Iglu Cruise staff reviews: Cate’s Elegant French River Cruise with Riviera Travel
Iglu Cruise Sales Agent Explores France aboard MS Thomas Hardy
Cruising is undoubtedly one of the most rewarding ways to travel the world right now, with cruises inviting you to explore some of the most exciting destinations around the world, from the Caribbean and the Mediterranean to Alaska, Asia, and beyond. When cruising, you’ll have the chance to travel in complete comfort, wanting for nothing, while you enjoy fantastic food and engaging entertainment, and make lasting memories.
If you’re browsing Iglu Cruise’s latest cruise deals and wondering what it’s like to embark on a French river cruise, you should check out this cruise review from Cate Rizzo, Iglu Cruise’s Cruise Sales Agent. Recently, she visited Lyon, Chalon-sur-Saône, Beaune, Ste. Colombe, Le Pouzin, Ardeche Gorge, Arles, and Avignon with Riviera Travel, spending 7 nights aboard MS Thomas Hardy. Below, she’s shared her expert opinion on this elegant experience and insider tips worth keeping in mind when you embark on an adventure like this yourself.
What was your first impression of MS Thomas Hardy?
The ship was beautiful. It was clearly very well designed and taken care of. The decor was streamlined and had a lean towards luxury without feeling stuffy. Sofas and chairs were comfortable and there were no major concerns about the cleanliness of any facility.
What destinations did you visit during your cruise?
During the itinerary across France, we visited Lyon, Chalon-sur-Saône, Beaune, Ste. Colombe, Le Pouzin, Ardeche Gorge, Arles, and Avignon.
Who would you recommend this ship to?
I would recommend this ship to a passenger who has experienced ocean liners before but wants something a little less busy, more intimate, and unique. It has a similar vibe to an ocean liner, but it is so much more directed in terms of being taken care of and seeing destinations an ocean liner could never reach! It’s just a much more relaxed and slower way to cruise.
Did you have a chance to see multiple cabin types? What were they like, and what’s one insider tip you’d like to share?
I would recommend the Diamond Deck Suite. It was in a perfect location—really easy to get from the cabin anywhere onboard. Being at the top of all cabin decks and slightly higher provided an incredible view. You could have your balcony door fully open and enjoy the perfect height and view for anywhere you were sailing.
Did your accommodation have enough storage space for a full 7-night cruise?
Absolutely, the cabin had 2 full wardrobes, desk drawers, bathroom storage, as well as a fridge and safe for storage.
How was the noise inside your accommodation? Are there any areas you advise avoiding for those selecting their own cabin?
The cabin is directly below the sundeck so you may hear the sun shades go up or down depending on a low bridge, but it's not very noticeable. Otherwise, it's incredibly quiet!
If you could only eat in one complimentary restaurant for the whole trip, which one would you choose, and what’s one must-try dish you recommend?
All dining venues onboard (both of them) are included in the sailing. However, the Riverview Restaurant was fantastic. I had some of the most delicious grilled prawns there for dinner, which I would absolutely recommend. Plus, you can see the chef cooking as it's open to the small, intimate dining area—what a treat!
What about the speciality dining on MS Thomas Hardy?
This ship didn’t have any speciality dining venues, but there’s a lot of fantastic food to enjoy in the main restaurant and the Riverview Restaurant.
If you had a drinks package, would you recommend it?
Yes, I would definitely recommend it!
What was the most surprising or under-the-radar activity that a first-time cruiser would miss?
There were no main theatre shows, but the entertainment onboard is so intimate with only about 100 passengers onboard, making everything really enjoyable!
What was the vibe of the pool deck onboard?
This ship didn’t actually have a pool deck, but there were still plenty of places to unwind, including the spacious sundeck.
Did you check out the kids’ facilities available onboard? What were the highlights?
This cruise ship didn’t feature any facilities specifically aimed at younger cruisers.
Which destination was the biggest surprise, and why?
Arles! I had never considered it as a port of call at all, but the city was incredible! There was so much history and it was delightfully eclectic with all the shops and restaurants around.
For those who prefer to explore independently, what’s the best thing to do within walking distance of the dock at your favourite destination?
Most of the ports had coach transfers to get to the main destinations. However, Lyon was the most accessible. We ported directly in the city and it was so easy to walk straight into town and explore! The Main Basilica was beautiful and I would highly recommend visiting it!
What was disembarking like?
Incredibly easy. You scan your cruise card out and walk straight off the 6-foot gangway! So smooth and simple.
Compared to other cruise experiences, what makes this one stand out? Where could it improve?
I think river cruising is a bit overlooked. Most people don't look at river sailing and they really should. I was absolutely surprised. Everything is included—excursions, drinks, food, Wi-Fi—and you can connect with your fellow passengers in a way that you never could on larger ships! I think it could use a few more snack options throughout the day, as if you missed lunch you'd have to wait for dinner to be served, but otherwise it was fantastic.
What’s one bit of advice you would give someone booking this exact cruise that they won’t find in a brochure?
It's so much more relaxing than you anticipate. Head up to the sundeck and just watch the river go by.
What's your one-sentence summary of your experience?
The Riviera Travel Thomas Hardy was surprising, elegant, relaxing, and much more enjoyable than I ever imagined!
Interested in embarking on your own River cruise adventure? Check out a selection of similar sailings below:
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Ready to Book Your Riviera Travel Adventure?
Whether you're looking to drift past charming villages, immerse yourself in rich French culture, or unwind on the sundeck with end-to-end all-inclusive luxury, a Riviera Travel river cruise offers an unforgettable getaway. Contact our expert cruise specialists at Iglu Cruise today to find your perfect itinerary and start planning your next river cruise adventure!
Or, for more travel inspiration, check out some of the other staff reviews on Iglu Cruise Insider:
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