- Home
CroisiMag - February 2025 | News from the bridge
Fellow Cruisers,
In February, winter still reveals its enchanting landscapes, yet the desire for travel and discovery remains strong.
In this new issue of CroisiMag, let us inspire you with our exceptional itineraries and latest news, helping you prepare for your next escape on the water.
Sit back, relax, and enjoy this edition of our CroisiMag as we take you on a journey through the world of travel and adventure.
[NEW]
Compiègne: An exclusive excursion through History and WWI Remembrance
We are delighted to offer an exclusive and enriching excursion during our 2025 barge cruises from Paris to Pont-l'Evêque aboard the MS Deborah. This unique visit to Compiègne, a town steeped in history and elegance, has been specially curated for our guests.
A stroll through Compiègne's historic centre
Wandering through Compiègne's cobbled streets feels like stepping into a living museum. The Hôtel de Ville, a masterpiece of 16th-century Gothic architecture, commands attention with its impressive belfry and one of France's oldest communal bells. Just around the corner, the Vieille Cassine, a 15th-century half-timbered house, whispers stories of medieval life.
At the Church of Saint-Jacques, stunning stained-glass windows illuminate centuries of history, while the Saint-Corneille Cloister invites quiet reflection in its peaceful gardens, an enduring testament to the town's religious past.
A Walk in the Footsteps of Royalty
As the tour unfolds, the grandeur of the Château de Compiègne emerges. While the château itself remains closed, its 700-hectare park beckons visitors to explore its lush, manicured gardens. The Beaux-Monts avenue, a regal pathway stretching into the forest of Compiègne, evokes images of emperors and kings who once walked these very grounds.
Of course, no journey is complete without a taste of the region's culinary delights. A selection of local specialties awaits, offering a delicious glimpse into Compiègne's gastronomic heritage.
The Armistice Memorial Museum: A window into History
The excursion reaches its poignant climax at the Armistice Memorial Museum, a site that resonates deeply with the echoes of World War I. Here, visitors can see an authentic replica of the railway wagon where the Armistices of 1918 and 1940 were signed, as well as a Marne cab that played a crucial role in the infamous battle. The museum's collection, featuring 800 stereoscopic images, provides a haunting yet fascinating glimpse into the realities of war.
Dedicated to the memory of all who fought from 1870 to the present day, the museum's monuments offer a space for reflection and remembrance.
By the time you return to the MS Deborah, you'll carry with you not just memories, but a profound appreciation for Compiègne's role in shaping history.
PARIS - BOUGIVAL - PONTOISE - AUVERS-SUR-OISE - SAINT-LEU-D'ESSERENT - PONT-SAINTE-MAXENCE - COMPIEGNE - PONT-L'ÉVÊQUE (Oise) - Paris
From August 7th to 13th, 2025
Who was Gil Eanes?
If you have ever sailed with us along the Douro aboard the MS Gil Eanes, you may have wondered about the origins of this emblematic vessel's name. Today, we pay tribute to a key figure in Portuguese maritime history-a man whose legacy perfectly embodies the spirit of discovery and adventure that defines our cruises.
Gil Eanes: A pioneer of the great explorations
A 15th-century Portuguese explorer, Gil Eanes is best known for his fearless voyages under the patronage of Prince Henry the Navigator. In 1434, he became the first navigator to successfully round Cape Bojador-a groundbreaking achievement at the time, as this region was shrouded in fear and mystery among European sailors.
Legends spoke of sea monsters, unbearable heat, and impassable waters, deterring many from attempting the passage. By proving these myths wrong, Gil Eanes opened the door to further exploration along the African coast, laying the foundations for Portugal's era of great maritime discoveries.
A Tribute to the Spirit of Adventure
To bear the name Gil Eanes is to embody a spirit of courage and exploration, echoing the visionary navigator who dared to push the boundaries of the known world.
Today, the MS Gil Eanes, sailing along the Douro, proudly carries this legacy forward. It invites travellers to explore the wonders of the Douro Valley, a region steeped in history, tradition, and breathtaking scenery. Just as Gil Eanes revealed new horizons in the 15th century, his namesake ship takes you on a journey through Portugal's most treasured landscapes.
A link between past and present
With its elegance and modern comfort, the MS Gil Eanes offers an immersive travel experience where heritage and discovery go hand in hand. Sailing aboard this vessel is more than just admiring the beauty of the Douro-it is embracing the story of a man who shaped Portugal's maritime destiny.
So, the next time you step aboard the MS Gil Eanes, take a moment to remember the intrepid explorer who inspired its name-a name synonymous with courage, discovery, and an enduring fascination with the world.
[ARCHIVES]
An amusement Park before cruises
Did you know?
Before revolutionizing river tourism, Gérard Schmitter, founder of CroisiEurope, pursued a very different dream: the creation of Paradisland, an amusement park in Alsace!
Located in Berg, Alsace Bossue, this amusement park, inaugurated in 1971, offered visitors a variety of attractions: go-karting, a Far West train, pony rides, merry-go-rounds, and even a small zoo-a true paradise for both young and old!
After a few successful years, Gérard Schmitter decided to shift his focus to river tourism, embarking on a new adventure in 1976 with Alsace Croisière, which later became CroisiEurope in 1997. Today, we are proud to carry on his passion for travel and discovery.
[PICTURE OF THE MONTH]
The MS Victor Hugo in the heart of the IJsselmeer
The IJsselmeer, the largest lake in the Netherlands, is fed by several rivers, including the IJssel, Rhine, Amstel, and Vecht. It is home to one of the world's largest inland wind farms, creating a spectacular landscape where technological innovation meets untouched nature.
Formed in the early 20th century, the lake is an artificial body of water that stands as a remarkable feat of engineering. Once an arm of the North Sea, it was separated to protect the Netherlands from flooding and reclaim agricultural land. Today, it serves as an important source of drinking water and a haven for a diverse range of birds and aquatic species, making it a key site for biodiversity conservation.
More than just a lake, the IJsselmeer is a symbol of Dutch ingenuity and a fascinating natural and cultural destination to explore.
Have you ever heard the term "Seenager"?
Have you ever heard of "Seenager" ? A blend of the words "senior" and "teenager", it refers to a new generation of senior citizens who embrace retirement with the same carefree spirit and zest for life as teenagers.
Dynamic, connected, and eager for new experiences, seenagers break traditional aging stereotypes, prioritizing an active lifestyle centred around well-being, discovery, and social connections. For them, every day is an opportunity to embark on new adventures, meet new people, and enrich their lives with a variety of experiences.
Gone are the days when retirement was synonymous with a sedentary lifestyle and routine, today's seniors seek stimulating activities that keep them engaged and fulfilled.
Travel plays a key role in this pursuit, whether it's about exploring new horizons or rediscovering familiar destinations from a fresh perspective. Travel fuels their insatiable curiosity and keeps their minds young and open to the world.
Our cruises offer the perfect match for this vibrant generation, with intimate, welcoming boats that create a warm and inviting atmosphere, ideal for both relaxation and adventure. Thanks to our carefully designed itineraries, passengers can explore cities and countries without the hassle of unpacking and repacking, all while enjoying the comfort of a convivial setting.
By combining moments of relaxation on board with cultural excursions and gastronomic discoveries, we guarantee an enriching and personalized experience. Each cruise is thoughtfully crafted to provide the perfect balance of exploration and well-being, with top-quality services tailored to the needs of modern seenagers.
Dry Dock for our Maritime Ships
Winter break for our seagoing ships!
A well-deserved refresh before setting sail for new adventures. La Belle des Océans will be heading to the Canary Archipelago while La Belle de l'Adriatique will cruise along the Stunning Amalfi Coast.
Did you know?
Every two years, seagoing vessels must undergo a dry dock-a process where the ship is lifted out of the water, ensuring that its outer hull and entire structure are thoroughly cleaned and inspected. This meticulous procedure checks for cracks, welds, rivets, and water outlets, ensuring the vessel's safety and longevity before its next voyage.
Hear what others say about us
See southern Africa in a new light-on a lake cruise
National Geographic, Karlina Valeiko, January 24th, 2025
A massive thanks to National Geographic for their article about our Safari-Cruises in Southern Africa, following the flow of the Zambezi to Lake Kariba.
