Imagine cruising down France’s stunning Loire River on a ship specifically designed for the journey. This dream is about to become reality thanks to CroisiEurope’s new river vessel, Loire Princesse, set to begin its voyages in April 2015. With a blend of modern amenities and historical allure, the ship’s maiden voyage will navigate through a landscape enriched with culture and stunning views.
Design and Innovation Afloat
The Loire Princesse isn’t just another vessel. Constructed in Saint-Nazaire in collaboration with Neopolia Marine, this ship embodies innovative thinking tailored for the Loire’s unique navigational challenges. The boat stretches 88.8 meters long and 15.3 meters wide with a shallow draught of 80 centimeters, designed to glide effortlessly, even when the river runs low.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Length | 88.8 meters |
| Width | 15.3 meters |
| Maximum Draught | 80 centimeters |
| Max Air Draught | 7.75 meters, reducible to 5.3 meters |
For unparalleled maneuverability, paddlewheels replace traditional propellers, minimizing damage and maintaining efficiency. This eco-friendly approach, coupled with diesel engines and direct drive systems, ensures quiet, sustainable travel. The collaboration with marine architects and the use of innovative simulations have resulted in paddlewheels that enhance propulsion without the noise usually associated with such technology.
Comfort and Luxury on the Water
An extraordinary cruise experience awaits on the Loire Princesse, which hosts up to 96 guests within its luxury accommodations. Each of the 48 cabins boasts modern comforts like air conditioning, plasma TVs, and Wi-Fi, with 30 cabins featuring expansive balconies—something truly unique in river cruising.
| Cabins | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Cabins | 48 |
| Balcony Cabins | 30 with balconies of 3m x 1.2m |
| State-of-the-art Amenities | Air conditioning, Plasma TVs, Wi-Fi |
On board, guests will find a restaurant with panoramic views offering a serene dining experience, free from the typical hustle of water-powered vessels, thanks to the paddlewheel propulsion. A lively lounge, featuring a central dance floor and bars, provides leisure options while the top deck offers sun loungers, perfect for soaking in the river vistas.
Connecting With the Culture
Loire Princesse’s itinerary, spanning seven nights from April to October, immerses guests in the rich culture and history of the region. With stops at UNESCO heritage sites, guests embark on a journey through Nantes, Angers, and the renowned Loire castles, providing cultural enthusiasts with treasures at every turn.
- Day 1: Begin in Nantes with an exciting welcome event. Opt for a scenic cruise on the Erdre River, known for its castles and serene beauty.
- Day 2: Explore the historic charm of Nantes, then sail to Saint-Nazaire, home to modern shipbuilding marvels, for an overnight stop.
- Day 3: Choose between discovering the advanced shipyards of STX France or exploring the medieval wonders of Guérande, before cruising to Ancenis.
- Day 4: Dive into the wine region with a tour in Muscadet and visit Clisson’s historic sights, ending with an evening in Angers.
- Day 5: Discover Angers’ royal past and visit Saumur’s famed Cadre Noir and beautiful fortifications.
- Day 6: Experience the grandeur of Loire Valley castles, including Azay-le-Rideau and Ussé, resonating with fairy tale allure.
- Day 7: Enjoy a relaxing journey back to Nantes along the stunning Loire, culminating in a gala dinner celebration.
- Day 8: Conclude your journey in Nantes with memories to cherish, as you disembark after breakfast.
Unveiling a New Adventure
This exciting adventure expands CroisiEurope’s diverse portfolio, offering travelers a fresh exploration of the majestic Loire Valley. Choose the Loire Princesse for an immersive experience where intimate luxury meets historical grandeur, making memories that will last a lifetime. This blend of comfort, culture, and innovation promises a journey that is both relaxing and enriching for all aboard.
