Dining salon aboard La Nouvelle Etoile
Passenger cabin aboard La Nouvelle Etoile
Demonstration kitchen aboard Prosperite
If
you want to travel in luxury on one of the top barges in France, we
suggest an Ultra Deluxe barge.
These days, barges are generally categorized into First Class,
Deluxe and
Ultra Deluxe
accommodations. The most obvious difference aboard ultra deluxe
barges are the size of the cabins and the amenities provided.
Traveling in spacious quarters provides greater comfort and sitting
areas, ultra deluxe barges also offer larger, roomier bathrooms with
double sinks and some even have bathtubs.
Ultra deluxe
barges cruise through different parts of Europe, and offer many
itineraries, so it really depends on your interests. Some barges are
charter only, which
means that you must reserve the entire barge for your cruise, and
others offer both individual
booking
and charter
options. Chartering provides greater privacy for your group and
allows you to have more input into the meals prepared for you by your
own personal chef, and the itinerary of planned excursions along the
route. The
elaborate menus aboard ultra deluxe barges are beautifully presented
on formal table settings and paired with carefully selected wines.
Other amenities that
are typically offered aboard Ultra Deluxe barges are:
-
Beautiful
and relaxing sundecks with parasols or canopies that create some
shade from the summer sun.
- On
some barges, a relaxing jacuzzi or a plunge pool on deck where you
can take a dip to cool off at any time.
- Indoor
and outdoor dining and lounging areas that can be set up for you at
a moment's notice so that you can enjoy alfresco dining on pleasant
evenings.
- Your
own crew who will attend to your every need with high degree of
efficiency and professionalism.
- Your
own personal chef who will create fresh, memorable and delicious
meals using local and regional specialties that are purchased on a
daily basis at local markets along the route.
- On
some barges, an open kitchen is available where you can watch the
chef prepare your meals or even give a cooking class.
- Top
quality wines, sometimes even including Grand Cru and Premier Cru,
are paired with each course.
- A
fully stocked bar with all of your favorite beverages.
- The
Prosperite has a 24/7 snack refrigerator that is always full of
delicious treats and your favorite drinks, so you always have a
snack available if you get hungry between meals.
-
La
Nouvelle Etoile is wheelchair accessible and has an elevator for
those with physical limitations.
- La
Nouvelle Etoile has a washer and dryer for passengers use, as well
as satellite TV and internet in your own room with computers for
passenger use in each cabin.
- WiFi
is now available on many barges for those who want to stay
connected.
- Public
areas may also have CD/DVD's, library with reading material, writing
desks and modern entertainment systems to keep you informed and
entertained.
-
On
board bicycles offer the opportunity to get some exercise on
towpaths that follow along
the canal route.
A relaxed elegance defines the ambiance and level of hospitality aboard these luxury
vessels, and the experience is one that you will not forget. If you
are interested in an Ultra Deluxe barge cruise experience, make sure
to read more about these beautiful barges on the links provided
below. Information about the barge, cruise routes, pricing, menu
ideas and the many photographs will definitely convince, and entice
you.
Ultra
Deluxe Barge Accommodations
The 4-Passenger barge Alouette (CHARTER ONLY) cruises
in the south of France (Southern Burgundy to Provence in early April, then moves to the Canal du Midi for the summer then back to Burgundy
in late October.
The 6-Passenger barge Fleur de Lys cruises
in the heart of Burgundy on the Canal de Bourgogne, the Saone River
and the Canal du Centre.
The 6-Passenger barge Roi Soleil (CHARTER
ONLY) cruises on the Canal du Midi in 2013
The 8-Passenger barge Amaryllis (CHARTER ONLY) cruise
in the heart of Burgundy on the Canal de Bourgogne, the Saone River
and the Canal du Centre.
The 8-Passenger barge C'est La Vie cruises on the Burgundy Canal in Northern Burgundy.
The 8-Passenger barge Enchante cruises on the Canal du Midi in the south of France.
The 8-Passenger barge Finesse cruises on the Burgundy Canal in Southern Burgundy.
The 8-Passenger barge La Nouvelle Etoile cruises
in Holland, Belgium, Germany and France (Burgundy, Champagne and Alsace).
The 8-Passenger
barge Prosperite (CHARTER ONLY) cruises
on the Canal de Bourgogne in Southern Burgundy.
The 8-Passenger
barge Renaissance
cruises on the Canal de Briare in the Upper Loire.
The 12-Passenger
barge Napoleon
cruises between Southern Burgundy and Provence on the Rhone River.
Please do not hesitate to contact us
with any questions you may have. With thousands of satisfied
customers, we can help you select the best option for your barge cruise
in France or the rest of Europe.
Clos de Vougeot, home to one of the 33 Grand Cru's of Burgundy
Dining room aboard the Amaryllis,
host of the Grand Cru "Wine Academy" Cruise
The 8-passenger Ultra Deluxe Barge Amaryllis
Unlike larger ocean liners with thousands of tourists, or river cruises with hundreds of passengers, intimate barge cruises with 12 or fewer guests allow for a more relaxed experience. Cruise through rural and historic villages along the French countryside for an up close and personal travel experience that most clients describe as the most relaxing, rejuvenating and pampered week of their lives.
A barge cruise can be anything you want it to be, and many people join other like minded travelers for a week of pure rest and relaxation as you visit and learn about quaint and historic towns, or focus on specific itineraries that more closely reflect your interests.
European barges offer guests exceptional cuisine and wines that display the creativity and artistry of the on board master chef and the best of local markets and growers – all for the delight of just a handful of guests. The chef introduces his or her creations to the guests at dinners aboard, and can handily accommodate special dietary requirements. The experience is personal and intimate, just like the excursions and the special attention that guests receive.
The Grand
Cru "Wine Academy" Cruise aboard the 8-passenger Ultra Deluxe barge Amaryllis, is just that – unique, informative, relaxing and intimate for a handful of guests who are true wine aficionados. This is one of the few times that the Amaryllis has been available for individual cabin bookings rather than a charter. The 2018 rate is €11,192 per person, double occupancy, which includes all meals, wines and excursions, as well as round trip transfers from Paris.
This once in a lifetime opportunity involves a full week of daily classes, lectures and vintner visits hosted by an on board resident expert, vineyard host or vintner.
Amaryllis cruises on some of the most picturesque waterways in France, including the Canal de Bourgogne, the River Saone and the Canal du Centre, as it travels through the heart of Burgundy. It is one of the most luxurious barges afloat, and offers the perfect venue for a cruise of this kind.
The itinerary will include informative excursions to historic sites and visits to specially selected Chateaux and vineyards in the region. Your personal chef will create a special menu designed around the Grand Cru selections that have been chosen for you, and your personal crew of 6 will ensure that your every need is met. Below is the sample itinerary, which you can also see at: http://www.bargesinfrance.com/amaryllis.htm#itinerary
SAMPLE ITINERARY*
Burgundy: Canal du Centre, Saone River
St Leger sur Dheune to Dijon
Wine Academy Cruise, July 8 thru July 14, 2018
The Wine Academy includes an immersive program of talks to inspire the exploration of Burgundy and its most precious asset. Wine master and resident expert, Pascal Wagner, leads the Wine Academy and is often referred to as a walking encyclopedia of oenology. Pascal has over 30 years of experience and grew up footsteps from the special Grand Cru vines of the region. The Wine Academy is available for charters or for a minimum of 4 passengers.
Sunday - Arrival St. Leger sur Dheune - Welcome
Board the barge at St Leger sur Dheune for the beginning of your cruise through the heart of Burgundy. A champagne reception welcomes you on board and gives you a chance to meet your crew for the week ahead. Your dedicated local wine expert Pascal Wagner will give an introductory overview of Burgundy wines and associated appellations. Later, enjoy your first dining experience on board.
Monday - Cruise to Chagny. Grand Cru Lunch Puligny Montrachet & Vineyard tour
A leisurely cruise on the Canal du Centre gives you a chance to savor the beauty of the French countryside, with plenty of opportunities at the many locks to get off the barge and walk or cycle along the dedicated tow path. Late morning Pascal will accompany you for a 'Cote de Beaune Grand Cru tasting' & lunch in the King of white wine villages - Puligny Montrachet. After lunch enjoy a cellar tour and visit into the surrounding vineyards with Pascal.
Tuesday - Cruise to Fragnes. Visit Chateau de Pommard & Degustation
After breakfast, Pascal will accompany you to the magnificent Chateau de Pommard and surrounding domaine – one of the largest privately-owned estates in Burgundy. There will be a special Oenological presentation based on 'senses and aromas' followed of course by a tasting of the Domaine's prestigious wines. This afternoon, relax on board while the barge cruises the final section of the Canal du Centre towards the delightful village of Fragnes. Early evening Pascal will unveil the secrets of the local Cremant de Bourgogne & Champagne with a private tasting held on board.
Wednesday - Cruise to St Jean de Losne. Visit Beaune
A somewhat different cruising experience today, through the lovely valley of the River Saone to the town of Seurre. After lunch on board we visit the charming old town of Beaune to see the famous cafes, a magnificent 15th century charity hospital, followed by a private cellar tour & wine tasting. There is time to stroll through the old town taking in the wonderful architecture and fine shopping. Tonight's mooring is at St Jean de Losne, the barging capital of France. Take some time to stroll around the ports and see the many working barges and house boats that are moored here.
Thursday - Cruise to Longecourt. 'Grand Cru' Lunch Gevrey Chambertin & Visit to Clos de Vougeot
This morning the barge leaves the river and enters the Burgundy Canal. Enjoy the chance to walk or cycle along the tow path. Late morning your guide will take you on a picturesque drive towards the world renowned village of Gevrey Chambertin, home of the great Reds. Enjoy a 'Cote de Nuits Grand Cru' tasting & lunch at one of the reputed local Domaine's. After lunch drive through the Cote and visit the historic Clos de Vougeot where the Cistercian monks first began making wine in the 12th century. The ancient chateau is now the headquarters of the celebrated Burgundian wine society the Confrerie des Chevaliers de Tastevin, and contains the ancient cellar and wine presses from medieval times. Return to the barge at Longecourt, your overnight mooring.
Friday - Cruise to Dijon. Visit Dijon
Today your guide takes you on a walking tour of historic Dijon, capital of the great dukes of Burgundy, to visit the market, Ducal Palace, the Grey Poupon mustard shop and enjoy some shopping at the covered food market. Tonight, the barge moors in the port of Dijon. As the chef prepares for your Farewell gala dinner on board, perhaps try a Kir aperitif, a cocktail which mixes the locally produced Cassis blackcurrant liqueur with the area's Aligote white wine.
Saturday - Dijon
After breakfast the crew bids a sad farewell before you disembark the barge for your onward travel arrangements.
Note: This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change.
Please do not hesitate to contact us with any questions you may have. With thousands of satisfied customers, we can help you select the best option for your barge cruise in France or the rest of Europe.
