2027 AmaCello Charter
Serve, Sip & Sail your way through France
Join Us for an Exciting European River Cruise Adventure at the Best Price! Our charter prices are $1000 less than the current AmaWaterways promo rates!
August 5, 2027
From Paris Courts to Provençal Vineyards, join Barb Strait of Straight Away Travel and Elizabeth Higginbottom of Pickleball in Paradise on an unforgettable AmaCello charter departing August 5, 2027.
Enhance your journey with an optional pre-cruise extension—choose Paris with pickleball clinics led by PIP Pros John & Leesa Walker or an AmaWaterways-led stay in Geneva—then cruise from Dijon to Arles, where you’ll enjoy specially curated wine tastings and visits to historic cellars and vineyards in France’s legendary wine regions.. Complete the experience with an AmaWaterways-led post-cruise extension to Nice and Monaco.
Space is limited—reserve your spot today.
Cruise Itinerary
Day 1- Port of Dijon (Embarkation)
Embark on your cruise from Dijon’s Port du Canal, a peaceful harbor on the historic Canal de Bourgogne. Just minutes from the city center, it offers easy access, a relaxed setting, and a picturesque start through Burgundy’s countryside of vineyards and charming villages.
Day 2- Chalon-sur-Saône and Tournus
Explore the timeless charm of Burgundy as you journey between Chalon-sur-Saône and Tournus. In Chalon-sur-Saône, discover a historic river town known for its half-timbered houses, Saint-Vincent Cathedral, and its legacy as the birthplace of photography pioneer Nicéphore Niépce. As you continue along the Saône, enjoy scenic cruising through vineyard-lined banks and peaceful villages before arriving in Tournus, one of Burgundy’s oldest towns. Here, Romanesque architecture and a relaxed riverside atmosphere offer a fitting conclusion to a day steeped in history, culture, and Burgundy’s renowned way of life.
Included Excursions Options
- Option 1 for Chalon-sur-Saône: History City Tour – Explore the historic center of Chalon-sur-Saône with a guided walk through its pedestrian old town. Admire timber-framed houses, visit Saint-Vincent Cathedral, and learn about Nicéphore Niépce, the pioneer of photography born here. Enjoy views along the Saône River while discovering how this river port shaped Burgundy’s commerce and culture.
- Option 2 for Chalon-sur-Saône: Beaune Walking Tour- Discover Beaune on foot, a beautifully preserved medieval town at the heart of Burgundy’s wine region. Walk along ancient ramparts and cobblestone streets before visiting the iconic Hôtel-Dieu (Hospices de Beaune), renowned for its colorful tiled roof and rich charitable history. Learn how Beaune became synonymous with some of the world’s most celebrated wines.
- Option 1 for Tournus: Scenic Cruising – Sit back and enjoy panoramic views as you glide past Burgundy’s countryside. Watch vineyards, Romanesque churches, and riverside villages unfold from the comfort of the ship while your guide shares insights into the region’s history and winemaking heritage.
- Option 2 for Tournus: Chalonnaise Wine Tasting- For active guests, cycle along scenic paths following the Saône River between Chalon-sur-Saône and Tournus. Ride through vineyards, farmland, and quiet villages, stopping along the way to appreciate Burgundy’s landscapes before arriving in historic Tournus.
Day 3- Tournus
Explore abbeys, châteaux, and holiday charm.
Delight in Tournus’ Benedictine Abbey of Saint Philibert or the elegant Château de Cormatin, or visit the quaint medieval village of Brancion. Cruise or bike to Mâcon while enjoying tastings of local wines, and let the season’s cozy ambiance enhance your exploration of Burgundy’s storied towns.
Included Excursion Options
- Option 1 for Tournus – Tournus City Tour & Abbey of Saint-Philibert– Explore the historic center of Tournus on a guided walking tour, featuring medieval streets and elegant townhouses. Visit the Abbey of Saint-Philibert, one of France’s finest Romanesque churches, admired for its massive stone architecture, vaulted nave, and centuries-old spiritual significance.
- Option 2 for Tournus – Château de Cormatin– Travel to the Château de Cormatin, a beautifully restored 17th-century château known for its lavishly decorated state rooms, grand staircases, and formal French gardens. Learn about aristocratic life during Burgundy’s golden age as you explore this architectural gem.
- Option 3 for Tournus – Medieval Brancion– Step back in time with a visit to Brancion, a remarkably preserved medieval hilltop village. Walk along ancient stone walls, see the remains of its fortress, and enjoy sweeping views over the Burgundy countryside from this once-strategic stronghold.
- Option 1 for Mâcon – Scenic Cruising– Relax on board as you glide along the Saône River toward Mâcon. Take in views of vineyard-covered hills, pastoral farmland, and charming riverside towns while learning about the region’s history and winemaking traditions.
- Option 2 for Mâcon – Mâconnais Wine Tasting – Discover the Mâconnais wine region, celebrated for its fresh, expressive Chardonnay. Visit local vineyards or cellars to sample regional wines while learning how climate and terroir shape the character of southern Burgundy wines.
- Option 3 for Mâcon – Tournus to Mâcon Bike Tour – Active guests may choose to cycle along scenic river paths from Tournus to Mâcon. Ride through vineyard landscapes and quiet villages, enjoying Burgundy’s natural beauty before arriving in lively Mâcon.
Day 4- Mâcon
Savor local wines and winter landscapes
Discover the vineyards, museums, and historical landmarks of Mâcon, or explore the Romanesque Cluny Abbey or Gothic Royal Monastery of Brou. Relax on deck with a light lunch and enjoy Beaujolais wine tasting as the winter landscapes of Burgundy glide by, adding seasonal cheer to every sip and view.
Included Excursion Options
- Option 1 – “The South Burgundy City” Mâcon Tour– Explore Mâcon on a guided city tour highlighting its vibrant riverfront, historic old town, and key landmarks. Learn how Mâcon’s location along the Saône shaped its role as a trading center while enjoying views of pastel-colored façades and lively town squares.
- Option 2 – Cluny Abbey Visit- Visit the historic Abbey of Cluny, once the largest church in Christendom and a powerful center of medieval monastic life. Explore the remains of this influential abbey and discover how Cluny shaped religious, architectural, and cultural life across Europe during the Middle Ages.
- Option 3 – Scenic Cruising– Relax on board and enjoy a leisurely cruise along the Saône River. Take in views of rolling hills, vineyard landscapes, and peaceful riverside villages while your guide shares stories of Burgundy’s history and winemaking traditions.
- Option 4 – Beaujolais Wine Tasting– Venture into the nearby Beaujolais wine region, famous for its lively Gamay wines and picturesque villages. Visit local wineries to sample regional vintages while learning about the terroir and traditions that define this celebrated wine-producing area.
Day 5- Lyon & Vienne
Experience two of the Rhône Valley’s most captivating cities as you travel from Lyon to Vienne. Lyon, celebrated as France’s Culinary Capital, blends Roman heritage, Renaissance architecture, and vibrant food culture at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Continuing south, arrive in Vienne, a town rich in Roman history and scenic hilltop views, where ancient monuments and riverside paths reflect centuries of cultural influence.
Included Excursion Options
- Option 1 for Lyon– “France’s Culinary Capital” City Tour -Discover Lyon’s historic highlights on a guided city tour, including Roman ruins, elegant squares, and panoramic viewpoints. Learn how Lyon earned its culinary reputation through centuries of gastronomy, local markets, and traditional bouchons, all while exploring neighborhoods shaped by Roman, medieval, and Renaissance history.
- Option 2 for Lyon– Vieux Lyon Walk & Tasting Tour – Stroll through Vieux Lyon, one of Europe’s largest Renaissance districts and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Walk along cobblestone streets and hidden traboules while sampling local specialties such as cheeses, charcuterie, or pastries, gaining insight into Lyon’s celebrated food culture.
- Option 3 for Lyon – Lyon Bike Tour – For a more active experience, cycle along Lyon’s extensive network of bike paths. Ride beside the Rhône and Saône rivers, passing parks, historic bridges, and lively districts while enjoying a unique perspective of the city.
- Option 1 for Vienne– Vienne Walking Tour – Explore Vienne on foot with a guided walking tour highlighting its remarkable Roman heritage. See well-preserved monuments such as the Temple of Augustus and Livia and learn how this former Roman capital flourished along the Rhône.
- Option 2 for Vienne – Mount Pipet Hike – Active guests may choose to hike Mount Pipet, rising above Vienne. The climb rewards you with sweeping views over the Rhône Valley and the town below, offering a scenic and invigorating way to experience the region’s natural beauty.
- Option 3 for Vienne– ViaRhôna Bike Tour – Cycle along the ViaRhôna, a picturesque riverside route following the Rhône. This leisurely ride offers stunning views, gentle terrain, and an immersive way to experience the landscapes between river, vineyards, and historic towns.
Day 6- Vienne
Enjoy a relaxing and culturally rich day along the Rhône as you cruise south from Vienne to Viviers. Scenic cruising reveals vineyard-dotted hills, dramatic riverbanks, and timeless villages, setting the stage for an immersive visit to Viviers, one of the Rhône Valley’s most charming medieval towns. From history and gastronomy to active exploration and evening intrigue, today offers a variety of ways to experience southern France.
Included Excursion Options
- Scenic Cruising– Relax on board as you sail past the Rhône Valley’s picturesque landscapes. Take in views of terraced vineyards, historic towns, and rolling hills while your guide shares insights into the region’s Roman roots and winemaking traditions. through Avignon’s lively streets and markets. Sample regional specialties such as cheeses, olive oils, pastries, and local delicacies while gaining insight into the culinary traditions of southern France.
- Option 1 – Viviers Walking Tour -Explore Viviers on a guided walk through its beautifully preserved medieval center. Wander narrow cobblestone streets, admire Renaissance-era buildings, and visit the cathedral, learning how this former bishopric played an important role in regional history.
- Option 2 – Grignan Truffle Farm Visit – Travel to the nearby village of Grignan to visit a truffle farm. Learn about truffle cultivation and hunting techniques before enjoying tastings that highlight this prized delicacy of the Drôme Provençale.
- Option 3 – Viviers Active Walk – For a more energetic experience, take part in an active walking tour that climbs to scenic viewpoints above the town. Enjoy panoramic views of the Rhône River and the surrounding countryside while exploring lesser-known corners of Viviers.
- Option 4 – Bike Tour – Cycle along scenic Rhône-side paths and quiet country roads surrounding Viviers. This leisurely ride offers a refreshing way to experience the natural beauty and landscapes of the region.
- Evening – “Ghost Walk” Tour – As night falls, join a guided “Ghost Walk” through Viviers’ historic streets. Hear legends, folklore, and intriguing tales from the town’s past, bringing its centuries-old history to life in a memorable and atmospheric way.
Day 7- Avignon & Arles
Discover the cultural richness of Provence as you journey between Avignon and Arles. Avignon, once the seat of the Catholic papacy, captivates with its medieval walls, grand architecture, and vibrant Provençal atmosphere. Continuing along the Rhône, arrive in Arles, a city famed for its Roman monuments and its deep connection to artist Vincent van Gogh, where history, art, and southern French charm come together.
Included Excursion Options
- Option 1 for Avignon– Walking Tour & Papal Palace– Explore Avignon on a guided walking tour through its historic center, surrounded by medieval ramparts. Visit the imposing Papal Palace, one of the largest Gothic palaces in the world, and learn how Avignon became the center of the Catholic Church in the 14th century.
- Option 2 for Avignon– Tastes of Avignon – Savor the flavors of Provence on a tasting tour through Avignon’s lively streets and markets. Sample regional specialties such as cheeses, olive oils, pastries, and local delicacies while gaining insight into the culinary traditions of southern France.
- Option 3 for Avignon– Châteauneuf-du-Pape Wine Tasting – Travel to the renowned Châteauneuf-du-Pape wine region, famous for its powerful red blends and distinctive stony vineyards. Visit a local winery to taste exceptional wines and learn about the appellation’s unique terroir and centuries-old winemaking heritage.
- Option 1 for Arles– Arles Walking Tour– Discover Arles on foot, exploring its historic center and remarkable Roman monuments, including the well-preserved amphitheater and ancient theater. Learn how Arles thrived as a Roman provincial capital and later became a cultural hub of Provence.
- Option 2 for Arles – Van Gogh Walking Tour– Follow in the footsteps of Vincent van Gogh on a themed walking tour highlighting locations that inspired many of his famous works. Learn about his time in Arles and how the town’s light, landscapes, and daily life influenced his art.
- Option 3 for Arles – Arles Bike Tour – For active guests, enjoy a bike tour through and around Arles. Ride along quiet streets and scenic paths near the Rhône, experiencing the city’s historic landmarks and Provençal surroundings from a fresh perspective.
Day 8- Arles, Disembarkation
Bid farewell to France and prepare for your journey home
Play Pickleball in Paradise – Paris Edition
Optional Pre-Cruise Pickleball Clinic in Paris.
Rate: $2498 ($1249 per person double occupancy)
Before boarding in Dijon, guests may choose to join our exclusive Pickleball in Paradise pre-cruise program in Paris, featuring:
- Three mornings of pickleball clinics led by IPTPA Master Coaches, John & Leesa Walker.
- 4-night accommodation in Paris at Hyatt Regency Paris Étoile with daily breakfast included.
- Free afternoons to explore the City of Light—Eiffel Tower, Louvre, charming neighborhoods, and more.
- Private motor coach transfer from the hotel in Paris to the ship in Dijon on the morning of 8/5/27.
Guests wishing to join either of the bespoke pre/post cruise land extensions must be confirmed participants on the river cruise segment.
This is a unique way to combine pickleball, cultural exploration, and river cruising in one extraordinary journey.
Additional Pre- and Post-Cruise Options
Pre-Cruise Excursion
Geneva – $1798 per person double occupancy
Included in the package – “All Shore excursions subject to availability”
- 3-nights based on price noted at the Hotel Rotary Geneva-MGallery (or similar) in
Geneva - All hotel taxes
- Baggage handling at the hotel
- Daily Breakfast at Hotel
- “The Peace Capital” City Tour
- “Pearl of the French Alps” Annecy Excursion & Chillon Castle Visit
- Transfer between the hotel in Geneva and the vessel in Dijon with Dijon city tour and free time for lunch.
- English-speaking AmaWaterways host or hostess at the hotel
- Welcome Reception at hotel (pre-cruise only)
Post-Cruise Excursion
Nice, Monaco & Monte Carlo: $1,758 per person double occupancy. 8/12/27 – 8/15/27
For those who wish to continue their adventure, AmaWaterways offers a post-cruise land extension to Nice. Guests will enjoy:
Included in the package – “All Shore excursions subject to availability.”
- 3-nights based on price noted at Hyatt Regency Nice Palais de la Mediteranee Hotel (Or similar)
- All hotel taxes
- Baggage handling at the hotel
- Daily breakfast at the hotel
- Nice City tour
- Cote d’Azur & Monaco excursion
- Transfer from the vessel in Arles to the hotel in Nice with a stop in Aix-en-Provence for a city tour
- English-speaking AmaWaterways host or hostess at the hotel
- Free time to explore the Mediterranean coastline, bustling markets, and chic cafés.
This extension is the perfect way to cap off your river cruise with a taste of the Côte d’Azur’s famed beauty and sophistication.
Your Straight Away Travel/Pickleball in Paradise team will also be accompanying you on this segment!
An All Inclusive Experience with Additional Options
Almost every aspect of this trip is included in the cost
What is Included
- Accommodation during the cruise
- • All daily shore excursions during the cruise with English-speaking expert guides
- • All gourmet meals onboard (Early Riser Coffee and Croissants, a Rich Breakfast, a Festive Lunch, Afternoon Tea & Coffee with cake, cookies & sandwiches, and a Multi-Course-Dinner
- • Choice of dining options at no additional cost including the Main Dining Salon and an intimate Chef’s Table Restaurant where the Chef prepares the meal in person.
- • Free flowing red and white wine from the local regions, beer, or soft drinks for lunch & dinner
- • Captain’s Welcome Champagne Reception and Gala Dinner and Captain’s Farewell Champagne Reception and Gala Dinner plus several themed dinners
- • Complimentary “Sip & Sail” cocktail hour offering a “Happy Hour Menu” on five evenings one hour before dinner (Captain’s Receptions on the other two evenings)
- • Coffee, tea, ice-water, and iced-tea are included all day. Cappuccino, latte, and espresso can be requested free of charge during all meals! Complimentary coffee & tea station 24/7
- • Bottled water, fluffy bathrobes and slippers are provided in each cabin.
- • Complimentary Wellness Program with qualified Fitness Instructor and use of the fitness equipment available free of charge
- • Sun Deck for total relaxation with a heated whirlpool and walking track.
- • Complimentary use of the AMA bicycles and helmets in each port
- • Complimentary in-cabin movies
- • Complimentary use of the internet onboard “strictly subject to availability”
- • Elevator on board operating between different deck levels (Please see ship fact sheet for details)
- • Nightly piano music; also, during Afternoon Tea & Coffee Time
- • Use of our Quietvox headsets is also included.
- • Services of our professional English-speaking Cruise Director
Not Included
- • Travel Insurance is not included but HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!! We will send all US citizens no obligation quotes after you book your trip. We encourage citizens of other countries to explore their options.
- • Airfare, Airport transfers and pre- or post-land arrangements, unless otherwise arranged through us at an additional cost.
- • All other beverages except the ones mentioned above.
- • Use of the telephone in each cabin
- • Items purchased in the Gift Shop or Spa and Salon Services
- • Gratuities for the Cruise Manager, the crew on board, local guides, and drivers are not included in the above quoted Charter Rates but can be prepaid in the amount of $245 per person for the 7-night cruise
- • Optional shore excursions offered in addition to our daily included shore excursion program.
Staterooms & Pricing
The Pricing is online with AmaWaterways, but we have a Partial Charter for our group that we can offer others!! HURRY!
Category B1 Solo Occupancy Cabin
Stateroom: French Balcony Deck Info: Cello Deck
Stateroom Size:140 sq. ft.
Rates: $7,098 per person
Limited availability. Please contact us prior to booking a single occupancy cabin
Category E – SOLD OUT!
Stateroom: Fixed Windows Deck Info: Piano Deck
Stateroom Size:170 sq. ft.
Rates: $9,158 total / $4,579 per person double occupancy
Category C
Stateroom: French Balcony Deck Info: Violin & Cello Deck
Stateroom Size:170 sq. ft.
Rates: $12,356 total / $6,178 per person double occupancy
Hurry! Only 3 cabins available!
Category B
Stateroom: French Balcony Deck Info: Violin & Cello Deck
Stateroom Size:170 sq. ft.
Rates: $12,756 total / $6,378 per person double occupancy
Suite
Stateroom: French Balcony Deck Info: Violin Deck.
Stateroom Size: 255 sq. ft.
Rates: $15,956 total / $7,978 per person double occupancy
Hurry! Only 1 cabin available!
AMACello Layout
- The earlier you book, the more choices you will have with your stateroom selection!
Hosts on Board (In Addition to the AMA Crew)
Barb Strait
Elizabeth Higginbottom
See you in France!
AmaCello Straight Away Charter
Submit a Deposit to Reserve Your Room
Cancellation Policy
- Final payment is due February 1, 2027.
- The deposit is $800. $400 of this is refundable until January 31, 2027.
- No refunds are available after January 31, 2027.
- Name changes are allowed up to 30 days prior to the trip
- If you have a covered medical reason on your travel insurance, you can make a claim after final payment at any time. This is between you and your travel insurance company. We will recommend policies to you.