Ultimate France
Ultimate France
Cruise overview
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About Bordeaux
Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you'll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region's largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux"—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d'Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it's pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.
About Pauillac
Pauillac, France, is a scenic village in the Bordeaux wine region, renowned for its prestigious vineyards and charming riverfront. Located on the Gironde estuary, it is famed for its high-quality red wines, including those from renowned châteaux like Lafite Rothschild and Mouton Rothschild. The village features historic buildings, vibrant markets, and stunning views of the estuary. Pauillac’s blend of rich winemaking heritage and picturesque landscapes makes it a delightful destination for wine enthusiasts and travellers seeking a taste of Bordeaux’s elegance.
About Cadillac
Cadillac, France, is a charming town in the Gironde department, known for its historic architecture and vineyards. Famous for its production of sweet white wines, especially Cadillac Côtes de Bordeaux, the town features a well-preserved 18th-century château and picturesque streets. Set along the Garonne River, Cadillac offers scenic views and a rich heritage, blending historical charm with local wine culture. Its vibrant markets and serene atmosphere make it a pleasant destination for those exploring the Bordeaux wine region.
About Blaye
Blaye, France, is a picturesque town in the Gironde department, renowned for its historic Blaye Citadel, a UNESCO World Heritage site with stunning views of the Gironde estuary. The town boasts charming streets, vibrant markets, and renowned vineyards producing exceptional wines, including Blaye Côtes de Bordeaux. Blaye’s blend of historical architecture, scenic river views, and local wine culture makes it an inviting destination for history enthusiasts and wine lovers alike.
About Libourne
Libourne, France, is a historic town in the Bordeaux wine region, renowned for its vibrant market and beautiful architecture. Located along the Dordogne River, it features a charming blend of medieval and Renaissance buildings, including the striking Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Libourne is a gateway to prestigious wine estates, including Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. The town's bustling market and scenic riverside setting offer a delightful experience for visitors interested in wine, history, and local culture.
About Libourne
Libourne, France, is a historic town in the Bordeaux wine region, renowned for its vibrant market and beautiful architecture. Located along the Dordogne River, it features a charming blend of medieval and Renaissance buildings, including the striking Church of Saint-Jean-Baptiste. Libourne is a gateway to prestigious wine estates, including Pomerol and Saint-Émilion. The town's bustling market and scenic riverside setting offer a delightful experience for visitors interested in wine, history, and local culture.
About Bordeaux
Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you'll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region's largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux"—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d'Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it's pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.
About Bordeaux
Bordeaux as a whole, rather than any particular points within it, is what you'll want to visit in order to understand why Victor Hugo described it as Versailles plus Antwerp, and why the painter Francisco de Goya, when exiled from his native Spain, chose it as his last home (he died here in 1828). The capital of southwest France and the region's largest city, Bordeaux remains synonymous with the wine trade: wine shippers have long maintained their headquarters along the banks of the Garonne, while buyers from around the world arrive for the huge biennial Vinexpo show (held in odd-number years).Bordeaux is, admittedly, a less exuberant city than many others in France, but lively and stylish elements are making a dent in its conservative veneer. The cleaned-up riverfront is said by some, after a bottle or two, to exude an elegance reminiscent of St. Petersburg, and that aura of 18th-century élan also permeates the historic downtown sector—“le vieux Bordeaux"—where fine shops invite exploration. To the south of the city center are old docklands undergoing renewal—one train station has now been transformed into a big multiplex movie theater—but the area is still a bit shady. To get a feel for the historic port of Bordeaux, take the 90-minute boat trip that leaves Quai Louis-XVIII every weekday afternoon, or the regular passenger ferry that plies the Garonne between Quai Richelieu and the Pont d'Aquitaine in summer. A nice time to stroll around the city center is the first Sunday of the month, when it's pedestrian-only and vehicles are banned.
About Vernon
About Rouen
About Caudebec-en-Caux
About Rouen
About Mantes-la-Jolie
Mantes-la-Jolie is a commune in the Yvelines department in the Île-de-France region of north-central France. It is located to the west of Paris, 48.4 km from the centre of the capital.
About Paris
About Lyon
Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.
About Lyon
Lyon, the capital city in France’s Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, sits at the junction of the Rhône and Saône rivers. Its center reflects 2,000 years of history from the Roman Amphithéâtre des Trois Gaules, medieval and Renaissance architecture in Vieux (Old) Lyon, to the modern Confluence district on Presqu'île peninsula. Traboules, covered passageways between buildings, connect Vieux Lyon and La Croix-Rousse hill.
About Mâcon
About Tain-l'Hermitage
Tain-l'Hermitage, France, is a picturesque town in the Rhône-Alpes region, renowned for its exceptional wines, particularly its Syrah and Hermitage varietals. Nestled along the Rhône River and surrounded by lush vineyards, it offers scenic views and a charming atmosphere. The town features historic sites like the 12th-century Hermitage Chapel and the Cité du Chocolat, celebrating local culinary delights. With its blend of fine wine, rich history, and stunning landscapes, Tain-l'Hermitage is a captivating destination for wine enthusiasts and travelers seeking a taste of Provence.
About Viviers
Viviers, France, is a charming medieval town in the Rhône-Alpes region, renowned for its well-preserved historical architecture. Nestled on the banks of the Rhône River, it features narrow, winding streets, ancient stone houses, and the impressive Saint-Vincent Cathedral. The town's Roman and medieval heritage is evident in its old ramparts and historic buildings. Viviers' tranquil atmosphere and picturesque surroundings offer a glimpse into the past, making it a delightful destination for history lovers and those seeking a serene escape.
About Avignon
Avignon, France, is a historic city in Provence famed for its stunning medieval architecture. Dominated by the impressive Palais des Papes, a grand papal palace, and the iconic Pont Saint-Bénézet bridge, Avignon offers a rich cultural heritage. Its charming streets, vibrant markets, and annual theater festival, the Festival d'Avignon, add to its allure. Surrounded by picturesque vineyards and the Rhône River, Avignon blends history with a lively contemporary atmosphere, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts and culture seekers.
About Arles
Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout landmarks. Arles also boasts charming streets and vibrant markets, reflecting its rich cultural life. Known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, the city features scenes immortalized in his paintings. The blend of historical architecture, vibrant local culture, and picturesque landscapes makes Arles a captivating destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.
About Arles
Arles, France, is a historic city in Provence renowned for its Roman heritage and artistic legacy. The ancient amphitheater and the Roman Theater are standout landmarks. Arles also boasts charming streets and vibrant markets, reflecting its rich cultural life. Known for its connection to Vincent van Gogh, the city features scenes immortalized in his paintings. The blend of historical architecture, vibrant local culture, and picturesque landscapes makes Arles a captivating destination for history buffs and art enthusiasts alike.
Lavishly appointed riverview Grand Suite (410 sq ft - 38 sq m) with an open-air balcony
Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, generous built-in closets, hair dryer, individual climate-control thermostat, direct-dial telephone, flat-screen TV with infotainment center, safe, separate spacious living room and a bathroom with a separate rain shower and tub, and a secluded toilet and bidet area
Marble bathroom includes Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, special towel warmers, backlit magnifying mirror, heated mirrors, cozy bathrobes and slippers
Additional amenities and services include: in-suite butler service; packing and unpacking assistance; in-room breakfast; daily fruit and cookie plate, and an elegant evening snack; Nespresso coffee machine and fine teas; fully stocked mini bar; bottle of wine upon arrival; shoe shine; free laundry service; and a special dinner in Bar du Leopard.
Lavishly appointed riverview suite (305 sq ft - 28.3 sq m) with an open-air balcony
Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, generous built-in closets, hair dryer, individual climate-control thermostat, safe, direct-dial telephone and flat-screen TV with infotainment center
Triple accommodation option available. The sofa converts into a comfortable bed to accommodate a third person
Marble bathroom includes Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, special towel warmers, backlit magnifying mirror, heated mirrors, cozy bathrobes and slippers
Uniquely decorated and additional amenities and services, including: in-suite butler service; packing and unpacking assistance; in-room breakfast; daily fruit and cookie plate, and an elegant evening snack; Nespresso coffee machine and fine teas; fully stocked mini bar; bottle of wine upon arrival; shoe shine; free laundry service; and a special dinner in Bar du Leopard.
Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms (194 sq ft - 18 sq m) with a French balcony
Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, bottled water and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite
Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, cozy bathrobes and slippers
Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms (194 sq ft - 18 sq m) with a French balcony
Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, bottled water and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite
Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, cozy bathrobes and slippers
Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (162-180 sq ft - 15-17 sq m)
Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, bottled water and flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite
Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, cozy bathrobes and slippers
S.S. Joie de Vivre
S.S. Joie de Vivre brings the “joy of living” to the rivers of France. Step aboard your floating pied-à-terre in France, featuring handcrafted furniture and fine antiques, original artwork, and signature accents inspired by 20th-century Parisian design from the Golden Twenties to the free-spirited Sixties, all blending seamlessly with modern conveniences.
Ship Facts
| Speed | 10 | ||||||
| Width | 11 | ||||||
| Length | 125 | ||||||
| Capacity | 128 | ||||||
| Currency | EUR | ||||||
| Language | fr+en | ||||||
| Crew Count | 52 | ||||||
| Deck Count | 4 | ||||||
| Refit Year | |||||||
| Cabin Count | 64 | ||||||
| Launch Year | 2017 | ||||||
| Gross Tonnage | N/A | ||||||
| Electrical Plugs |
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| Large Cabin Count | 10 | ||||||
| Wheelchair Cabin Count | N/A |
Sun Deck
- Sun Deck
Victor Hugo Deck
- Serenity River Spa
- Massage
- Fitness Centre
- Swimming Pool
- Club L'Esprit / Claude's
- Bar
- Suites
- Le Bistro
- Salon Toulouse
- 24-Hour Tea and Coffee Station
- Grand Suite
- Deluxe French Balconies
Balzac Deck
- French Balcony Staterooms
- Reception
- Le Restaurant Pigalle
Jules Verne Deck
- Classic Staterooms
- Laundry
- La Cave des Vins
With Uniworld, you can always count on having the finest quality foods prepared with locally-sourced ingredients. The talented chefs also feature local, regional, and seasonal specialties made with a traditional flair.
Uniworld’s extensive wine list includes such world-class vintages as the 1995 Nikolaihof Riesling from Austria, which recently received the highest possible score—100 points—from prestigious wine reviewer Robert Parker.
From Farm to Ship
Farm-to-table isn’t just a trendy culinary buzzword around here. It’s a governing philosophy and commitment to serving you the very best local dishes created by our master chefs. When in Italy, dinner may consist of Prosciutto di Parma pizza and Osso Buco Milanese, prepared to your liking, with meats and vegetables sourced from just miles away. After a day immersed in Indian culture, your taste buds may do some immersing of their own with Gajar Shorba and Tandoori Chicken Tikka for lunch. Live brilliantly. Dine locally. That’s our story and we’re sticking to it.
Creative Culinary Options
For those interested in healthier dining options, our Traveling Lite menu features all of the flavor of our traditional menu, but with fewer calories. We also offer a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, prepared just for you. If you have a specific meal preference, just ask. Our chefs will be happy to accommodate.
We learned from the best
Mrs. Beatrice Tollman’s culinary vision lives on with her many Signature Dishes you can enjoy onboard. Mrs. Tollman’s memoir, A Life in Food, chronicles her gastronomic prowess and joy of being able to share her life’s passion with thousands of guests. You’ll discover many of the recipes Mrs. Tollman published on our menu, including Bea’s Chicken Soup, Sesame Fried Chicken and Honeycomb Ice Cream. If the all-inclusive amenities and luxurious accommodations weren’t enough to put you in a state of comfortable bliss, the homegrown cooking will.
La Cave Des Vins
Lovers of French food and wine can experience an exclusive epicurean event in our onboard show kitchen. Under the guidance of Uniworld’s talented chef, prepare an exquisite seven-course meal. Then relish your creation with wine pairings designed just for you by our Sommelier. Simply ask our Concierge to reserve your spot. Bon appetit!
Le Bistrot
The ship's very own Parisian-style sidewalk café serves classic French cuisine. Designed with windows that lower for an open-air ambiance, Le Bistrot is a très bon spot to savor wrap-around views of the Seine.
Le Restaurant Pigalle
Le Restaurant Pigalle is located on Balzac Deck.
Sip a glass of wine while you cruise past beautiful landscapes and world-famous landmarks on your way to your next destination...
Claude's
Experience the magic each evening as Club L’Esprit transforms into Claude’s supper club, a vibrant dining and entertainment venue. Claude’s glitzy and glamorous atmosphere is the perfect place to listen to local music, enjoy delectable hors d’oeuvres and signature cocktails, or view a classic French film on select nights in an intimate cinema.
Signature Cocktails
Our cocktails, much like our ships, are one-of-a-kind and inspired by the destinations we visit. Our bartenders are sharing their favorites with you.
Local Wines
Uniworld cruises through some of the world’s most acclaimed wine producing regions in Europe. Our onboard wine menus are expertly curated by our staff of Sommeliers to reflect the local destination. Plus, you can enjoy these local wines as part of your all-inclusive package.
Local Beers
Our onboard beer menus feature unique lagers, ales and stouts from small local breweries, giving you a taste of the world’s finest. The best part? It’s all included.
Premium Spirits
Extra dirty Grey Goose martini with locally harvested olives? It’s all yours. As is everything else you can think of. With our ultra-inclusive amenities you can enjoy unlimited beverages onboard.
Salon Toulouse
Salon Toulouse can be found on Victor Hugo Deck
Information Desk
The Information Desk can be found on Balzac Deck.