Avalon to Expand France River Cruising with New Multi-River 2027 Itineraries

Avalon Waterways is expanding its France portfolio in 2027 with new itineraries designed to connect the country’s most iconic regions – and the experiences that bring them to life. 

To support continued demand for France – particularly along the Seine – Avalon is increasing capacity in 2027, including the addition of the Avalon Artistry II to the river.

The river cruise line’s recent Wish List survey of 10,000 past guests found that France tops the list of desired destinations, with 35% naming it as the place they want to visit next . Avalon’s Suite Ship move reflects the cruise line’s approach to growth: expanding where it enhances the experience.

“When guests show us where they want to go, we meet them there,” said president Pam Hoffee. “Right now, that place is France.”

Avalon is unveiling two new multi-river itineraries in France for 2027. The new itineraries take a wider view of the destination, connecting its most iconic regions with neighbouring cultures and landscapes: 

• Seine & Rhine Revealed blends the ever-popular Paris and Normandy itinerary with the Rhine’s castles and vineyards.
• France Unveiled: Seine & Rhône sails from the capital to Provence with the opportunity to extend to the French Riviera, pairing inland discovery with an optional two-night coastal stay.

“These journeys reflect how people want to travel today,” said Hoffee. “They’re looking to get the most out of their international journey in a single trip – with greater depth, more variety and the ease of knowing every detail has been thoughtfully handled.”

Avalon says France is a destination that reveals itself in layers, and the expanded 2027 portfolio brings those layers together in a way that is both seamless and complete, inviting travellers to move easily from iconic landmarks to local experiences, from countryside to coast, all within one journey. 

Across its France sailings, Avalon Choice Excursions give every destination more than one point of view – from Classic must-sees to Active adventures to Discovery experiences that connect more deeply to local culture. Guests can follow what fascinates them, knowing every included option is designed with the same care and insight. 

Select departures go even further, shaped around the passions that bring destinations into focus. From tracing WWII history along the shores of Normandy to exploring France’s renowned wine regions, diving into culinary traditions to celebrating jazz music culture, Avalon’s Special Interest cruises in France offer another layer of connection to the journey.