The cruise followed A-Rosa’s resumption of operations on the Douro, Rhine and Danube last month.

Departing from Lyon, A-Rosa Stella sailed a seven-night Rhone Route Mediterranean itinerary, with Avignon, Arles and Port St Louis among its calls.

A-Rosa’s return to service programme includes a minimum distance of 1.5 metres onboard and “intensified” hygiene protocols across the whole ship, the line said.

The Foreign Office advised UK holidaymakers “against cruise ship travel at this time” on Thursday (9 July).

Lucia Rowe, A-Rosa’s UK and Ireland managing director, said: “This [cruise] is yet another milestone in our return to Europe’s rivers. France is one of the most popular and accessible destinations for our UK guests and we can’t wait for them to be able return, just as soon as the FCO advice alters or is lifted.”

A-Rosa Chief executive, Jörg Eichler, added: “We have already received really positive feedback from our first guests regarding our trips on the Douro, Rhine and Danube and the straightforward implementation of our hygiene concept.

“We are really pleased that we can now sail on the Rhone again and look forward to welcoming our guests on board for a relaxing and enjoyable holiday.”