The Loire, a royal river between castles and vineyards

A chivalrous cruise in the heart of French heritage

  • River Cruise

The Loire, a royal river between castles and vineyards

  • Full board
  • 6 days, 5 nights
  • Departure Nantes (France)

Let yourself be seduced by the charm of the Loire and its banks lined with sumptuous châteaux. From Nantes, you will travel along the longest river in France for 6 days and will reach Angers while enjoying the green landscapes that await you. On board, the crew will be at your service to make your stay as pleasant as possible. Your daily stopovers will be complemented by optional excursions allowing you to discover some of the most beautiful castles of the Loire (Brissac, Villandry...) but also emblematic cities such as Nantes and its incredible machines of the island, or Saint-Nazaire and its colossal shipyard.

Cruise Highlights

  • Sailing on a wheeled boat in Aubes
  • Visit the castles of the Loire Valley (Brissac, Villandry...)
  • Discover the shipyard of Saint-Nazaire

Your Boat

  • MS Loire Princesse
  • 48 total cabins
  • 96 people max
  • 24 crew members

Embark on board the MS Loire Princesse, an 80-metre-long boat. Its paddle wheels make it both noble and authentic. Its 3 decks in shades of burgundy and pearly bring you into a pleasant and chic atmosphere. You will take your meals in the restaurant located on the main deck. For your moments of relaxation, you will have the choice between the lounge/bar and the terrace on the upper deck or the deckchairs on the sun deck. The sun deck is perfect for relaxing and enjoying the scenery.

  • Reception
  • Deckchairs
  • Restaurant
  • Lounge/bar
  • Dance floor
Layout

The owner reserves the right to replace with a different boat model of the same quality and performance

Your Cabin

The boat has 48 double cabins (18 on the main deck and 30 on the upper deck) and can accommodate 96 passengers.
All cabins are air-conditioned and equipped with television, telephone (for internal use only), safe, wifi connection, towels, hairdryer, bath products and a bathroom with private shower and toilet.

  • Cabin - Main deck

    Cabin - Main deck

    These cabins have high windows. ▸ 12 double cabins with 2 separable beds: 13,50 m² ▸ 6 double cabins with 2 separable beds: 12 m²

  • Cabin - Upper deck

    Cabin - Upper deck

    These cabins have sliding panoramic windows and a terrace. ▸ 20 double cabins with 2 separable beds: 13,50 m² ▸ 5 double cabins with 2 separable beds: 12 m² ▸ 3 double cabins with 1 double bed: 13,50 m² ▸ 1 double cabin with 1 double bed: 12 m² ▸ 1 cabin for people with reduced mobility (PRM) with 1 double bed: 12.50 m2

Itinerary of your cruise

Ready to criss-cross the river of kings, between emblematic cities and unmissable castles?

Map
France - Rivers and canals


DAY 1: Nantes
The captain will meet you at 6pm for your boarding. You will discover your cabin before going to the welcome cocktail and meeting the crew. You will then have the opportunity to take part in the optional excursion (about 2h45) :

  • River cruise on the Erdre river, you will cross this river on board a local boat. Its banks are lined with numerous castles and follies of Nantes, beautiful residences nestled in the middle of nature.
Night on board.

DAY 2 : Nantes - Saint-Nazaire
This morning, we propose you to discover Nantes through 2 optional excursions :
  • Guided tour of Nantes and the castle of the Dukes of Brittany (about 4h30): your guide will take you to explore the medieval district of Bouffay with its Haussmann-style buildings, its gothic cathedral Saint-Pierre and Saint-Paul. You will then go to the Feydeau district to admire its 18th century architecture. Finally, you will visit the impressive 15th-century castle of the Dukes of Brittany. The latter also houses the Nantes History Museum which will transport you through the centuries.
  • Discover the island's machines, courtyards and secret passages of Nantes (about 4h): you will leave for an immersion in a world inspired by Jules Verne, Leonardo da Vinci and the industrial past of Nantes. During your walk, you will encounter surprising machines made of steel such as the 12-metre high elephant, the heron tree and many others. Then, you will put yourself in the shoes of the Nantes inhabitants of the 15th century and you will wander through the secret passages of the city...
    • In the afternoon, an optional excursion will allow you to explore the port city of Saint-Nazaire (approx. 4h30) :
    • Guided visit of the shipyard of Saint-Nazaire (about 4h30) you will start with the visit of the Escal'Atlantic, a museum retracing the formidable epic of the transatlantic liners (Normandy, France...). You will then head towards the Saint-Nazaire shipyard. Your guide will tell you the history of this shipyard, one of the oldest and largest in the world. He will also explain to you the different steps involved in the construction of these liners. Over the decades, this shipyard has seen a number of mythical boats, among them the impressive Queen Mary 2 and the gigantic Harmony of the Seas.
    Back on the boat in Saint-Nazaire. Dinner followed by a dance party.

    DAY 3: Saint-Nazaire - Ancenis
    The ship cast off and sail up the Loire to Ancenis. During the crossing, you can sit comfortably on the deckchairs of the sun deck and enjoy the lush green landscape. On arrival you can choose between two optional excursions:
    • The Muscadet road and the medieval village of Clisson (about 5 hours): you will pass through wine villages and make a stop at the Cassemichère castle (or similar) located at the Chapelle-Heulin. This 17th century mansion is surrounded by vineyards (no less than 45 hectares) and its cellars are filled with numerous wines (light, dry, fruity and full-bodied). You will conclude this visit with a wine tasting. Then, direction Clisson, a medieval town with Breton and Italian influences. It is considered to be the capital of the Nantes vineyards. Its fascinating history will transport you several centuries back in time...
  • Flying over the Loire by helicopter (10 min): what better way to admire the intoxicating landscapes than to take a little height? You will fly over the medieval tower of Oudon, the Renaissance-style castle of Clermont and Champtoceaux, a town with breathtaking panoramas.
    • Dinner on board, followed by a lively evening.

    DAY 4 : Ancenis - Bouchemaine
    You sail to Bouchemaine, a small town on the outskirts of Angers. When you disembark, you will be offered 2 optional excursions :
    • Guided tour of Angers (about 4h): you leave to explore the capital of Anjou, Angers, a city of art and history with a rich architectural heritage. You will very quickly see its castle, a true emblem of the city. This fortress, built in the 13th century, has a 500-metre long wall and 17 schist towers. Once inside, you will appreciate the beauty of the gardens and discover the fascinating Apocalypse curtain. This is the oldest and longest medieval tapestry (100 metres long and 4.50 metres wide) still preserved. You will end your visit by the city of the canons and its Saint-Maurice cathedral with its Romanesque architecture.
  • Visit of the castle of Brissac (about 4h): you will reach this magnificent residence by coach. With its 7 floors, it is the highest castle in France, hence its nickname: "the giant of the Loire Valley". Even today, it is still inhabited by the 13th Duke of Brissac. The history of this castle will be revealed to you, room after room through its antique furniture, decoration, mouldings and its small Belle Époque style theatre. The visit will end with a glass of wine* in the cellars of the castle...
    • Dinner on board, followed by a lively evening.

    DAY 5 : Bouchemaine - Ancenis - Nantes
    Today we offer you an optional excursion (the day) :
    • Discovery of the Loire castles : your day trip begins with the visit of the castle of Azay-le-Rideau, classified as a historical monument. Although erected in the 16th century on a small island in the middle of the Indre, it was not until the 19th century that it took its final shape. You then go to the castle of Villandry. You will be able to stroll in its immense gardens spread over 3 levels, a guaranteed change of scenery! Your tour will end in the elegant château d'Ussé. The latter will undoubtedly remind you of the fairy-tale castle of "Sleeping Beauty" and for good reason, it is said to have inspired Charles Perrault.
    Back on board, the boat sails towards Nantes. Dinner and gala evening.

    DAY 6 : Nantes
    Your disembarkation is scheduled after breakfast at 10:00 am.


    • The stopover in Bouchemaine can be replaced by Chalonnes-sur-Loire.
    • The "helicopter flight" activity is subject to availability at the time of booking and to favourable weather conditions.
    • Access to the Apocalypse hanging will be closed on 01/01, 01/05, 01/11, 11/11 and 25/12.
    • The Château de Brissac is closed on Tuesdays and replaced by the Château de Serrant.
    * Alcohol abuse is dangerous to health, consume in moderation.

    Nantes  Saint-Nazaire  Ancenis  Bouchemaine  Nantes

    The itinerary may be changed without prior notice due to technical or weather conditions.
    The photographs and visual products presented have no contractual value.

    Contact us to receive the availabilities and prices for this offer

    Frequently asked questions

    • What happens in case of cancellation?
      In case of cancellation, you must notify your GlobeSailor advisor as soon as possible. Whatever the cause, the following cancellation fees will be due: up to 90 days before departure: 30% /// from 89 to 60 days: 50% /// from 59 to 30 days: 75% /// from 29 days until departure: 100% of the amount of your reservation.
      We advise our clients to take out cancellation insurance with Ouest Assurance.

    • How to confirm a booking
      To confirm your booking you must inform your GlobeSailor advisor who will make an option for you while you collect your deposit. The reservation will only be considered final once we have received your deposit (by bank transfer, Paypal or credit card) of 50% of the amount of the reservation. A deposit of 100% will be required for all bookings made less than one month before departure. The balance will be due no later than 45 days before departure.

    • Guaranteed departure from 50 people
      A minimum number of 50 passengers is required for your cruise. If this minimum is not reached, your Globe Sailor consultant will contact you at least 60 days before your departure date to propose a postponement.

    • Is everyone on board English-speaking?
      Please note that this cruise is not exclusive to English travelers. It is quite common to meet people of various nationalities on board as we offer cruises to international clientele - encouraging curious and enriching exchanges for both passengers and crew.
      Crew members are multilingual and qualified to offer multilingual service.

    • How are excursions arranged on the cruise?
      The excursions presented in the itinerary are optional (unless otherwise stated). They can be booked at the same time as the cruise. In this case, you will receive a 5% discount (applicable only at the time of booking).

      Important : excursions are guaranteed for a minimum of 25 participants, below this base a price adjustment can be made on board.

      You will find below the details of each excursion proposed during your cruise.
      You will also have the choice to buy them in packages:

      Classical package :
      • Road cruise on the Erdre river
      • Guided visit of Nantes
      • Visit of the shipyard of Saint-Nazaire
      • The Muscadet road
      • Visit of Angers
      • The castles of the Loire Valley
      Prices :
      236 € /person before leaving
      332 € /person on board

      Dynamic package :
      • Road cruise on the Erdre river
      • Nantes: the machines of the island, courses and secret passages
      • Visit of the shipyard of Saint-Nazaire
      • Flying over the Loire by helicopter
      • Visit of the castle of Brissac
      • The castles of the Loire
      Prices :
      289 € /person before leaving
      407 € /person on board

        ♦ Cruise on the Erdre river (about 2h45) :
      Coach transfer to the Nantes boat landing stage. Around 8:00 pm, departure for a walking cruise on the Erdre, "the most beautiful river in France" according to François I. Discover the history of this river and its many castles along the way.

      Prices :
      45 € /person before leaving
      60 € /person on board

        ♦ Guided tour of Nantes and the castle of the Dukes of Brittany (about 4h30) :
      Departure for the guided tour of Nantes. Departure in the company of a local guide who will show you the narrow streets of Le Bouffay, the medieval quarter, the cathedral of Saint-Pierre Saint-Paul, a beautiful expression of flamboyant gothic art. You will visit the Ile Feydeau, an exceptional architectural ensemble of the 18th century, and in its extension, the quays of Nantes, to finish by discovering the new shopping districts created with the nascent industry of the 19th century around the Graslin theatre and the Pommeraye passage. Continuation towards the Château des Ducs de Bretagne, the ducal residence which houses the Nantes History Museum. Its contemporary scenography allows you to discover the rich history of Nantes and the singular architecture of the building. An architectural and museographic haven in the heart of the city.

      Prices :
      49 € /person before leaving
      66 € /person on board

        ♦ Nantes: the island's machines, secret courses and passages couvets (about 4h) :
      Departing from the quay in Nantes, discover the magical world of the island's machines. These monumental structures, veritable urban sculptures, are located in the very place where the great ships were built, at the crossroads of Jules Verne's "invented worlds", Leonardo da Vinci's mechanical universe and the industrial history of Nantes. After this fantastic journey, discover the city of Nantes through its secret courtyards and covered passages. These places reflect the history of the great Nantes families from the 15th century to the present day.

      Remarks :
      - To acquire equipment in good condition.
      - The island's machines are closed on Mondays.

      Prices :
      43 € /person before leaving
      58 € /person on board

        ♦ Guided tour of the Saint-Nazaire shipyard (about 4h30) :
      We will start the visit with the Escal'Atlantic, which ingeniously retraces the history of the liners of Normandy and France through reality and imagination. A life-size representation in memory of these two sacred monsters. Then on to the Saint Nazaire shipyard, one of the largest shipyards in Europe. It perpetuates a world-renowned know-how. Formerly with the construction of transatlantic liners (France, Normandy) and today with giant cruise ships. Thanks to a specially designed route, you will discover the immensity of the industrial site (108 ha). The astonishing logistics and high technology used to build these giants of the seas will enable you to understand the stages of construction of these real floating palaces of modern times.

      Remarks :
      - Pre-booking is compulsory before departure with your travel agency.
      - A valid identity card will be requested from each excursionist to access the site.

      Prices :
      59 € /person before leaving
      79 € /person on board

        ♦ La route du Muscadet (about 5h) :
      Passing through numerous villages testifying to the strong wine-growing identity of the region. Continuation towards La Chapelle Heulin and stop at the Château Cassemichère (or similar). This exceptional place invites you to discover its vineyard full of history, to visit its cellars and to taste* this dry white wine, light, fruity, full-bodied. Then on to Clisson, a charming little medieval town where remains from the 15th century and the scent of Italy live side by side. The fascinating history of Clisson takes you back in time to the very prosperous period of the Middle Ages and the illustrious people who lived in its imposing castle.

      Prices :
      49 € /person before leaving
      66 € /person on board

        ♦ Flying over the Loire by helicopter (about 10min) :
      Road to Ancenis airport and departure for a helicopter flight over the Loire. Seen from the sky, you will see breathtaking landscapes. You will fly over the Oudon Tower, whose medieval architecture rises up to the sky and dominates the town of Ancenis, and further on the Château de Clermont, a Renaissance building in the Louis XIII style which was the home of Louis de Funès. Then you will notice the Ile d'Or golf course, set in a unique setting on an Ile de Loire. The minutes pass by and it is time to reach Ancenis. On the way back, you fly over Champtoceaux, without doubt one of the most beautiful panoramas of the Loire.

      Remarks:
      - Reservation is compulsory before departure and subject to availability.
      - Flight subject to favourable weather conditions.

      Prices :
      99 € /person before leaving
      132 € /person on board

        ♦ Guided tour of Angers (about 4h) :
      Departure for the excursion of the city of Angers. City of art and history, the capital of Anjou is distinguished as much by the richness of its heritage as by its modernity. Home of the Plantagenets, a flourishing Renaissance city, Angers is home to the colossal walls of King René's famous medieval fortress and the extraordinary Apocalypse hanging. Visit the 13th century fortress and discover the Apocalypse* hanging. It is the largest collection of medieval tapestries in the world. You then cross the city of the canons, vestiges of Romanesque art and the Plantagenet Gothic style.

      Remarks :.
      - Site closed on 01/01, 01/05, 01/11, 11/11 and 25/12.

      Prices :
      46 € /person before leaving
      61 € /person on board

        ♦ Visit of the castle of Brissac (about 4h) :
      Departure by coach for the visit of the castle of Brissac which is located about fifteen kilometres from the city of Angers.
      Higher than all the royal castles, Brissac, with seven floors and 204 rooms, deserves its nickname of the giant of the Loire Valley. Acquired in 1502 by René de Cossé, the first Lord of Brissac, it is today the residence of the 13th Duke of Brissac. While the park offers magnificent views in the shade of century-old trees, the visit reveals a dazzling decor. Here, beauty rivals beauty, ceilings gilded with leaf, precious furniture, and above all a ravishing Belle Epoque theatre, dedicated to opera. At the end of the visit, discovery of the château's cellars and wine tasting*. Return on board.

      Remarks :
      - To acquire equipment in good condition.
      - Closed on Tuesdays, replaced by the Château de Serrant.

      Prices :
      58 € /person before leaving
      78 € /person on board

        ♦ Day trip to the Loire Valley castles (about 11h) :
      Departure by coach to the castle of Azay-le-Rideau. Built on an island in the middle of the Indre, the building, as it stands today, was erected during the reign of François I by a rich financier, Gilles Berthelot, who wanted to reconcile innovations from Italy with the French art of building. Listed as a historical monument, the Château d'Azay-le-Rideau expresses all the refinement of a château from the first French Renaissance. Continue to Villandry for lunch. After lunch, enjoy a stroll in the gardens of the château de Villandry: spread over three levels, they combine aesthetics, diversity and harmony. Continue to Rigny-Ussé for the visit of the château d'Ussé. Built in the 15th and 16th centuries, this superb castle, with its fortified towers, turrets and bell towers, looks like a fairy-tale castle. Today, the castle is still inhabited and offers the visitor a journey back in time to the heart of tales and legends. It is said to have inspired Charles Perrault's "Sleeping Beauty".

      NOTE :
      - The itineraries of the excursions defined in the programmes are provided for information only, they may be subject to variations due to external circumstances (e.g. weather conditions, strikes, transport delays...).
      - The order of visits may be modified.
      - The timetables are given for information only.
      - The above-mentioned rates are given as an indication.
      - Audioguides are available in English and German; and according to availability in Spanish and Italian (please contact us for more information).
      *Alcohol abuse is dangerous for your health, consume in moderation.

    • What are the necessary travel formalities?
      All EU nationals must be in possession of a valid national identity card OR passport.
      Non-EU nationals should consult their embassy or consulate.