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Barging In on Europe

By Clifton Posted on Nature

Barge cruising is a very special experience. Relaxing on deck watching the ever-changing scenery, enjoying sumptuous food and fine wines, you may think you have discovered the ultimate vacation—a cruise with a difference. No deadlines to meet, no appointments to keep, with the countryside at your fingertips and the friendly atmosphere and attentiveness of the crew all combining to make your cruise exclusive to you. If you enjoy good food, fine wines, a voyage of discovery, and a taste of the idyllic, relaxed life that escapes us all these days, a barge cruise is for you.
With so many inland waterways in Europe to choose from, the decision may seem impossible. But with the help of a good barge cruise advisor, you will be guided through the possibilities. Luxury barges have been cruising in France for over 30 years and although they are one of the most enjoyable, relaxing, and luxurious ways of experiencing the country, the waterways remain unspoilt. From the tree-lined beauty of the Canal du Midi (an UNESCO heritage site) to the meandering splendor of the Burgundy Canals, the French waterways will surely captivate you. Whether you are seeking the irresistible charm of the Shannon River in Ireland, the majesty of the River Thames in England or the scenic splendor of the Scottish Caledonian Canal, the waterways of the British Isles offer something to suit everyone’s taste! Usually cruising for a few hours each day, you will have time to take in all the sights and sounds, experiencing the wealth of history en route, and catching a glimpse of times past.

There are over 50 of these wonderful luxury hotel and charter barges, all of them differing in character and style—from 3-star comfort to 5-star luxury. Some barges are newly built to high specifications and standards, while others have been lovingly restored to provide luxury accommodations and modern amenities. All offer superb cruising to an international clientele, and many have special features such as La Belle Époque’s fitness room and Jacuzzi or Joie de Vivre’s heated, floodlit swimming pool. For ultimate luxury, canopied four-poster beds and a grand piano complement the many fine features of Fleur de Lys.

The majority of lines offer 6-night cruises, although 3-night cruises are available on Reine Pedauque or Niagara. The cruise includes all meals, an open bar and excursions to local places of interest—you may only need your wallet for the odd memento or a stamp for your postcard. All barges have an English-speaking crew on board, although you are welcome to try out your French on the natives.

The food on board is superb. Your own personal chef will tempt you with local specialities as well as recipes from all over the world. After a few days you will want to take him (or her) home with you!

Many of the 6-passenger barges are owner-operated and they are justly proud of their vessels. Aboard La Tortue, you will experience the wonderful cooking of the owner, who is also the captain. Having already authored a cookbook, he now cooks for delighted clients and ensures that the gourmet meals are always accompanied by a selection of fine French wines.

Another owner-operated barge, La Chouette, offers three different cruise routes all centered around Paris: there is a “Mainly Monet” cruise, a “Champagne Experience” cruise and “A Taste of Burgundy” cruise. Uniquely, this is the only barge offering clients one meal a day taken at a selection of restaurants included in the charter price—another innovative cruising experience.

In the heart of Burgundy cruising on the Nivernais Canal, the barge Elisabeth welcomes families aboard and a member of the crew will even baby-sit if you would like a night out! They also have their own mascot, a lovely little West Highland terrier named Bonnie. The warm and friendly atmosphere on board makes it a real home away from home.

Normally the crew of the barge will meet you at a pre-arranged pickup point. In France this may be in Paris or at a local area hotel, airport or rail station. The crew will welcome you aboard and your adventure begins either with an introduction to your fellow passengers or—if you have chartered a barge for your own group—by settling in with your family and friends. The crew along with the captain and chef are dedicated to their jobs—ensuring that you have the best time possible. Excursions to local places of interest—wine tastings and châteaux visits are popular in France—follow unless other activities have been requested for a private charter. All the barges have a minibus or coach available to take you to places of interest along the route. The atmosphere aboard is always friendly and can be as relaxed or as formal as you like. There is no need to dress up for dinner, except maybe for a Captain’s Farewell Dinner on the last evening.

You can charter a barge for as few as four people (a special charter for two is available on L’Étoile) or as many as 51 on Anacoluthe. A wonderful way to spend time with family or friends, chartering gives you the opportunity to relax and enjoy each other’s company in style. For special celebrations or family reunions, the time spent on a cruise will be unforgettable. You can also book on many of the larger barges on an individual cabin basis “hotel-style.” Prices range from $1,990 per person, double occupancy, to more than $4,000 per person. Charter prices for a 6-passenger barge start from around $11,550. Tip: If you are traveling alone and wish to avoid huge single supplements, check out Luciole—the single supplement is only $50!

Cabin accommodation including your own en-suite bathroom is the “norm” although the cabin sizes vary from barge to barge. Tip: Always ask before you book if you are worried about headspace or bed sizes. There will usually be no problem, but it’s worth checking first if you are very tall! If cabin size is important, spacious accommodations can be found on barges such as Saroche, Clair de Lune, Marjorie, and Meanderer.

If you charter for a group of friends or family, then the cruise may be tailored to your own interests. The most popular cruises are golf, art and painting, antiques, cooking, and even bird watching. The Saint Louis runs a special gourmet cruise with evenings at Michelin-rated restaurants included and a wine cruise with experts and specialized wine tastings on board. The Fandango runs a Mediterranean cookery cruise with the emphasis on olive oil cookery and local specialities!

Ballooning, tennis, and horseback riding are other fun activities that may be arranged from the barge. On Rosa, you might even try your hand at archery! Of course, activities are not always the preferred form of leisure—a long read in the sunshine on a comfortable deck chair after lunch is often a good alternative, or a lulling bicycle ride, or stroll along the towpath. Most of the barges carry bicycles, and maps can be provided if you want to go farther afield and explore the area villages and countryside.

In England, cruising along the Thames aboard Actief is a wonderful way to view the landscape. With excursions to Eton College and a private visit to a stately English home, you may even develop a liking for English tea.

In Scotland, the barge Spirit of Loch Ness cruises the magnificent lochs of Scotland and, along the Caledonian Canal, you may even catch a glimpse of Nessie! This barge offers very special golf charters for those wishing to test their swing on the best golf courses in Scotland. Tip: If booked, the entire party doesn’t have to play golf; other excursions can be arranged for non-golf playing partners.

The Shannon Princess cruises on the River Shannon in Ireland and your welcome is full of real Irish hospitality. This is a paradise for nature lovers and food enthusiasts alike with a highly talented chef on board.

Whatever cruise route you choose, you will travel in style and comfort. Whether experiencing the natural and cultural heritage of the country or enjoying the culinary delights and fine wines en route, barge cruising is indeed a very special experience.