Exclusive Wine Cruise Paris & Normandy (Wine Cruise) Apr 9 - 16, 2026

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Hosted by Christine Vrooman, Owner, Ankida Ridge Vineyards - Amherst, VA

Christine has a story to tell. She and her husband, Dennis, purchased 100 acres high in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia in 1999 that was to one day be their retirement retreat after they sold their veterinary practice in Virginia Beach. But before they had a chance to even consider retirement, serendipity stepped in, and soon, up at 1800 ft elevation where the air is cool and the earth, rocky and steep, they were planting a small family vineyard of Pinot Noir, a grape that was determined impossible to grow successfully in the humid, hot Mid-Atlantic climate. This unexpected journey brought their son, Nathan, back to Virginia from Denver to learn winemaking and he would soon produce one of the finest pinot noirs on the East Coast. Their Pinot Noir has been recognized as a “Top Ten Hot Brand 2017” by Wine Business Monthly, and Ankida Ridge was the only East Coast producer invited to Oregon’s prestigious International Pinot Noir Celebration 2016. They are listed in Food & Wine as one of Virginia’s Top 10 Vineyards and have received numerous high ratings from James Suckling and Wine Enthusiast.

Christine loves to share her passion for high-elevation viticulture, the importance of matching grape variety to place and for maintaining respect for the environment. Their panoramic vineyard and sheep farm sits high above the valleys and distant cities and has been cited as having one of the most beautiful vineyard views on the East Coast. “Ankida” is an ancient Sumerian word meaning “Where heaven and earth join.” Christine embraces the connection between people, good food and wine and the conviviality that goes with it all. She hopes you will join her on this cruise so she can share with you their serendipitous story and learn about grape-growing in various regions of the world. She invites attendees to journey to beautiful Virginia wine country and experience for yourself the beauty, tranquility and fine wines of Ankida Ridge. And there is now no retirement in their future!

Expertly Curated WINE EXPERIENCES

Immerse yourself in the many flavors of Europe on one of AmaWaterways unique Wine Cruises, which let you add a unique, epicurean dimension to one of our European itineraries. Like our standard river cruises, guests have the opportunity to join tours that highlight the famous sights in each port of call. These special itineraries, however, offer guests a perfect blend of wine-related experiences and excursions in grand capitals and charming towns. You’ll taste local cuisine, discover how wine is made and, of course, partake in tastings — all at no additional cost. Whether you have a seasoned appreciation for fine wine, or simply indulge in a sip here and there, this is a wonderful way to uncork the traditions of the local culture and learn about the region you’re visiting.

About the Wine Region – The Seine River

The curvy nature of the Seine River can be disorienting when you’re in Paris. Not to worry, just remember to face downstream, so you can tell the Left Bank from the Right. Our Paris & Normandy cruise itinerary is about as romantic as it gets, beginning with views of the art-inspiring “City of Light” that morphs into lush countryside and the historic Normandy Beaches. France’s second largest waterway allows us to sample some of the country’s most renowned champagne, ciders and Calvados.

The wine variety that instantly characterizes northern France comes from the Champagne region, about 90 miles east of Paris. These sparkling varieties produce a sweet effervescence and unparalleled quality that merit exclusive classification as the one-and-only wine known as Champagne. Another specialty drink found closer to the English Channel is Calvados, which comes from Normandy’s fruit-filled orchards. Made from over 170 apple (and pear) varieties, this rustic spirit is distilled twice and barrel-aged for at least two years before bottling. The result is a liqueur bursting with mainly complex flavors.

Overview


7-night Cruise

Cruise From: Paris to Paris

Paris always sizzles while Normandy beckons with its stunning coastline, incredible food and artistic beauty. Monet’s Gardens in Giverny; Rouen’s Cathedral of Notre Dame; and the charming harbour town of Honfleur, will inspire you the same way as they inspired the great Impressionists. You’ll then get to see some of these very places and landmarks that the Impressionist Masters captured on canvas at the Musée d’Orsay. For an inspiration of a different kind, travel the “Routes des Abbayes,” visiting some of the most magnificent monasteries, and to the unforgettable beaches of Normandy where Allied forces landed during WWII’s D-Day invasion. Relive the grandeur of royalty at Château Malmaison, the former home of Napoleon and Josephine Bonaparte, and at Chateau de Bizy, once referred to as “the Versailles of Normandy.” Blend a passion for the good life with culture, art, architecture and timeless landscapes, and you have Northern France.

COUNTRIES:

RIVERS:

At A Glance

On our cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Limited Edition tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
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Itinerary is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule provided with your final documents.

Included Features


7-night Cruise

SPACIOUS STATEROOMS

  • 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with French balconies)
  • Entertainment on Demand system featuring, movies, TV shows, news and music
  • Desk and sitting area
  • Bottled water replenished daily

AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES

  • Wellness Program with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.
  • Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
  • Internet and Wi-Fi access
  • Sun deck whirlpool and walking track
  • Fitness room, massage services and hair salon
  • Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
  • Daily entertainment including cultural performances

AWARD-WINNING DINING

  • All onboard dining in a variety of venues
  • Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
  • The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Dinner
  • La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience
  • Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
  • Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
  • Sip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
  • Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge

A WORLD OF EXPLORATION

  • Immersive tours in every destination
  • Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
  • Bike tours and hikes
  • Special Interest Tours
  • Knowledgeable guides
  • Personal headset for easy exploration

Dates & Prices

EMBARK April 9
7-NIGHT CRUISEParisParis
INCLUDES FLIGHTS & TRANSFERS*
PRICES ARE PER PERSON
ADD 2 NIGHTS PARIS PRE-CRUISE
Category E
Fixed Windows
Piano Deck
170 sq. ft.
INCLUDED IN PRICE
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
Category D
Fixed Windows
Piano Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £230 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Piano Deck
Category C
French Balcony
Violin & Cello Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £1,153 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin & Cello Deck
Category B
French Balcony
Violin & Cello Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £1,384 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin & Cello Deck
Category A
French Balcony
Violin Deck
170 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £1,461 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Category A+
French Balcony
Violin Deck
225 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £2,230 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck
Suite
French Balcony
Violin Deck
255 sq. ft.
ADDITIONAL £2,461 PER PERSON
LOCATED ON DECK:
Violin Deck

Notes:

ImportantDates, fares & itineraries are subject to change.

Port Charges (included in cruise fare)£188 per person.

Single Supplement for Cruise50% of per person double occupancy fare; Suites 100% of per person double occupancy fare. Please see terms below for details.

Single Supplement for LandA single supplement charge will be applied to pre- and post-cruise hotel extensions. Please call for pricing details.

BeddingPlease select bedding configuration at the time of booking. Option A: Two twin beds Option B: One large bed (larger than queen size).

**Note: Monet’s home and other attractions in Giverny are closed in March, November and December. Guests may participate in alternative excursions or visit another city on these cruises.

Terms & Conditions:

*All fly-cruise fares are per person, based on double occupancy of an entry level category stateroom unless stated otherwise. Rates include port charges, group overseas transfers (between airport and ship) and return economy flights from London Heathrow, London Gatwick or Manchester Airport. Flights from selected regional UK gateways are available from a £75pp supplement. Flight schedules and airlines used are fully at the discretion of AmaWaterways and timings will be confirmed at the time of flight booking confirmation. Requests for alternative flights may incur a supplement. Flight costs are based on embarkation and disembarkation points, supplements may occur when purchasing land packages if different gateways are required. Any offers shown are valid on select sailings only and are combinable with all past guest programmes, but not combinable with any other offers or promotions. Solo guests must pay an additional solo supplement before receiving any savings unless stated otherwise. Fares and offers are capacity controlled, subject to availability and may be changed or withdrawn at any time. Land programmes and gratuities are additional. Other restrictions may apply. Please see our brochure or website for full Terms & Conditions. Cruise Only Fares are available on request.

AmaLyra

The AmaLyra offers spacious 170-255 sq. ft. staterooms, most with French balconies, complimentary high-speed internet and WiFi, a walking track along our Sun deck, and guided bicycle tours at stops along the river.Learn more

Experience More Connections

Imagine toasting to the good life aboard an AmaWaterways river cruise
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Joan of Arc, Claude Monet, Roy Lichtenstein, Victor Hugo, J.M.W. Turner, the Hundred Years’ War and structures and architecture from the Middle Ages and Renaissance times.
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On June 6, 1944 in the early morning hours, more than 156,000 Allied soldiers stormed the usually tranquil and serene beaches off the coast of Normandy.
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