CroisiEurope, Europe’s largest river cruise operator, is introducing the first-ever paddlewheel cruises on the River Seine in 2026, unveiling two brand-new itineraries aboard its elegant paddlewheel ship, MS R.E. Waydelich L.J.
The new cruises will offer guests the chance to explore some of France’s most scenic and culturally rich regions, combining Parisian landmarks, royal palaces, and charming riverside villages with the distinctive experience of paddlewheel cruising.
Two New Seine Itineraries
The first sailing, Little Gems of the Seine, is a five-night roundtrip cruise from Paris calling at Melun, Saint-Mammes, Corbeil-Essonnes, and La Roche-Guyon.
Highlights include visits to the Château de Fontainebleau, once home to kings and emperors; Île de la Cité, the historic heart of Paris; Claude Monet’s gardens in Giverny; and La Roche-Guyon, ranked among the most beautiful villages in France with its stunning château nestled between the Seine and chalk cliffs.
The cruise is priced from $1,694 per person, including all meals, drinks, WiFi, port fees, and repatriation insurance.
Departures are available between March and November 2026.
The second itinerary, The History of France: From Paris to Normandy, is a seven-night roundtrip voyage from Paris, offering a blend of history, art, and natural beauty.
This longer itinerary visits Melun, Mantes-La-Jolie, Caudebec-en-Caux, Rouen, and La Roche-Guyon, with excursions to Versailles, Fontainebleau, Monet’s gardens, and the MuseoSeine, which explores the history of navigation on the river.
Fares start from $2,398 per person, including all meals, drinks, WiFi, port fees, and repatriation insurance, with departures between April and September 2026.
Modern Paddlewheel Comfort
Sailings take place aboard the MS R.E. Waydelich L.J., a modern paddlewheel vessel designed to navigate the shallow stretches of the Seine with minimal environmental impact.
The ship accommodates 81 guests across 42 cabins and features a restaurant, lounge bar with dancefloor, and a spacious sun deck – offering a relaxed, boutique cruising experience in quintessential CroisiEurope style.
CroisiEurope’s paddlewheel design has already proven successful on other European rivers, such as the Elbe and the Loire, where traditional propulsion systems are less suitable.
This innovative approach combines old-world charm with modern technology – offering smooth navigation and a distinctively nostalgic experience.
About CroisiEurope
Founded in 1976, CroisiEurope is a family-owned company based in Strasbourg, France, and is widely recognised as Europe’s leading river cruise line.
The brand operates more than 50 ships, including river vessels, canal barges, and coastal cruisers that sail across Europe and beyond -from the Rhine, Danube, and Douro to the Mekong and Africa’s Chobe River.
The company is known for its French heritage and hospitality, with cuisine inspired by regional traditions and menus created by top French chefs.
Onboard, guests enjoy an intimate, relaxed atmosphere with a distinctly European flair – smaller ships, friendly service, and itineraries that visit lesser-known ports and cultural landmarks.
CroisiEurope has also been a pioneer in sustainable cruising, introducing innovative propulsion systems, hybrid engines, and paddlewheel technology to reduce fuel consumption and minimise the environmental footprint of its vessels.
With the launch of the new Seine itineraries, the line continues its tradition of innovation – combining French elegance, historical exploration, and eco-conscious design in one unique offering.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
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