In response to strong early demand, Tauck has opened bookings for its 2028 European river cruise collection, featuring three new Rhône itineraries ranging from six to 14 days. The new ms Harmonie will join the ms Lumière on the river, doubling Tauck’s guest capacity on the Rhône. Both additions are part of a multi-year expansion that will increase Tauck’s river cruise guest capacity by more than 50% over 2025 levels by 2028.
“The Rhône has a way of drawing people in, and we’ve been hearing from guests and advisors that they want more ways to experience it,” said Tauck CEO Jennifer Tombaugh. “For some, that’s a first introduction in a week; for others, it’s two weeks following the river from Barcelona through Burgundy to Lyon. With the ms Harmonie joining the ms Lumière, more of our guests can say yes.”
France remains one of Tauck’s most popular river cruise destinations, and the 2028 collection builds on that investment. Like the ms Lumière, the ms Harmonie will feature a spacious Sun Deck and The Retreat, a dedicated space for fitness and relaxation. That focus on well-being extends to the itineraries themselves: Tauck has confirmed five Wellness Departures for 2028 across a broader range of itineraries, following the first two departures aboard the ms Serene in 2027.
NEW WAYS TO EXPLORE FRANCE’S RHÔNE RIVER
Tauck’s new 2028 itineraries offer several ways to discover the Rhône Valley, from the Roman heritage of Provence to the vineyards and culinary traditions of Burgundy.
Essence of the Rhône is a new six-day, five-night river cruise sailing between Lyon and Arles aboard the new ms Harmonie. Offered in both directions, the cruise-only itinerary sails one way, allowing more time in each destination, a relaxed sailing schedule and the option to add a pre- or post-tour stay on the Mediterranean. The itinerary provides a shorter introduction to southern France, with visits to Lyon’s historic Old Town, the medieval village of Viviers and Arles, known for its Roman amphitheatre and connections to Vincent van Gogh. Guests will enjoy opportunities to discover regional food and wine traditions, with sightseeing choices that include cultural explorations and more active experiences. Departures are scheduled during spring and autumn. (From $4,990 AUD per person double-occupancy, plus airfare).
A Week On… the Rhône is a new eight-day itinerary featuring a five-night cruise aboard ms Lumière, sailing between Lyon and Arles. Highlights include guided sightseeing in Avignon, with its historic Palais des Papes, and a visit to the Camargue, where guests will experience the region’s ranching traditions during a privately hosted visit to a local farm. In Tain-l’Hermitage, guests can participate in an exclusive hands-on chocolate truffle-making experience with Valrhona or choose an active rail-bike excursion through the countryside. Additional sightseeing choices include vineyard cycling, local wine tastings and explorations of the region’s historic towns. (From $6,890 AUD per person double-occupancy, plus airfare).
Barcelona, Burgundy & the Rhône is a new 14-day itinerary combining a three-night hotel stay in Barcelona with a nine-night river cruise, available in both directions between Barcelona and Lyon. The itinerary visits five wine regions in a single journey, including Burgundy, where guests explore Beaune, visit the historic Hôtel-Dieu and discover the region’s winemaking traditions. Additional highlights include a visit to Château de Cormatin, opportunities for vineyard cycling and guided sightseeing in Lyon and Provence. A high-speed train journey connects southern France with Barcelona, bringing together two distinctive regions of Europe in one itinerary. (From $12,590 AUD per person double-occupancy, plus airfare).
Building on the guest favourite Rhine Enchantment, Milan to Amsterdam, one of Tauck’s most popular Rhine itineraries, Tauck is introducing Rhine Enchantment, Italian Lakes to Amsterdam on select 2028 departures. Drawing on guest feedback, the new 11-day itinerary begins with a three-night stay at the lakeside Hotel Splendide Royal in Lugano, Switzerland, a more scenic, tranquil home base for exploring the Italian Lakes. Guests take excursions to Lake Como and choose between sightseeing in Milan or on Monte Tamaro before embarking on a seven-night Rhine cruise to Amsterdam. (From $12,290 AUD per person double-occupancy, plus airfare).
As with Tauck’s other European river cruises, the 2028 collection is fully inclusive, covering shore excursions, gratuities, onboard beverages including wine, beer and spirits, airport transfers, luggage handling, taxes and fees. Guests also benefit from the expertise of dedicated Tauck Directors and local guides, along with a choice of sightseeing experiences on many itineraries. Tauck’s 2028 European river cruises are now open for booking, giving travel advisors and guests the opportunity to secure their preferred itineraries and departure dates.
Those interested in more information can contact their local travel professional, call Tauck at 1800 962 043, or visit the company’s website www.tauck.com.au in Australia/New Zealand.
