine Auction Center in Burgundy, France

Vieux-Lyon on the riverbanks, Lyon, France

Vieux-Lyon on the Riverbanks, Lyon, France

Fresh baguettes and other French treats in bakery

Fresh Baguettes in French Bakery

Ancient Roman arena in Arles

Ancient Roman Arena in Arles, France

Discover France

A destination that captures style alongside rustic charm, river cruising in France provides ample opportunities for rest and relaxation in the countryside as well as plenty of time to explore the towns and cities for a glimpse into quintessential life.

Square inside Hospice de Beaune, Burgundy

Hospice de Beaune

Visit the leading wine auction centre in Burgundy, France’s viticultural heartland.
Four guests touring French vineyard and clinking glasses

Tour the vineyards

Join a vineyard hike and learn more about the stunning French countryside.
Rows of grapevines in French countryside vineyard

Relax in nature

The green fields are perfect for a leisurely stroll or an invigorating bike ride.

Featured Itineraries

Discover the waterways of Southern France

Sail the Rhône River

Meet chef Fabien Morreale

On Board Emerald Liberté

Why cruise with Emerald Cruises?

At Emerald Cruises, your enjoyment comes first. Sail with the small cruise ship experts and benefit from our attentive service, as we bring you closer to some of Central Europe’s most exciting destinations.

Emerald Cruises specialise in providing a small cruise ship experience. You’ll notice how measured guest numbers, an excellent staff-to-guest ratio, and the purpose-driven design and layout of Emerald Liberté offers you a comfortable and luxurious France river cruise experience.

Your journey is underpinned by our expert crew, who guarantee an exceptional river cruise experience.

A closer look at Emerald Liberté

Emerald Liberté is designed to sail the waterways of France, guiding you through the twists and turns of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Revel in your sanctuary, where every touch and elegant flourish has been chosen to reflect French beauty and style. 

Two cruise guests playing noughts and crosses

Designed to guarantee complete comfort on your France river cruise, Emerald Liberté provides an abundance of space for socialising and for relaxing in your own company. Enjoy culinary delights in the Reflections Restaurant and join new-found friends for drinks at the Horizon Bar & Lounge. Head to the Sun Deck for a game of giant noughts and crosses or enjoy a dip in the indoor pool before it transforms into a cinema space on selected evenings.

Where we travel

Explore the stunning rivers of France

Navigate the locks and bridges of France’s mesmerizing rivers, where you’ll pass rolling vineyards and plenty of charming villages, witnessing everyday life in France as you sail serenely along the water.

The rivers of France map
Emerald Europe River Cruises 2026 Brochure

Your guide to Luxury Europe River Cruising 2026

Download your complimentary luxury Europe river cruising brochure to start planning your journey.

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