Embark on the senior touring trip of a lifetime with Best of Times Travel and the award-winning AMA Waterways on our Paris & Normandy River Cruise. This all-inclusive vacation offers the ultimate travel value as you journey through the heart of France, blending the timeless romance of Paris with the profound history and rolling beauty of the Norman countryside.
This meticulously crafted senior group travel itinerary begins with an exclusive 2-night pre-cruise program in Paris, featuring the opulence of the Palace of Versailles and a spectacular dinner and show at the world-famous Moulin Rouge. From there, you’ll board your luxurious AMA Waterways ship and glide along the winding Seine, witnessing enchanting orchards, lush pastures, and the scenic river valleys that have inspired artists for centuries.
Enjoy enriching shore excursions tailored to various activity levels, savor gourmet cuisine with included beverages, and relax in the comfort of your elegant stateroom. With a dedicated Best of Times Travel Tour Manager ensuring a seamless experience and roundtrip airfare from Logan Airport included, this French river cruise promises an extraordinary and stress-free adventure. Don’t miss this opportunity for exceptional senior group travel through the soul of France!
Start your voyage with an Exclusive Best of Times Travel 2-Night Pre-Cruise program in Paris, where you will marvel at the splendor of Versailles and experience the legendary nightlife of the Moulin Rouge. As we set sail, you will revel in the beauty of the world’s most romantic city before journeying into the provincial charm of the French countryside.
Walk the historic cobblestone streets of Vernon and stroll through the exquisite gardens of Giverny, where the colorful landscapes that inspired Impressionist Claude Monet still bloom today. In Rouen, delight in stunning Gothic monuments and stand in the historic center where Joan of Arc once stood.
Experience history firsthand with a moving visit to the Normandy Beaches, the site of the pivotal World War II D-Day landings. Our journey includes guided visits to the Arromanches D-Day Museum and the American Military Cemetery of Colleville-sur-Mer, offering a deep and personal connection to the past. Throughout your cruise, you will savor authentic French flavors and discover the hidden gems of the Seine’s scenic valley—all with the special "extras" and professional care you can only find with Best of Times.
Experience the pinnacle of senior group travel with Best of Times Travel’s meticulously curated 2027 European river cruise aboard AMA Waterways' elegant AmaLyra. This all-inclusive vacation promises a tapestry of unforgettable moments, perfectly tailored for a delightful and moving senior touring trip through the heart of France.
Exclusive 2-Night Paris Pre-Cruise: Begin your journey in the "City of Light" with a comprehensive riding tour of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and the Champs Élysées. Enjoy an included visit to the opulent Palace of Versailles and a quintessential Parisian evening featuring dinner and a spectacular show at the world-famous Moulin Rouge.
Artistic Inspiration in Montmartre: Explore the legendary artist’s enclave of Montmartre. Take the funicular to the Basilica du Sacré-Coeur, the highest point in the city, before embarking on your luxurious AMA Waterways ship.
Medieval Fortresses in Les Andelys: Uncover the history of Château Gaillard, Richard the Lionheart’s former stronghold, perched high above the Seine. Choose a guided tour or a scenic hike to capture breathtaking views of the river valley.
Honfleur & UNESCO Heritage: Discover the picturesque harbor of Honfleur, a favorite subject for Impressionist painters, followed by an exploration of the UNESCO-designated architecture of Le Havre.
Moving Tributes at Normandy’s Beaches: Experience a deeply personal connection to history with a full-day excursion to the American Sector. Visit Omaha Beach, the Arromanches D-Day Museum, and the American Military Cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer.
The Spirit of Rouen: Wander through the Medieval Quarter of Rouen to see where Joan of Arc was martyred. Afterward, enjoy a "Tastes of Normandy" culinary experience or visit the stunning 16th-century Bonnemare Castle.
Monet’s Giverny & Château de Bizy: Step into a masterpiece at Claude Monet’s home and gardens in Giverny, famously home to his water lilies and Japanese bridges. Alternatively, marvel at the "Le Petit Versailles"—the regal Château de Bizy.
Van Gogh’s Auvers-sur-Oise or Malmaison: Visit the final home of Vincent van Gogh at Auberge Ravoux or explore the Château de Malmaison, the exquisite former estate of Napoleon and Josephine Bonaparte.
Final Seine River Parade: Conclude your adventure with a special panoramic cruise through the center of Paris, gliding under ornate bridges for a unique view of the Notre Dame Cathedral and the Musee d’Orsay.
Gourmet Dining: Savor meals featuring fresh, locally sourced French ingredients, paired with unlimited regional wines, beers, and soft drinks.
Daily Sip & Sail: Enjoy a hosted cocktail hour each evening, fostering camaraderie with your fellow travelers.
Active Options: Choose from a variety of included excursions, including guided hikes and bike tours through the French countryside, catering to all activity levels.
Elegant Comfort: Relax in elegantly appointed staterooms with high-quality amenities and impeccable service.
Expert Management: Benefit from a dedicated Best of Times Travel Tour Manager who handles every detail from start to finish.
Total Peace of Mind: Enjoy included roundtrip airfare from Logan Airport, seamless airport transfers, and all onboard and onshore activities.
Personalized Service: Utilize personal audio devices for shore excursions to ensure you never miss a word of the rich history being shared.
Here's What's Included as part of your Best of Times Travel All-Inclusive Paris & Normandy River Cruise Package:
• 8 Day Deluxe River Cruise on the AmaLyra - Elegantly appointed riverview staterooms, most with signature twin balconies, French balconies or full balconies
• 2-Night Best of Times Travel Pre-Cruise Tour in Paris
• Roundtrip Airfare from Logan Airport
• Roundtrip Transfer to Airport - w/ hometown pick-up guarantee*
• Best of Times Professional Tour Manager throughout your trip**
• All Touring Included with private, English-speaking guides and Personal audio device, Quietvox, to better appreciate your guide’s insightful commentary. Plus Bicycles with helmets and Nordic walking sticks. Choose your excursion activity level: gentle, regular or active pace tours. There are even some options for late risers.
• All onboard meals featuring regional specialties & always available American classics - Dining with open seating
• Unlimited Wines, Beers, & Soft Drinks with every lunch and dinner on board ship, plus Daily Sip & Sail cocktail hour with complimentary wine, beer, and spirits
• Old World Highlights: Distinctive onboard programs, such as lectures, theme dinners, music performances, and afternoon/evening piano music
• Welcome Cocktail Reception/Dinner & Gala Dinner
• Wellness Program offering a variety of daily exercise classes led by a professionally trained Wellness Host.
• Hotel-style bed with optional twin-bed configuration; luxury linens & pillows, Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms and suites with complimentary high-speed internet, movies, music and English-language TV stations. Unlimited high-quality Wi-Fi on board. Security safe, Hair dryer, 110/220 volt outlets & USB port, refrigerator
• Refreshing water always available, with biodegradable Tetra Pak® containers for excursions
• Special Early Booking & Past Passenger Discounts
• Optional Chubb Travelers Insurance Program Available. For More Information on the Insurance Program Click Here.
** Minimum requirement of 20 paying customers from Best of Times Travel to ensure Tour Director services throughout the cruise.
* For a Single Group Pick-Up within 20 miles of Boston Logan Airport. Group Locations within 20 miles of Boston Logan Airport are ensured a singular pick-up in their home town. Groups outside of 20 miles may need to pay a transportation upcharge. Non-Group Bookings will need to drive to the closest designated Best of Times Travel or Group Departure Location. Best of Times Travel will notify you of the closest designated pick-up location to where you live approximately 45 days prior to the sailing date.
Day 1, Boston, MA - Day 2, ARRIVE IN PARIS, FRANCE - Board your overnight flight to Paris. Arrive in Paris, romance capital of the world and transfer you to your city hotel. After some time to relax take free time to explore Paris on your—or join our “welcome walk” with your Best of Times Travel Tour Manger to stretch your legs and start getting oriented.
Day 3, PARIS - Wake up refreshed for a wonderful day of touring in Paris. After breakfast, we’ll embark on riding tour of this beautiful city and taking in its most remarkable sights, including the iconic Eiffel Tower, the École Militaire, Orsay Museum and Latin Quarter, the Cathedral of Notre Dame, the Louvre, the Opera House, and the famous Champs Elysées from the comfort of our motorcoach. This afternoon enjoy our included tour to the luxurious Palace of Versailles, former home of Louis XIV. After freshening up at our hotel we head out on on the town for a true Parisian experience - A French Cancan Show. Enjoy dinner and show at either the world famous Moulin Rouge or Le Lido theatre. (B, D)
Day 4, PARIS - EMBARKATION - Enjoy your included breakfast at the hotel and take time to explore Paris at your own pace. Or after checking out of your hotel, join your AMA Waterways host for an included visit to Montmartre, long known as the city’s premier artist’s enclave. During the mid to late 1800s, artists also began calling Montmartre home. Pissarro and Jongkind were two of the first to live there, followed by other notable artists. For easy access to Montmartre, hop aboard the funicular railroad that ascends the hill. Montmartre’s most recognizable landmark is the Basilica du Sacré-Coeur, constructed from 1876 to 1912. The white dome of this Roman Catholic basilica sits at the highest point in the city. You’ll then board the ship in Paris for your Paris & Normandy cruise. (B,D)
Day 5 - LES ANDELYS - Uncover the history of Château Gaillard, the former stronghold of Richard the Lionheart, situated on the chalk cliffs high above the Seine, on a morning tour. Or, if you prefer a more active adventure, you can hike there from the banks of the Seine, admiring the scenic views along the way. For those who wish to explore the area on two wheels, join a guided bike tour through the charming town of Les Andelys. After your adventures, set sail along the meandering Seine for a scenic cruise. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - LE HAVRE - During your time in Le Havre, set out on an excursion to the seaside town of Honfleur, renowned for its picturesque harbor, and for being an inspirational site for Impressionist painters. During the afternoon, you can join a city tour of the UNESCO-designated Le Havre. Alternatively, you have the choice of a bike tour through Le Havre. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - NORMANDY BEACHS - CAUDEBEC EN CAUX - Experience the Normandy region with a variety of excursions. For those wishing to go to the American sector of the historic Normandy Beaches, you will visit the cemetery at Colleville-sur-Mer, Omaha Beach, the artillery battery at Longues-sur-Mer and the village of Arromanches, where the remains of the floating harbor used during the WWII landings can be seen. If you prefer, you can tour the Gold and Juno beaches in the British and Canadian sectors, where you will visit Ranville Cemetery, Pegasus Bridge, the Canadian cemetery at Beny-sur-Mer, the WWII museum in Courseulle and, finally, Arromanches. Alternatively, you can set out on a full day excursion to the delicious Pays d’Auge region of Normandy, where apple cider, Calvados and pommeau outrank French wine. If you wish to experience a different kind of inspiration in Caudebec-en-Caux, you can journey back in time with the interactive exhibits and vessels at the Seine Museum. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - ROUEN - Spend the morning enjoying medieval Rouen with a choice of several excursions. Join a walking tour and see the square where Joan of Arc was martyred, as well as the Medieval Quarter and Great Clock. You also have the choice to go on the “Tastes of Normandy” tour, where you’ll be treated to the delicious flavors of the region, including chocolate, Norman cheese and cider; or get active by going on a guided bike tour. Then visit Bonnemare Castle, a 16th-century architectural treasure lined with picturesque poplar trees. (B,L,D)
Day 9 - VERNON - Enjoy scenic cruising around Vernon before disembarking the ship for your excursion. You will have a choice of three excursions, depending on your interests. Visit Claude Monet’s home and gardens in Giverny. Art lovers will immediately recognize images immortalized in Monet’s most beloved paintings—such as water lilies, Japanese bridges and graceful willow trees. Wander around his famous gardens and home where he lived for more than four decades. Or visit the regal 18th-century Château de Bizy, inspired by the opulence of Versailles. Enjoy an escorted tour of the palace and gardens. If you prefer a more active adventure, go on a guided bike tour, taking in the beautiful French countryside. (B,L,D) *PLEASE NOTE: IF Monet’s Gardens are closed the day of our visit; an alternative tour will operate instead.
Day 10 - PARIS - Travel to Auberge Ravoux in the heart of Auvers-sur-Oise, the last home of artist Vincent van Gogh. His spirit still lingers in his former attic rooms at the Ravoux Inn. The mere 70 days Van Gogh spent in Auvers-sur-Oise were astonishingly prolific as he painted more than 70 works here before his death. Or enjoy the exquisite architecture of the Château de Malmaison, the former home of Napoleon and Josephine Bonaparte, also known as “the most beautiful and curious garden in Europe.” Active travelers may instead choose to pedal through Paris from the seat of their bike on a guided cycling tour. In the afternoon, experience the “City of Light” from a unique perspective when you board a modern river boat at the Port de la Bourdonnais, located on the banks of the Seine River near the Eiffel Tower. With exterior seating and viewing platforms, your one-hour cruise will be a dream come true as you glide along the river and underneath Paris’s ornate bridges. From the boat, you will take in panoramic views of the city’s iconic buildings and monuments, including the Musee d’Orsay and the Notre Dame Cathedral. (B,L,D)
Day 11 - PARIS - Boston, MA - After breakfast, disembark the ship and proceed to the airport for our return flight home. (B)
AmaLyra Overview - After her launch, AmaLyra quickly earned a “Best New River Cruise Ship” distinction in comfort and style. Perhaps it was because of the scenery afforded by the ship’s French balconies, or because of the exquisite cuisine served by the Main Restaurant and in a delightful, multi-course production as part of The Chef’s Table experience. Whatever the reason, savor the comfort of staterooms appointed with Entertainment-On-Demand, unlimited Wi-Fi, movies, music and English-language TV stations. Revel in the indulgences offered by the sauna, whirlpool, and massage and hair salon. Delight in the blues and yellows of the ship’s interior design, a subtle reflection of how the sunlight just outside shines down on the river. And take advantage of AmaLyra’s sun-deck walking track, fitness room and fleet of complimentary bikes—because maybe being on the best river cruise ship means being the best version of you.
Award-Winning Dining - Savor exquisite cuisine at a variety of dining venues, like the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table. You can also order delicious tapas between meals in the Main Lounge.
Inviting Public Spaces - With fewer guests on board, you can enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and reconnect with your loved ones. Our public areas, including lounges and restaurants, are never overcrowded.
Enriching Entertainment - Whether it’s traditional Bavarian music, a local quartet or modern piano favorites, there is an eclectic schedule of entertainment on board.
Sightsee by Bike - With a fleet of complimentary bicycles on board, you have the opportunity to explore Europe on our guided bike tours, or go discover on your own.
Sun-Deck Hot Tubs- Soak up some rays or take a dip in our refreshing hot tubs as we pass by centuries-old castles, charming villages and other breathtaking scenery.
Massage Services and Hair Salon - After a marvelous day of immersive shore excursions, return to the ship and treat yourself to a bit of pampering with a soothing massage.
Fitness Room - Are you looking for a way to stay fit on vacation? Hit the treadmill or lift some weights while cruising from one destination to the next.
ALL PRICES ARE PER PERSON AND ARE BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY. IF YOU ARE A SOLO TRAVELER, PLEASE PLEASE CONTACT OUR OFFICE DIRECTLY FOR OFFICIAL PRICING. SOLO CABINS ARE 150% OF THE COST OF DOUBLE OCCUPANCY
Enjoy all of the amenities you have come to expect from a modern day cruise ship and then some. All staterooms come with Hotel-style bed with optional twin-bed configuration; luxury linens & pillows, Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms and suites with complimentary high-speed internet, movies, music and English-language TV stations. Unlimited high-quality Wi-Fi on board. Security safe, Hair dryer, 110/220 volt outlets & USB port, refrigerator
Category E - Standard Cabin with Fixed Window - Located on the Piano Deck (Deck 1). Cabin Size: 170 sq. ft.
Category D - Standard Cabin with Fixed Window - Located on the Piano Deck (Deck 1). Cabin Size: 170 sq. ft.
Category C- French Balcony Cabin - Located on Violin (Deck 3) & Cello Decks (Deck 2). Cabin Size: 170 sq. ft.
Category B-French Balcony Cabin - Located on Violin (Deck 3) & Cello Decks (Deck 2). Cabin Size: 170 sq. ft.
For Full Details Regarding the Optional Chubb Travel Insurance Click Here.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Responsibilities: Best of Times Travel is acting solely as an agent for supplier(s) identified on accompanying documents in selling travel related services, or in accepting reservations or bookings for services that are not directly supplied by this agency. Best of Times Travel is not responsible or liable for breach of contract or any other intentional or careless actions or omissions on part of such suppliers which result in any delays, missed connections, changes in ports of call, climatic conditions, losses, damages, or additional expenses owning to advertised schedules, change in any service or accommodations, or any other causes beyond our control. Departure/arrival points will try to be satisfied but are not guaranteed. In the event the services and accommodations set forth in this brochure cannot be supplied because of delays or other causes beyond our control, Best of Times Travel will use its best efforts, provided they have received notice of the delay or disruption, to arrange for comparable services and accommodations. Rates and itineraries shown here were in effect at the time of printing and no changes are anticipated; however, Best of Times Travel reserves the right to withdraw any tour or to make any rate changes, as necessary. Prices are subject to change. A deposit is always required to confirm a reservation. A Deposit of $850pp, plus insurance premium (if selected) is due upon registration to confirm your reservation. Travel Insurance: We recommend your purchase of optional travel insurance. This optional travel insurance is per person and the premium is based on the overall trip cost. Travelers MUST purchase the plan at the time of initial deposit. Coverage will not be in place unless your full Deposit is received. Cancellation schedule and fees are in place regardless of cancellation reason (including, but not limited to, force majeure, health pandemics or government restrictions). Travel Insurance Premium is also Non-Refundable regardless of cancellation reason. Payment in full must be received by February 24th, 2027 or this may result in an automatic cancellation. Please note: All cancellations must be made in writing and sent to Best of Times Travel via traditional mail or emailed to cancellations@bestoftimestravel.com. The date of cancellation is deemed to be the date received by Best of Times Travel. Cancellation Charges for this programs are as follows: Cancellations from date of booking until 2/10/2027 have a $550pp cancellation fee that is not covered by insurance. Cancellations from 2/11/2027 until 3/18/2027 have a cancellation fee of $850pp. Cancellations from 3/19/2027 until 4/5/2027 have a cancellation fee of 35% of the total fare. Cancellations from 4/6/2027 until 5/1/2027 have a cancellation fee of 50% of the total fare. Cancellations after 5/1/2027 will receive no refund, 100% of the total fare. Best of Times Travel is not responsible for any refunds over and above said amount. Best of Times Travel reserves the right to issue any refunds due, in whole or in part, in the form of future travel credit.
*Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusion Waiver has the following stipulations: plan must be purchased within 15 days of initial trip payment, insured must be medically able to travel at time of purchasing the plan, all pre-paid, non-refundable trip costs need to be insured. This information is a brief description of the features of this insurance program. Coverage & pricing may vary by state. The provision of this document is for informational purposes only and is not an insurance contract. Coverage is being marketed by Chubb Insurance Solutions Agency, Inc. located at 202 Halls Mills Road, Whitehouse Station, New Jersey 08889. Insurance benefits are underwritten by ACE Property & Casualty Insurance Company located at 436 Walnut Street, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19106.
PASSPORT - A valid government issued passport is required for this trip, and must be valid for 90 days AFTER the date this trip returns. *BEFORE BOOKING, PLEASE ENSURE THAT YOU PROVIDE YOUR LEGAL NAME AND DATE OF BIRTH AS THEY APPEAR ON YOUR PASSPORT. Errors in passenger information can result in your being denied boarding privileges.
Here are some important details regarding the finalization of your cruise booking once it is completed:
Official Cruise Booking - Once you have made your booking with Best of Times Travel on-line through this site you will receive an email notification that your reservation has been placed and payment received. This is NOT your official booking information with the cruise line. Shortly after your booking you will receive a secondary email directly from Best of Times Travel Office with your official Cruise Registration Number and Cabin Number for the Cruise. Any customers receiving a confirmation from our office with a Cabin Number that begins with a "GTY" means that your are guaranteed that cabin category or better on the ship. It means the ship is getting full and the cruise line would only guarantee you that category or better. If Best of Times Travel is unable to confirm your reservation with the Cruise Line you will be notified as such and a full refund of payments made upon registration will be issued.
Travel Insurance – If you have chosen the optional Chubb Travel Protection program, please print off a copy of the brochure for your records. This has important information on it regarding coverage and services provided by the insurance program.
Final Payment – Please note that final payment is due into our office no later than February 24th, 2027. Please note that our on-line booking system is set up with automated installment payments on your account instead of making one lump sum payment at the end. If you do not wish to be on the automated installment plan, please email our office at rtreat@bestoftimestravel..com and we will stop the automated payment plan. You will be notified via email closer to the final payment time that your balance is due. Please be reminded that failure to submit final payment on time may result in automatic cancellation and subsequent cancellation fees.
Final Documents - Please note that all of your final boarding documents will be available for you to print out on-line approximately 3 weeks prior to the sailing date. You will also receive email correspondence from Best of Times Travel outlining your transfer details to/from the Pier in Boston.
In the meantime if you have any questions or concerns regarding your booking please feel free to contact our office via email or you may call us at 603-554-8901.
Warmest Regards,
Best of Times Travel
All Components Listed Under EXCLUSIVE All-Inclusive Bundle
The gratuity for your Best of Times Travel Tour Manager is not included in your package. A suggested amount is $75 - $100 per person for the entire cruise.
