Accommodations
Accommodation on S.S. Catherine is designed to feel both indulgent and comfortable, with a strong emphasis on quality materials, elegant finishes and thoughtful detail. Each category offers a slightly different perspective of the river, while maintaining the same high standard of comfort throughout.
The Classic Staterooms provide a cosy and well-appointed option, featuring a smaller window positioned at the waterline that brings in natural light while offering a unique, close-to-river viewpoint. Inside, guests will find handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in storage, individual climate control and a flat-screen TV with an infotainment centre. The marble bathroom is finished with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, a towel warmer, heated mirror and backlit magnifying mirror, alongside bathrobes and slippers for added comfort.
In the French Balcony Staterooms, the experience opens up with full-height windows that can be lowered to create a French balcony. This allows fresh air and uninterrupted views to flow into the room, creating a brighter and more spacious feel. The same elegant furnishings and high-quality finishes carry through, ensuring a consistent level of luxury.
The Deluxe Balcony Staterooms take this further with an enclosed balcony and floor-to-ceiling windows, offering a comfortable indoor space from which to enjoy the scenery in all weather conditions. This design adds a sense of openness while maintaining privacy and comfort.
For a more elevated stay, the Suites offer additional space and enhanced amenities. Featuring enclosed balconies, beautifully styled interiors and luxurious bathrooms with both a rain shower and tub, they provide a more indulgent experience. Guests also benefit from in-suite butler service, in-room breakfast, daily treats and thoughtful extras such as a Nespresso coffee machine, stocked mini-bar and complimentary laundry service.
At the top of the range, the Grand Suites deliver the most spacious and luxurious accommodation on board. With a separate living room, expansive layout and refined décor, they offer a true sense of exclusivity. The marble bathroom includes both a separate rain shower and bathtub, as well as a secluded toilet and bidet area, while the full suite of butler services and amenities ensures a seamless and highly personalised experience.
Activities & Entertainment
Life on S.S. Catherine is shaped by the destinations she sails through, with time on board designed to complement, rather than compete with, what awaits ashore. Days tend to begin with anticipation of the next port of call, as shore excursions offer opportunities to explore the rich culture, history and gastronomy of southern France. From guided walks through historic towns to visits to local vineyards, these experiences provide a deeper understanding of the region and bring each destination vividly to life.
When back on board, the atmosphere shifts to one of relaxed sociability. The Van Gogh Lounge is the heart of the ship’s social scene, a beautifully styled space where guests gather throughout the day. It might be a quiet coffee in the morning, a glass of wine in the afternoon, or light entertainment in the evening. The space adapts easily, always maintaining a welcoming feel.
Just outside, the Matisse Terrace offers a different perspective. With its open-air setting, it’s a lovely place to enjoy the passing scenery in a more tranquil environment. Whether stepping out for some fresh air or lingering with a drink as the sun begins to set, it provides a gentle contrast to the indoor spaces.
Food & Drink
Dining is guided by the flavours of the Rhône region, where food is approached with both care and a sense of enjoyment. Rather than feeling overly formal, meals unfold at a relaxed pace, allowing guests to savour both the cuisine and the atmosphere.
The Cézanne Restaurant on the Avignon Deck forms the centrepiece of the dining experience. With its elegant décor and large windows, it provides a bright and comfortable setting for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Menus often highlight regional specialities alongside international dishes, creating a balance that feels both authentic and accessible. Service is attentive yet unhurried, encouraging guests to take their time and enjoy each course. Elsewhere, the ship’s lounges naturally extend the dining experience.
The Bar du Leopard on the Camargue Deck offers a more intimate setting for drinks, ideal for a pre-dinner aperitif or a quiet evening moment. In contrast, the Van Gouge Lounge and Bar provides a more sociable atmosphere, where drinks are often accompanied by conversation and light entertainment.
For something more informal, The Coffee Shop on the Saint Remy Deck is a convenient stop for speciality coffees and light refreshments throughout the day. Complementing this, the 24-hour coffee and tea station on the Camargue Deck ensures that guests can enjoy a warm drink whenever they wish, a small but appreciated detail that adds to the overall sense of comfort on board.
Relaxation & Fitness
Time on S.S. Catherine offers a natural opportunity to slow down, particularly when the ship is gliding through some of the most scenic stretches of the river. The Sun Deck provides a calm, open space where guests can sit back and take in uninterrupted views, whether enjoying the sunshine or simply watching the landscapes unfold at a gentle pace.
The pool on the Camargue Deck adds another dimension to relaxation, offering a refreshing place to unwind. It’s a comfortable and inviting space that encourages you to linger a little longer.
For a more restorative experience, the Serenity River Spa on the Avignon Deck offers a quieter, more secluded setting. Designed to promote relaxation, it provides a range of treatments that help ease both body and mind, making it an ideal retreat after a day of exploration.
Those looking to stay active will find the Fitness Centre on the Saint Remy Deck a convenient option for light exercise. While modest in size, it offers the essentials for maintaining your routine, complementing the active nature of days spent exploring ashore.
S.S. Catherine destinations
Sailing along the Rhône and the Saône, S.S. Catherine explores one of France’s most culturally rich and visually striking regions. From the historic streets of Lyon to the sun-drenched landscapes of Provence, the journey reveals a blend of art, history and gastronomy. Along the way, guests can discover charming villages, renowned wine regions and iconic landmarks, all set against a backdrop of rolling countryside and riverside scenery. The region’s strong cultural identity and relaxed pace make it particularly rewarding to explore, offering a journey that feels both immersive and distinctly French.
