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Anne Marie

Christmas Traditions of Provence

Anne Marie cruising

Anne Marie

Provence Christmas itinerary

Avignon - Tarascon to Arles to Aigues Mortes - Avignon
FAN-NOPP

Embark on an unforgettable cruise in the heart of Provence, discovering its Christmas traditions and exceptional heritage. Between festive lights and a warm atmosphere, let yourself be charmed by stops rich in history and flavors. Explore the majestic Palais des Papes in Avignon, immerse yourself in the medieval charm of Tarascon and Aigues-Mortes, and stroll through the picturesque streets of Arles. Don’t miss the magnificent nativity scene at the Notre-Dame-de-la-Major church, adorned with over 750 santons, a true tribute to Provençal craftsmanship. Each stop will immerse you in the authenticity of Provençal Christmas, highlighted by cultural and culinary discoveries, such as tasting the famous sweet fougasse. A unique experience to celebrate the magic of the holidays in complete serenity.

Anne Marie christmas makret cruising map

DAY 1: AVIGNON

Passengers are welcome to board our ship at 6:00 p.m. After comfortably settling into your cabins, we'll introduce our crew at a welcome cocktail before dinner. Enjoy a "Christmas traditions”-themed evening.

DAY 2: AVIGNON - TARASCON

In the morning, included excursion: Avignon and the Palace of the Popes. An imposing fortress and sumptuous palace, it is a symbol of the power of Christianity in the Middle Ages and hosted seven pontiffs in the 14th century. During the visit to the largest Gothic palace in the world, the tour will trace the lives of the popes, their political and religious power. You will be able to admire the grand ceremonial halls, the chapels, and the private apartments of the Popes. Visit to the Halles market in Avignon(1), an important facet of authentic Provence, its bustling atmosphere, specific scents, and incomparable flavors make it a true ambassador of taste.

Afternoon cruise towards Tarascon. Take the opportunity to go on the sun deck and admire the landscapes of Provence. You will pass through the large Vallabrègues lock before reaching Tarascon.

Christmas-themed evening entertainment on board.

DAY 3: TARASCON - ARLES

In the morning, included excursion: Tarascon and the Royal Collegiate Church of Saint Martha. Guided tour of the historic heart of the old town, discovering its heritage. The town center invites you with its relaxed lifestyle, beautiful, simple, and elegant architecture, and pedestrian streets. Don’t miss the Tarasque, a mythological creature from Provence, which is said to have inspired the name of the town of Tarascon. Then, visit the Royal Collegiate Church of Saint Martha, located in the heart of Tarascon. This Romanesque church, founded in the 11th and 12th centuries, is dedicated to Saint Martha, who came from Palestine and, according to legend, tamed the Tarasque, a monster that terrorized the region. The collegiate church is a major pilgrimage site, attracting the faithful for centuries, and remains a must-see monument in Provence. Return on board. Cruise towards Arles.

In the afternoon, included excursion: Arles and the Church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Major. The historic center of Arles is the vibrant heart of culture and history. Wander through its ancient streets and discover a lively heritage that reflects the Roman influence and medieval grandeur. Don’t miss the Church of Notre-Dame-de-la-Major, the religious center of the gardians’ brotherhood. Every May 1st, they come here to pay tribute to Saint George and have their horses blessed. Here, you will also see a beautiful nativity scene with more than 750 santons.

Christmas Mass. New Year's Eve party.

DAY 4: ARES - AIGUES MORTES

Morning cruise towards Aigues-Mortes. You will pass through the Petit-Rhône and Saint-Gilles, navigating the single lock before joining the Rhône à Sète canal, which runs along the wetlands of the Petite Camargue.

Arrival in Aigues-Mortes in the afternoon. Included excursion: Aigues-Mortes. Founded in the 13th century by Saint Louis, Aigues-Mortes reveals a particularly well-preserved architectural ensemble. Located at the heart of the Gard Camargue, the town has a true medieval fortress appearance, with its 1,634 meters of ramparts, fortified gates, twenty towers, and walkways. Then, enjoy a tasting of the true fougasse from Aigues-Mortes, a glazed brioche with sugar and raised with orange blossom. This sweet treat was traditionally made at Christmas time, where the baker would prepare the dough and the customer would bring the ingredients. It was the baker’s Christmas gift.

Gala evening.

DAY 5: AIGUES MORTES - AVIGNON

Enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. Coach transfer to Avignon. End of our services.

2026 RATES

DATES	SHIP	ITINERARY	PER PERSON RATE DBLE	SINGLE RATE
Dec 23	Anne Marie	Avignon to Aigues Mortes	$1181	$1712

2027 RATES

DATES	SHIP	ITINERARY	PER PERSON RATE DBLE	SINGLE RATE
Dec 23	Anne Marie	Avignon to Aigues Mortes	$1181	$1712

Rate includes: 6 night cruise, all meals, wine with meals, drinks from the bar and excurisons. Bicycles available for cycling.

22 passenger Anne Marie

Cruises in Provence Region of France

The Anne Marie is a new build barge in 2014. . She accommodates 22 passengers in great comfort. It is a modern vessel equipped with a sundeck wreathed in flowers, with chairs and parasols, a cozy lounge leading to the bar and a separate dining-room. On the lower deck are 11 comfortable cabins with opening windows.

FEATURES:

Barge New in 2014
Size of barge: 128 ft by 17 ft
Number of Passengers: 22
Number of Cabins (all with private bath): 11
Crew: 5
Air Conditioning and Central Heating: Yes
Salon: Salon with comfortable sofas, bar area and separate dining room with seating for 22.
Bar: All drinks and meals included on board (excluding champagne & drinks from the wine list)
Deck: Sundeck with tables, chairs, and umbrellas for shade.
Cabin Features: Twelve cabins, all twin-bedded, with TV, each approximately 97 sq. ft., all with large windows and ensuite bathroom with shower. safe, internal telephone, individual AC control
Vehicle for Transfers/Excursions: Motor coach
Accessibility: Steps to cabins.
Bicycles: Yes