Overnight Loire River Cruises with CroisiEurope

River cruising in France is wildly popular. (You get to check out multiple ports on a single voyage, without having to pack up and change hotel rooms.) But the Loire, the country’s longest river, flanked by some of Europe’s most incredible chateaux, was previously inaccessible because of its shallow water levels.

Until now. CroisiEurope has announced plans for a brand new vessel with a paddlewheel, the first overnight passenger vessel capable of sailing the Loire River. The boat is currently being built in the famous Saint Nazaire shipyards outside Nantes, where the Queen Mary 2 was constructed.

Mark your calendars. The Loire Princess will begin offering week-long cruises in April 2015. Equipped with three decks, a restaurant, and a lounge bar, the boat will have 48 outside cabins to accommodate 96 passengers. These balconied rooms will have all the creature comforts, like wifi, flat screen TVs, and mini bars. From the expansive sun deck, you’ll be able to take in views of the majestic castles that loom over the river. The Pays de la Loire region boasts some of the prettiest landscapes and attractions, including the buzzing art scene in Nantes.

For more information about the new Loire Princess, visit www.croisieuroperivercruises.com