From the moment you leave port on August 7, 2027, you’ll be embraced by the romance, flavours and timeless charm of Northern France. “Sensations of the Seine & Normandy” is a special departure sailing roundtrip from Paris aboard Emerald Lumi, Emerald Cruises’ exquisite new luxury Star-Ship. From Monet’s Giverny and the Normandy coast to curated culinary experiences inspired by French cuisine, the journey is designed for Canadian food lovers.
Celebrated Chefs Michael and Oscar Bonacini are your hosts on this delightful culinary voyage – their third father-and-son river cruise partnership. Like a fine wine, it’s a collaboration that only gets richer with time.
“Normandy is one of those rare places where history and flavour are completely inseparable and cruising the Seine through it, with just 130 fellow travellers aboard the stunning new Emerald Lumi, makes it all the more special,” says Chef Michael Bonacini. “Getting to experience and share this with Oscar, and now for the third time, makes it even more meaningful. This voyage takes us through some of France’s most inspiring landscapes, and there’s no one I’d rather explore it with – or share it through food – than my son.”
Your 8-day gastronomic adventure follows a dream scenario, winding through Normandy’s breathtaking gardens, towering cathedrals, working harbours and world-renowned food-and-wine country, crafted for discerning travellers with a passion for history, art and world-class cuisine.
Chef Oscar Bonacini shares, “Northern France has a culinary soul that I’ve long wanted to explore more deeply, and this journey gives us the chance to do exactly that. From the iconic waterways of the Seine to the storied flavours of Normandy, we can’t wait to share everything this remarkable corner of France has to offer – one incredible meal at a time.”
Immersive Culinary Experiences
- Julia Child Lunch – Rouen: Dine at La Couronne, France’s oldest restaurant and the place where Julia Child famously enjoyed “the most exciting meal of my life.” Michael and Oscar will host a specially curated Julia Child-inspired menu, featuring the iconic sole meunière that sparked her passion for French cuisine.
- Exclusive Onboard Chef Dinner: Enjoy a multi-course French-inspired dining experience hosted by Michael and Oscar. Created exclusively for this sailing, the bespoke menu highlights the flavours of Northern France through their signature culinary style.
- Normandy Cheese & Calvados Tasting: Discover Normandy’s celebrated flavours with a guided tasting of artisan cheeses and the region’s renowned apple brandy, Calvado.
Visit Sail the Seine with Michael & Oscar Bonacini to make plans for this exciting Emerald Cruises’ culinary experience. As Julia Child would happily say, “Bon Appetit!”
Sensations of the Seine & Normandy aboard Emerald Lumi
Whether this is your first luxury river cruise or you’re a seasoned voyager, every minute of Emerald Cruises’ extraordinary 8-day journey along the Seine will be a memory to treasure.
Departing August 7, 2027, this exclusive culinary cruise, hosted by Chefs Michael and Oscar Bonacini, explores Northern France in style. Be among the very first to sail Emerald Lumi, Emerald Cruises’ newest Star-Ship, debuting in Spring 2027. Specially built to sail directly into Honfleur – a rare opportunity on the river – guests will be able to step off the ship and into this charming harbour town with ease.
Staying true to its hallmark of relaxed luxury, Emerald Cruises takes care of the details that matter most, from airport transfers and daily excursions to gourmet dining, complimentary beverages and all gratuities, so guests can focus entirely on the experience.
Emerald on the Seine: A First for the Brand
In 2027, Emerald Cruises makes its first-ever appearance on the legendary Seine River with Emerald Lumi, a custom-designed ship created specifically for this elegant and storied waterway. Launching unforgettable experiences from Paris through Normandy and beyond, Emerald Lumi introduces a modern take on French river cruising, seamlessly blending luxury, cultural immersion and boutique charm. Just imagine…
Featuring the personalized elegance of a luxury hotel, on board Emerald Lumi you’ll be pampered with contemporary interiors, spacious suites and a range of onboard amenities tailored to Emerald Cruises’ signature experience. Purpose-built for the region, the vessel will navigate the Seine’s unique dimensions, unlocking access to coveted ports such as Honfleur, Rouen and other picturesque towns known for their art, history and gastronomy.
Relaxed luxury, authentic adventures
Guests can expect:
- Round-trip sailings from Paris
- Overnights and extended stays in marquee ports for deeper immersion
- French-inspired cuisine, wine pairings and locally curated excursions
- Thoughtful onboard programming highlighting art, culture and regional storytelling
“The Seine is a natural evolution for Emerald Cruises,” shares Glen Moroney, chairman and founder of Scenic Group. “It’s a river rich in romance, history and culinary heritage – everything our guests love. We’re excited to bring our distinctive Emerald Cruises experience to France with this beautifully designed ship.”
Cruise & fly from $6,810 CAD per person, including complimentary economy flights when paid in full 10 months before departure.
