The Rhône on the Delling was fantastic. We flew into Marseille, made an easy bus connection to the ship in Avignon, and were underway next morning to Arles. Walking tour in Arles included the old city, Roman arena still in use, and a stop on our own at an open market (best strawberries I've tasted). We toured a family owned olive grove and tasted oil and tapenade. Back to Avignon for an inspired tour with guide Emmanuel who surprised us with an echoing aria in the Popes' Palace and graphic descriptions of history and myth. Climbed the city wall on our own to a park above the city with views of Mont Ventoux. All the stops were excellent, always in the heart of beautiful cities and towns: Viviers for a classic Medieval village, Tournon for a hike up and down a high bluff vineyard with wine and chocolate tasting, tour of Vienne, and on to Lyon. Lyon is amazing, we walked and rode Funicular to hilltop Basilica, descended 230 garden steps back to Old Lyon, made our way through Traboules, relaxed in a café, shopped for silk and pralines. On our own the next day we ran and cycled to the Tête d'or Park recommended by Captain Bourdon, and avoided May1 demonstrations. The Delling crew is excellent, friendly, informative and low key. The ship is spotless and cruising the river is a special pleasure especially the wilder areas full of song and waterbirds. The ship's engineer even helped my wife recover jewelry that went down the sink!