The Riviera Fam has officially begun last night as the group launched off on the MS Jane Austen from Paris on an 8 day river cruise!
On the ITTN exclusive fam as part of last year’s RiverFest, Katie from ITTN joins Carrie Day, Country Manager for Riviera Travel and Cara Byrne from Killiney Travel, Carmel Corrigan – Marble City Travel, Annette Hynes – Fahy Travel, Caroline O’Toole – JWT Travel, Sharon Tiernan-Murphy – Travel Counsellors, Maura Doran – Best4Travel Wexford and Sarah Fleming – Cassidy Travel and Jackie Sheehan from Frosch!
The journey began on an Aer Lingus flight to Paris yesterday morning where the group joined the Riviera team at Charles de Gaulle airport before a 40 minute bus journey into the magnificent City of Light. After arriving in Paris, they transferred to the elegant river ship, the MS Jane Austen. The Eiffel Tower shimmered in the afternoon light as a perfect welcome to the timeless city. Settling into their gorgeous cabins, they enjoyed welcoming drinks and afternoon tea before a lovely dinner downstairs in the main restaurant.
After a leisurely breakfast this morning, the lush Norman landscape glided past the windows as they relaxed in double beds. After lunch, they arrived in Les Andelys, a postcard-worthy village nestled between rolling hills and the riverbank. The group took a shuttle bus to the ruins of Château Gaillard, once the stronghold of Richard the Lionheart, and stood in awe at the commanding views over the Seine valley—a moment that felt like stepping into history.
Tomorrow, the group will explore Rouen, one of France’s most captivating medieval cities. They’ll see the Gothic spires of Rouen Cathedral with a guided tour overseeing the Roman era to Joan of Arc’s fateful trial—before returning to the ship for an afternoon sailing through the heart of Normandy.
Day 4 – Bayeux & Arromanches or Taste of Normandy
As a guest on Riviera you have a choice between two incredible excursions. One option is a visit to Bayeux, to view its world-renowned tapestry that tells the story of the Norman conquest, followed by a stop at Arromanches, where remnants of the D-Day landings still remain along the coast. Alternatively, there’s the Taste of Normandy tour, indulging in regional delights like apple cider, pungent cheeses, and Calvados, while meeting the artisans behind these cherished traditions.
Day 5 – Honfleur
A guided tour will reveal the charm of Honfleur, a harbor town beloved by artists and dreamers. With its narrow lanes, pastel facades, and bobbing fishing boats, Honfleur promises to be a highlight of the journey. After exploring its art galleries and waterfront cafés, the group will return to the ship and spend the afternoon drifting peacefully along the Seine.
Day 6 – Giverny & Vernon
The following day will take the group into the world of Claude Monet at Giverny, where his house and garden await. Theyll stroll past vibrant flower beds and stand on the arched bridge overlooking the water lily pond—the very scenes that inspired some of his most iconic works. Later, in Vernon, they’ll explore charming old streets and visit the famous Old Mill, perched romantically over the river.
Day 7 – Paris
Back in Paris, the group will have another opportunity to experience its magic. Guests can choose between a panoramic coach tour that sweeps past landmarks like the Arc de Triomphe and Notre-Dame, or a more intimate walking tour through a historic arrondissement. With some free time afterward, the group plans to soak up the Parisian atmosphere—perhaps with a coffee on a café terrace or a stroll along the Seine as the sun sets behind the bridges.
Day 8 – Return Home
The time will come to bid farewell to the ship and its wonderful crew. With suitcases a little heavier and hearts undeniably full, the group will begin the journey home.
