River Cruises from Marseille
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10 best River Cruise tour packages from Marseille
Compiled by

MelissaMarseille travel expert at TourRadar
- Grand France (Northbound) 2026
- Discover the Rhine & Rhone Rivers 2026 - 15 Days (including Macon)
- Autumn Sensations of Lyon and Provence & Paris 2026 - 10 Days (from Marseille to Paris)
- France, Uncorked: The Rhone, The Seine & Bordeaux 2026
- Idyllic Rhône 2025 - 8 Days
- Idyllic Rhône 2026 - 8 Days (from Marseille to Lyon)
- Discover the Rhine & Rhone Rivers 2026 - 15 Days (36 destinations)
- Sensations of Lyon and Provence & Paris 2024|2025 - 10 Days
- Autumn Sensations of Lyon & Provence with Swiss Mountains
- Springtime Sensations of Lyon & Provence 2026 - 8 Days (from Marseille to Lyon)
A luxury cruise aboard Avalon's Poetry II or Tapestry II awaits in Marseille. The Roman Amphitheater in Arles, wine tasting in Châteauneuf-du-Pape cellars, and Avignon's medieval bridge highlight the voyage. Savor chef-prepared Provençal cuisine and enjoy premium L'Occitane amenities in your Panorama Suite.
Duration 15 days Destinations Marseille, Arles, Avignon, Pont-en-Royans, Châteauneuf-de-Bordette, Viviers, Lyon, Tournus, Beaune, DijonSee all destinations Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator Avalon Waterways From
- NZ$15,450+$768 upfront costs
Duration 15 days Destinations France, Switzerland, Germany, Netherlands Age Range 12 to 90 year olds Operator Emerald Cruises From $27,168
26% Off- NZ$20,219You save $6,949
Duration 10 days Destinations Marseille, Arles, Avignon, Viviers, Tournon-sur-Rhone, Vienne, Lyon, Paris Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator Emerald Cruises From $16,691
46% Off- NZ$9,056You save $7,635
Marseille welcomes you aboard Avalon's luxurious Suite Ship. The nearby 1st-century Roman Amphitheater and Van Gogh's artistic inspirations await in Arles. Chef-prepared regional cuisine accompanies your cruise through Provence, featuring guided excursions to iconic landmarks and vineyards.
Duration 22 days Destinations Marseille, Arles, Avignon, Pont du Gard, Pont-en-Royans, Châteauneuf-de-Bordette, Viviers, Lyon, Tournus, BeauneSee all destinations Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator Avalon Waterways From
46% Off- NZ$23,424+$1,152 upfront costs
Duration 8 days Destinations Marseille, Tarascon, Arles, Avignon, Vienne, Macon, Lyon Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours From $7,332
15% Off- NZ$6,253You save $1,079
Navigate the Rhône River aboard Scenic Sapphire, departing from Marseille's historic port. Explore Arles' Roman amphitheater, cruise past Avignon's famous bridge, and sail through Vienne's ancient waterways. Enjoy butler service in luxurious suites and witness Provence's stunning riverside landscapes.
Duration 8 days Destinations Marseille, Arles, Avignon, Alpilles, Lyon, Chateauneuf du Pape, Viviers, Vienne, Grignan, Saint-RomainSee all destinations Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours From
15% Off- NZ$20,754
The Emerald Liberté awaits in Marseille for an immersive Rhône adventure. The UNESCO-listed Arles Amphitheatre and Van Gogh's inspirational settings beckon exploration. A Provençal dinner by local chef Fabien Morreale complements visits to Avignon's medieval Palais des Papes.
Duration 15 days Destinations France, Switzerland, Germany, Netherlands Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator Emerald Cruises From $28,896
49% Off- NZ$14,789You save $14,107
The luxurious Emerald Liberté sets sail from Marseille for a 7-night river adventure. Chef Fabien Morreale's culinary expertise enhances Provence's charm, while the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre and exclusive wine tastings complement views of historic riverside castles.
Duration 10 days Destinations Marseille, Arles, Avignon, Viviers, Tournon-sur-Rhone, Lyon, Chalon sur Saone, Beaune, Paris Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator Emerald Cruises From
49% Off- NZ$14,930
Duration 12 days Destinations Marseille, Arles, Avignon, Viviers, Tournon-sur-Rhone, Vienne, Lyon, Lausanne Age Range 12 to 90 year olds Operator Emerald Cruises From $14,315
46% Off- NZ$7,677You save $6,638
Duration 8 days Destinations Marseille, Arles, Avignon, Viviers, Tournon-sur-Rhone, Vienne, Lyon Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator Emerald Cruises From $14,274
53% Off- NZ$6,638You save $7,635
What our customers ask about River Cruises from Marseille
What is the best time of year for a river cruise starting from Marseille?
Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are ideal for river cruises from Marseille. The weather is comfortable then, with temperatures between 68-77°F (20-25°C), and you won't face big crowds. Summer can get pretty hot in Provence, often reaching 85-95°F (29-35°C), and tourist spots get packed. One of our travelers told us, "Early fall provided perfect weather for exploring historic towns like Avignon and Arles, with comfortable temperatures for walking tours and deck viewing." If you're interested in seeing the landscape at its best, spring brings flowers in bloom, while fall offers beautiful autumn colors along the Rhône.
What key landmarks will I see on river cruises starting in Marseille?
Your cruise will take you to some of France's most impressive sites, including the Pope's Palace in Avignon (a UNESCO site), the ancient Roman arena in Arles, a beautiful 16th-century castle in Tournon, and Lyon's hilltop Notre-Dame basilica. You'll also get to visit famous wine regions like Châteauneuf-du-Pape and interesting places like the historic Hospices de Beaune. As one of our travelers put it, "The combination of Roman ruins, medieval castles, and prestigious wine estates made every day a new discovery along the Rhône River."
Where do the cruises go first after leaving Marseille?
When you start your trip, you'll first head to Arles to board your ship. Your first full day is spent exploring Arles, where you can see amazing Roman buildings that are over 2,000 years old, including a huge amphitheater. You'll also see places where Van Gogh painted some of his famous works. Next, your ship takes you to Avignon to visit the incredible Palace of the Popes. One traveler told us, "Beginning in Arles gave us the perfect introduction to Provence's Roman history and artistic heritage."
What should I explore before my river cruise leaves Marseille?
Take time to check out Marseille's Old Port area where the cruises start from, and make sure to visit Notre-Dame de la Garde church for amazing views over the city. The Le Panier neighborhood is great for wandering, with lots of small shops and nice cafes like Cafe de l'Abbaye. If you need a place to stay the night before, many cruise passengers like the InterContinental or Sofitel hotels near the Old Port. One traveler mentioned, "Starting in Marseille gave us time to explore this fascinating port city before embarking on our river journey through Provence."
How active are river cruises starting from Marseille?
These cruises let you be as active or relaxed as you like. Each day includes easy walking tours through historic towns, but you can also choose more active options like bike rides in Lyon, walks through vineyard areas in Tournon, or canoeing near Avignon. Ships like the Emerald Liberté have electric bikes you can use to explore on your own. One traveler said, "You can choose between relaxed sightseeing or more active adventures each day, making it perfect for mixed-ability groups."
What are the typical accommodation options on river cruises from Marseille?
The ships offer really comfortable rooms, similar to nice hotel rooms. Ships like the Emerald Liberté and Scenic Sapphire have cabins with big windows or private balconies, good beds, and modern bathrooms. On the Emerald Dawn, you can book larger rooms like Owner's Suites or Grand Suites if you want extra space. For nights before or after your cruise, there are good hotels in the city centers, like the InterContinental in Marseille or Sofitel in Lyon. Our travelers often tell us they love "hotel-style comfort combined with ever-changing riverside views" from their cabin accommodations.
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