- 2 Sailing Dates
- 3 Nights
- Paris
- MS Jane Austen
- Ref: RIVIERA112819
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
Arrive in Paris - On arrival in Paris, we'll transfer to our ship MS Jane Austen. This ship will be the perfect base for our short break in central France. Our welcoming, English-speaking crew will be ready to assist you in finding your cabin. After settling in, take some time to explore the many first-class amenities of this floating boutique hotel before sitting down to your first delicious dinner in our stylish onboard restaurant. We’ll begin our voyage downstream tonight.
Arrive 2027-10-29 00:00:00Vernon - Enjoy a leisurely breakfast as we cruise along the Seine this morning. After you've perused the breakfast buffet, we recommend heading to the panoramic lounge or sun deck where you can truly appreciate the tranquillity of sailing through France. Rounding the sweeping bends so typical of the Seine, we'll pass lush pastures, high hedgerows and a few of the quaint towns and villages that line its banks. We will arrive in the town of Vernon during lunch. This afternoon we arrive in Vernon, a picturesque riverside town framed by half-timbered houses, a grand Gothic church and views that once inspired some of the greatest Impressionist artists. After mooring here, we travel to the elegant Bizy Castle, affectionately known as the “Little Norman Versailles” for its classical 18thcentury architecture, ornate salons and aristocratic heritage. Our visit includes a delightful dance demonstration and a guided tour of the château’s beautifully furnished interiors – complete with carved wood panelling, Gobelins tapestries and Napoleonic era souvenirs that once belonged to its illustrious owners, including Louis XV and King Louis Philippe. Afterwards, you can wander freely through the tranquil gardens, where fountains, statues and centuries old trees create an atmosphere of serenity and grandeur. Returning to Vernon, we’ll have a guided tour of this charming Seine side town. Highlights include medieval streets lined with timber framed houses, the striking Collégiale Notre Dame, and postcard perfect views of the Old Watermill balanced over the remains of a medieval bridge. You’ll then have free time to explore independently – perhaps strolling the riverside, visiting the small Impressionist museum, or simply soaking in the atmosphere that captivated artists like Monet. During tonight’s dinner, we’ll continue our journey sailing towards Rouen.
Arrive 2027-10-30 00:00:00Rouen - Waking up in Rouen, the historic heart of Normandy, you’ll find yourself in a city celebrated for its remarkable medieval character and its pivotal role throughout European history. At the centre of our visit is the magnificent Gothic cathedral, famously captured by the Impressionist master Claude Monet in a remarkable series of paintings that explored how its façade transformed under shifting light and weather. Once briefly the tallest structure in the world after its 19th‑century spire was completed, the cathedral also draws interest for the effigy said to house the heart of Richard the Lionheart. As we wander deeper into the old town, Rouen’s maze-like streets unveil rows of vintage shops, elegant boutiques, and eateries showcasing the region’s celebrated culinary traditions. One of the city’s most moving locations is the Place du Vieux‑Marché, marked today by a simple but powerful cross commemorating the spot where Joan of Arc was executed for her convictions. As you enjoy another delicious lunch on board, the ship gently eases away from Rouen and begins its leisurely journey down the Seine. Settle into a comfortable spot on deck or in the lounge as the scenery unfolds – chalk cliffs, peaceful farmland, and charming riverside hamlets drifting by. During the evening, we pass the dramatic château and village of La Roche‑Guyon, one of the Seine Valley’s most striking sights. Its imposing fortress, carved partly into the rock face, rises above the river in a remarkable blend of medieval and Renaissance architecture. It’s the kind of view that seems lifted from a storybook. As the river curves through this picturesque landscape, there’s time to simply relax and take in the changing vistas. Should you wish, why not arrange to visit the wheelhouse, the Captain is always delighted to explain to those interested how the highly sophisticated navigation and safety systems operate. 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 regions of France. In the early hours we will stop overnight in Conflans.
Arrive 2027-10-31 00:00:00Paris - As you enjoy breakfast, our ship begins its journey toward the magnificent French capital. Settle in, unwind, and take in the gentle river views as we spend a peaceful morning cruising in comfort. We reach Paris around lunchtime, and this afternoon you can choose between two included excursions: a panoramic coach experience or a more energetic guided walk. If you’d prefer to see the highlights from a comfortable seat, join our panoramic coach tour. We’ll pass many of Paris’ world‑famous landmarks – such as the Arc de Triomphe, the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Trocadéro, the Musée d’Orsay, and numerous other celebrated sights. For those who’d enjoy stretching their legs, our guided walk brings you closer to the heart of the city. Covering around 2.5 miles, the route begins at Place des Vosges –Paris’ oldest planned square – before continuing past the Hôtel de Ville, across Île de la Cité to UNESCO‑listed Notre-Dame, and onward to the Louvre, the Tuileries Gardens, and other notable locations. After dinner, relax with an evening of classic French tunes, performed live by a talented accordionist. Later, why not make use of your included drinks package and enjoy a complimentary drink in the lounge? It’s the perfect way to toast an unforgettable voyage aboard MS Jane Austen.
Arrive 2027-11-01 00:00:00Return home
Arrive 2027-11-02 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: Rail Price (Chester Station). 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
<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
<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?
or alternatively
Product Code
RIVIERA112819