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Burgundy, Beaujolais & Provence
Here We Come!

The Ultimate French Wine Country River Cruise:
Burgundy, Beaujolais & Provence

November 4 - 11, 2025

Take a delightful river cruise through France along the Rhône and Saône Rivers with guided sightseeing in well-known French treasures and some hidden gems too! Take in the beautiful countryside, quaint villages and towns, as you sail through the most captivating views of France.

Burgundy Provence Wine Lovers Cruise

A Master of Wine will accompany you on your French river cruise with presentations, tastings, and wine pairings along the way.

Board your Avalon Suite Ship® on the Saône in Chalon-sur-Saône, and cruise to Tournus for an excursion to a Chardonnay wine cellar. Visit Lyon, France’s gastronomic capital, founded by the Romans in 43 BC, which sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône Rivers and is a showcase of medieval and Renaissance architecture. See the popular Place des Terreaux with its lively cafés and monuments and stand in front of the famous fountain you’ve seen on postcards. Take a culinary walk and enjoy a tour of Beaujolais, the famous wine of the region. Beautifully nestled among vineyards, you’ll find the city of Tournon, a medieval treasure with plenty of Roman ruins and a fascinating 16th-century castle. Enjoy a guided walk with a wine-and-chocolate tasting or a walk in the vineyards. Continue your river cruise to historical Avignon and see the 14th-century Palace of the Popes—the largest Gothic fortress in the world – and take a guided tour to Châteauneuf du Pape. On the Rhône River sits Arles, France—famous for inspiring the paintings of Van Gogh and its 1st-century Roman Amphitheater, which hosts plays and concerts to this day.

About Masters of Wine
Seldom do travelers get the chance to learn about wines from a master! Avalon invites you to sail in the company of a Master of Wine (MW) who shares elite experience, unsurpassed knowledge, and personal passion for wines on board your ship. With only 450 Masters of Wine in the world, Avalon Waterways is honored to welcome a Master of Wine on board our Wine-Lovers cruises to share their rigorous training and prestigious expertise recognized globally across the wine industry. A truly exclusive experience for wine lovers!

*taken directly from the Avalon Waterways website*
  • Seven Birches Wine Club Trip to Burgundy & Provence
  • Seven Birches Wine Club Trip to Burgundy & Provence
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WHAT does the trip include?

8 Days Sailing the Saône and Rhône Rivers, from Burgundy to Provence, France

  • 8 Days, 7 Nights, aboard the Avalon Poetry II starting in Chalon Sur Saône and ending in Arles, France.
  • Includes deluxe stateroom accommodations, double occupancy (upgrades available).
  • Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner each day (all wine & beverages included at meals).
  • 6 days of wine adventures and wine excursions (you choose your excursion in each port).
  • Master of Wine onboard conducting special wine tastings of local French wines.
  • Does NOT include flights to/from France.  Flights are on your own.
  • Includes on-board gratuities and all port charges.*

*Gratuities for bus drivers, tour guides, and the sommelier are not included.   Tipping your drivers and guides are not “required”, though you may reward any of them for a job well done.

MORE CRUISE DETAILS

WHERE are we going?

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
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The French Wine Regions of Burgundy, Beaujolais & Provence

Day 1 CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE, FRANCE (EMBARKATION):  Welcome to France.   

Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.

  • Flights into Lyon must arrive by 2 pm.  Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.
  • OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN TOURNUS

Day 2 TOURNUS.  Pearl of Southern Burgundy. 

Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.

  • CLASSIC EXCURSION
    Tucked away in the southeast corner of Burgundy, Tournus is one of the oldest and most important monastic centers in the region, Our Local Guide will show the highlights of this delightful town.
  • DISCOVERY EXCURSION
    Join an excursion that will take you to a Chardonnay cellar for a wine tasting.
  • DISCOVERY EXCURSION
    Join a lecture about wine hosted by your Master of Wine while sailing to Mâcon.
  • OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN TRÉVOUX

Day 3 LYON:  La Vie En Rose in Lyon.  Sail for lovely Lyon this morning.

  • DISCOVERY EXCURSION
    Enjoy an onboard cheese and wine tasting hosted by your Master of Wine while sailing to Lyon.
  • ACTIVE EXCURSION
    Discover Lyon’s architectural district by bike with your Adventure Host, over bridges, and along the banks where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet, OR:
  • CLASSIC EXCURSION
    Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour to survey Lyon from Fourvière Hill with its numerous churches. You’ll also explore the Old Town with its maze of medieval alleyways, and the lively cafés, monuments, and famed fountain of Place des Terreaux.
  • DISCOVERY EXCURSION
    Be our guest for a WWII & French Resistance tour lecture on board your ship.
    Later enjoy live entertainment after dinner.
  • OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN LYON

Day 4 LYON: Adventures in Food and Wine

  • DISCOVERY EXCURSION
    Join a Culinary Walk through the city to discover why Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France.
  • DISCOVERY EXCURSION
    Take a guided tour to the lovely Beaujolais area and learn more about its light and pleasant wine.
  • DISCOVERY EXCURSION
    This evening, join an onboard food and wine pairing dinner hosted by your Master of Wine.
  • EVENING CRUISE TO TOURNON

Day 5  TOURNON – VIVIERS:  A Rendezvous with Castle Views and Vineyards

  • ACTIVE EXCURSION
    Hike in the vineyards and take in the breathtaking views from the hills (weather permitting), OR:
  • CLASSIC EXCURSION
    Take a morning Guided Walking Tour to explore Tournon—one of France’s oldest medieval cities. See its 16th-century castle, and Roman ruins between the Rhône River and the granite slopes of the Hermitage. The tour also includes a wine and chocolate tasting at the Cité du Chocolat at Valrhona.
    Enjoy a leisurely sail to Viviers after lunch.
  • VIVIERS
    World History in a Charming French Country Village
  • CLASSIC EXCURSION
    Explore the pale-stone buildings of Viviers on a late afternoon Guided Walking Tour of this charming village. You’ll see its Romanesque cathedral and Old Town with a mix of historical Christian, Roman, and medieval influences.
    Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.
  • EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO AVIGNON

Day 6 AVIGNON: The City of Popes in Picturesque Provence

Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.

  • CLASSIC EXCURSION
    Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the fortress city of Avignon—with its ramparts encircling the city—and a visit to the amazing Palace of the Popes.
  • DISCOVERY EXCURSION
    Enjoy a trip to the famed wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape for a true taste of the Rhône wine region.
    Later, enjoy live onboard entertainment.
  • EVENING CRUISE TO ARLES

Day 7 ARLES:  Inspiring Sights and Avant-Garde Lights

  • ACTIVE EXCURSION
    Get your daily dose of exercise through a Power Walk in Arles with your Adventure Host, OR:
  • DISCOVERY EXCURSION
    Attend a Painting Workshop to learn techniques of Vincent van Gogh. Create your own painting in the style of the legendary artist, OR:
  • CLASSIC EXCURSION
    Enjoy a Guided Walking Tour of Arles—the captivating city of the Provence region. You’ll visit the Roman Amphitheater in this visually stunning city.
    Take free time to stop in Le Café van Gogh for a glass of wine.
  • OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN ARLES

Day 8 ARLES (Disembarkation):

  • Your cruise ends this morning
  • Flights should not leave Marseille airport before 10 am.

WHEN do we set sail?

November 4 – 11, 2025  (Tuesday – Tuesday)

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4, 2025 from Chalon Sur  Saône (EMBARKATION)

  • Recommended Flights into Paris, France.
  • Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.

TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 11, 2025 – Arles, France (DISEMBARKATION)

  • Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.
  • Recommended flights out of Marseille, France.

HOW do we get there?

Aboard the luxury riverboat, Avalon Poetry II

Avalon Poetry II - Seven Birches Wine Club TripYou will need to book your own flights coming and going.  But, before you do, lets chat.  There are many great ways to make the flights more affordable and/or more valuable.

The ship will depart from Chalon Sur Saone.  The closest airport is Lyon (transfers available), but Paris is another good option.    The last port of call is Arles and the closest airport there is Marseille (transfers available).

  • Flights into Lyon must arrive by 2 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.
  • Flights should not leave Marseille airport before 10 am.

WHO is invited?

Wine Club Members, Friends & Family

Seven Birches Wine Club Travelers

As a benefit of the Seven Birches Wine Club, members may invite their friends & family to join us, if space permits.  We are limited in the number of spaces at this amazing group rate, so please don’t hesitate and miss out.  You will be accompanied by Mark & Stephanie, winery owners, and a whole host of staff aboard the beautiful Avalon Poetry II.

WHY should we choose this club trip?

Because this trip will take you deep into 3 of the most notable wine regions in the world, on a luxury cruise, with some amazing people!

 

“Because we should explore the world…and it’s a really good deal!” ~ Seven Birches Winery Owner, Mark LaClair

If you have ever considered visiting the French wine regions of Burgundy, Beaujolais, and Provence, or if you simply love to travel and explore different cultures, then this trip is for you.  Each day is riddled with wine themed activities and excursions with trained and professional guides.  To do this trip on your own (travel, meals, activities), you would be looking at spending $5000-$7000 per person.  Going as a group, especially with our discounted club pricing, you will get to do it all, for less than half of the cost of going on your own.    One more reason; you deserve it!

Deluxe Stateroom
Category "E"

$ SOLD OUT

Per Month

+ $359 pp optional Travel Protection
(highly recommended)

Avalon Poetry II - Category E, D

INDIGO DECK / FOREWARD

Deluxe Stateroom
Category "D"

$ 2958

per person, double occupancy

+ $359 pp optional Travel Protection
(highly recommended)

Avalon Poetry II - Category E, D

INDIGO DECK / AFT

Panorama Suite
Category "B"Best Value

$ 4208

per person, double occupancy

+ $439 pp optional Travel Protection
(highly recommended)

Avalon Poetry II - Category A, B, P

200 sq. ft.

SAPPHIRE DECK / AFT

Panoram Suite
Category "A"

$ 4308

per person, double occupancy

+ $439 pp optional Travel Protection
(highly recommended)

Avalon Poetry II - Category A, B, P

200 sq. ft.

SAPPHIRE DECK / FOREWARD

Panoram Suite
Category "P"

$ 4358

per person, double occupancy

+ $439 pp optional Travel Protection
(highly recommended)

Avalon Poetry II - Category A, B, P

200 sq. ft.

ROYAL DECK

Royal Suite
Category "S"

$ 5458

per person, double occupancy

+ $439 pp optional Travel Protection
(highly recommended)

300 sq. ft.

ROYAL DECK

I'm Interested. Contact me with more information.

Selected Value: 0

I'm interested. Where can I find more information?

You are welcome to look at the official Avalon Waterways website for more specific information.  Please keep in mind that the rates shown to the public are different than what we get for our wine club.  Of course, our rates are better.   Big smile!

More Cruise Details

START SOONER, STAY LONGER

2 Nights in Paris

+ $ 949

per person, double occupancySpend 3 days, 2 nights before the cruise enjoying this magnificent city.

View the Full Itinerary

2 Nights in Nice, France

+ $ 659

per person, double occupancyAdd 3 days, 2 nights after the cruise to enjoy the French Mediterranean Coast.

View the Full Itinerary

Do it all!Best Value. Longest Trip.

+ $ 1608

per person, double occupancyExtend your cruise by 4 nights (2 in Paris and 2 in Nice) and literally, do it all.

View the Full Itinerary

FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions

If the answers aren't right here, please contact us. We're here to help.

How do I reserve my spot on this trip?

The prices listed for this trip are for “double occupancy” which means that you are sharing a room with one other person (2 people per room).  IF you are traveling as a single person, there is likely an additional fee called a “single supplement” which varies depending on the trip and accomodations type.

The reason the tour companies charge this “single supplement” fee is because they are losing out on a guest/passenger.  When you travel alone, you are taking up the space that normally would occupy 2 people, so the tour company needs to make up for the loss of that 2nd guest/passenger by passing the cost on to you.  Many times, it is nearly the cost of another passenger joining you, which is why we strongly recommend traveling in pairs.  Please do not hesitate to contact us if you would like any further clarification or assistance on traveling alone.

When you are ready to reserve your spot on this trip, simply contact us directly and we will start the process.  We will communicate with you individually to get all the details just right.  Then, we will create an invoice for you with all of your details and the costs for the trip.   Your invoice will request a non-refundable deposit to guarantee your reservation.

The very first thing required is your NON-REFUNDABLE, $250 per person deposit.  The last day that you are able to commit to the trip, by way of making your deposit, is April 30, 2025.  However, please do not wait that long to decide and make your deposit.  This trip is limited and first come, first served.

Once your deposit is made, we will be in touch with you for more information and next steps.

What is the payment plan for this trip?

Please make note of the following important dates regarding your booking and the payment plan:

  • $250 NON-REFUNDABLE DEPOSIT due no later than April 9, 2025
  • Trip Balance due no later than July 6, 2025

Installment plans will be discussed with you once you have made your deposit and secured your reservations.  You may wish to make frequent (monthly) payments in smaller increments between now and the end of February.  We can assist you in setting that up.  Contact us if you would like to do this now.

How do we get to/from the airport/ship on arrival and departure days?

AIRPORT TRANSFERS

Transportation from the airport to the ship is available, as are transfers from the ship to airports.  So much depends on your total travel plans, that we recommend discussing with Mark and Stephanie, who will be joining you on this trip.  Please contact us if you would like to discuss your options.

If you choose to purchase arrival transfers with Avalon Waterways, you’ll need to fly into Lyon to catch a transfer.  Your arrival must be by 2pm, as it is almost a 4-hour drive to the ship.  The cost for arrival transfers is $200 per person.

Departure transfers are $55 per person and take you from the ship at the port in Arles to the Marseille airport on the departure day.

PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION

You certainly may choose public transportation rather than booking transfers.  Those with a sense of adventure could choose to find other suitable bus, train, or even taxi options that might be cheaper.  Again, the best thing to do is to speak with Mark or Stephanie about options. Please contact us if you would like to discuss your options.

What is the refund policy for this trip?

Your initial deposit of $250 is NON-REFUNDABLE.  You will not be able to get your money back, if you need to cancel.  We highly recommend purchasing the travel protection option (or other travel insurance) to be on the safe side.

IF you need to cancel, PRIOR to June 30, 2025, you will receive a refund minus the non-refundable deposit of $250.

AFTER June 30, 2025, cancellations will not be refunded and you will forfeit your trip.  Another good reason to purchase the travel protection option.

What does the travel protection entail and include?

Travel Protection:

  • Insurance provider: Aon Affinity
  • Able to add any time prior to final payment
  • Must purchase within two weeks of booking tour to cover pre-existing conditions
  • Nonrefundable
  • Detailed summary of coverage: affinitytravelcert.com/docs/GFB01

*Travel Protection is available for an additional $359 pp (trip cost = $2001–$4000) or $439 pp (trip cost = $4001 – $6000) or $479pp (trip cost = $6001 and up).
(Must be purchased at the same time of initial deposit, and is non- refundable, unless the tour is cancelled by the Operator.)
This plan offers comprehensive protection for your vacation. In addition to excellent trip coverage and cancellation protection, the
plan includes a Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit that allows for cancellations up to 24 hours prior to departure (or prior
business day, whichever is farther out) for any reason. In the event cancellation is for a non-covered reason under Travel Protection
the cancellation penalty retained by Globus, minus the Travel Protection payment, will be reimbursed under the Cancel for Any
Reason Waiver Benefit in the form of Travel Certificates valid for travel within two years from the original cancelled vacation start
date. This Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit does not cover Instant Purchase Air or independently purchased air.
*Travel Protection rate is based on the land cost of the tour. Rate may vary with additional land services i.e. single supplements and
cabin upgrades.

What food and beverages are included on this trip?

  • Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
  • Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
  • Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
  • Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
  • Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials
  • Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
  • Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
  • Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
  • Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro’s tasting menu for a less formal “sit-down” atmosphere
  • Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
  • Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options
  • Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections
  • Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
  • Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
  • New in 2023 – included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
  • Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
  • Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day

I'm traveling alone. How does that work?

The prices listed for this trip are based on “double occupancy” meaning that the accommodations are meant for 2 people.   If you are considering traveling alone, then there will most likely be an additional fee that you would need to pay called a “single supplement”.  That fee is often almost as much as having another person travel with you, which is why we encourage traveling in pairs.

The reason that tour operators charge this “single supplement” is because the rooms/spots they have to sell can accommodate 2 people.  When you travel alone, you are taking up 2 spots, and they would lose out on selling the 2nd spot.  They charge the “single supplement” to ensure that they are not losing on revenue that they would normally be able to make.  These fees vary by trip and accommodation type.

IF you have any question or need any further clarification or assistance with this, please contact us.

Much of the content for this webpage, was purposefully curated from the Avalon Waterways website for marketing and accuracy purposes.  Photos and text content is credited to Avalon Waterways.  Listed pricing is that of Seven Birches Wine Club members only.
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