Discover the beauty, history, and culture of the Loire Valley on this unique small boat experience, featuring spectacular châteaux, wineries, and farmsteads. As you ply the tree-lined canals along the Loire, enjoy the pleasures of small villages and rustic charm of the countryside. Plus, savor delicious regional cuisine and wine.

Starting at: $5,990 * Price includes special offer Ask Us A Question or Call 855-330-1542
Château du Chambord Chateau de Chenonceau, River Cher Loire River Canal, Briare View of Sancerre, Loire Valley Vineyard near Sancerre Chateau de Trousse-Barriere Castle Acre Priory, Loire Valley

Loire Valley Canal Cruise

Aboard the 22-guest MS Deborah

10 days from $5,990

Discover the beauty, history, and culture of the Loire Valley on this unique small boat experience, featuring spectacular châteaux, wineries, and farmsteads. As you ply the tree-lined canals along the Loire, enjoy the pleasures of small villages and rustic charm of the countryside. Plus, savor delicious regional cuisine and wine.

or Call 855-330-1542

Expert

Aug 30 - Sep 8, 2021 Departure
Cassandra Potts Hannahs

Cassandra Potts Hannahs

Cassandra Potts Hannahs is a historian with special expertise in Celtic, Viking, and Anglo-Norman studies. She has enjoyed traveling with Smithsonian Journeys on more than 50 tours and cruises, sharing her passion and knowledge of Great Britain, France, and Ireland.

With a Ph.D. in medieval history, she was a tenured professor at Middlebury College in Vermont, where she taught courses on a wide range of subjects, from ancient history through the Reformation.  A Fulbright scholar and recipient of several grants, she has also spent considerable time living in France pursuing research.  Her publications include a book exploring the Viking settlement of Normandy in northern France during the 10th and 11th centuries, and the revival of monasticism that took place as the new rulers encouraged monks to return to the region after the Viking raids. 

In her research and lectures, Cassandra explores the cultural and political exchanges that have historically linked Britain, France, Ireland, and Scandinavia. She looks forward to sharing her love and knowledge of these lands, their history, music, and literature, with Smithsonian Journeys travelers.