Enticing Excursions
You are met at the hotel or pick-up point by either the Captain or our guide and escorted to your floating home for the week.

The Journey Has Begun
Once aboard, our English-speaking crew will show you to your comfortable stateroom, which has full en-suite facilities.

We usually cruise on the first evening and immediately the fascinating world of barge cruising begins to unfold before you. Gone are any doubts about what to do, as the chance to enjoy everyday barging and plenty of sightseeing, mingled with the sheer indulgence in delicious cuisine and fine wines, becomes a reality.

Most of the barges carry bicycles for the tow-path and other excursions ashore and the little villages and farms we pass by become part of the adventure. And, of course, your floating hotel is never far away.

Our Sightseeing Excursions
After a day of cruising and sightseeing, your barge moors up for the night and there is plenty of time for a cocktail before dinner, or perhaps to enjoy a relaxing soak in the jacuzzi on most of our larger vessels.

In Burgundy, the Loire and England, we also offer hot-air ballooning as an exciting option. Ballooning generally takes place in the early hours just after dawn or before sunset, when the air is still and the light is perfect for drifting gently along and gazing down at the beautiful countryside below.

Once under way, your barge moves so slowly along the canals that it is usually possible to just wander along the tow-path, getting on or off at pretty locks, which take around ten minutes to navigate. Alternatively, just absorb the ever-changing scenery from a comfortable lounger or deck-chair on the sundeck.

Daily Excursions
Whether exploring the magnificent chateaux of the Loire Valley, wine tasting in the Roman vineyards of Minervois and Corbieres, or discovering the Celtic secrets in the 6th century monastic settlement of Clonmacnois above the banks of the River Shannon…you can rest assured that our meticulously planned itineraries include a host of pleasurable little side trips which show you the highlights of the area you have chosen to cruise.

You’ll explore ancient castles, picture-book villages and stately homes. Wander through fascinating museums, take part in private wine tastings at renowned and lesser known vineyards, and shop in colourful open-air markets. There is plenty of time to browse the tiny shops of skilled craftsmen, perhaps to find the gift that typifies the region, or just stroll around soaking up the atmosphere of the moment.