When in France, visiting the vibrant capital Paris and the adjacent, more laid-back, but equally enchanting region of Normandy is a must -- and there's no better way than doing so by private river cruise, where you unpack just once for your one week floating boat journey. This is the most comfortable way to experience these incredible destinations.

Highlights of this 7-day/6-night French journey include two (possibly three nights) in Paris, as well as visits to Rouen, Vernon-Giverny, plus an XXL day and evening in charming Caudebec-en-Aux with the opportunity to visit the Landing Beaches (optional excursion). The dates are Saturday, April 11, through Friday, April 17, 2026, in France.

We no longer offer a group flight option, as there wasn't enough interest to hold the group seats. However, you have plenty of options from LA and other gateways.

Please take a look at this helpful article for information on flights from LAX to Paris.
We would recommend that you leave no later than Friday, April 10, from the USA for Paris CDG as arrival will be the next day. Embarkation starts at 4 pm on Saturday, April 11 if we're able to offer the full charter. The cruise concludes on Friday, April 17 -- the ship will be docked in Paris.

Led by artistic director and composer Ariel Quintana, singers and musicians will perform in prime, historic venues with incredible acoustics to appreciative audiences. This highly scenic route introduces everyone to the rich history and culture of the stunning places visited and viewed along the Seine River. Delicious French meals (breakfast, lunch, and dinner) and all drinks are included on the ship.

Opportunities to perform in prime venues like La Madeleine, or the American Church in Paris (maybe even Notre-Dame) make this journey for the Ariel Quintana Singers even more special.


This exclusive journey requires a minimum of 60 guests and a maximum of 77 travelers. 

From Paris to Normandy and back: The 2026 France Concert Tour & River Cruise Tour lead by Dr. Ariel Quintana begins and ends in Paris, offering ample time to explore its iconic sites. The touring choir and musicians will have opportunities to perform in renowned venues here and at the other destinations.

Vernon (Giverny): Discover the picturesque town of Vernon, a gateway to Giverny, where you can visit Claude Monet's famous gardens.

Caudebec-en-Caux and Normandy: Stay in charming Caudebec, or embark on an optional excursion to the historic D-Day Landing Beaches and the American Cemetery.

Les Andelys and Château de La Roche-Guyon: Cruise by the scenic Les Andelys and stop for a visit to the impressive Château de La Roche-Guyon.

Rouen: Explore the historic city of Rouen, known for its stunning Gothic architecture and rich medieval past.

Led by Dr. Ariel Quintana, the 2026 France River Cruise & Concert Tour is now open for pre-registration.  

The itinerary is a preview of the destinations and experiences awaiting performers and guests. Space is limited. Performers and immediate family are offered reduced, early rates (in shared, lower-deck cabins).

Upgraded packages with top deck accommodations are also available. 

The non-refundable deposit of $500 is due with sign-up once Dr. Quintana confirms he has a touring ensemble. Anyone joining late needs to catch up on previously due payments.

Pricing varies by the number of final participants.

Cruise-only pricing with 77 travelers on a full charter starts at $3,212 (without airfare) for performers/early rate.  

These rates are performer/immediate family and returning traveler rates in a lower deck cabin for two. Pricing is per person.

Single occupancy is possible, but at a surcharge of $900.

The packages are all-inclusive for meals and drinks onboard for the duration of the cruise.

Main exclusions are tips (suggested $110), travel insurance with trip cancellation (mandatory, cost varies by level of coverage), and personal services (such as passport fees, souvenirs, and snacks on land), as well as optional excursions (e.g., the Monet Museum in Giverny, the Louvre in Paris, Landing Beach Excursion from Caudebec).

Friends' rates are in upper-deck cabins.

Travelers who book their flights (Cruise-Only package) do not have transportation to/from the ship included. Please don't book flights until the tour is officially confirmed.

For essential details, as well as the numerous inclusions (all meals, drinks, transportation, tours, entrances, concert arrangements, marketing, etc.), please review the Information & Documents Section on the tour page .

Please don't hesitate to contact us via email at hello@inside-europe.com.

A waitlist will be started to collect interest.

Pricing is based on the following exchange rate: 1.15 USD = Euro 1.
If the exchange rate fluctuates by +/- 2 percent, the cost will be adjusted accordingly.

What’s included in the Cruise-Only Packages

• MS Waydelich Paris + France River Cruise
  Stay aboard this floating hotel/restaurant/rehearsal space for 6 nights in twin/double cabin of your choice (package selection) with ensuite baths, AC, and many more amenities. 

• Caring Inside Hosts
  You're in excellent hands with our European team: Passionate, caring, multi-lingual hosts who are with the group 24/7 -- assisting with all logistics.

• Private Bus Transport
  On-cruise transfers in France from April 11 to April 17 are by private, modern motor coach if venues or sights are not within easy walking distance or accessible by metro while in Paris.

• Meals/Drinks on ship:
  Daily buffet breakfasts, featuring hot and cold options, are included, as are lunch and dinner (multi-course, usually served, and sometimes offered as buffets). Additionally, snacks such as fresh fruit, cookies, or cakes are available throughout the day, including at tea time. 

• Sightseeing
  Visit each destination's major sights (as stated in the itinerary) on walking or bus tours (Paris, Rouen). Entrance fees are also included.

• Pro Concert Set-Up + PR
  The touring ensemble will perform up to three formal concerts in Rouen, Vernon, or Caudebec and Paris. Professional concert set-up and marketing are a trademark of Incantato Concert Tours.

• Inside Europe App We're saving the trees by giving you access to our itinerary app that's packed with all timings, meeting points, helpful travel tips, but also insider recommendations for each destination

• 24/7 On Tour Assistance
  From arrival to departure, we've got you! Day (and if needed night). Our team is there for you in good times, and we are also highly qualified to assist with any situation that may arise.
  
  

What’s not included

• Transfer to/from the ship in Paris (Euro 35 to Euro 80, varying by arrival airport, and taxi or uber fare). These are per car rates, not per person.
  

• Travel Insurance
  Travel insurance with trip cancellation is mandatory to protect you and your investment. Since options/costs vary by age and coverage, you'll pick the insurance that suits you best.

• Europe Staff Tips:
  Tips are customary for tour guides, drivers, and hosts. We suggest a tip of $ 110 or more for the duration of the trip, divided among all team members taking care of you in Europe.

• Personal Services
  Snacks or meals off ship, premium drinks, souvenirs, laundry service, etc. are not included and are to be paid for on your own.

• Instrument or Orchestra hire

• Passport fees (or Visa fees if applicable)

• Credit Card Processing Fees

• Professional Photography

• Extension Cost:
  Travelers with early or extended returns do not have transfers or accommodation included. These options will be shared once the tour is confirmed.

One of many options to fly to Paris from LAX is by Air Tahiti with the following schedule:

Friday, April 10, depart LAX at 1:30 pm on Air Tahiti TN8, with next-day arrival in Paris at CDG scheduled for 9:05 am.

The return flight is on Friday, April 17 Air Tahiti TN7 leaving Paris at 12:05 pm and arriving the same day at Lax scheduled at 2:20 pm.

All times are local times at the destinations. Flight schedules are subject to change. This was just a reference.

Since there wasn't enough interest in group airfare, we didn't confirm any space. You can book these tickets on your own (just like other flights) or with Jennifer at Nonstop Travel.

Please take a look at this helpful article for information on flights from LAX to Paris.
We would recommend that you leave no later than Friday, April 10, from the USA for Paris CDG as arrival will be the next day. Embarkation starts at 4 pm on Saturday, April 11. The cruise concludes on Friday, April 17 -- the ship will be docked in Paris already on the 16th.

Payment amounts vary depending on your chosen tour package.

The example below is for the early rate in a shared main deck cabin for 2, per person sharing:

The dates for payments are as follows:

First payment $500, October 3, 2025

Second payment $700+, October 24, 2025

Third payment $700+, November 21, 2025

Fourth payment of $700+, January 19, 2026

Balance is due February 16, 2026.

At Inside Europe, we take pride in tailoring our travelers' daily activities to their passions and interests. Optional activities range from guided walks, visits to farmer's market, cheese, wine- or craft beer tastings, the option to visit museums of your liking and much more.

We can also host French conversation classes on and off ship with native speakers and guest lecturers.