GRAND EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISE The Saone and Rhone Rivers, France

2 In Conjunction with GRAND EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISE The Saone and Rhone Rivers, France Including the WWI Battlefields Sites, Paris and Italy ...
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In Conjunction with



GRAND EUROPEAN RIVER CRUISE The Saone and Rhone Rivers, France Including the WWI Battlefields Sites, Paris and Italy

23 Days Departing 03 April 2017 * Escorted by Paul and Lizzie Pincini *



DAY 1:

Mon 02 Apr

Home to Wollongong





(-)

This morning we have local pickups throughout the Bega Valley starting Eden 7:30am, South Pambula 7:50am, Pambula 8:00am, Pambula Beach 8:10am Merimbula Bimbimbie 8:20am, Woolworths 8:30am, Tura Bus Shelter 8:40am, Kalaru 9:00am Bega 9:15am, Cobargo 9:45am. We travel via Narooma, Batemans Bay, Ulladulla, and Berry to our overnight stop of Wollongong Dinner this evening at the Steeler’s Club (at own expense)

DAY 2:

Mon 03 Apr

WOLLONGONG-SYDNEY – FLY TO PARIS

(B)

After a leisurely start we make our way to Sydney International Airport. Your tour escorts, Lizzie & Paul Pincini, will assist through check in and customs/immigration for your overnight Singapore Airlines flight from Sydney International Airport to Paris, via Singapore.

DAY 3:

Tue 04 Apr

ARRIVE PARIS – YPRES







(D)

Arrive into Paris early this morning, collect your luggage and be met by your assistant who will escort you to the waiting coach and driver. Continue northbound to Ypres and on arrival check into the hotel with time to rest before dinner and afterwards attend the moving Last Post ceremony under the Menin Gate tonight. Overnight: Ypres

DAY 4:

Wed 05 Apr

YPRES – BATTLEFIELDS GUIDED TOUR – AMIENS (B)

After breakfast meet your local guide for a full day Battlefields tour. The first stop is Zonnebeke to visit Les Buttes Cemetery, the Polygon Wood site and the Battle Memorial of the 5th Australian Division. Also visit Tyne Cot Cemetery, the largest British war cemetery in the world. Continue to Fromelles to visit the VC Corner Australian Cemetery and Memorial then onto Bullecourt where the bronze statue of the “Bullecourt Digger” stands, gazing over the fields of Bullecourt where thousands of Australian soldiers were killed or wounded. End the day in Amiens where the remainder of the afternoon and evening are at your leisure. Overnight: Amiens

DAY 5:

Thu 06 Apr

AMIENS – PARIS







(BD)

Our local guide meets us this morning then travel to Theipval to visit the cemetery and Ulster Tower before arriving at Pozieres to visit the Windmill site and Mouquet Farm. Continue to Le Hamel to visit the Australian Corps Memorial Park and afterwards visit the Australian National Memorial in Villers-Bretonnaux which lists 10,773 names of soldiers who died in France during the First World War and have no known grave. The memorial was only completed in 1938, delayed by the Great Depression, with repairs made following damage made during the Second World War. Say goodbye to our guide and travel 2 hours to Paris, arriving in time for dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight: Paris

DAY 6:

Fri 07 Apr

PARIS SIGHTSEEING







(B)

After breakfast a local guide will join the group on the coach for a half day sightseeing tour of Paris to see the main sights including the Eiffel Tower, The Louvre, Notre Dame and the Arc de Triomphe. This afternoon and evening is free at leisure for private sightseeing or rest. Overnight: As Above



DAY 7:



Sat 08 Apr





PALACE OF VERSAILLES & MONET’S GARDEN (BD)

Meet your local guide and travel to visit the immense and opulent Palace of Versailles and the immaculate surrounding gardens. Afterwards continue to Giverny to visit Monet’s House and Garden and see first-hand the

spectacular areas which inspired many of his artworks. Transfer back to Paris this afternoon where the remainder of the day is at leisure before dinner in a local restaurant. Overnight: As Above

DAY 8:

Sun 09 Apr

PARIS – LYON – JOIN RIVER CRUISE

(BD)

A leisurely driving day south east toward to the historic Roman inspired city of Lyon, sitting on the confluence of the Saone and Rhone Rivers. Board your cruise boat at approximately 6.00pm in Lyon at Claude Bernard’s quay. After settling into your cabins, meet the crew over a welcome cocktail in the lounge before dinner in the on-board restaurant and afterwards entertainment is provided in the lounge bar. Overnight: MS Camargue

DAY 9:

Mon 10 Apr

LYON – MACON







(BLD)

After breakfast on board set off by coach for this morning’s excursion for a guided visit of Lyon. Here learn about France’s second city, wonderfully situated at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Return on board for lunch as the boat sets sail towards Mâcon. This afternoon is an ideal opportunity to relax on board and admire the scenery as we cruise through the beautiful Burgundy countryside. Enjoy dinner as we cruise, followed by an evening of dancing and entertainment. Overnight: As Above

DAY 10:

Tue 11 Apr

MACON – VIENNE









(BLD)

This morning’s excursion is to visit the abbey at Cluny. This Benedictine Monastery extended its influence throughout Europe in the Middle Ages and this historic church was the largest in all of western Christendom. Return on board in time for lunch and set sail again heading for Vienne. Dinner and an evening of entertainment on board as we cruise, arriving in Vienne towards the end of the evening and moor for the night. Overnight: As Above

DAY 11:



Wed 12 Apr

VIENNE – ARLES











(BLD)

After breakfast on board visit Vienne, who’s history dates back some 2000 years and we are lucky enough to see the relics left by the Romans as well as the cathedral of St Maurice, all listed Historic Monuments. Return on board for lunch and the boat departs toward Avignon. This afternoon is yet another opportunity to relax on board and admire the scenery as we cruise down the Rhône, or take part in the fun and games proposed by our on-board entertainments crew. Overnight: As Above

DAY 12:

Thu 13 Apr

ARLES









(BLD)

Arrive early morning in Arles with time to explore this fascinating historical town with its Roman treasures and artistic legacy. Afterwards travel to the country or “arrière pays” to learn how provençal olive oil is made then return on board for lunch. Then enjoy an excursion to the Camargue, a huge nature reserve where the sea and marshland are inhabited by an amazing array of water fowl and birds. Have free time in the delightful town of Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer, a remarkable twice-yearly pilgrimage centre for gypsies from all over Europe and housing an interesting fortified church. Return on board in time for dinner and afterwards be treated to a provençal folk evening on board. Overnight: As Above

DAY 13:

Fri 14 Apr

ARLES – AVIGNON – VIVIERS







(BLD)

Travel toward historic Avignon this morning and on arrival enjoy a guided tour of the “Palais des Papes”, a true fortress perched on a rocky pinnacle and surrounded by city walls and a major feat of Gothic architecture dating back to the 14th century and was the formal residence of the sovereign pontiffs. Return on board for lunch before continuing in the direction of Viviers, spending the afternoon afloat. After dinner is an excursion to Viviers to discover this open-air museum – a medieval city which also happens to be home to the smallest cathedral in France. Overnight: As Above

DAY 14:

Sat 15 Apr

VIVIERS – TOURNON – LYON







(BLD)

This morning is spent cruising before arriving in Tournon early afternoon for a guided tour of the city. Stop at the château-museum where we'll see the permanent collection that traces the history of navigation on the Rhône River including a tasting of regional products and wines. Return on board by foot at a leisurely pace. After dinner the crew will put on a Gala evening as the boat cruises during the night towards Lyon. Overnight: As Above

DAY 15:

Sun 16 Apr

LYON – DISEMBARK CRUISE – ANNECY – BAVENO (BD)

The final breakfast on board before arriving into the city at approximately 9:00am to disembark. Meet your coach and driver and travel to enchanting Annecy, also known as Alpine Venicia, for a guided walking tour of the city to see the main sights and the canals crossing this pretty town. Continue east, crossing the border into northern Italy via the spectacular scenic Alps countryside to our overnight stop in Baveno which is located in the beautiful Italian Lakes District. Overnight: Baveno

DAY 16:

Mon 17 Apr

BAVENO – LAKE GARDA – VENICE





(B)

After breakfast travel the short distance to Lake Maggiore and the small island of Isola Bella (“Beautiful Island”) for a photo stop. Afterwards travel to Desenzano, stopping to view breathtaking Lake Garda – the largest of the freshwater Italian Lakes, surrounded by rugged mountains and popular amongst holiday makers. Continue to Venice and on arrival transfer by private boat to this fascinating island where there is no earth or trees; anchored for fifteen centuries in the silt of the lagoon on wooden piles it will certainly impress. This evening is at leisure. Overnight: Venice Island

DAY 17:

Tue 18 Apr

VENICE ISLAND







(BD)

After breakfast depart on a guided walking tour of the famous Piazza San Marco (St Mark’s Square) the principal public square of Venice. View the main sights that the city has to offer and enjoy a glass-blowing demonstration. After lunch the remainder of the day is free at your leisure, perhaps to experience a genuine gondola ride (own expense) before meeting for dinner at a local restaurant. Overnight: As Above

DAY 18:

Wed 19 Apr

VENICE ISLAND – BOLOGNA- CINQUE TERRE

(BD)

Sadly depart after breakfast travelling southwest and stop at Bologna with time for a stroll in this lively city with its arched colonnades, cafes and medieval and Renaissance structures. Afterwards continue to Portovenere, a medieval fishing village situated just south of the Cinque Terre on the spectacular Italian Riviera and is one of the most beautiful townships on the west coast of Italy. Overnight: Portovenere

DAY 19:

Thu 20 Apr

CINQUE TERRE VILLAGES







(B)

Weather permitting this morning we will be able to journey to the beautiful Cinque Terre by boat for our full day guided tour of this truly remarkable place. There are five scenic villages (the five lands) linked in various ways by sea, scenic walks and a railway – cars cannot access the Cinque Terre which further adds to its charm. For the ambitious, there are amazing walks between the stepped villages to wander at your leisure. Return to Portovenere this afternoon where the remainder of the evening is at leisure. Overnight: As Above

DAY 20:

Fri 21 Apr

CINQUE TERRE – FLORENCE – ROME

(BD)

Arrive into Florence this morning for a guided tour of the city to see the main sights, including entry and whisper headsets to the Galleria dell'Accademia di Firenze, home of Michelangelo’s renowned Statue of David. Afterwards continue the journey south east to Rome, with a rich 3000 year history it is the mecca for architectural feats, art and culture. Upon arrival check in and enjoy dinner at the hotel. Overnight: Rome

DAY 21:

Sat 22 Apr

ROME – ½ DAY SIGHTSEEING



(BD)

A local guide will join the group for a half day tour to view the main sights including the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. The afternoon is free at leisure for shopping or perhaps return to one of the sights to explore further. Meet back late afternoon and enjoy a farewell dinner at a local restaurant to reminisce about the wonderful events and happenings of the past twenty three days. Overnight: As Above



DAY 22:

Sun 23 Apr

ROME – FLY TO AUSTRALIA



(B)

After a leisurely breakfast transfer to Rome airport to check-in and proceed through customs and immigration procedures for your flight to Sydney via Singapore.

DAY 23:

Mon 24 Apr

ARRIVE SYDNEY (O/N WOLLONGONG)



(D)

Arrive back in Sydney mid afternoon. We reboard our coach and travel back down the Coast to Wollongong . On arrival overnight to at our accommodation we settle in before enjoying a smorgasbord dinner celebrating our last evening together.

DAY 24:

Tue 25 Apr

TRAVEL FROM SYDNEY TO MERIMBULA

(B)

TOUR COST: $ 11,250.00 per person twin share, inc lower deck boat cabin $13,725.00 Single Supplement, inc lower deck boat cabin



Upgrade to Upper Deck Cabin – $300.00 per person twin share– subject to availability on request Upgrade to Upper Deck Cabin – $600.00 per person single supp– subject to availability on request *Tour cost is subject to air/tax increases plus currency fluctuations.

Non-refundable deposit required within 7 days of booking: $2,500.00 per person Further deposit of $1500.00 per person due 25 November 2016 Balance due: 10 February 2017 CANCELLATION: In the event of cancellation, levies will apply, please see booking conditions for details.





Tour cost includes: • Economy airfares and pre-payable taxes Australia to Paris and return from Rome. • River Cruise as outlined in the itinerary in main deck cabins (upper deck subject to confirmation) including shore excursions. • Air-conditioned vehicle throughout for all land-based touring. • Twin share 3½ - 4 star accommodation for the land arrangements throughout with en suite facilities. • Meals as per itinerary (B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner). • All entry fees, activities and sightseeing as indicated in the itinerary. • Services of experienced and knowledgeable English speaking local tour guides plus a specialist Battlefields guide. • Gratuities for the long distance coach drivers. • Beverages on board the cruises included with meals; mineral water, house wine, beer, fruit juice, tea & coffee. Tour cost does NOT include:



• Travel Insurance – this is COMPULSORY to have in place prior to travel and a copy of the policy will be required prior to documentation being sent. Swagman Tours can assist with a quote and issue a policy, please phone Karen on 1800 808 491. • Items of a personal nature ie laundry/phone etc and any optional extras listed in the itinerary. • Beverages & Meals not listed in the itinerary. • Cost of passport. • Cost of any medication required. • Gratuities on board the river cruise – EUR 10 per person, per cruise is appreciated but not compulsory. • Gratuities for local guides doing the land arrangements (not compulsory but appreciated for rewarding good service). IMPORTANT NOTES: The tour cost is subject to change due to currency fluctuations, airfare, fuel surcharges and / or tax increases. As this is a group package, all passengers must travel on the same outbound flight to Paris. Post touring options are available and will incur an amendment fee of $75 per person (plus extra touring and insurance costs). The cruise itineraries are also subject to change for 2017, a final correct version will be included with your tour documentation. PASSPORTS AND VISAS Passengers travelling on an Australian passport will not require any visas for this tour itinerary. Passengers travelling on a non Australian passport should advise Merimbula Coach Tours immediately so we can organise visas if necessary. If you are extending this tour / travelling to other areas it is your responsibility to check visa information. Karen at Swagman Tours can assist, phone 1800 808 491 if you have any queries.

All travellers will require a full valid passport, and it is your responsibility to ensure that you have valid visas for all countries visited on your holiday if necessary. Your passport must be valid for at least six months after the end of your holiday. If you have more than one passport, we recommend that you use one passport only for the entire journey. This will save problems and potential delays at border crossings. Requirements differ depending on your nationality - check with the appropriate embassies for details. It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of the correct visas for your holiday and onward travel. Swagman Tours & Merimbula Coach Tours cannot accept responsibility for anyone who is refused entry to a country because they lack the correct documentation. Please check the actual requirements with the necessary embassy. Please also do not assume that any inaccuracies within your documentation will be detected or can be rectified - you must ensure that your "paper-work" is in order. There will be times during the trip, when your passport will be collected e.g. by your tour leader, hotel reception staff, or police. HOLDERS OF FOREIGN PASSPORTS: Travellers holding non Australian passports must have the relevant re-entry permit to return to Australia and must check with their National Consulate of any visa requirements to your holiday destination country(s). Please advise Merimbula Coach Tours immediately if you travel on a non-Australian passport so that visas can be obtained in a timely manner if necessary. NOTE: Passport and visa requirements are liable to change at short notice. Travellers are advised to check their entry requirements with their embassy or consulate.

CRUISE INFORMATION Your river cruise ship is spacious and light and offers a welcoming and refined setting. The MS Camargue has 54 cabins at the cutting edge of technology, their facilities offer comfort and safety. Carefully maintained and partially renovated each year, the fleet is largely made up of recently built vessels, less than five years old, all with Veritas certification. The leading European river tour operator, Croisi Europe owes its international reputation to its seriousness, its dynamism, its sense of innovation and its recognised value for money of long standing.

Vessels are rated 3½ - 4 star and the food is superb - as you'd expect on a French-owned cruise line, staffed by French chefs and with top French and German wines aboard. The cruise company is a family-owned and operated firm, with brothers and sisters running different aspects of the company and keeping a close eye on all operations to ensure excellence. River cruising offers much free fun. Wake in the morning and observe the passing riverside scenery through your cabin window - perhaps from your bed. Gaze upon village churches or a patchwork of fields sparkling in the morning sun. The only "floating" hotel structures of its type in France, your river cruise reigns supreme over the kitchens on its boats. In charge of the company's Chefs, Alain Bohn manages and designs his cuisine and specific menus in the pure tradition of French cooking with his passionate kitchen teams. Dining on board is always a pleasure. Food is taken seriously and it shows. You'll soon become firm friends with your waiter and you'll quickly come to admire the choices made by world-renowned sommelier, Serge Dubs.

Dinner is served at a set time at a single sitting and breakfast is buffet style and is also served in the restaurant. Dress is smart casual, no formal nights are held on board. Drinks included with on board meals: mineral water, house wine, beer, fruit juice, tea and coffee.

Tipping is not expected, however if you wish to show your gratitude for exceptional service, feel free to do so.

Deck Plans



Facilities: • • • • • •

Lounge & Bar Dining Room Souvenir Shop Wi-fi on board Large Sun Deck with Deckchairs Fully Air Conditioned & Central Heating

• • • • • •

Ensuite bathroom Flat Screen TV Hairdryer Safe Radio 220v Electricity

Cabin Amenities:





FOR FURTHER INFORMATION OR TO MAKE A BOOKING CONTACT:

MERIMBULA COACH TOURS 327 Bald Hills Road PAMBULA NSW 2549

Phone: 02 64956017

Email: [email protected]

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