France Cruises

France, renowned for its rich history, exquisite art, and delectable cuisine, is a magnificent cruise destination that promises unforgettable memories. From the romantic streets of Paris to the sun-drenched coastlines of the French Riviera, every corner of this enchanting country offers unique experiences. Fun fact: France is the most visited country in the world, attracting millions of tourists each year! A cruise to France allows you to explore iconic cities and picturesque towns while enjoying the luxurious comforts onboard, making it both a relaxing and exhilarating way to experience all that France has to offer.

Major Cruise Lines Sailing to France

• MSC Cruises: With a fleet of 23 ships, MSC has 14 dedicated to exploring the beauty of France. The MSC Poesia and MSC Magnifica are particularly noteworthy for their diverse onboard facilities, including swimming pools, entertainment options, and varied dining experiences. Departures most often occur from vibrant ports such as Genoa and Barcelona, ensuring a lively start to your adventure in France.
• Cunard: Operating a fleet of 4 luxury ships, Cunard offers 3 that call on French ports. The Queen Victoria and Queen Mary 2 are ideal for those seeking an elegant cruising experience, featuring exquisite dining and luxurious accommodations. Most sailings set off from Southampton and Barcelona, providing an elegant foundation for your journey through France.
• Princess Cruises: With 17 ships in its fleet, Princess Cruises has 13 dedicated to offering stunning itineraries in France. The Sun Princess and Sky Princess are especially popular, boasting a host of entertainment and dining options designed to cater to every taste. Departures typically take place from Southampton and Barcelona, allowing for an easy access point to explore beautiful French locales.
• Norwegian Cruise Line: Norwegian has a fleet of 20 ships, 12 of which feature itineraries that include stops in France. The Norwegian Dawn and Norwegian Escape are outstanding choices, recognised for their freestyle dining and vibrant nightlife options. Most cruises depart from ports like Rome and Barcelona, giving you fantastic access to the sights and experiences awaiting you in France.
• Holland America Line: With a fleet of 11 ships, Holland America has 4 offering itineraries to France. The Nieuw Statendam and Oosterdam stand out for their casual, sophisticated atmosphere and exceptional service. Most departures occur from Rotterdam or London (Dover), ensuring an elegant start to your adventure in the heart of France.

Luxury and Small Ship Cruises to France

• Oceania Cruises: Oceania features a fleet of 8 ships, with 6 offering itineraries that visit France. The Marina and Nautica are lauded for their fine dining and intimate onboard experience, making them popular choices among discerning travellers. Departures typically happen from ports like Southampton and Barcelona, ensuring an upscale experience right from the start.
• Explora Journeys: This luxury cruise line operates a small fleet of 2 ships, both of which focus on itineraries that include France. The EXPLORA I and EXPLORA II enhance the cruising experience with luxurious amenities and bespoke services. Departures commonly occur from vibrant ports such as Barcelona and Rome, making it easy for you to start your enchanting journey.
• Azamara Cruises: With a fleet of 4 ships, Azamara operates 3 on itineraries to France. The Azamara Onward and Azamara Quest are known for their immersive experiences and focus on local culture, allowing for longer stays in port. Many sailings set off from Barcelona or Rome, ensuring easy access to the splendid beauty of France.
• Seabourn: With a fleet of 5 ships, Seabourn has 2 that include itineraries to France. The Seabourn Ovation and Seabourn Encore focus on delivering personalised service and fine dining experiences, ensuring a truly boutique cruising adventure. Departures frequently happen from Barcelona or Monte Carlo, providing a refined ambiance at the beginning of your journey.
• Fred Olsen: With a fleet of 3 ships, Fred Olsen provides all 3 on routes that include French ports. The Balmoral and Bolette offer an intimate atmosphere and a focus on friendly service. Departures are often from Southampton or Newcastle upon Tyne, making cruising to France convenient for UK guests.

Top Harbours to Explore in France

• Barcelona, Spain: While part of Spain, Barcelona’s close ties with France and vibrant culture make it enchanting. Explore Gaudí’s masterpieces like the Sagrada Família, relax at the bustling La Rambla, or enjoy tapas at a quaint eatery. Ensure to take a stroll down the waterfront for stunning views of the Mediterranean before heading to France.
• Marseille: Known for its rich maritime heritage, Marseille offers a blend of history and modernity. Enjoy a visit to the historic Old Port and take a boat tour to explore the Calanques National Park’s beautiful cliffs. Sample local bouillabaisse for an authentic taste of this remarkable city.
• Livorno: Livorno serves as a gateway to Tuscany, allowing cruisers to visit famed destinations such as Florence and Pisa. Spend your time here indulging in Italian cuisine or take a train to Florence to marvel at its stunning architecture and art galleries. Don’t forget to try local olive oil or truffles during your stop.
• Nice: Known as the “Queen of the Riviera,” Nice boasts stunning beaches and a picturesque old town. Wander through the charming alleys, enjoy the views from Castle Hill, or relax on the sun-drenched beaches along the Promenade des Anglais. Be sure to sample a “socca,” a local chickpea pancake, during your visit!
• Paris (Le Havre): Visiting Paris is a dream come true for many cruisers. While in Le Havre, consider taking a quick train ride into the capital to experience iconic attractions such as the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre, and Montmartre. If time is scarce, join a guided tour to maximise your experience in this romantic city.

The Best Times to Cruise to France

Planning your cruise to France around the best time can enhance your experience significantly. From January to March, temperatures typically range from 5°C to 15°C, providing a serene atmosphere ideal for exploring cultural sites without the crowds. Spring (April to June) sees temperatures hovering between 10°C and 25°C, a perfect time to enjoy the lush gardens and blooming landscapes. Summer (July to September) warms up to an average of 20°C to 30°C, which is perfect for beachgoers but can attract larger crowds. Autumn (October to December) creates a picturesque landscape with temperatures averaging 5°C to 20°C, offering vibrant fall colours and joyous local festivities.

The Cost of Cruising to France

When considering your cruise budget, one-week trips to France generally range from GBP 600 to GBP 1500 per person, depending on your choice of cruise line and cabin selection. For two-week trips, expect pricing to sit between GBP 1200 and GBP 3000 or more. Luxury cruises usually fall on the higher end, averaging between GBP 2000 and GBP 6000 for a week-long stay. Dining costs in France often hover around GBP 15 to GBP 30 for a meal and GBP 4 to GBP 10 for drinks, giving you the opportunity to savour exceptional local flavours without breaking the bank.

Are you ready to set sail for the picturesque shores and enchanting cities of France? At Cruise1st, we’re here to help you create the ideal holiday with a wide array of incredible itineraries and cruise lines tailored to fit your desires. Your dream French adventure awaits—let’s book your cruise today!