Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has added the newest addition to its First Holiday Collection for the 2025 season – the new 7-night ‘Magical Parisian Holiday’ itinerary.
The holiday-themed journey will set sail roundtrip from Paris aboard S.S. Joie de Vivre, taking guests to the French countryside. During the cruise, guests will parkake in exclusive visits to decorated châteaux, festive French Christmas markets and curated shopping experiences.
There will be four departures in both 2025 and 2026, beginning in November to coincide with the holiday season.
“The holidays are such a special time for families and loved ones to come together, and France is truly one of the most spectacular backdrops for a festive getaway,” says Ellen Bettridge, President and CEO of Uniworld.

“For the 2025 season, we’re thrilled for guests to experience this new addition to our Holiday Collection. It’s a fresh way to experience this magical season aboard a decked-out floating boutique hotel that immerses guests in French holiday traditions.”
The ‘Magical Parisian Holiday’ sailing begins in Paris, where guests will travel to the Palace of Versailles for a private tour, including access to secret apartments typically closed to the public.
The sailing will stop in various French towns, with itinerary highlights including a walking tour of Rouen (home to artist Claude Monet’s studio); a visit to the Normandy Cider Farm; a private choral performance in Rouen Cathedral; and a ‘Make Travel Matter’ experience with a local family working to preserve a traditional style of broom weaving.
Other activities include a private reception at Château de Bizy; and an exclusive Uniworld-only event at Château le Vaux le Vicomte, the inspiration for Palace of Versailles.


All holiday-themed itineraries include visits to Europe’s legendary Christmas Markets. During this voyage, Uniworld guests will explore various markets in Paris and the countryside where they can sample vin chaud (French mulled wine) and browse Christmas decorations, regional produce and specialties from all over France.
With capacity for up to 128 guests, The S.S. Joie de Vivre is designed to bring French culture and 20th-century Parisian design to life via antiques, original artwork and distinctive accents. Other onboard features include a spa and wellness centre, bar and entertainment venue, a Parisian-style ‘sidewalk café,’ and a show kitchen where guests can pre-book a time to prepare a seven-course meal under the guidance of a Uniworld chef.
The ‘Magical Parisian Holiday’ sailing joins a growing list of new offerings for 2025, including six additional European itineraries, themed voyages such as the ‘Women-Only Cruise,’ the inaugural sailing of the S.S. Elisabeth and more.