January 4, 2011 – Avalon Waterways

Avalon Waterways Art and Impressionist cruise

Renoir, Monet, Degas, Manet – some of the best-known names in the art world. Their impressionist style of painting shocked the art world in the 1800s, but has since become one of the most admired and imitated styles. And this year, it will be the theme of Avalon Waterway’s new Art & Impressionist cruise.

Setting sail on the 140 passenger Avalon Creativity from November 1 – 8, the cruise is designed to provide art lovers with an exploration of picturesque Northern France, while learning more about the daring and talented artists who formed the movement.

The cruise will include a visit to Paris’ Musée d’Orsay with a local expert to guide travellers through the remarkable collection of masterpieces, as well as a guided walking tour of Montmartre, the bohemian neighbourhood where many of the impressionists launched their careers.

Highlights for lovers of Claude Monet’s work will be visits to his Giverny home, the Musée des Impressionnismes and Rouen’s extraordinary cathedral – one of his favourite subjects. Cruisers will also have the opportunity to visit the Musée des Beaux-Arts André Malraux in Le Havre and attend special onboard art lectures.

Avalon’s eight-day Art & Impressionist cruise is priced from C$2,443 including extensive shore excursions and onboard lectures; and regional wines served with dinner.