Introduced last month, the ship offers a unique eight-day itinerary, embarking from Paris and traveling through Northern France. As well as side trips around the capital city, the trip uncovers many of Normandy's treasures -such as Richard the Lionheart’s Chateau Gaillard, the medieval capital of Rouen, Monet’s beloved home in Giverny and the famed Normandy beaches.
As it is a smaller than average vessel (she has a length of 125 meters, rather than the typical 135 meters), it means that Joie de Vivrecan dock in the heart of Paris. And - as there is only a maximum of 128 guests - it also means a small and intimate cruising experience.
On board, the bright, colorful décor inspired by Paris' Golden Twenties and free-spirited Sixties was conceived by the design team of Uniworld sister brand Red Carnation Hotels. With nods to the ship's Normandy route and local history, interiors echo super yacht style: highly-polished wood finishes, luxurious fabrics and thick carpets.
On of the State-rooms on board Joie de Vivre
Best of all is a focus on cuisine with a farm-to-table ethos and locally sourced French wines on tap across the four eateries. Le Cave des Vins is a highlight, offering a hands-on dining experience: Guests select fresh ingredients and prepare a seven-course meal with the ship's onboard chefs, with French wine pairings from the sommelier.
The journey stops at French historic sites, such as Utah, Omaha and Juno beaches or the famous 11th-century tapestry depicting the Battle of Hastings. Travelers may choose to tour two of the area's finest palaces: Versailles, once home to Louis XVI and Marie Antoinette, or Château de Malmaison, once home to Napoleon’s first empress, Josephine.
Uniworld has done away with 'one-trip-fits-all', recognizing luxury travel as catering to the individual. From the 'Go Active' choices like bike ride and hiking excursions, to the 'Do As The Locals Do' options, which reveal a true Parisian's version of the city, choice is fundamental. Gourmet walking tours and golf are up for grabs, too.
TheS.S. Joie De Vivrejoins a renownedfleet by Uniworld, which offerall-inclusive itineraries in Europe, as well as voyages in Russia, China, India, Egypt, Vietnam and Cambodia - a total of 22 rivers in 26 countries worldwide.
With an eye on the future, the company has also announced that in2018, itwill launchUBY UNIWORLD,a newbrand for 18 to 40 year old adventure seekers, featuringtworenovated shipsthat will sail tocities such asAmsterdam, Budapest and Paris.
Claude's - wellness by day, good times at night
Back on board, kick back in the Club L'Esprit spa, offering treatments, yoga and fitness classes. Come sun-down, however, the venue becomes 'Claude's', thanks to a hydraulic floor. The pool space converts to an authentic French Supper Club with cocktails, live music and classic French cinema under the stars. It's the future of cruising.
