The quintessence of Parisian refinement aboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre
A true symbol of the French art of living, Uniworld’s S.S. Joie de Vivre has been sailing the Seine with elegance and character since 2017. Accommodating 128 guests, this river jewel pays tribute to Paris through its Belle Époque décor, intimate ambiance, and soft, luminous atmosphere. The S.S. Joie de Vivre combines classic charm with modern comfort, inviting travelers to savor every moment filled with culture, sophistication, and serenity.
The art of living along the Seine
Parisian suites and charm
Aboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre, every stateroom embodies the softness and sophistication of a Parisian townhouse. The suites, in ivory and golden tones, feature sumptuous bedding, marble bathrooms, and large windows overlooking the Seine. Certain categories, such as the Royal and Deluxe Suites, offer an elegant lounge area and attentive service worthy of France’s finest establishments. Here, everything is thoughtfully designed to transform the voyage into an intimate and exquisitely refined experience.
Lounges and a graceful ambiance
The S.S. Joie de Vivre reflects the timeless elegance of the great cafés and salons of Paris’s Left Bank. The Toulouse Lounge and the library create refined spaces where conversation mingles with the gentle sound of piano music. Guests enjoy an elegant décor with finely carved wood paneling, deep armchairs, and the warm, luminous atmosphere of a Parisian residence. Every detail evokes the charm and intimacy of classic Parisian gatherings, where elegance meets effortless comfort.
Peaceful horizons
On the sun deck of the S.S. Joie de Vivre, light shimmers across the silvery waters while Club L’Esprit, which can be transformed into an indoor pool, invites guests to pure relaxation. Travelers unwind beneath the Normandy sky or enjoy a fresh juice while admiring the ever-changing reflections of the river. It is a sanctuary where time slows, offering a rare and blissful harmony between well-being and natural beauty.
Flavors and emotions aboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre
Tables and traditions
The main restaurant aboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre celebrates fine French gastronomy through dishes inspired by the grand Parisian brasseries. The menus, renewed with the changing seasons, combine finesse, authenticity, and delightful culinary creativity: fresh fish, tender meats, aged cheeses, and delicate desserts. Each meal becomes a heartfelt tribute to the rich culinary heritage of France, elevated by attentive service and meticulously selected wines.
Flavors in motion
At Café Flore on the S.S. Joie de Vivre, guests savor the warm conviviality of an elegant lunch by the peaceful river. Inspired by the spirit of the Saint-Germain-des-Prés cafés, this relaxed yet refined space offers light cuisine, local ingredients, and an unmistakably Parisian atmosphere. Each meal transforms into a true sensory and emotional discovery, where taste and feeling blend together in perfect poetic harmony.
Golden evenings and precious moments
The bar Le Pigalle aboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre welcomes travelers into an intimate and refined atmosphere, where champagne and music create an exquisitely soft and captivating symphony. The piano’s melodies, golden light, and the venue’s timeless charm invite guests to unwind in sophisticated pleasure. Each night becomes a poetic and enchanting celebration of the refined joy of travel.
Cultural stops and moments of escape
Paris and Normandy
The itineraries of the S.S. Joie de Vivre offer a complete and immersive journey into the beauty and diversity of French heritage. From the magic of Paris to the cliffs of Étretat, each stop unveils a new gem: Monet’s enchanting gardens in Giverny, the majestic cathedrals of Rouen, or the picturesque streets of Honfleur. This cruise along the Seine becomes a poetic ode to eternal France, blending history, art, and the serene beauty of its landscapes, where every stage reveals the soul of a truly unique country.
Rediscovered serenity
After a day of exploration, guests aboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre return to the absolute tranquility of Club L’Esprit, a sanctuary devoted to wellness and relaxation. Massages, body treatments, yoga, and soothing meditation are offered in an elegant setting inspired by Parisian spas. The gentle murmur of the river, the soft light, and the lavender aromas create an atmosphere perfect for renewal and deep inner peace.
Lively nights
As evening falls, the S.S. Joie de Vivre lights up with elegant and joyful energy. Jazz concerts, film screenings, and wine or cheese tastings enliven the nights in a warm and refined atmosphere. Guests share laughter and emotion over a glass, enjoying the music and the peaceful rhythm of the river. These moments of connection, intimate and vibrant, become the heart of the voyage, extending the magic of the Seine long into the luminous night.
French panoramas and reflections of the S.S. Joie de Vivre
Natural beauty
The S.S. Joie de Vivre glides gracefully along enchanting and picturesque landscapes, where medieval abbeys, Norman villages, and vibrant markets burst with color and life. From Vernon to Caudebec-en-Caux, each stop reveals a living scene filled with history, culture, and gentle emotion. Thanks to its intimate size, the ship allows guests to approach every destination closely, offering travelers an authentic and deeply personal immersion in the natural and cultural beauty of Normandy.
Local traditions
The cruises aboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre celebrate the timeless traditions and delightful flavors of French heritage. Passengers wander through picturesque markets, taste artisanal ciders and creamy Norman cheeses, and meet passionate local producers who preserve centuries-old craftsmanship. These rich experiences, blending gastronomy and heritage, create a true connection between local culture and discovery, turning each stop into a moment of genuine exploration.
Evening lights
When night embraces the Seine, the S.S. Joie de Vivre is adorned with soft, poetic radiance. The bridges of Paris glow gently, the Eiffel Tower sparkles in the distance, and the river shimmers under golden and silvery reflections. Passengers gather peacefully on deck, a glass in hand, to admire this serene and magical spectacle. These suspended and luminous moments, between silence and wonder, embody the timeless and elegant charm of French river cruising.
The art of travel and elegance on the Seine
Personalized service
Voyages Aqua Terra accompanies every guest aboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre with genuine attention and exceptional expertise. Our dedicated advisors select the ideal cabin for you, the most inspiring itineraries, and the most enriching cultural excursions. Every refined detail is designed to blend comfort, fluidity, and sophistication, turning your cruise into a tailor-made, gentle, and perfectly harmonious experience.
Unique privileges
By booking with Voyages Aqua Terra, guests of the S.S. Joie de Vivre enjoy exclusive and elegant advantages: stylish upgrades, generous onboard credits, private transfers, and personalized attention at every stage of the journey. These privileges, combined with Uniworld’s unmatched and distinguished service, elevate the stay and add a rare touch of refinement. The voyage thus becomes a true celebration of pleasure, confidence, and the art of French living.
Precious memories
Every cruise aboard the S.S. Joie de Vivre leaves a radiant and unforgettable impression. The beauty of the Seine, refined gastronomy, and delicate service create an atmosphere of pure emotion and serenity. Thanks to Voyages Aqua Terra, each exquisite moment becomes a vivid memory, a perfect blend of culture, charm, and romance that extends the magic of the voyage far beyond the river.



