MS Emerald: Tauck Cruises Premium Cruise

An odyssey of elegance and light aboard the MS Emerald


The MS Emerald invites you on a cruise filled with grace and serenity along the Rhône and Saône rivers. Launched in 2006 and completely renovated in 2017, this 110-meter ship accommodates up to 98 passengers in an intimate and refined atmosphere. Its bright spaces and design crafted for ultimate comfort make every moment aboard the MS Emerald a true interlude of harmony.

Life and comfort on board

Charming suites

Aboard the MS Emerald, the 49 cabins, including 14 Tauck Suites, offer superior comfort and exceptional brightness thanks to large panoramic windows and elegant French balconies. The 28 m² suites feature a refined sitting area, a spacious dressing room, and an elegant, luminous marble bathroom. The smaller cabins retain the same timeless elegance: premium bedding, individual air conditioning, complimentary minibar, and soft ambient lighting that enhances the sense of serenity.

Elegant lounges

The common areas of the MS Emerald evoke a warm and refined atmosphere. The panoramic lounge enchants with its light tones and contemporary furniture, inviting guests to relax, socialize, or simply admire the views. The library and the bar offer peaceful moments to enjoy a drink while watching the landscapes glide gently by through vast windows. The main restaurant provides a friendly and refined culinary experience in a harmonious setting, with no imposed schedules or dress codes.

Outdoor relaxation

The Sun Deck of the MS Emerald is a privileged place to admire the landscapes and recharge completely. A Jacuzzi, comfortable loungers, and a small putting green allow guests to enjoy the navigation in a soothing and elegant atmosphere. Whether for a nap under the clear blue sky or an aperitif at sunset, the open deck becomes the stage for suspended moments between sky and river, where the beauty of travel is fully experienced.

Pleasures of the palate and golden moments aboard the MS Emerald

The art of taste

The MS Emerald proudly celebrates regional gastronomy with a menu inspired by the terroirs it sails through and the rhythm of the seasons. The main restaurant offers elegantly composed dishes, where fresh ingredients meet local wines carefully selected by the sommelier. Each exquisite meal becomes a true sensory experience, enhanced by attentive service, refined presentation, and a softly lit, romantic atmosphere that evokes the grand and timeless French tables.

Gourmet stopovers

Every stop on the MS Emerald continues onto the plate, revealing the culinary traditions of southern and central France. Provençal influences, Lyonnais specialties, and Burgundian notes accompany the journey, blending indulgence and authenticity. The chefs adapt their menus according to the ports of call, favoring daily markets and local producers. This creative culinary concept offers guests the freedom to savor each dish at their own rhythm, in a warm and convivial atmosphere.

Refined evenings

When night falls over the river, the MS Emerald glows with golden light and elegant serenity. The panoramic bar becomes the lively heart of the ship, filled with piano music, tastings, and soft conversations. Guests enjoy a cocktail, local wine, or digestif while admiring the river’s reflections, while others retreat to the library or deck to savor the night’s peaceful charm.

Stops and moments of escape

Cultural discoveries

The MS Emerald takes its passengers on a journey through the river landscapes of France, from Lyon to Arles via Avignon and Tournus. Each stop tells a unique story: that of Roman cities, Provençal markets, and Burgundy vineyards. The included excursions allow travelers to explore historical monuments, artisan workshops, and the cobbled streets of medieval villages. These enriching discoveries enhance the journey and reflect the authentic and charming soul of the regions crossed.

Well-being and balance

Aboard the MS Emerald, well-being is experienced as a gentle interlude of balance and light. Between two stops, guests enjoy a modern fitness area, a jacuzzi on deck, and sunny relaxation zones. The whisper of the river accompanies every moment, inviting serenity, contemplation, and peaceful slowness. The ship cultivates the art of calm and rejuvenation, offering a harmonious balance between exploration, relaxation, and rediscovered tranquility.

Peaceful evenings

Evenings aboard the MS Emerald combine elegance and conviviality in a refined and warmly inviting atmosphere. Acoustic concerts, cultural lectures, and refined tastings bring the serene nights to life with grace and charm. Guests share their impressions over a drink, lulled by the gentle rhythm of the river and the soft glow of candlelight. When the moon reflects on the shimmering water, the ambiance turns poetic, filled with sweetness, intimacy, and unforgettable moments.

Journey of emotions and light aboard the MS Emerald

Exceptional river routes

The MS Emerald sails through the most beautiful and enchanting waterways of France, linking Burgundy to Provence amidst rolling hills, lavender fields, and picturesque, authentic villages. Its itineraries include Lyon, Avignon, Viviers, Mâcon, Chalon-sur-Saône, and Arles, allowing travelers to discover an architectural and gastronomic heritage of rare and timeless richness. Each navigation offers a breathtaking panoramic view from the ship’s expansive and luminous windows.

Local immersion

Each stop of the MS Emerald reveals a new and fascinating side of French culture. Passengers explore lively regional markets, meet passionate winemakers, and savor delicious local specialties. All excursions are guided by experienced experts who unveil the traditions, stories, and secrets of each destination. This deep cultural immersion transforms the cruise into a living and inspiring journey, filled with connections, flavors, and heartfelt emotions.

River lights

At dawn or dusk, the MS Emerald blends gracefully into the serene and golden scenery of the river. The silence is punctuated by the gentle sound of rippling water, while golden hues caress the surface and the landscape seems motionless, suspended in radiant light. These moments, filled with poetry and grace, offer a timeless calm. Watching the Rhône or Saône from the deck becomes a ritual, a sensory experience where every instant celebrates the pure beauty of travel.

The art of travel with Tauck Cruises

Personalized and refined expertise

Choosing the MS Emerald means entrusting your journey to the timeless and refined excellence of Tauck Cruises. The team accompanies each passenger from the planning stage through the voyage itself, ensuring that every single detail is perfect. The Tauck Directors on board provide attentive and professional guidance, offering valuable recommendations to help travelers fully enjoy each stop. The experience is smooth, organized, and infused with genuine human warmth.

Inclusive privileges and thoughtful touches

The MS Emerald stands out for its authentic all-inclusive concept, designed to offer absolute serenity. Enriching excursions, premium beverages, Wi-Fi, gratuities, minibar, and transfers are all included so that every possible detail is anticipated. This transparent approach guarantees a worry-free, high-end experience where everything is carefully arranged for guests’ well-being. On board, comfort and freedom blend seamlessly with Tauck’s expertise, a symbol of excellence and refined attention.

Unforgettable memories and heartfelt emotions

Aboard the MS Emerald, every moment becomes an exceptional memory. The river landscapes, refined meals, and sincere conversations create an experience that is both intimate and universal. Guests leave with far more than an itinerary, they take with them an enduring emotional imprint, that of a voyage filled with elegance, discovery, and humanity. It embodies the art of travel where each instant leaves a luminous and everlasting mark on the memory.

Frequently Asked Questions

The MS Emerald is a river cruise ship operated by Tauck Cruises. Built in 2006 and refurbished in 2017, it is 361 feet long and accommodates up to 98 passengers for an intimate and comfortable atmosphere. Cabins are spacious, many with floor‑to‑ceiling windows or French balconies, and 14 suites of about 28 square meters provide extra comfort. Onboard amenities include a panoramic lounge, bar, casual restaurant, sun‑deck with Jacuzzi, and fitness center.
The MS Emerald mainly sails on France’s Rhône and Saône rivers. Cruises allow travelers to explore Provencal villages, wine regions, and cultural experiences. Itineraries range from 8 to 14 days, often departing from Paris to Lyon or Cannes, combining relaxed navigation with enriching excursions.
The price includes accommodation on board, all meals, and selected beverages such as regional wines, beer, and spirits. Shore excursions and guided visits are included according to the itinerary. Services also include minibar, Internet access, and attentive onboard staff. Optional services such as spa treatments, extra excursions, or transfers may incur additional fees.
The MS Emerald offers different cabin categories: suites of about 28 square meters, cabins of 21 square meters, and smaller cabins of 15 to 18 square meters. Larger cabins and suites provide more comfort and storage space, while smaller cabins are functional but better suited for solo travelers or shorter stays.
To book a cruise on the MS Emerald, contact Voyages Aqua Terra at 1‑866‑628‑6241 or by email at ventes@voyagesaquaterra.com . They can assist with availability, cabin categories, transfers, and booking conditions.
A valid passport is required, usually valid at least six months after the return date. Depending on nationality, visas may be required. It is also recommended to check river conditions and health requirements to ensure the itinerary proceeds smoothly.
There are no specific age restrictions, but some areas of the ship may have stairs. Cabins on lower decks may require climbing steps. Travelers with special mobility needs should contact Voyages Aqua Terra to confirm accessibility.
If water levels are high or low, the itinerary may be changed, and land transfers may be used to ensure a smooth experience. Voyages Aqua Terra can provide information about modification, cancellation policies, and travel insurance.
All meals are included with varied menus. Drinks such as wine, beer, and premium spirits are usually included. Special dietary needs such as vegetarian or gluten‑free meals can be accommodated if requested when booking. Personal or extra beverages may incur additional charges.
It is recommended to book as early as possible due to limited cabins. The best months to sail on the Rhône and Saône are from May to September for pleasant weather. July and August provide full summer conditions but may be more expensive.