Fred. Olsen – Discover Normandy In Five Nights – 2023
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Rouen in Autumn © Rouen Normandie Tourisme & Congras
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Braemar ©Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines 2017. All Rights Reserved.
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Honfleur, France ©Fred Olsen Cruise Lines
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Braemar ©Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines 2017. All Rights Reserved
Sails from Southampton
A five-night escape offering a taste of France at its finest, experienced during hours of serene river cruising and explorations of two enchanting cities. Sailing along the scenic River Seine makes for a memorable start to your French foray; relax on board Braemar, perhaps whilst enjoying the spring weather out on the open decks, as you witness the picture-perfect scenes of verdant countryside and rolling valleys fronted by quaint, traditional communes.
On the banks of the Seine, a city alive with tales of fascinating French history awaits you. In Rouen, you’ll feel as though you’re walking back through centuries as you wander the streets, squares and alleys in search of the historic sites, such as the grand Gothic Cathedral, Aître St. Maclou cemetery, which dates back to the time of the Great Plague; and medieval Place du Vieux-Marché. Back along the Seine, you also visit Honfleur, with time to explore café-lined 16th century cobbled streets, learn of the city’s maritime heritage, and see sights including St Catherine’s Church – France’s largest timber-built church – and the Vieux Bassin, with its lofty slate and timber-fronted houses and colourful fishing harbour.
Dates
Friday 28th April 2023
Cruise Itinerary
Friday 28th April 2023
Departure from Southampton, United Kingdom
Board the ship mid-afternoon before you set sail.
Saturday 29th April 2023
Rouen, France
The ‘City of a Hundred Bells’, Rouen, is capital of the French region of Normandy. This 2,000-year-old port city on the River Seine, important in Roman times and the Middle Ages, is a unique city rich with monuments and museums.
Rouen’s narrow pedestrianised streets lined with tall, half-timber houses and a statue marking the spot where Joan of Arc was burnt at the stake, is a pointer to the city’s dark history. Devastated by fire, the plague and bombs in the past, modern Rouen is now a vibrant cultural centre, and one of Normandy’s most engaging destinations.
The skyline is dominated by the spires of Cathédrale Notre-Dame, much-painted by Claude Monet. The Gothic churches of Saint-Maclou and Saint-Ouen are also must-see attractions, two of the best examples of gothic architecture in France and a important part of Rouen’s history.
The city’s beautiful botanical garden – Jardin de Plantes de Rouen, is also worth a visit. Its 600 different plant species and various gardens, including a rock garden, rose garden and a garden full of medicinal plants, are a joy to wander through.
Sunday 30th April 2023
Cruising the River Seine
Slicing through the gorgeous lush-green countryside of Normandy’s Parc naturel régional des Boucles de la Seine, the route Fred. Olsen’s smaller cruise ships sail along the River Seine – connecting the historic cities of Honfleur and Rouen – presents guests with simply unforgettable views to enjoy in comfort on board.
Simply sit back, relax and take in stunning scenes of rolling valleys, floral fields and charming communes dotted with historic churches and traditional houses that have inspired many famous artists over the years, including Claude Monet and Henri Matisse.
Monday 1st May 2023
Falmouth, England
Blessed with stunning sandy beaches that stretch for miles along the gorgeous Cornish coastline, Falmouth – located at the southern end of the Fal Estuary, has arguably the UK’s most picturesque network of creeks & rivers. It is a fine example of just how beautiful Britain really is and is the perfect place to lay back and soak up the summer sunshine, enjoy a relaxing stroll or try your hand at scuba diving and snorkelling.
Tuesday 2nd May 2023
Honfleur, France
Historic Honfleur in northern France’s Lower Normandy region is a quaint little port with a rich cultural and artistic heritage. One of France’s most visited towns, Honfleur – with its beautiful 15th and 16th century architecture and distinctive harbour – was the inspiration for Impressionist painters and poets.
Vieux-Bassin, Honfleur’s colourful old harbour, is lined with 16th to 18th-century lofty slate-and-timber fronted houses. Its sloping cobbled streets have long been a subject for artists including Claude Monet and native son, Eugène Boudin.
Wednesday 03 May 2023
Arrival at Southampton, United Kingdom
After an early breakfast, disembark the ship for your journey home.
Braemar Ship Information
Braemar’s timeless style and elegance will capture your senses. Large windows bathe the ship’s interior in natural light and provide spectacular views while polished wooden fixtures, shining brass fittings, decadent fabrics and carefully designed decor assume the feel of a traditional country house.
All of the 485 comfortable and stylish rooms are equipped with private facilities which include an en-suite bathroom (some are fitted with a bathtub), a desk, telephone, interactive Smart TV, hairdryer, air conditioning and tea & coffee making facilities. According to your needs you can chose between different room types, like Interior, Porthole, Ocean View, Balcony and Suites.
There are five elegant and intimate dining venues oboard, including two main restaurants, cafe, bar & lounges as well as ‘The Grill’ offering an extra special dining experience so you’ll always find something heavenly to tantalise your tastebuds. A selection of soft drinks, wines and beers are included as well of course.
As well as a choice of comfortable accommodation, dining venues, bars and lounges, Braemar features all the facilities and amenities you need for a comfortable, restful and stress-free stay on board, including heated pools and bubbling jacuzzis, a library, gaming tables & card rooms, and even a self-service Laundry Room. Stroll through the Port or Boutique shop whether you need any essentials or a holiday bargain.
During the day several talks, lectures and classes take place and in the evening fantastic live performances, including cabaret, stand-up comedy and concerts will keep you entertained throughout the duration of your cruise.
| Date | Arrival | Departure | Port of Call |
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Fri 28 April 2023 |
Late PM | Southampton, United Kingdom | |
| Sat 29 April 2022 | Late AM | Rouen, France | |
| Sun 30 April 2023 | Late PM | Rouen, France | |
| Mon 01 May 2023 | Late AM | Late PM | Falmouth, UK |
| Tue 02 May 2023 | Late AM | Late PM | Honfleur, France |
| Wed 03 May 2023 | Early AM | Southampton, United Kingdom |
