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Seine River

Why Sail the Seine?

Sailing the Seine River offers a captivating and romantic experience, showcasing the country's rich history, cultural treasures, and picturesque landscapes. You'll be treated to the stunning beauty of the French countryside as the river winds through picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, vineyards, and quaint villages. From the majestic Château de Versailles to the medieval town of Rouen and the charming village of Honfleur, you'll have the opportunity to explore centuries of French history, architecture, and art.

 

The Banks of the Seine in Paris have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. This recognition acknowledges the cultural and historical significance of the river and its embankments, which have inspired artists, writers, and thinkers for centuries. Painters such as Claude Monet, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, and Camille Pissarro depicted the river's beauty in their works, capturing the changing light and atmosphere along its course.

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The Seine River, known as La Seine in French, is a major river in northern France. It stretches approximately 777 kilometers (483 miles) in length and flows primarily through the region of Île-de-France, which includes the city of Paris, before emptying into the English Channel at Le Havre. The source of the Seine River is located in the Côte-d'Or department in the Burgundy region of France. Specifically, on the Plateau de Langres near the village of Source-Seine. This area is approximately 30 kilometers (19 miles) northwest of Dijon.

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The Seine River has historically played a crucial role in transportation and trade, serving as a vital waterway for the movement of goods and people. It remains an active commercial artery, supporting shipping and navigation in the region. It also serves as an important source of drinking water for Paris and surrounding areas. The city's water treatment facilities ensure the river's water is processed and purified before being distributed to households.

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Most Seine River cruise itineraries will be roundtrip from Paris, and include a day in Normandy. A few can be one-way adventures that use Paris as one end point, and possibly Le Havre as the other. Pre- and post-cruise extensions that include Mont Saint-Michel and/or Saint-Malo are excellent choices to expand your adventures!

When Should You Sail the Seine?

Sailing on the Seine can be enjoyable during any season of the year, though many find a visit around D-Day to be an especially moving experience. Pricing will tend to be lowest during low and shoulder seasons, though weather can be a little cooler during these time periods. But peak season brings tourist crowds and potentially hot summer days. Our preference is to sail April into early May or late September into October.

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Water level issues can crop up at at any time - read up on what causes issues and when they are most likely to occur on our Water Levels page.

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In general, the Seine River cruise season falls into these categories:​

January/February

Typically no sailings during this time of year.

May/June

This period is considered peak season.

September/October

This period is considered shoulder/low season.

March/April

This period is considered low/shoulder season.

July/August

This period is considered peak season.

November/December

November is low/No sailings in December

Select Cities Along the Seine

France

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From the iconic landmarks of Paris, such as the Eiffel Tower, to the beaches of Normandy, this itinerary is full of French culture and history. Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of Monet's Gardens in Giverny. Climb the hill to Richard the Lionheart's Château-Gaillard Castle in Les Andelys. Visit the Notre-Dame Cathedral in Rouen - the tallest cathedral in France, with a famous façade painted by Claude Monet, and wander the medieval streets and alleyways in the city where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.

Paris

Les Andelys

Le Havre

Giverny

Rouen

Normandy

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