MS Thomas Hardy is a classic ship, thoughtfully designed for comfort and ease, with relaxed, welcoming spaces throughout.
The lounge, bar, restaurant, reception and fitness area are arranged to make life on board feel simple and sociable, with plenty of natural light and a calm atmosphere. With 167 guests and a crew of 44, there’s space to unwind, along with friendly, attentive service from the team. Suites start from around 17 square metres, offering well-planned space with thoughtful touches to make your stay easy to enjoy. Beds can be arranged to suit you, with space to sit and relax, while features such as climate control, tea and coffee-making facilities and a mini fridge are all included. Bathrooms include a walk-in shower, toiletries, towels, bathrobes and slippers. On the Diamond and Ruby Decks, suites also feature French-style balconies, bringing in natural light and views of the river.
Dining on board
Start your morning with a full English Breakfast or opt for a lighter bite like fresh fruit and cereal. For lunch, enjoy the selection of sandwiches, burgers and pasta dishes. And don't forget dessert - there are enough options to satisfy any sweet tooth. At the end of the day, sit down to a carefully crafted four-course à la carte dinner featuring familiar dishes as well as soon-to-be favourites inspired by the destinations you visit.
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Deck Plan
The Sun Deck
The Sun Deck is a relaxed, easy-to-enjoy space designed for comfort, with a second staircase mid-ship making access simple from the decks below.
Settle into a sun lounger and watch life along the river drift by, with shaded areas available on warmer days. There’s also a small splash pool for a refreshing dip, as well as a putting green if you feel like something a little more active.
At the front of the ship, the terrace offers open views right by the wheelhouse, where you can see the captain and crew as they guide the ship along the river. It’s a lovely spot to sit with a drink or a book and take in the passing scenery.
Please note: The Sun Deck is only accessible by stairs.
The Diamond (Upper) Deck
The Diamond Deck is home to the ship’s main lounge and bar – a welcoming space where guests naturally come together during the day and evening.
With comfortable armchairs and sofas, it’s an easy place to settle in with a drink or a cup of tea while watching the river pass by through the wide windows. The atmosphere is relaxed and sociable, whether you’re enjoying some quiet time or chatting with fellow guests.
In the evening, it’s a natural place to gather after dinner, perhaps with a drink while listening to the ship’s pianist.
Also on this deck, the Riverview Kitchen offers a more informal dining option, with large windows and an open kitchen creating a relaxed setting. Here, a small number of guests can enjoy a selection of locally inspired dishes, prepared by the chef and served in a more intimate setting. This can be reserved on board at no extra charge.
When the weather allows, the windows open onto the terrace, giving the option to dine outside while taking in the passing scenery.
The Ruby (Middle) Deck
The main restaurant is located on the Ruby Deck, offering a relaxed and welcoming setting for meals throughout your cruise.
Tables are arranged for smaller groups, creating a sociable yet comfortable dining experience. Crisp linen, warm wood finishes and soft carpeting add to the calm, well-considered feel of the space.
Service is attentive and friendly, with the crew on hand to ensure everything runs smoothly, while the menu offers a varied selection of dishes to enjoy at your own pace – perhaps with a glass of wine from the list.
The Emerald (Lower) Deck
On the Emerald Deck, you’ll find the ship’s fitness area – a practical space if you’d like to stay active during your time on board.
For something more relaxing, massages are available, offering a quiet moment to unwind.
It’s a calm, informal part of the ship, giving you the flexibility to spend your time as you choose – whether that’s keeping moving or simply taking things easy.
Cabins
Deluxe Balcony Suite
The Diamond (Upper) Deck
Our Deluxe Balcony Suite offers generous space to relax, with floor-to-ceiling windows, a private balcony and a range of well-considered amenities.
Superior Suite
The Diamond (Upper) Deck
This suite features floor-to-ceiling windows and a French-style balcony, allowing in plenty of natural light and views of the river.
Stern Superior Suite
The Diamond (Upper) Deck
This suite features panoramic windows, a French-style balcony and a mini fridge, offering a comfortable and easy-to-enjoy space.
Standard Suite
The Diamond (Upper) Deck
This suite features a French-style balcony, a modern ensuite bathroom and a comfortable seating area.
Superior Suite
The Ruby (Middle) Deck
This suite features a French-style balcony, a comfortable seating area and a mini fridge.
Standard Suite
The Ruby (Middle) Deck
Our Standard Suite offers a comfortable space to relax, with a French-style balcony, climate control and an en-suite bathroom.
Standard Suite
The Emerald (Lower) Deck
Located on the Emerald Deck, this suite provides a comfortable, private setting, with a fixed window, climate control and an en-suite bathroom.
Available cruises
River Cruise
Burgundy, the River Rhône and Provence River Cruise
- France
- 5* ships
- Flights included
- Rail included
- Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
- 5* ships
- Flights included
- France
- 5* ships
- Flights included
- Rail included
River Cruise
History and Art of the Rhône River Cruise
- France
- 5* ships
- Flights included
- Rail included
River Cruise
Gardens and Natural Beauty of the Rhône River Cruise
- France
- 5* ships
- Flights included
- Rail included
River Cruise
The Blue Danube River Cruise with Budapest Extension
- Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
- 5* ships
- Flights included
River Cruise
The Blue Danube River Cruise with Vienna Extension
- Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
- 5* ships
- Flights included
- 5 countries visited
- 5* ships
- Flights included
- France
- 5* ships
- Flights included
- Rail included
- Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
- 5* ships
- Flights included