Gems Of The Seine

Glide into the lesser-known wonders of the Seine River from Paris to Normandie, and explore France's artistic heritage aboard a floating pied-à-terre aptly named the S.S. Joie de Vivre.

- François Oosthuizen

My first impression of the S.S. Joie de Vivre, as it lies anchored in the Seine River just a few hundred metres from the Eiffel Tower, is what seems like its imposing length. Yet, this latest offering in Uniworld's stable of luxury river boats measures only 125m - a nifty size that enables it to slip through France's winding channels to dock at moorings that are simply too small for larger vessels. Stepping on board would reveal several other pleasant surprises, too.

The S.S. Joie de Vivre, as its name suggests, promises to bring the "joy of living" - a love song to the French good life - to guests checking in to experience a river cruise that explores the charms of the northern French countryside in a leisurely, indulgent way along the Seine River.

A quick exploration of the boat reveals handcrafted furniture and fine antiques, original artwork and signature accents, inspired by 20th-century Parisian designs from the Golden Twenties to the free-spirited 1960s - all blending seamlessly with modern conveniences. Along with that comes a welcoming crew who goes out of their way to get guests settled in.

My Deluxe French Balcony cabin measures only 194 sqft but seems much bigger thanks to the large window and clever use of space. In total, there are 16 of these cabins, 29 French Balcony cabins (same size), nine Classic cabins (161-183sqft), eight Suites (258sqft), and two Grand Suites (409sqft). All staterooms and suites are decorated in a plush way with bright splashes and beautiful dark-wood furnishings and panelling, marble-lined bathrooms stocked with L'Occitane amenities, handcrafted Savoir of England beds (complete with 100 per cent Egyptian cotton sheets), a pillow menu and European duvets.