Join us on a French river wine cruise from April 26 to May 3, 2026, for a luxurious journey through the Rhône Valley, from Lyon to Arles. I am Maeve Smith, General Manager at Coursey Graves. Discover more about this unique adventure that blends my two passions—travel and wine—into an unforgettable journey. Continue reading to uncover the story behind this remarkable cruise.

The idea for this wine cruise sparked during a casual conversation with Philippe Thibault, the Director of Hospitality at Stone Edge Farm Estate Vineyards and Winery. Philippe, with his deep Bordeaux roots, and I, a seasoned cruise entertainer before settling in Sonoma, discovered our shared passion for creating exceptional experiences. This mutual interest quickly evolved into a grand plan to offer a similar vineyard experience, but this time, on the storied waters of France’s Rhône and Saône Rivers.

Why a Wine Cruise?: A New Experience for Wine Lovers

Wine and travel go together! Our wine club members often travel from afar to revel in the beauty of our Sonoma estates. Inspired by this enthusiasm, we envisioned offering a similar experience in another iconic wine region—France’s picturesque Burgundy and Rhône Valleys. This cruise extends our hospitality, allowing members and guests to explore new terroirs while savoring wines in settings as majestic as those in Sonoma.

River cruise

Both Coursey Graves and Stone Edge Farm are built on a foundation of quality winemaking and hospitality. This cruise is a celebration of those shared principles, bringing together the best of both worlds in a journey that promises both discovery and pleasure.

Wine & Travel: Crafting the Cruise Experience

Philippe and I are personally curating every aspect of this cruise to ensure you experience the best of what each destination has to offer. From gourmet dining and exquisite wine pairings to excursions that explore the cultural heart of the regions we visit, we’re excited to share our favorite places and experiences with you. Evenings aboard the SS Catherine will feature local music and performances, each chosen to reflect the unique spirit and charm of our stops along the way.

Coursey Graves & Stone Edge Farm Wine Cruise 2026
Woman on a cruise ship at the Amalfi Coast
Hunter Valley Australia

Bonus: Maeve’s Top Travel Tips

I’ve sailed around the world (literally!), and along the way, I’ve picked up some tricks to make any cruise even more memorable. Here are a few of my favorite tips:

Shop Local
Bringing home unique local items like artisan jewelry or handcrafted Christmas ornaments means carrying a piece of your travels with you. These are not just souvenirs, but memories that add to your life’s story.

Ask the Crew for Local Tips
Our crew’s recommendations can lead you to hidden gems off the beaten path. They know the locales better than anyone and can help you discover spots that might not be in your guidebook.

Learn Five Words (Or Six!)
Connecting with locals by speaking a few words in their language enriches your experience. Phrases like “Bonjour,” “Merci,” and “Santé!” can open doors to heartfelt interactions.

Join Us for This Unforgettable Wine Experience

As we look forward to embarking on this journey with you, consider this your personal invitation to explore the storied waters of the Saône and Rhône Rivers. It’s more than just a vacation; it’s an adventure, a discovery, a celebration of life’s finest pleasures—wine, food, and travel.

Book Your Wine Cruise Now
Maeve Katherine Smith, General Manager
Author, Maeve Smith