MS River Chanson

At the end of 2014, the cruise ship River Chanson was transferred to Grand Circle Cruise Line (GCCL). The riverboat (ENI number 04800450) was originally named “River Cloud II”. She commenced operations under her new name (River Chanson) in March 2015. GCCL purchased the 90-passenger River Cloud 2 from Sea Cloud Cruises for an undisclosed sum.

The River Chanson operates a new 13-day itinerary departing from her homeport, Bordeaux, France. The voyage includes visits to Paris, Amboise, Chartres, La Rochelle, Cadillac, Blaye, Pauillac, Libourne, and Saint-Emilion.

Cabins

All River Chanson staterooms are outside and feature contemporary décor. The 44 passenger cabins offer standard (complimentary) amenities, including either a double bed (Queen-size) or two twins (single beds, non-convertible to double), bedside tables with lamps, mirrored dressing table (writing desk) with stool, wardrobe, electronic safe (in the closet), minibar, flat-screen TV (satellite reception, ship information channel with daily scheduled events, real-time bow camera), 220 V power sockets, and an en-suite bathroom (washbasin, WC, shower, hairdryer, shaver socket). Each cabin also has individually controlled air conditioning. Junior Suites additionally offer a 2-seater sofa and three floor-to-ceiling windows.

Cabin categories include:

• Junior Suites (“Panorama Cabin” category A, room numbers 2 through 14) are located on Promenade Deck and measure 14 m2 (150 ft2). Each suite features three large windows and a Queen-size double bed (with two separate mattresses, non-convertible to twins).
• Double Bed Cabins (category B, room numbers 26 through 45) are midship on Cabin Deck and measure 11 m2 (120 ft2). Each has two round portholes (small, non-opening windows) and two single beds (convertible to double).
• Two Bed Cabins (category C, room numbers 16 through 25) are located forward on Cabin Deck and measure 11 m2 (120 ft2). Each has two round portholes (small, non-opening windows) and two single beds (non-convertible to double / cannot be pushed together).
• One wheelchair-accessible handicap cabin is available for disabled passengers. Located midship-starboard on Deck 2, it measures 14 m2 (150 ft2) and features one lower single bed, one upper wall-mounted bunk bed, a coffee table with two armchairs, three floor-to-ceiling windows, and a larger bathroom (with grab rail, lowered angled sink, raised toilet seat, hand-held shower).

Each cabin includes welcome champagne (on embarkation day), bottled water, and fresh fruit (replenished daily throughout the voyage). Room service is provided twice daily.

Shipboard facilities

Known for her friendly staff and informal atmosphere, the riverboat is ideal for first-time cruisers and offers an intimate, relaxed travel experience. The stylish Salon-Bar (forward on Promenade Deck) features comfortable seating (low tables with leather armchairs and sofas), floor-to-ceiling windows, and a Steinway grand piano used for live performances in the afternoons and evenings. The Lounge also hosts daily media presentations, lectures, live concerts, and Afternoon Tea service.

The Dining Room Restaurant (midship-aft on Promenade Deck) has large windows and an open-seating arrangement. Dining tables accommodate 2, 4, 6, or 8 guests. The venue offers buffet breakfast, 3-course lunch, and 4-course dinner. Lunches and dinners are served with complimentary local beers and high-quality regional wines. Soft drinks (juices, sodas, tea, coffee) are provided free of charge with all meals.

The Lobby area (midship on Promenade Deck, at the Lounge entrance) houses the ship’s Reception Desk (24-hour guest services, information, assistance, purser), Tour Office (Cruise Director), Boutique Shop, and Library (midship-starboard reading room with books, popular board games, Internet, and a laptop).

The boat has two bars (the indoor Lounge Bar and the outdoor Lido Bar). She does not have a swimming pool, jacuzzi (whirlpool), spa (massage rooms), specialty restaurant, or elevator. Midship on Cabin Deck are the Beauty Salon (hairdresser/barber services), Fitness Room (Gym), and Sauna. The Sun Deck offers a deck games area (with Giant Chess Set and Shuffleboard), sunbathing area (with sun loungers, 4-seat teak tables, and deckchairs), shaded seating (covered by retractable awnings), and bar service provided by dedicated staff. Al-fresco dining options on the Sun Deck include lunch buffets and evening barbecues.

The ship carries First Aid emergency equipment. A resident doctor is available on select cruises. Smoking is permitted only in designated outdoor areas. Aft on Deck 2 is a motorized rescue boat mounted with a launching crane.

During the summer months, dinners are 4-course. Meals are prepared by the ship’s chef using fresh, locally sourced ingredients supplied from markets and vendors in the river ports visited along the itinerary. A voyage highlight is the Captain’s Gala Dinner (once per cruise). The ship also has a 24-hour tea-coffee station with complimentary beverages (coffee, tea, mineral water, juices), fruit, and light snacks (cakes, pastries). The Salon-Bar serves morning coffee and Afternoon Tea daily.