- 10 Sailing Dates
- 4 Nights
- Paris
- MS Jane Austen
- Ref: RIVIERA112693
Overview
Launched in 2015 and built to the most exacting standards, the MS Jane Austen is truly one of the finest ships of its type afloat anywhere in the world.
Launched in 2015 and built to the most exacting standards, the MS Jane Austen is truly one of the finest ships of its type afloat anywhere in the world.
Every single aspect of the MS Jane Austen is designed to the highest possible specification and our own exacting standards to bring you the very best and most enjoyable river cruising experience, in the most luxurious comfort. We have worked tirelessly with our Swiss partner, Scylla AG, one of the world’s most experienced luxury river ship builders with a pedigree stretching back over 50 years, to design the perfect vessel, with virtually no expense spared.
Route
Cruise Itinerary
Arrival in Paris
Arrive 2027-12-02 00:00:00Vernon & Bizy Castle - As you enjoy breakfast, the landscape passes by serenely, and you quickly get used to this luxurious sightseeing experience. Rounding a sweeping bend typical of the Seine, villages slip by, and birds glide down from the surrounding cliffs. It's an ideal opportunity to join new friends for a chat or squeeze in a spot of reading in the lounge with a cosy cup of tea. This remarkable château, built in 1740, has evidently drawn inspiration from the grandeur of Versailles and is lovingly referred to as "Little Norman Versailles." It has served as a residence for pivotal figures in French history, including the Dukes of Belle-Isle and Penthièvre, the last King of the French, Louis-Philippe, and Joseph-Napoléon Bonaparte, the elder brother of Napoleon. In small groups, we'll enjoy a tour of the castle's salons, adorned with homely Christmas decorations, as well as carved wood panelling and souvenirs from the Bonaparte Family that offer a glimpse into life as the owner of this historic château. We'll taste the magic of Normandy as we discover the 750 diverse apple varieties that thrive in this region, ideal for crafting exceptional cider. Our interactive tasting experience celebrates the artistry of local producers, teaches us more about their meticulous production and the prestigious Appellation d'Origine Contrôlée that honours their quality. As we travel back to our ship, you’ll enjoy an orientation tour of Vernon, introducing you to the town before time at leisure to relax on the ship or explore. After dinner this evening, join us for an organ recital in the atmospheric Vernon Cathedral. Built between the 11th and 16th centuries, the cathedral is considered one of the most beautiful examples of medieval architecture in France. Bask in its unique blend of architectural styles - Romanesque, Gothic - and let the lovely organ music wash over you as the talented musicians delight us with a mix of Christmas and choral music.
Arrive 2027-12-03 00:00:00Conflans & Chantilly Castle - This morning, we'll visit the home of Henri d’Orléans, Duke of Aumale, son of the last King of France, Louis-Philippe. Chantilly is truly a remarkable gem within the rich tapestry of France's cultural heritage, celebrated for its exquisite beauty and historical significance. The prince was the greatest collector of his time and under his stewardship, he made Chantilly the showcase for his vast array of masterpieces and invaluable manuscripts. We'll marvel at the intricate artwork and literary treasures that reflect the artistic brilliance of the time, each piece telling its own unique story. During the Christmas season, Chantilly transforms into a magical wonderland, enchanting all who visit. The estate is adorned with twinkling lights that illuminate the grounds, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Tasteful Christmas decorations enhance the elegance of the surroundings. The surrounding parkland hosts the Grandes Écuries (Great Stables) - a magnificent palace for horses - where the Living Museum of the Horse invites you to explore the profound bond between humans and horses throughout history. Returning to our ship for lunch, we’ll spend the afternoon sailing back towards Paris. This is the perfect opportunity to make the most of the ship’s facilities. You could head to the sun deck for a warming mug of mulled wine as we watch the sights of Paris, like the Eiffel Tower, glide into view. This evening, we'll enjoy a culinary highlight of the trip, our special Chef's Dinner. The chef serves up his signature dishes, influenced by many flavours of France. Tonight, we remain moored in Paris.
Arrive 2027-12-04 00:00:00Paris - Built for Nicolas Fouquet, Louis XIV’s Superintendent of Finance, Vaux-le-Vicomte is one of the largest châteaux in France and was a source of inspiration for the Château de Versailles. Its grandeur is the result of the collaboration of some of the most renowned artists of the 17th century: architect Louis Le Vau, decorator Charles Le Brun, and gardener André Le Nôtre. Although it was built to honour the king, the château was so magnificent that when King Louis XIV saw it, he suspected that Fouquet must have been stealing from the treasury. Fouquet enjoyed only three weeks in his splendid residence before he was arrested and ultimately exiled. A testament to Le Vau’s genius (and Fouquet’s wealth) the palace captivates visitors right from the front steps by the delicacy of its façade, with a pediment sculpted with squirrels – Fouquet’s emblem - and the sweeping views of the gardens. Inside, is one of the great 17th-century abodes with perfectly preserved panelling, paintings and sculptures ornamenting the rooms. At Christmas, it's another world. The chateau is adorned not just with lights but with breathtaking displays in every room, even the stables. Each fireplace crackles warmly, wrapping the space in a cosy embrace. The gardens sparkle with illumination, and the estate buzzes with joyful activities, culminating in a mesmerising projection light show on the chateau's facade. The only thing they can't control is whether it snows! Each year, the castle chooses a different theme, ensuring a completely new experience every year. It's the place to go in Paris at Christmas time and you’ll have the morning to enjoy a self-guided tour. This afternoon, after a late lunch on board, we'll head back to Paris for a walking tour through its iconic streets admiring the yuletide decorations along Paris’ grand boulevards. Accompanied by a local guide, we'll take a look at some of the city's sights while hearing more about the daily life of an average Parisian. Our tour ends at the Christmas markets, where you can sip hot mulled wine, snack on roasted chestnuts and sample delicious sausages, cheese and chocolates as you browse the beautiful displays of arts and crafts, decorations, fine wines and other gifts. Paris is everything you imagine it to be – romantic, inspiring, vibrant and, at this time of year, festive. It's a fitting finale to our French river cruise. Personalise your holiday - Bateaux Parisien sightseeing cruise Price: £17pp Duration: 1 hour This evening, you could choose to join us for a sightseeing tour along the Seine to discover why they call Paris the City of Lights. Every bend of the Seine, a UNESCO-listed World Heritage Site, reveals a new view of the city's thousand-year-old history. Equipped with an audio guide in English, you'll be taken on a journey through the stories and anecdotes that have shaped the French capital and see the city's magnificent sites, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Musée d'Orsay and more, light up the skies. Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking.
Arrive 2027-12-05 00:00:00Return home
Arrive 2027-12-06 00:00:00Prices & Dates
Ruby Deck - Superior Suite (Middle)
Ruby Deck (Middle)
Emerald Deck (Lower)
Emerald Deck - Superior Suite (Lower)
Diamond Deck - Superior Suite (Upper)
Diamond Deck (Upper)
Diamond Deck - Superior Stern Suite (Upper)
Diamond Deck - Deluxe Suite (Upper)
Prices shown for: Eurostar Price (St Pancras). Subject to availability.
Ship & Accommodation
Air conditioned cabins
For the ultimate in space and river cruise luxury, on the Diamond (top) deck there are four deluxe suites, at 22.5 square metres (242 square feet) a full 50% larger than a standard cabin, beautifully appointed and incredibly comfortable, plus for a final homely touch, soft cotton bathrobes and slippers. You will love them.
Features
- Individual climate control
- Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Spacious ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- EU plug sockets
- Table and chairs
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
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For more space you can upgrade to a suite available on all decks, featuring the same facilities as standard cabins but being larger at 18.5 square meters (199 square feet). The extra space is purely devoted to the living area, so you really notice the difference.
Features
- Individual climate control
- Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- EU plug sockets
- Table and chairs
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
<br>
For more space you can upgrade to a suite available on all decks, featuring the same facilities as standard cabins but being larger at 18.5 square meters (199 square feet). The extra space is purely devoted to the living area, so you really notice the difference.
Features
- Individual climate control
- Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- EU plug sockets
- Table and chairs
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
For more space you can upgrade to a suite available on all decks, featuring the same facilities as standard cabins but being larger at 18.5 square meters (199 square feet). The extra space is purely devoted to the living area, so you really notice the difference.
Features
- Individual climate control
- Fixed window
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- EU plug sockets
- Table and chairs
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
At 15 square metres (161 square feet), your luxuriously appointed cabin is amongst the largest, most comfortable and best appointed on any European river cruise vessel - with all the high quality facilities you would expect from a top hotel, and more.
Features
- Individual climate control
- Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- EU plug sockets
- Table and chairs
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
<br>
At 15 square metres (161 square feet), your luxuriously appointed cabin is amongst the largest, most comfortable and best appointed on any European river cruise vessel - with all the high quality facilities you would expect from a top hotel, and more.
Features
- Individual climate control
- Fixed window
- Twin beds which can be configured as double
- Tea and coffee making facilities
- Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
- Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
- Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
- EU plug sockets
- Table and chairs
- Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
- Safe & mini fridge
- Turn down service
On the Ruby Deck is the main restaurant. Here, against a breath-taking scenic backdrop through the magnificent tinted panoramic windows, the chefs will amaze you with fine dining of the highest order, using freshly prepared seasonal produce to create the very best of European cuisine. The sumptuous breakfast buffet, with omelettes and fresh eggs prepared to order, ensures a great start to the day and at lunchtime the salad and dessert buffet allows you to opt for something lighter, or choose a hearty lunch from the pasta station or the à la carte soup and main courses – just as you desire. A four-course dinner is excellently executed with silver service, whilst our ‘open seating’ policy ensures a relaxed dining experience which you will always look forward to.
Cuisine: varies · Experience: complimentary
We are a well-travelled collective - made up of our guests as well as our team. We'll admit it - we're obsessed with travel.
But that's not our only interest. We also love architecture, history, the arts, and gastronomy - everything that makes a culture unique. And we plan our itineraries to ensure we're catering to those interests. Perfecting every excursion to ensure you get the most out of your onshore adventures.
Most days are filled with full or half-day excursions. Whether that's a city tour, an introduction to a brand-new town or a more in-depth visit to a specific landmark or attraction. You'll see the very best of every destination. Not just the legendary locations, we'll uncover the top-secret local spots too.
World-famous landmarks
You'll get to experience some world-famous destinations in the company of our passionate local guides. Sites like the Benedictine Melk Abbey on the Danube, spectacular Pont du Gard on the Rhône, Keukenhof Gardens - the world's largest flower gardens - on the Dutch Waterways and Cologne with its cathedral, the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe.
A taste of your destination
Food has the uncanny ability to reveal the softer parts of the destination most tourists overlook. Recipes passed down through the generations slowly become ingrained within a culture, featuring fresh local produce and traditional cooking techniques. Our excursions often include delicious local produce perfected over centuries - sample cheese in Switzerland and chocolate in Germany (it's not a cruise for those watching their weight), wine tasting in the world-famous wine region of Burgundy and port in the port wine cellars of Porto.
For even more, why not choose one of our Gastronomy themed departures?
Authentic cultural experiences
Our river cruise itineraries deliver authentic and engaging moments to fully immerse you in the culture. You'll remember being seduced by the fiery passion of flamenco dancing after a cruise along the Douro. Hold on to that feeling of wonder you felt as you watch the glassblower creating the most beautiful vase out of a glowing mass. And tell the stories you heard during a Hungarian folklore show to your grandchildren at bedtime. The memory of these authentic cultural experiences will last a lifetime.
A daily programme is produced on board and delivered to your cabin each evening, detailing the following day’s activities.
On our river cruises we love to take you right into the heart of each town or city you visit along the way, and during your cruise local guides will offer a variety of guided walking tours, panoramic coach tours and/or visits to museums and local cultural favourites such as a wine tasting in Burgundy and a train journey through the Swiss mountains.
You will have a good mix of touring and free time to learn about the history and the little quirks of each place, with plenty of time to explore at your own leisure. Please check the itinerary of the cruise for more specific details.
Optional excursions
Visits to places of interest are organised for most of the days of your holiday, but it it is not compulsory that you go on all the included experiences that have been arranged.
Please note: entrance fees to museums are not usually included in the price of your holiday.
On the Diamond Deck is the magnificent panoramic observation lounge, the heart of the ship with wonderful views through floor to ceiling windows of the ever-changing landscape as you move along the river. This is where the ships superb design really is so evident. You’ll love the quality feel, the genteel ambience, the rich carpeting, the marble-tiled bar and the choice of sumptuous leather armchairs and soft modern settees. What could be better than to lose yourself in conversation with like-minded new friends, sip a coffee, perhaps play chess or bridge, or just relax whilst admiring the incredible scenery? And after a delicious dinner, appreciate our pianist, a gentle dance on the purpose-designed dance floor, or just enjoy a quiet read in the peaceful La Brasserie at the rear of the ship, ideal to while away an hour on a comfortable terrace absorbing the sights and sounds of Europe’s great rivers.
The Emerald Deck boasts a very special feature of the Jane Austen - its purpose-designed and extensive spa and wellness area You can reserve the spa for your private use to take a sauna or use the steam room, or perhaps visit the on-board hairdresser (small additional fee).
Please note: The Emerald Deck is only accessible by stairs.
There is no requirement to bring formal dress - smart/casual is acceptable for both day and evening as there is no dress code enforced.
However, men are requested not to wear shorts for dinner or vest tops at any time in the dining room. You may wish to wear a jacket and tie for dinner.
The Chef's Dinner offers the opportunity, should you wish, for more special attire.
Do the coaches have wheelchair access?
The coaches we use have not been adapted for wheelchair access.
Please note: all of our tours involve coach travel.
Can I arrange airport assistance?
We are able to arrange airport assistance for anyone with reduced mobility.
This is a free service which must be arranged with the airline prior to travel.
If you would like us to arrange this assistance for you, it needs to be pre-booked more than 48 hours before your flight departs.
Eurostar accessibility
If you have reduced mobility and are travelling on one of our Eurostar tours please contact us.
Should you need to travel in your own wheelchair, Eurostar does have specially adapted wheelchair spaces which need to be pre-booked.
If you would like assistance at St. Pancras we can make Eurostar Assist aware of this requirement, you would then need to make your way to the Eurostar Assist desk at St. Pancras at least 60 minutes prior to your departure.
Are the hotels accessible?
The hotels we use have been chosen due to their location and standard, the facilities offered can differ, it is therefore important that we make the appropriate enquiries with our suppliers on your behalf to ensure any special needs or requests can be catered for.
How do I make a special request regarding my mobility?
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us.
If you have any concerns or special requests you would like to make regarding your reduced mobility, we encourage you to contact us 01283 688 206 to discuss these concerns.
Will there be lots of walking required?
We include guided tours, however due to the natural terrain of the locations we visit these may be a challenge for anyone with reduced mobility.
Are there any accessibility challenges on the excursions?
We also sometimes use different modes of transport to complete our itinerary which includes, though not limited to: boats, trains and jeeps. These may also pose a challenge for anyone with reduced mobility.
Can I take my own wheelchair with me on board?
Our ships are not adapted for wheelchair access. If you are intending to take a wheelchair or mobility scooter with you, it is essential that you contact us to let us know.
Wheelchairs and mobility scooters can be used on excursions but they cannot be used on board the ships due to safety reasons and must not be left in corridors, the lounge or restaurant or any other public areas.
They must be stored in your cabin.
Will I be able to get on and off the ship with ease?
Due to popularity of river cruising when there is more than one ship in port, the ships could be moored alongside each other.
If our ship happens to be moored away from the landing pier disembarking could involve walking across gang planks and the sun deck of other ships.
Passengers must be able to walk on and off the ship themselves, without the use of crutches or other aids, as gangplanks can be positioned at a steep angle.
Will there be assistance available on board?
River cruises operate with a smaller crew than ocean cruises and do not have the crew available to personally attend to passengers with reduced mobility, therefore a travelling companion would need to be able to help with any physical needs.
Are there any accessibility challenges on the excursions?
The itinerary we include with our river cruises involves shore excursions visiting places with cobbled streets which can be on an incline making navigation of these streets difficult for anyone with reduced mobility.
If you can’t do many shore excursions, river cruising in Europe can still be very enjoyable and worthwhile. Cruising down the Rhine, Danube or any of the European rivers we offer gives you the opportunity to take in the spectacular scenery and there is a lot to enjoy from the comfort of the ship. Please contact us with any concerns you may have.
Are there lifts between decks?
Whilst most of our ships have a lift on board, it does not operate to all decks.
We include mobility information regarding lifts between decks on each ship under the deck plan section of the page. You may wish to view all of our ships before booking.
We have a drinks package included for all European river cruises in 2024, 2025 and 2026.
Superior Drinks Package
For all 2024 and 2025 European river cruises:
Over lunch in our restaurants enjoy unlimited drinks from a choice of:
- Red, white, rosé and sparkling house wine, including non-alcoholic
- Draught beer, including non-alcoholic
- A selection of soft drinks and juices
Then from 6 pm until midnight in our bar and restaurants, enjoy all of the above, plus unlimited drinks from a choice of:
- Our cocktail and mocktail of the day
- House spirits and mixers (including gin, vodka, rum and whisky)
- A recommended regional wine during dinner
- Martini & Sherry pre-dinner
- Port & Brandy after dinner
All-inclusive drinks package
Available on 2026 European river cruise departures
Available from 10am to midnight each day:
- Red, white, rosé and sparkling house wine, including non-alcoholic
- A choice of draught beer, including non-alcoholic
- A selection of soft drinks and juices
- Our cocktail and mocktail of the day
- House spirits and mixers including vodka, gin, rum, whisky, martini, sherry, brandy, port and Baileys (excluding liqueurs)
- Daily recommended wines
- Tea and coffee from the bar
- The minimum age limit is 12 years old at the date of departure.
- We reserve the right to limit the number of children on any particular cruise.
- Any minor must be accompanied by and share a cabin with an adult aged 21 or over.
- If the adult is not the minor’s parent, a ‘Parental Consent Guardianship Form’ must be signed by a parent or legal guardian prior to sailing.
Other Info
Giving a gratuity is entirely at your discretion, so we have not included these in your holiday cost, and we don't add it as a set percentage.
If you would like to tip the staff, a good guideline is to give €8-12 per person per day should you feel that is appropriate.
If you do choose to give a gratuity, there will usually be an envelope is left in your cabin on the final evening. This is for you to be able include any tips, and you can then drop it off at reception the following morning. The tips are divided equally between the crew.
Should you also wish to give a gratuity directly to your Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge, this is also at your discretion.
- All prices are per person, based on two sharing, and subject to availability.
- A valid passport is required for all passengers. Passports should be valid for at least six months beyond your return date.
- Travel insurance is strongly recommended for all bookings.
- Prices may vary depending on cabin type, departure date, and availability.
Why not speak to one of our cruise experts?
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Product Code
RIVIERA112693