2026 Hosted Trips - River Cruise Advisor

🇫🇷 Explore France with Me in 2026 🇫🇷

Ralph Grizzle's Barge Trips | Canal Cruises In France

Barge through Burgundy, Alsace, and Provence.

Intimate experiences, curated cuisine, and the charm of France with your River Cruise Advisor host.

We enjoyed the Dream Cruise very much. It was stressless and easy. We hope to do another one if life permits us with you next year. We like the idea you were traveling on your own Dream Cruise. That gave us confidence to trust you as you believed in your own cruise. And you definitely made sure we all enjoyed it too.

– Poh and Ebrahim Andideh

Pricing

Pricing Per Cabin: For Solo Travelers Or Couples

More Than $1,000 In Savings, Plus Pay In Full For Waived Credit Card Convenience Fees

$ 6599 Normal $7,892

Besançon: Historic, scenic, fortified
Arc-et-Senans: Visit the UNESCO-listed Royal Saltworks
Dole: Explore the town following the 'trail of the Perched Cat.'
Saint-Jean-de-Losne: Discover France’s first river port and the Musée de la Batellerie.
Petit-Ouges: Stroll through this charming village.
Dijon: Conclude with a guided tour and wine tasting along the Burgundy Grands Crus Wine Route

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Cruising from Besançon to Dijon, this journey through the Doubs Valley and Burgundy unveils a tapestry of charming towns and hidden treasures. Along the way, you’ll explore the UNESCO-listed Saline Royale at Arc-et-Senans, stroll the historic streets of Dole, and visit the picturesque river port of Saint-Jean-de-Losne - home to the Musée de la Batellerie, which tells the rich story of inland waterway navigation. We'll end in beautiful Dijon.

Burgundy

$ 6499 Normal $7,726

Strasbourg: Charming, historic, multicultural
Waltenheim: Discover this quaint village & the Hops trail
Saverne: Visit the Château des Rohan
Lutzelbourg: Explore the picturesque town & castle ruins
Xouaxange: Experience the serene landscapes.
Lagarde: Conclude your cruise in this peaceful locale.

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Sailing from Strasbourg to Lagarde, this immersive cruise through Alsace and Moselle offers a journey rich in tradition and charm. Glide along the scenic Marne-Rhine Canal, where vibrant heritage and historic landmarks come to life through guided excursions. Discover the Hops Trail, the castles of Haut-Barr and Lutzelbourg, and the inspiring Chagall Trail — all part of the cultural tapestry that makes this cruise truly unforgettable.

Alsace

$ 6999 Normal $8,142

Sete: Coastal, artistic, vibrant
Étang de Thau: Learn about oyster farming and enjoy tastings.
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert: Discover one of France’s most beautiful villages
Aigues-Mortes: Visit the fortified medieval city and its salt marshes
Camargue: Experience the region’s natural beauty and traditions
Arles: Explore Roman ruins and delve into olive oil production

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Sail with us from Arles to Sète through the stunning landscapes of Southern France. Begin in Arles, where 2,500 years of history come alive, then journey to Aigues-Mortes — a striking medieval walled town set amid one of Provence’s most scenic natural areas. Along the way, explore the wild beauty of the Camargue and visit Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, a Languedoc gem celebrated as one of the Most Beautiful Villages of France.

Provence

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I’m glad you’re considering joining one of these wonderful adventures. I’ve hosted these trips since 2015 because I love the experience. No two sailings are alike, and in fact, I’ve done multiple sailings on some of the itineraries. If you’re like most who travel with me, the barges will be the trip of a lifetime.

To cut down on administrative work, I’m offering waived credit card convenience fees for those who pay in full. This represents up to $250 in added value. Please note that payments are non-refundable. Trip cancellation insurance is important should you need to cancel for a qualified reason such as illness or injury.

Barge 2026 Deposit & Participation Agreement

This form will allow you to make your payment via Credit Card with no credit card convenience fees plus more than $1,000 in savings for paying in full.

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River Cruise Advisor’s Participant Agreement*

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River & Canal Cruise Terms and Conditions
Effective Date: October 19, 2023 (Last Updated: April 21, 2025)

These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) constitute a binding agreement between Avid Travel Media Inc., a North Carolina S-Corporation, doing business as River Cruise Advisor (“we”, “us”), and the individual booking or participating in the cruise travel experience, on behalf of themselves and all members of their party (“you”). By booking a River or Canal Cruise, you confirm your agreement to these Terms. Please read them carefully, as they include important limitations on liability, waivers, indemnity provisions, and payment and cancellation policies.

1. Role and Responsibility Disclaimer

Avid Travel Media Inc., a North Carolina corporation, charters the vessel and serves as the organizer of your River Cruise. We coordinate and package travel services, including cruise accommodations, pre- and post-cruise land arrangements, and related services, and we collect payment directly from travelers.

The vessel operator and service providers – including but not limited to AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, CroisiEurope (“the Carrier”), hotels, and land tour operators (“Suppliers”) – are independent contractors. We do not control or operate the ship, establish the cruise itinerary, or directly manage onboard services. Those remain solely within the Carrier’s discretion.

By booking with us, you agree that Avid Travel Media Inc. is not liable for any act, omission, breach of duty, or negligence of the Carrier or any Supplier. All such services are provided pursuant to their own terms and conditions, which apply in addition to these Terms.

2. Booking, Deposits, and Final Payment

To secure your reservation, we require a non-refundable deposit ranging from US$100 to US$2,000 per person, depending on the cruise. Final payment is due no later than 90 days before departure and is also non-refundable. Your reservation is not confirmed until we receive both the deposit and a signed reservation agreement or online acceptance. Payments not received on time may result in cancellation without refund.

You are responsible for disclosing any mobility limitations or medical conditions that may require accommodation at the time of booking. Failure to do so may result in denial of participation without refund. See Section 7 for full Accessibility and Disability terms.

3. Cancellations, No-Shows, and Substitutions

All cancellations must be made by contacting Avid Travel Media Inc. at (954) 600-8835 during weekday business hours (9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Eastern Time). The effective date of cancellation is the date we receive and confirm your cancellation notice.

All payments – including deposits and final payments – are non-refundable, regardless of the reason for cancellation. This includes, without limitation, cancellations due to:

• Illness (including COVID-19 or other contagious illness),

• Injury,

• Family emergencies,

• Changes in travel warnings or advisories,

• Fear of travel,

• Airline delays or cancellations, or

• Denial of boarding or travel documents.

If a guest is unable to participate, a substitute participant may take their place only if we receive written notice and a completed reservation form from the replacement no later than 15 days prior to departure, along with a US$250 substitution fee. We reserve the right to decline a replacement for any nondiscriminatory reason, including failure to meet eligibility requirements or incomplete documentation.

No refunds or credits will be given for no-shows, late arrivals, or partially used services. If you miss the departure, you may join the trip later at your own expense. Changes in travel dates, guest names, or reduction in number of participants are treated as cancellations.

You acknowledge that we incur significant non-recoverable costs when chartering the vessel and arranging Supplier services. These cancellation terms represent agreed liquidated damages, not a penalty.

We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance that includes trip cancellation coverage. Cancellations due to undisclosed medical or accessibility issues are treated the same as any other cancellation and are non-refundable.

4. Changes to Services

We reserve the right to change cruise routes, land arrangements, accommodations, or transportation due to weather, safety, or Supplier decisions. The Carrier may modify the itinerary at its discretion for safety, navigational, or operational reasons. Alternate arrangements – such as docked accommodations or ground transport – may be substituted without prior notice. While we and the Carrier will make reasonable efforts to deliver comparable services, the level of similarity may vary, and such changes do not entitle you to any refund or credit.

If we or the Carrier cancel the trip entirely, you will receive a refund of any funds returned to us by the Carrier or Supplier, less any unrecoverable costs. This refund is your sole remedy; we are not responsible for additional compensation, costs, or damages.

5. Force Majeure

We are not responsible for any delay, change, or cancellation of services due to circumstances beyond our control, including but not limited to acts of God, natural disasters, epidemics or pandemics, civil unrest, war, terrorism, government orders, or Supplier failure. No refunds, credits, or liability shall result from such disruptions.

We assume no responsibility for, and shall not be liable for, any acts or omissions of parties not under our control, including but not limited to acts of God, unsafe conditions, terrorism, health hazards (including pandemics), or adverse weather.

We have no special knowledge regarding potential dangers at your destination. For up-to-date information on travel advisories, visit:

• U.S. Department of State: www.travel.state.gov
• Centers for Disease Control (CDC): www.cdc.gov/travel

6. Air Travel

We are not responsible for airline seat changes, cancellations, or schedule adjustments. If air arrangements are made through us, airfare remains subject to change until paid in full and may increase due to taxes or fuel surcharges. Frequent flyer programs are private agreements between you and the airline, and we are not liable for reward point issues.

7. Medical Emergencies and Health Disclaimer

There is no medical doctor onboard the vessel. Emergency medical care may be delayed or unavailable. You are solely responsible for managing your health, medication, and fitness to travel.

We are not liable for the quality, availability, or outcome of any medical treatment received during the trip. You acknowledge that cruise travel involves physical activity and inherent risks. You affirm that you are fit to travel and engage in planned activities.

We strongly recommend that all participants obtain comprehensive travel and medical insurance -including coverage for trip interruption, emergency evacuation, and pre-existing conditions. U.S. Medicare does not provide coverage outside the United States.

8. Accessibility and Disability Notice

Cruise vessels, ports, and certain land-based accommodations may be inaccessible to persons with mobility or other impairments. Facilities such as elevators, ramps, or accessible restrooms may be limited or unavailable. You are responsible for assessing whether the cruise and associated travel are suitable for your abilities.

If you or a member of your party has a condition that may require special accommodations, assistive devices, or mobility aids, you must notify us in writing at the time of booking – or as early as possible – and provide detailed information about the condition and requested accommodations. We will forward such information to the relevant Suppliers. However, we do not guarantee the availability or adequacy of any accommodation.

We reserve the right to decline participation, without refund, for any guest whose physical condition, mobility, or behavior creates a direct threat to the health or safety of others, or who is unable to participate without undue burden on staff or Suppliers. In such cases, we may require the individual to travel with a companion capable of providing necessary assistance.

9. Documentation and Visas

A valid passport is required for each participant and must remain valid for at least six (6) months after your scheduled return date. Your name as listed on your passport and visa (if required) must exactly match the name on your airline and cruise documents.

Non-U.S. citizens must consult the appropriate consulates for visa and entry requirements. You are solely responsible for obtaining and verifying all required documentation. We do not provide visa services and are not responsible for delays, missed itinerary components, or additional costs resulting from incomplete or incorrect travel documents.

10 .Pricing and Inclusions

Prices are listed in USD and are based on double occupancy. Single supplements apply. Published rates exclude airfare (unless stated), gratuities, optional excursions, passport/visa fees, baggage fees, medical insurance, personal expenses, and transfers. Prices generally include hotel and airfare taxes where applicable. Tips for guides or local staff are not included unless stated. Some countries may charge departure taxes at the airport, which are not included in your fare and must be paid locally. We do not include transportation between airports, hotels, or the ship unless explicitly noted. If we assist in arranging private transfers, a nominal fee will apply. Prices do not include vaccinations, laundry, or other items and services of a personal nature unless specifically noted. We reserve the right to correct pricing errors and charge the accurate fare or cancel the booking if necessary.

11. Liability Limitation

Our maximum liability to you, under any legal theory, is limited to the amount you paid us for the cruise. We are not liable for punitive, consequential, incidental, or indirect damages. This limitation applies to all claims, including but not limited to those arising from breach of contract, negligence, personal injury, death, or property loss. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Avid Travel Media Inc. and its suppliers shall be entitled to the benefits of any applicable laws, treaties, or conventions that limit liability, including but not limited to the Convention on Limitation of Liability for Maritime Claims (LLMC), 46 U.S.C. Chapter 305, and the Strasbourg Convention on the Limitation of Liability of Owners of Inland Navigation Vessels (CLNI), if and as applicable.

12. Indemnification

You agree to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Avid Travel Media Inc., its officers, employees, agents, and affiliates (the “Indemnified Parties”) from and against any and all claims, liabilities, losses, damages, costs, or expenses (including reasonable attorneys’ fees) arising out of or related to:

• Any act, omission, or misconduct by you or any member of your traveling party;

• Any breach of these Terms by you or your traveling party;

• Any failure to comply with applicable laws or regulations;

• Any failure to disclose a medical condition, disability, or special requirement in accordance with Sections 6 and 7;

• Any claims brought by substitute participants or third parties in connection with your booking.

This indemnity applies regardless of whether the claim is brought directly against you, your guests, or the Indemnified Parties.

13. Travel Insurance

We strongly recommend that you purchase comprehensive travel insurance to protect against financial loss due to trip cancellation, interruption, medical emergencies, evacuation, or baggage loss. This should include:

• Trip cancellation and interruption coverage

• Emergency medical treatment abroad

• Medical evacuation and repatriation

• Coverage for pre-existing conditions (if applicable)

It is your responsibility to evaluate and obtain appropriate insurance. Avid Travel Media Inc. is not responsible for losses incurred due to your failure to obtain adequate coverage. U.S. Medicare and many domestic health plans do not provide coverage outside the United States.

14. Governing Law, Venue, Dispute Resolution & Class Action Waiver

These Terms shall be governed exclusively by the laws of the State of North Carolina, USA, without regard to its conflict of laws rules.

You agree that any dispute, claim, or cause of action arising from or related to the River or Canal Cruise, travel services, pre- or post-cruise activities, payments, these Terms, or any act or omission of Avid Travel Media Inc., the Carrier, or Suppliers shall first be submitted to mediation and, if not resolved, to binding arbitration in accordance with Section 24 of these Terms. You waive the right to bring any such claims in a court of law, and instead agree to binding arbitration in Buncombe County, North Carolina.

You further agree:
	•	To bring any such claim solely on an individual basis;
	•	To waive any right to participate in a class action, collective action, or representative proceeding;
	•	That any claim must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the conclusion of the trip and must be filed in arbitration within one (1) year from the date of the incident or be permanently barred;
	•	That any claims, judgments, or awards shall exclude attorneys’ fees, even if you prevail.

15. Acceptance and Digital Consent

By booking a cruise or checking the acceptance box online, you confirm your understanding and agreement to these Terms. Digital signatures and click-through consent are enforceable. Records are stored electronically for legal compliance.

16. Photography

We may use photographs or video from your trip for promotional purposes. You grant us permission to do so unless you request exclusion in writing.

17. Carrier Information

The Carrier for your cruise may include, but is not limited to, CroisiEurope, AmaWaterways, or Avalon Waterways. These companies operate under the laws of their respective jurisdictions. You will receive a copy of the Carrier’s passenger ticket contract, which constitutes a separate agreement between you and the Carrier. We are not responsible for the Carrier’s exercise of its contractual rights or any resulting losses you may incur.

18. Cancellation by Carrier

The Carrier reserves the right to cancel, change, or postpone any cruise departure or itinerary. In the event of a complete cancellation by the Carrier, we will refund any funds remitted to us by the Carrier, less unrecoverable costs. No other compensation or damages will be provided. All other payments are non-refundable. We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance that covers cancellation.

19. Cancellation By Us

We reserve the right to cancel a cruise departure for any lawful reason, including but not limited to insufficient participation. In such cases, we will refund any money remitted to us by the Carrier or Supplier, less any unrecoverable costs. This refund will be your sole remedy, and we will not be liable for any additional compensation, damages, or losses.

20. Personal Changes

If you choose to deviate from the published itinerary for any reason – such as arriving late, leaving early, skipping scheduled activities, or making alternate arrangements – you will not be entitled to any refund, credit, or reduction in charges. You will bear full responsibility for any unused services.

21. Assumption of Risk and Safety Acknowledgment

You acknowledge that participation in the River Cruise involves time on a ship, in transit, and ashore, with physical activities that may involve inherent risks. These include, but are not limited to, travel over water, boarding or disembarking vessels, slips, falls, weather-related events, acts of other participants, and exposure to illness or criminal activity.

You understand and voluntarily accept these risks, including risks that may be unknown or not foreseeable at the time of booking. You agree to participate at your own risk, and you acknowledge that neither we nor the Released Parties control the actions of the Carrier, its employees, other passengers, or third parties encountered during travel.

22. Release of Liability

In consideration of our granting permission for you and your travel party to participate in the River Cruise, you, for yourself, your heirs, administrators, personal representatives, and assigns, hereby fully and forever release, waive, discharge, and covenant not to sue Avid Travel Media Inc., its officers, shareholders, employees, agents, successors, and assigns (the “Released Parties”) from any and all liabilities, losses, costs, claims, demands, actions, or causes of action arising out of or relating to any injury, illness, death, or damage to property, whether caused by the negligence of the Released Parties or otherwise, occurring during or in connection with your participation in the River Cruise, including travel to and from the cruise or any related activities.

This release is intended to be as broad and inclusive as permitted by applicable law and shall be binding upon your estate, family, and legal representatives.

23. Miscellaneous

No alteration, cancellation, variation of, or addition to these Terms shall be valid unless made in writing and signed by us. If any part of these Terms conflicts with present or future laws, it shall be curtailed only to the extent necessary to comply with such laws, and the remainder shall remain in full force and effect.

You hereby consent to our use of photos or video featuring you in promotional materials without compensation, unless you request exclusion in writing. A facsimile, scanned, or electronically signed version of any signed document shall be deemed an original and enforceable as such.

These Terms constitute the entire agreement between you and Avid Travel Media Inc. regarding your River Cruise booking. No oral statements or prior written material not specifically incorporated herein shall be of any force or effect. Our failure to enforce any part of these Terms shall not be deemed a waiver of any rights.

These Terms shall be binding upon and inure to the benefit of the parties and their respective heirs, successors, and permitted assigns. You may not assign your rights or obligations under these Terms without prior written consent. We may assign these Terms in the event of a sale or reorganization.

24. Binding Arbitration
You agree that any and all disputes, claims, or controversies arising from or relating to these Terms, your cruise booking, or participation in the River or Canal Cruise—including but not limited to those involving personal injury, property damage, or breach of contract—shall first be submitted to mediation in Buncombe County, North Carolina.

If mediation fails, the dispute shall then be resolved by final and binding arbitration under the rules of the American Arbitration Association (“AAA”), and governed by the laws of the State of North Carolina, without regard to its conflict of law provisions. The arbitration shall take place in Buncombe County, North Carolina before a single arbitrator mutually agreed upon by the parties. If the parties cannot agree on an arbitrator, one will be appointed by the AAA.

Each party shall bear its own legal fees and costs, and the arbitrator shall not award attorneys’ fees unless expressly authorized by law. The arbitrator shall not have the authority to award punitive or exemplary damages, and any award shall be limited to actual compensatory damages not exceeding the amount paid to Avid Travel Media Inc.

By agreeing to this clause, you waive any right to a trial by jury

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Besancon - Dijon, April 16-22, 2026

Besancon is a beautiful, historic city tucked into a curve of the Doubs River in eastern France. It’s not as widely known as Paris or Lyon, but it’s a gem with a rich history, elegant architecture, and a peaceful, authentic vibe.

To get to Besancon, we’ll take a direct fast train from Paris, which takes 2 hours 30 minutes. We’ll stay one night in Hotel Le Sauvage or a similar hotel. At the end of the barge trip, we’ll pitch camp in Dijon for one to two nights at Grand Hotel La Cloche or similar, then transfer back by train to Paris.

Note that pricing does not include airfare, transfers, meals off the barge, hotels and other off-the-barge expenses. Trains will typically cost less than $100 per person, hotels typically less than $300 per night. I will assist you with booking these extra components. Also note that cruise fares are non-refundable. Please make sure you purchase trip cancellation insurance.

Strasbourg - Legarde, October 8-44, 2026

Strasbourg, perched on the border of France and Germany, is a captivating city where French charm meets German precision. As the capital of Alsace and home to the European Parliament, it blends old-world beauty with modern significance. The city’s historic center, the Grande Île, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its half-timbered houses, cobbled lanes, and the awe-inspiring Strasbourg Cathedral, whose spire once made it the tallest building in the world. Winding canals weave through the fairytale-like district of La Petite France, while vibrant markets, winstubs (Alsatian taverns), and a strong cycling culture give the city a lively, local vibe. Strasbourg is at once a gateway to the Alsace wine route and a symbol of European unity and heritage.

Getting to Strasbourg is easy.

Airports with easy access include:

Paris Charles de Gaulle (CDG) – often the most direct and flexible choice from the U.S.
Frankfurt (FRA) – closer to Strasbourg and usually efficient for train connections.
Zurich (ZRH) – another good option, especially if you plan to explore Switzerland or the Alps.

Then take a high-speed train:

From Paris CDG: Direct TGV trains run from the airport to Strasbourg in about 1 hour 50 minutes. No need to go into central Paris.
From Frankfurt: ICE trains take about 2 hours to Strasbourg, often with a quick change in Karlsruhe or Offenburg.
From Zurich: Train connections take about 2.5 to 3 hours.

Where to stay in Strasbourg?

Hotel Rohan is iocated in the heart of Strasbourg’s medieval district, just steps from the iconic Notre-Dame Cathedral, Offering a blend of elegance and convenience, the hotel features 35 individually styled, air-conditioned rooms equipped with amenities such as flat-screen TVs, free Wi-Fi, and minibars. Guests can enjoy breakfast on one of the two furnished terraces during warmer months. Additional services include a bar/lounge, 24-hour reception, and pet-friendly accommodations. Its prime location makes it an ideal base for exploring the city’s historic sites and charming streets.

Situated in a converted 17th-century mill on the banks of the River Ill, Hôtel & Spa Régent Petite France offers a luxurious stay in the picturesque La Petite France district. The hotel boasts 75 uniquely decorated rooms, each offering views of the river or traditional Alsatian half-timbered houses. Guests can indulge in the full-service spa, which includes a sauna, hammam, hot tub, and a range of beauty treatments. The on-site restaurant and Champagne bar provide gourmet dining experiences with scenic views. Additional amenities include a fitness center, valet parking, and pet-friendly policies. Its central location ensures easy access to Strasbourg’s main attractions.

Sete - Arles, October 22-28, 2026

The Camargue is a wild, windswept region of southern France where nature takes center stage. Nestled between the Mediterranean Sea and the Rhône River delta, it’s a vast mosaic of salt flats, marshes, rice paddies, and lagoons. Known for its iconic white horses, black bulls, and vibrant pink flamingos, the Camargue feels like another world – a place where time slows down. Birdwatchers and nature lovers flock here for its rich biodiversity, while others come for the wide-open beaches, cowboy culture, and quaint towns like Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer. It’s raw, untamed Provence at its most elemental and soul-stirring.

Getting To Sete

From Paris to Sète

Flight: Fly into Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport (CDG).
Train: From Paris Gare de Lyon, take a high-speed TGV INOUI train directly to Sète. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 30 to 50 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from €58 to €200, depending on the class and booking time .

From Marseille to Sète

Flight: Fly into Marseille Provence Airport (MRS).
Train: From Marseille-Saint-Charles station, board a regional TER or Intercités train to Sète. The journey takes about 1 hour and 54 minutes, with tickets starting at €10 .