Scenic Group has lined up its 2027 President's Cruise, and it's a France-focused one. Ken Muskat, the group's president for USA and Latin America, will personally host an eight-day sailing along the Seine and through Normandy, departing Paris on August 14, 2027 and returning on August 21.
The route runs roundtrip from Paris aboard the Emerald Lumi, a river ship purpose-built for the Seine, calling at Vernon, Rouen, Honfleur, Les Andelys and La Roche-Guyon. It's a compact stretch of river that punches well above its weight: the itinerary takes in Claude Monet's artistic legacy at Giverny-adjacent Vernon, the medieval streets of Rouen, the pretty harbour town of Honfleur, and — the big draw for many — the D-Day landing beaches of Normandy.
President's Cruises are a Scenic tradition where a senior executive travels with guests, adding extra-curated experiences and special access along the way. Muskat framed it as a chance to make river cruising more personal, and he'll be on hand throughout the week rather than just appearing at a welcome dinner.
The sailing also leans into Emerald's more active style of river cruising. Alongside the standard cultural and historical excursions, guests can opt into EmeraldACTIVE offerings — think guided walks and bike rides rather than coach-only touring — plus experiences built around Normandy's food traditions and local communities.
Fares currently start from $3,936 per person, though Scenic notes that offers and terms can change. Worth knowing: Scenic's parent group is in the middle of a serious expansion, with the Emerald Kaia yacht newly launched in the Mediterranean, the Emerald Astra on the rivers, and further ships — including Emerald Star-Ship for Northern France and Emerald Raiya in 2027 — on the way. By 2028 the Emerald Cruises fleet should number 11 river ships and five luxury yachts.
For travellers weighing a first river cruise, this itinerary is a strong candidate. The Seine route packs art history, medieval towns and modern-history weight into a single week with no packing and unpacking beyond your one cabin, and August dates suit school-holiday schedules. If you want the added access and host-led extras, the President's Cruise edition is the one to book; the same itinerary likely runs in standard form on other dates too.
Story via Cruise Industry News.