Join Chef Jeff on geoff's favourite river cruise in Europe through burgundy, Lyon, and provence! It will be a culinary journey you don't want to miss.
​September 7-14, 2027

​Co-hosted by Chef Jeff Igel, Culinary Arts Director at Fox Valley Technical College, and Geoff Hendren from Bon Voyage Boutique Travel, this journey invites you to immerse yourself in world-class dining experiences and the finest wines of the Burgundy and Provence regions. All 64 cabins (128 passengers) are exclusively reserved for our group on this spectacular 8-day cruise through Southern France’s Rhône and Saône Rivers.

Sail through iconic sights and hidden gems, beginning in Arles—famous for Van Gogh and its Roman Amphitheater. Explore Avignon with its grand Palace of the Popes, stroll medieval Tournon with Roman ruins and a 16th-century castle, and visit Lyon, France’s culinary capital, where Renaissance architecture and the lively Place des Terreaux with its famous fountain await.

In addition, enjoy optional extensions with 3 nights in beautiful Nice before the cruise and 3–4 nights in Paris afterward—details coming soon!
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This is a rare opportunity to dive deep into the rich culture, heritage, and flavors of France’s celebrated wine country in an intimate, exclusive setting.

ABOUT THE SHIP- Poetry II

​Experience riverside luxury aboard the Avalon Poetry II along the Rhone River. Unwind in award-winning Panorama Suites—each 30% larger than the industry standard—with wall-to-wall panoramic windows and signature Open-Air Balconies for breathtaking views in total comfort. Onboard, delight in casual bites at the Panorama Bistro, complimentary Wi-Fi, an inviting fitness center, and a stunning Sky Deck featuring a whirlpool, premium lounge chairs, and al fresco lunches—all designed for your ultimate relaxation and enjoyment.

CRUISE ​Itinerary​

DAY 1: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 7, 2027 - ARLES, FRANCE
  • Welcome to France! Board the Poetry II and embark on your culinary journey on the Rhone River. 
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DAY 2: WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 8, 2027 - ARLES
Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host. Choose between the following excursions: 
  • ACTIVE- Get your daily dose of exercise through a Power Walk in Arles with your Adventure Host
  • DISCOVERY- Attend a Painting Workshop to learn techniques of Vincent van Gogh. Create your own painting in the style of the legendary artist.
  • CLASSIC- Enjoy a Guided Walking Tour of Arles—the captivating city of the Provence region. You’ll visit the Roman Amphitheater in this visually stunning city. Take free time to stop in Le Café Van Gogh for a glass of wine, before sailing to Avignon.
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DAY 3: THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 9, 2027 - AVIGNON
The City of Popes in Picturesque Provence. This morning, guests may choose to join one of the following:
  • ​CLASSIC- Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Avignon, including a visit to the world’s largest gothic fortress—the 14th-century Palace of the Popes. Also, enjoy a tasting of local products while exploring Les Halles’ covered market.
  • EXPLORE- Avignon on your own for the city’s art and culture, theatre, and museums. Be sure to snap photos of the captivating countryside, historic monuments, and the medieval Pont Saint-Bénézet.
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DAY 4: FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 10, 2027 - VIVIERS
World History in a Charming French Country Village. Enjoy a leisurely morning sailing through the soaring walls of Lock Bollène on your way to Viviers.
  • ACTIVE- Join a Guided Excursion for a surprising underground wine tasting—under the direction of an expert Speleologist (cave guide) and an oenologist (wine-making expert).
  • DISCOVERY- Explore the charms of Viviers on this extraordinary guided walk through the Old Town with an included tasting of the local culinary delights.
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DAY 5: SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 11, 2027 - TOURNON/TAIN L’HERMITAGE
A Rendezvous with Castle Views and Vineyards. Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.
  • ACTIVE- Explore Tournon by foot as you follow your Adventure Host for a morning hike in this beautiful town along the Rhone.
  • CLASSIC- Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Tournon—twin city to Tain-l’Hermitage and one of France’s oldest medieval cities. You’ll see its imposing 16th-century castle. In the early afternoon cruise, to Lyon.
  • DISCOVERY- Enjoy a pastry demonstration hosted by a French chef on board your ship.
Tonight, your Certified Sommelier will escort you through a French cuisine tasting dinner with wine pairing on board. Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.
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DAY 6: SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 12, 2027 - LYON
Adventures in Food and Wine in the Gastronomy Capital of France
  • DISCOVERY Take a Culinary Walk through the city to discover why Lyon is known as the gastronomic capital of France, OR:
  • CLASSIC Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour to survey Lyon from Fourvière Hill with its numerous churches. You’ll also explore the Old Town with its maze of medieval alleyways, and the lively cafés, monuments, and famed fountain of Place des Terreaux. Spend free time riding a bike through Lyon’s town squares, over bridges, and along the banks where the Rhône and Saône rivers meet.
This evening, join an onboard unique dinner inspired by legendary Chef Paul Bocuse. Enjoy live entertainment while sailing to Tournus.
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DAY 7: MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 13, 2027 - TOURNUS–CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE
Wine and Cheese on the Stunning Saône
  • DISCOVERY- Travel into the rolling landscapes of the Mâconnais region to learn about its world-famous Chardonnay vineyards, the wines produced here, and to attend a wine-tasting in the cellars of a real medieval castle!
Later, enjoy a delicious cheese tasting onboard while sailing to Chalon-sur-Saône. Enjoy live entertainment on board this evening.
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DAY 8: TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 14, 2027 - CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE 
  • Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.
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River Cruise ​Pricing and Inclusions (book now and save $250 pp off the prices below)

$9,150.00 per person for Royal Suite ( Only 1 available)
$7,300.00 per person for Panorama Suite, Category P
$7,250.00  per Person for Panorama Suite, Category A
$7,150.00 per Person for Panorama Suite, Category B (Only 2 Left!!!)
$5,251.00 per Person for Deluxe, Category D & E (SOLD OUT)
*Above price based on double occupancy. 
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Cruise & Tour Inclusions:
Bon Voyage Host: Geoff
7-night cruise on the Avalon Poetry II
All meals on board the Cruise
Daily Entertainment Onboard
Drink Package
Port Fees
Cruise Gratuities
Daily Guided Shore Excursions

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Not Included:
Airfare(estimated at $1800pp)
Travel insurance(estimated at 10% of trip cost)
Meals during Land Portion
Tips for local guides and drivers
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Payment Schedule:
$2,000 deposit per cabin is required at the time of booking (50% refundable until 3/1/2026)
Book before December 31st 2025, and save $250 per person
Insurance due at time of booking
Final payment is due March 1, 2027

pictures of the Poetry II

Call 920-725-2880 For more information!