CroisiEurope inspired by an ancient technique – the paddle wheel

Europe’s largest river cruise operator, CroisiEurope, continues to innovate with the introduction of a new vessel concept for cruising on the Loire. Market leader CroisiEurope was inspired by an ancient technique – the paddle wheel – and is re-working it using today’s technology to create a new and unique type of craft which will start operating in April 2015. This will be the first time that a cruise vessel with cabins has ever cruised along the Loire.

The MS Loire Princesse is 90 metres long and 15 metres wide, with three decks. The ship features 48 spacious outside cabins (15m²), and can accommodate up to 96 passengers. On the upper deck, the cabins have delightful balconies (3m x 1.2m). Equipped with the latest technology, the craft offers the high levels of comfort with Wi-Fi onboard and in the cabins, individually controlled combined air-conditioning/heating; plasma screen TV, radio, hair dryer, safe, mini bar and bathroom facilities. A splendid restaurant can easily accommodate all passengers for single-service dining. A huge lounge bar with central dance floor is a pleasant area to relax and enjoy the company of other passengers while a large sun deck with deck chairs is the ideal spot for passengers to take some air. The elegant décor in contemporary colours is in perfect harmony with the warm and convivial atmosphere onboard. Branded the “Green Ship”, the MS Loire Princesse has been designed to be environmentally and ecologically friendly as possible.

When designing and building this new ship, CroisiEurope has chosen to work with companies that are part of the Neopolia Marine group, in partnership with the Saint Nazaire Shipyards (STX France), where many of the world’s finest ocean liners are built. The design development of this new project has been handled by architect and design studio Stirling Design International.

From April 2015, the MS Loire Princesse will start cruising along the beautiful Loire – the longest river in France – visiting areas rich in cultural heritage, many of which are listed by UNESCO: Nantes, Saint-Nazaire, Ancenis, Angers, the Castles of the Loire, Saumur, Bouchemaine and Nantes. The Pays de la Loire region will be of particular interest to those looking for a new and unique destination rich in culture and historical significance.

CroisiEurope has received huge support from the Pays de la Loire region who have welcomed the company wholeheartedly and put all their resources at their disposal to enable them to perfect this unique offering.

As ever with CroisiEurope, their trump card is undoubtedly their ability to put offers together at the fairest prices. They are able to meet this challenge as they have complete control over every element of the entire fleet, from beginning to end. From the initial design to the production, including hotel and sales management, maintenance, purchasing and development, the company is fully responsible for all these services thanks to its 1200 permanent staff. This feat allows them to rationalise their costs as much as possible and offer cruises 30% cheaper than any other operator offering similar products.

With its fine fleet cruising on the loveliest rivers in Europe combined with this new and innovative ambitious project, CroisiEurope continues to demonstrate its creativity and dynamism in river tourism after 38 years in the business.

For reservations and further information call CroisiEurope on 020 8328 1281 or visit www.croisieurope.travel