All About Hotel Barge Charters

French Hotel Barge ROI SOLEIL - Canal du Midi, France (Provence, too!)

2012-01-23T09:29:00.000-04:00

The French Hotel Barge Roi Soleil sent us this bit of news this morning, along with some nice photos...

We are pleased to announce that Roi Soleil completed the new EU regulations inspection and was awarded Class 2, further to the previous Rhine Classification, this authorize us to navigate not only canals but also large rivers and estuaries through Europe, this is much higher than required for the Canal du Midi which is in lower class, and follows our practice of being classified over the requirements of the regular route.

Attached are photos of the haul-out, before and after, please note amongst others the new custom bronze propellor, 5 blades 85cm (33.5 inches).
- Guilluame & Tracey

Roi Soleil being hauled out in Sête

Roi Soleil sparkling in the boatyard

Isn't their new prop just gorgeous!

The French hotel barge, or river yacht, Roi Soleil with their crew of four, is available for private charter for up to six guests in three well-appointed staterooms that can be configured with either queen or twin beds. I love the open galley where you can watch the chef prepare gastronomical delights for your pleasure. The fireplace is a nice, cozy touch as well.

Roi Soleil is fully booked between May 20 and June 30, 2012 but only has one week booked (so far!) during the popular month of September. Their two Value Seasons (lower rates) from April 14-28 and July 8 through August 25, are completely open.

Roi Soleil cruises the canal du midi between Béziers and Carcassonne for most of the barging season, then changes to their Provence route between Béziers and Avignon from September 30 through October 27.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book ROI SOLEIL
View Roi Soleil's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Free Gift for Our Barge Shannon Princess Guests - Barging in Ireland 2012

2012-01-17T10:44:00.000-04:00

Book a 2012 cruise aboard the Irish hotel barge SHANNON PRINCESS by St Patrick's Day (March 17, 2012) with Paradise Connections and we will send you a gift that you can enjoy during your barging cruise.

Tickle me with a shillelagh... you must be joking...

Beannachtaí na Féile Pádraig oraibh!

No, it's true! Book and confirm your 2012 Shannon Princess barge cruise between now and March 17, 2012 and get a FREE 2GB iPod Shuffle... or two... or three... or four... or more...

You can even have one in green!

We'll send each person in your party (whether a cabin booking of 2, or a private charter booking for 10, for example) a handy gift to enjoy on your barging vacation in Ireland.

Looking for a bit of music to put on your new iPod Shuffle? Check out these mp3 downloads from Amazon: Van Morrison, Thin Lizzy, U2, The Pogues, Sinead O'Connor, The Cranberries, The Corrs, The Chieftains, The Irish Rovers, Irish Folk Players, The Cieli Band

Here's a bit of culture for you :)

Wondering what that phrase above means?

Beannachtaí na Féile Páraic oraibh! : St. Patrick's Day blessing upon you
Click HERE to listen (ban-ock-tee na fay-lah paw-rig ur-iv)

Here's another useful saying when you visit Ireland:

Pionta Guinness, le do thoil. A pint of Guiness, please.
Click HERE to listen (pyunta Guinness leh duh hull)

(Thanks to http://www.irish-sayings.com for these sound bytes!)

Visit the Emerald Isle aboard the Irish hotel barge Shannon Princess II and cruise between Athlone and Killaloe along the River Shannon. Shannon Princess accommodates up to 10 guests in 5 cabins which can be configured as either doubles or twins, as you prefer. Individual cabin bookings or private charters available. Previous blog posts for Shannon Princess.

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess moored in Killaloe, Ireland

What's more? If you book an August 2012 private charter before February 29, 2012 you will receive a 5% discount off standard rates, plus the iPods!

Don't put it off any longer... experience barging in Ireland this year!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SHANNON PRINCESS
View Shannon Princess's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge CLAIR DE LUNE : 2012 Rates - Canal du Midi, France

2012-01-16T14:39:00.002-04:00

The French Hotel Barge CLAIR DE LUNE has sent us their 2012 rates. Clair de Lune is available for barging charters for up to 6 guests and cruises the canal du midi in the south of France.

French Hotel Barge Clair de Lune

Clair de Lune's standard excursions can, if you wish, be modified and personalized according to your interests, and visits to domains and wine tastings can be organized around the cruise. Wellness cruises are also offered.

2012 RATES

CLASSIC CRUISE

# Guests	\| Season	\| 6 nights	\| 5 nights	\| 4 nights	\| 3 nights
* 2 guests	\| Value	\| $17,370	\| $15,576	\| $13,200	\| $10,890
	\| Regular	\| $19,740	\| $17,700	\| $15,000	\| $12,375
* 4 guests	\| Value	\| $19,140	\| $16,720	\| $14,432	\| $12,056
	\| Regular	\| $21,750	\| $19,000	\| $16,400	\| $13,700
* 6 guests	\| Value	\| $22,000	\| $19,800	\| $16,720	\| $13,200
	\| Regular	\| $25,000	\| $22,500	\| $19,000	\| $15,000

Value Season: March 31-May 18 / July 7-Aug 31 / Oct 26-Nov 9, 2012

Regular Season: May 19-July 6 / September 1-October 5, 2012

2012 RATES

WELLNESS CRUISE

# Guests	\| Season	\| 6 nights	\| 5 nights	\| 4 nights	\| 3 nights
* 2 guests	\| Value	\| $18,000	\| $15,750	\| $13,050	\| $10,350
	\| Regular	\| $20,000	\| $17,500	\| $14,500	\| $11,500
* 4 guests	\| Value	\| $20,700	\| $18,450	\| $15,750	\| $13,050
	\| Regular	\| $23,000	\| $20,500	\| $17,500	\| $14,500

Value Season: March 31-May 18 / July 7-Aug 31 / Oct 26-Nov 9, 2012

Regular Season: May 19-July 6 / September 1-October 5, 2012

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book CLAIR DE LUNE
View Clair de Lune's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Hotel Barge SAVOIR FAIRE: Family Barging Cruise Special Offer - Burgundy, France - Summer 2012

2012-01-15T11:57:00.001-04:00

FAMILY COMES FIRST ABOARD THE SAVOIR FAIRE

Everyone loves a discount... Chris announces his Summer 2012 special offer for family charters:

Hotel Barge Savoir Faire - Barging in France

Cruise the French canals of Burgundy

For many years now, the Captain and crew of the Savoir Faire have enjoyed a steady increase in family charters aboard this splendid vessel and exceptional reviews. Savoir Faire is a spacious barge with many public areas large enough for the whole family to get together, or you can easily find a quiet spot to get away by yourself to relax, read, or just enjoy the peace and beauty of the countryside as we gently glide past historical villages and delightful views.

Savoir Faire's family cruises are designed with your family in mind. In addition to their marvellous itinerary, they have a multitude of offerings for children of all ages. Each day has been created to ensure that there's never a dull moment. This is one vacation that your children and grandchildren will remember forever.

For 2012, Savoir Faire is offering a spectacular opportunity to enjoy the very best of family barging.

2012 SUMMER FAMILY CHARTER DATES:

June 10-16
June 17-23
June 24-30
July 1-7
July 8-14
July 15-21
July 22-28
July 29 - August 4
August 5-11
August 12-18
August 19-25

Of course, these weeks are open to non-family cruises as well at standard rates.

Savoir Faire will be cruising in the Burgundy region between St Florentin and Ancy-le-Franc. View the itinerary page in Savoir Faire's brochure.
FAMILY CHARTER SPECIAL RATE:

$35,000 for up to 12 guests (Normally $50,600 or $54,000, depending on season)
Two guests must be under 12 years old to qualify for this special offer

In addition to regularly-scheduled sightseeing, walking and biking on the towpaths and relaxing on board this spacious barge, the Savoir Faire offers a multitude of additional activities for families, such as:

- SAVOIR FAIRE'S SIZZLING PIZZA SESSION

What fun! Learn how to make that perfect dough, choose your own toppings, into the oven and presto! - a pizza all of your own for lunch.

- COOKIE COMPETITION

Learn how to cook the best cookies ever. Create a new recipe with the chef and wow all your friends and family with your very own invention.

- POPCORN & MOVIE NIGHT

Snuggle up in front of a great movie with a big bowl of popcorn. Our lounge is perfect for this. A big screen, cozy chairs. A real snug family evening in.

- ZIP-LINING & PICNIC

A marvellous experience high above. Explore the treetops and let the monkey out. This is something all your friends will want to know about. Relax afterwards with one of Sophie's Summer Picnics - a basket full of surprises!

(Please note that there is an additional charge for zip-lining)

- BBQ NIGHT

If the weather's bright, let's do it right. Give the chef a hand to prepare your favorite BBQ meal. Let's dine alfresco, enjoy the fresh air and watch the sunset.

- PIRATE TREASURE HUNT

A pirate afternoon making pirate hats, colour in or draw pirate ships, bake pirate-themed biscuits, followed by our Treasure Hunt for children and adults alike. Search out the clues on your map and discover the hidden treasure.

- FAMILY QUIZ NIGHT

Form your team and answer questions on general knowledge, music, sports, etc. A prize awarded to the winning team.

- GLASS PAINTING

Ruth is a qualified signwriter and her hobby is glass painting. She loves to teach people to paint designs on wine glasses. What a great souvenir from your vacation. Water-based glass paints are very safe for children to use and, if baked in the oven, are permanent. T-shirt painting could also be an option for children.

- NAPKIN FOLDING

Interested in making that next meal with your friends a little different? Take a napkin and our stewardesses will show you how to fold them into simple, yet impressive, designs.

- PETANQUE & PASTIS (or fruit juice) with the crew

Learn how to master this marvellous game, so beloved by the French and a mystery to others :)

- COOKING DEMONSTRATIONS

Your chef demonstrates how to make a regional speciality with your help and answers any questions. The finished dish is then eaten as part of lunch or dinner.

The Hotel Barge Savoir Faire is fully air conditioned and heated. with accommodations for up to 12 guests in 6 well-appointed staterooms. Each stateroom can be configured with two twin beds or with one queen bed, and has ensuite private bathrooms. Each guest stateroom has a DVD player with an LCD screen and 2 sets of wireless headphones. The salon, dining area, and bar are finished in mahogany, teak and brass, decorated with antiques and paintings collected over the years.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SAVOIR FAIRE
View Savoir Faire's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge Anjodi : New route for summer 2012 along the canal du midi

2012-01-10T11:53:00.002-04:00

The French hotel barge ANJODI has a new summer 2012 route along the canal du midi in the south of France.

French Hotel Barge ANJODI - Barging cruises in the south of France - Canal du Midi

Anjodi will cruise their normal route between Marseillan - Le Somail beginning March 25 through July 7, then have a one-time only cruise week from Le Somail to Bram for repositioning to their new summer route of travelling between Homps and Castelnaudary (July 15 through August 18). Thereafter, they will recommence the Marseillan - Le Somail barge trip and then, beginning October 28, Anjodi has an itinerary of Marseillan - Beaucaire for the remaining two weeks of their season.

Click on map to enlarge

Anjodi is a classic Dutch barge that was rebuilt for charter to specifically navigate the canal du midi. The barge is 100-feet long with a crew of 4, has both air conditioning and central heating, and accommodate up to 8 guests in 4 cabins with private, ensuite bathrooms. Anjodi has a spacious sun deck with teak furnishings and a jacuzzi/spa tub.

Anjodi is available for private, full-boat charters and also for cabin cruises where you share the barge with others.

For private charters, we have special themed itineraries for Anjodi:

Most all barges have bicycles available for their guests to ride along the canals or visit local villages and nearby towns, but Anjodi also offers "Biking Plus". For people who want to be a little more adventurous and perhaps work off that delicious on-deck lunch, this option (no extra charge) enables you to explore further afield along interesting routes that have been carefully researched. Clearly marked maps and a backpack are provided so that you can explore the local countryside for an hour or two before rejoining your barge a little further along the canal. Anjodi carries 8 touring bikes, plus a tandem!

Go Barging in 2012!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book ANJODI
View Anjodi's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Hotel Barge Cruising Vacations - Special Offers for 2012

2012-01-06T17:15:00.002-04:00

2012 HOTEL BARGES

SPECIAL OFFERS & DISCOUNTS on BARGING VACATIONS & CRUISES

We have a few barges offering early bird special offers and discounts for the 2012 barging vacations. Contact Paradise Connections now, for current availability and pricing.

French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

Click on the Barge's name to view their online brochure. Find their prices on their brochure's RATES page. Contact us if you'd like us to do the calculation for the special offer rate and check current availability.

2012 season : Special offers for PRIVATE CHARTERS and CABIN BOOKINGS

Barge	\| Location	\| Discount	\| Dates for 2012	\| Deposit by
La Belle Epoque	\| France: Burgundy	\| charter: 10% \| cabin: 10%	\| April \| April	\| Apr 30, 2012 \| Apr 30, 2012
L’Art de Vivre	\| France: Burgundy	\| charter: 10%	\| April	\| Apr 30, 2012
		\| cabin: 10%	\| April	\| Apr 30, 2012
Panache	\| Belgium-Paris (6 /13 nites) \| Belgium-Paris (6 /13 nites)	\| cabin: 20% \| cabin: 20%	\| May 20, 27 \| May 20, 27	\| May 27, 2012 \| May 27, 2012
Anjodi	\| France: Midi / Provence	\| charter: 10% \| cabin: 10%	\| March, April \| April	\| April 30, 2012 \| April 30, 2012
Emma	\| France: Canal du Midi	\| 10% off	\| ALL 2012	\| Feb 29, 2012
Scottish Highlander	\| Scotland	\| charter: 10% \| cabin: 10%	\| April \| April	\| Apr 30, 2012 \| Apr 30, 2012
Shannon Princess	\| Ireland	\| charter: 5%	\| August	\| Feb 29, 2012

Conditions
Our normal Terms & Conditions apply. Some cruises may require a minimum of 4 passengers booked to guarantee the cruise.
These special offers are subject to availability, apply to new bookings only and cannot be used in conjunction with other offers.

MORE SPECIAL OFFERS / SPECIAL EVENTS:

EMMA (Canal du Midi) - Land & Sea Package, Surf & Turf
SHANNON PRINCESS (Ireland): Guided Cycling Tours, no additional supplement
LA BELLE EPOQUE (Burgundy): Guided Walking Tours, no additional supplement : Sept 30-Oct 6, and Oct 21-27, 2012
SAVOIR FAIRE: (Burgundy): Special Offer for Family Cruises, Summer 2012
FLEUR DE LYS (Burgundy): Art Week Cruise, May 20-26, 2012
AMARYLLIS (Burgundy): Grands Cru Wine Cruise, cabin cruise: July 15-21, 2012
NAPOLEON : Wine Discovery Week, cabin cruise: July 1-7 AND 8-14, 2012
NAPOLEON : Picture Perfect (Painting) Art Cruise, cabin cruise: July 29-Aug 4, 2012

French Hotel Barge EMMA - Barging cruises on the canal du midi, France

These barging vacations are fully crewed and all-inclusive:

Six nights' accommodation on board in an air-conditioned, en-suite cabin.
The services of an experienced Captain / Host, Chef, Housekeeper(s), Driver/Tour Guide.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner aboard. A local lunch ashore, once per week on most barges.
An excellent selection of fine regional and international wines and spirits, plus an all day open bar, tea and coffee.
Daily excursions by chauffeured minivan and inclusive entry fees to castles, vineyards, markets and other local places of interest.
Use of barge facilities such as bicycles, boules, barge library and on certain vessels, a spa pool.

French Hotel Barge L'Impressionniste - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

Barging Cruise Vacations Special Offers for 2012

2011-12-01T23:15:00.002-04:00

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTS FOR 2012 HOTEL BARGES
SPECIAL OFFERS on BARGING VACATIONS & CRUISES

Click Video to Take a Visit of French Hotel Barge ENCHANTE

Barging cruises in the south of France: Canal du Midi and Provence/Camargue

We have a few barges offering early bird special offers for the 2012 barging vacations. Contact Paradise Connections now, for current availability and pricing.

French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

2012 season : Special offers for PRIVATE CHARTERS and CABIN BOOKINGS

Barge	\| Location	\| Discount	\| Dates for 2012	\| Deposit by
La Belle Epoque	\| France: Burgundy	\| charter: 10% \| cabin: 10% \| charter: 5%	\| April \| April \| May - October	\| Apr 30, 2012 \| Apr 30, 2012 \| Jan 6, 2012
L’Art de Vivre	\| France: Burgundy	\| charter: 10%	\| April	\| Apr 30, 2012
		\| cabin: 10%	\| April	\| Apr 30, 2012
Panache	\| Holland \| Belgium-Paris (6 /13 nites) \| Belgium-Paris (6 /13 nites) \| France: Champagne \| France: Alsace-Lorraine	\| charter: 10% \| cabin: 20% \| cabin: 20% \| charter: 5% \| charter: 5%	\| April, May \| May 20, 27 \| May 20, 27 \| June 3 \| June 10 - October	\| Jan 6, 2012 \| May 27, 2012 \| May 27, 2012 \| Jan 6, 2012 \| Jan 6, 2012
Anjodi	\| France: Midi / Provence	\| charter: 10% \| cabin: 10%	\| March, April \| April	\| April 30, 2012 \| April 30, 2012
Emma	\| France: Canal du Midi	\| 10% off	\| ALL 2012	\| Dec 31, 2011
Enchanté	\| France: Midi / Provence	\| charter: 5%	\| May - October	\| Jan 6, 2012
Roi Soleil	\| France: Canal du Midi	\| 10% off \| 5% off	\| April, May, June \| July - October	\| Dec 31, 2011 \| Dec 31, 2011
Rosa	\| France: Gascony	\| charter: 5% \| charter: 10%	\| March, April, May \| June - October	\| Jan 6, 2012 \| Jan 6, 2012
Bella Vita	\| Italy: Po Valley	\| charter: 10% \| charter: 5%	\| April \| May - October	\| Jan 6, 2012 \| Jan 6, 2012
Scottish Highlander	\| Scotland	\| charter: 10% \| cabin: 10% \| charter: 5%	\| April \| April \| May - October	\| Apr 30, 2012 \| Apr 30, 2012 \| Jan 6, 2012

MORE SPECIAL OFFERS / SPECIAL EVENTS:

Hirondelle (Burgundy) - Cabins: 50% off companion price: April 2012
Fleur de Lys (Burgundy) - Cabins: 50% off companion price: April 2012
Fleur de Lys (Burgundy) - Cabins: 1 free nite in Paris 5-star Hotel: May 20, 2012
Napoleon (Provence) - Cabins: 50% off companion price: April 2012
Napoleon (Provence) - Cabins: 1 free nite in Paris 5-star Hotel: July 1, 8, 29, 2012
EMMA (Canal du Midi) - Land & Sea Package, Surf & Turf
SHANNON PRINCESS (Ireland): Guided Cycling Tours, no additional supplement
LA BELLE EPOQUE (Burgundy): Guided Walking Tours, no additional supplement : Sept 30-Oct 6, and Oct 21-27, 2012
FLEUR DE LYS (Burgundy): Art Week Cruise, May 20-26, 2012
AMARYLLIS (Burgundy): Grands Cru Wine Cruise, cabin cruise: July 15-21, 2012
NAPOLEON : Wine Discovery Week, cabin cruise: July 1-7 AND 8-14, 2012
NAPOLEON : Picture Perfect (Painting) Art Cruise, cabin cruise: July 29-Aug 4, 2012

French Hotel Barge EMMA - Barging cruises on the canal du midi, France

These barging vacations are fully crewed and all-inclusive:

Six nights' accommodation on board in an air-conditioned, en-suite cabin.
The services of an experienced Captain / Host, Chef, Housekeeper(s), Driver/Tour Guide.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner aboard. A local lunch ashore, once per week on most barges.
An excellent selection of fine regional and international wines and spirits, plus an all day open bar, tea and coffee.
Daily excursions by chauffeured minivan and inclusive entry fees to castles, vineyards, markets and other local places of interest.
Use of barge facilities such as bicycles, boules, barge library and on certain vessels, a spa pool.

French Hotel Barge L'Impressionniste - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE - Early season rates 2012

2011-11-15T16:57:00.001-04:00

The French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE has announced new rates for early 2012.

Barge Savoir Vivre cruises along the canal de Bourgogne (Burgundy canal) between Escommes and Fleurey-sur-Ouche.

The first six weeks of their 2012 charter season has the very special pricing of $22,000 for charters of any size up to 8 guests. This equates to only $2750/person. This is a $6000 savings from their regular, 8-person rate. A very good deal, indeed.

April 1-7: Booked
April 8-14: Open... BOOK NOW
April 15-21: Open... BOOK NOW
April 22-28: Open... BOOK NOW
April 29-May 5: Open... BOOK NOW
May 6-12: Open... BOOK NOW

Savoir Vivre is a bit different to the other barges that we represent as they do not have an onboard chef. Pastries for the continental breakfast are supplied by the local baker. Lunch is catered by professional chefs who meet up with the boat with their prepared meal. Dinners are off the boat in locally selected restaurants (included in charter fee).

Savoir Vivre is 80 feet long, air conditioned (and has central heat, too), 4 identical guest cabins which can be configured with a queen or two twin beds, each having ensuite private bathrooms, flat screen TV, internet where available, 8 bicycles, etc...

SAVOIR VIVRE: Ability to live life well and with intelligent enjoyment, meeting every situation with poise, good manners, and elegance. Etymology: French, to know (how) to live.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SAVOIR VIVRE
View Savoir Vivre's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Welcome, Hotel Barge PANACHE, to our barging fleet

2011-11-14T08:37:00.011-04:00

We would like to welcome the Hotel Barge Panache (ex-Marjorie II) to our fleet of select barges.

Hotel Barge Panache - Barging cruises in Holland & Lorraine-Alsace, France

The 12-passenger barge Panache will be under new ownership for the 2012 season. We are confident that they will provide excellent service and value as we have a proven track record with the owners who have 35 years' experience in the barging industry.

Keukenhof Gardens, Holland --- St Paul's in Strasbourg, France

In April and May, Panache will embark on circular “Dutch Tulip Cruises” starting and finishing in Haarlem, visiting the spectacular Keukenhof Gardens in full bloom, the world famous Delft pottery and the cheese center of Gouda. After an Amsterdam (Holland) to Bruges (Belgium) cruise the week of May 27 to June 2, she will reposition to cruise throughout the rest of the 2012 season on the beautiful Canal de la Marne au Rhin from Mittersheim to Strasbourg in the Alsace-Lorraine region of France. What a great way to experience the unique mix of French and German cultures, Baroque and Romanesque architecture, storybook hamlets and wonderful white wines of this historic region.

The 129-foot Panache is a 12-passenger, luxury hotel barge of classic Dutch design and has a professional crew of five to attend to your needs. Panache is fully air conditioned with spacious public areas and six ensuite staterooms, with your choice of twin or queen bed configurations.

We are very pleased to have another barge in the Alsace-Lorraine region as La Nouvelle Etoile, also an excellent hotel barge that we recommend, only covers this area for 4 weeks beginning August 26th and they quickly book up.

Panache is available for Cabin Cruises where you share the barge with other like-minded travellers, and also for Private Charters with a price structure beginning at an 8-passenger minimum rate.

Introductory prices have the Value Season extend all the way from April 1st (and this is no April Fools) through August 19, 2012, with Regular Season rates in effect from August 26 to September 30, then back to Value Season.

We will keep you informed on the progress of Panache's refit and post new photos as we get them :)

Go Barging in 2012!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book PANACHE
View Panache's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Barging Vacations Special Offers for 2012

2011-11-01T09:29:00.002-04:00

EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTS FOR 2012 HOTEL BARGES
SPECIAL OFFERS on BARGING VACATIONS & CRUISES

French Hotel Barge ANJODI

Canal du midi barging cruises in the south of France

SPECIAL OFFERS HAVE EXPIRED.

PLEASE SEE DECEMBER 2012 OFFERS

MORE SPECIAL OFFERS / SPECIAL EVENTS:

EMMA (Canal du Midi) - Land & Sea Package, Surf & Turf
SHANNON PRINCESS (Ireland): Guided Cycling Tours, no additional supplement
LA BELLE EPOQUE (Burgundy): Guided Walking Tours
AMARYLLIS (Burgundy): Grands Cru Wine Cruise, cabin cruise: July 15-21, 2012
NAPOLEON : Wine Discovery Week, cabin cruise: July 1-7 AND 8-14, 2012
NAPOLEON : Picture Perfect (Painting) Art Cruise, cabin cruise: July 29-Aug 4, 2012

French Hotel Barge EMMA - Barging cruises on the canal du midi, France

These barging vacations are fully crewed and all-inclusive:

Six nights' accommodation on board in an air-conditioned, en-suite cabin.
The services of an experienced Captain / Host, Chef, Housekeeper(s), Driver/Tour Guide.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner aboard. A local lunch ashore, once per week on most barges.
An excellent selection of fine regional and international wines and spirits, plus an all day open bar, tea and coffee.
Daily excursions by chauffeured minivan and inclusive entry fees to castles, vineyards, markets and other local places of interest.
Use of barge facilities such as bicycles, boules, barge library and on certain vessels, a spa pool.

French Hotel Barge L'Impressionniste - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

Barge SAVOIR FAIRE: Dutch Tulip Cruises, by the cabin

2011-10-17T10:11:00.000-04:00

Chris, owner-operator of the 6-cabin hotel barge Savoir Faire, just wrote to let us know that he has opened up ALL remaining 2012 dates for their Dutch Tulip Cruises (Haarlem-Haarlem, Holland) as cabin cruises, or you can book a private charter if available, too!

Hotel Barge Savoir Faire - Barging cruises in France, Holland & Belgium

There is not a minimum amount of booked cabins necessary to guarantee the trip. Savoir Faire will run with just one cabin sold... but we can't imagine this happening as they are a very popular barge.

2012 AVAILABILITY for Holland Tulip Cruise:

March 25 - 31
April 08 - 14
April 15 - 21
April 22 - 28
April 29 - May 05 (2 cabins sold, 1 on hold) - Queen's Day is on April 30!

RATES:

Cabin: $4500 per person, double occupancy
Charter: 10 passengers: $43,900
Charter: 12 passengers: $50,600

The Hotel Barge Savoir Faire offers luxurious accommodation for 12 passengers in six well-appointed staterooms. Guests are attentively catered for by 6 English-speaking crew. Each stateroom can be configured with two twin beds or with one queen bed, and all have ensuite private bathrooms. Each guest stateroom has a DVD player with an LCD screen and 2 sets of wireless headphones. Savoir Faire is fully air conditioned (central heat, too!) and the salon, dining area, and bar are finished in mahogany, teak and brass, decorated with antiques and paintings. Two spacious decks offer magnificent views of the countryside.

View Savoir Faire's itinerary for their Dutch Tulip Cruise, March 25 - May 5, 2012

In May, Savoir Faire will begin their journey to France for the summer barging season.

May 6-12: Haarlem to Bruges
May 13-24: Two-country, 11-night Bruges to Paris cruise
May 27 - June 2: Paris to St Florentin
June 3 - August 25: Burgundy, St Florentin to Ancy-le-Franc
August 26 - September 1: St Florentin to Paris
September 2-29: Champagne, Paris to Epernay
September 30 - October 13: Paris to Villeneuve
October 14-25: Two-country, 11-night cruise, Paris to Bruges
October 28: Bruges to Haarlem

Read more about the region of Holland: HERE

Go Barging in Holland this spring!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SAVOIR FAIRE
View Savoir Faire's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Barging Vacations Special Offers for 2011 & 2012

2011-10-01T17:39:00.004-04:00

LAST MINUTE SPECIAL OFFERS FOR REMAINING 2011 BARGE TRIPS
and
EARLY BIRD DISCOUNTS FOR 2012 HOTEL BARGES
BARGING VACATIONS & CRUISES

French Hotel Barge LA BELLE EPOQUE

Burgundy barging cruises - Bourgogne, France

Announcing last-minute discounts for remaining hotel barge trips for the 2011 season, plus early bird special offers for 2012 barging vacations. Contact Paradise Connections now, for current availability and pricing.

French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

SPECIAL OFFERS HAVE EXPIRED.

PLEASE SEE NOVEMBER 2012 OFFERS

MORE SPECIAL OFFERS / SPECIAL EVENTS:

EMMA (Canal du Midi) - Land & Sea Package, Surf & Turf
SHANNON PRINCESS (Ireland): Guided Cycling Tours, no additional supplement
LA BELLE EPOQUE (Burgundy): Guided Walking Tours
AMARYLLIS (Burgundy): Grands Cru Wine Cruise, cabin cruise

These barging vacations are fully crewed and all-inclusive:

Six nights' accommodation on board in an air-conditioned, en-suite cabin.
The services of an experienced Captain / Host, Chef, Housekeeper(s), Driver/Tour Guide.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner aboard. A local lunch ashore, once per week on most barges.
An excellent selection of fine regional and international wines and spirits, plus an all day open bar, tea and coffee.
Daily excursions by chauffeured minivan and inclusive entry fees to castles, vineyards, markets and other local places of interest.
Use of barge facilities such as bicycles, boules, barge library and on certain vessels, a spa pool.

French Hotel Barge L'Impressionniste - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

Hotel Barges: Current special offers Barging Cruises (September 2011)

2011-09-02T14:53:00.004-04:00

CURRENT SPECIAL OFFERS FOR 2011 & 2012 HOTEL BARGES - BARGING VACATIONS & CRUISES

SEE OCTOBER 2011 SPECIAL OFFERS

French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

SEE OCTOBER 2011 SPECIAL OFFERS

MORE SPECIAL OFFERS / SPECIAL EVENTS:

EMMA (Canal du Midi) - Land & Sea Package, Surf & Turf
SHANNON PRINCESS (Ireland): Guided Cycling Tours, no additional supplement
LA BELLE EPOQUE (Burgundy): Guided Walking Tours (October 9-15 & 23-29, 2011) no additional supplement

These barging vacations are fully crewed and all-inclusive:

Six nights' accommodation on board in an air-conditioned, en-suite cabin.
The services of an experienced Captain / Host, Chef, Housekeeper(s), Driver/Tour Guide.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner aboard. A local lunch ashore, once per week on most barges.
An excellent selection of fine regional and international wines and spirits, plus an all day open bar, tea and coffee.
Daily excursions by chauffeured minivan and inclusive entry fees to castles, vineyards, markets and other local places of interest.
Use of barge facilities such as bicycles, boules, barge library and on certain vessels, a spa pool.

French Hotel Barge L'Impressionniste - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

French Barge Alegria - Special offer Sept & Oct 2011

2011-08-08T19:12:00.001-04:00

The French Hotel Barge Alegria (canal du midi) has the popular week of September 3-9, 2011 OPEN. This week, as well as the week of October 1-7, is now available at the VALUE season rate which is a savings of 12.4% for a 4-person charter.

Nice view - A black swan outside of Alegria's porthole
Le Somail - Canal du Midi, South of France

Alegria hosts a maximum of four guests in two large cabins fitted with king size beds and ensuite bathrooms. The large, beautiful cabins are distinctive, light and bright. Intimacy and privacy are ensured, thanks to two entrance doors from each cabin leading either directly to the outside of the barge or inside to the lounge. Each guest cabin has a mini fridge and is equipped with a coffee & tea tray.

Enjoy the heated pool after a warm afternoon… or just relax while enjoying some pre-dinner drinks … Every day is a new day of discoveries ...

2011 RATES AND AVAILABILITY:
September 3-9

October 1-7

October 15-21

4 guests: $18,400

3 guests: $17,700

2 guests: $17,000

Barge cruising aboard the French Hotel Barge ALEGRIA offers a week of relaxation, fabulous food, excellent wines, fascinating culture, great landscapes and friendship.

Congratulations on another successful season, Olivier. Hope we can fill up those last 3 weeks for you!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book ALEGRIA
View Alegria's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges & barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Hotel Barges: Current special offers Barging Cruises (August 2011)

2011-08-01T16:44:00.006-04:00

CURRENT SPECIAL OFFERS FOR 2011 & 2012
HOTEL BARGES - BARGING VACATIONS & CRUISES

SEE SEPTEMBER 2011 SPECIAL OFFERS

French Hotel Barge NYMPHEA

Barging cruises in the Loire Valley

Reduced rates for last-minute bookings and to fill in the gaps in their calendars. At these prices, the barges are booking up quickly, so don't wait too long... Contact Paradise Connections now, for current availability and pricing.

There are also some early bird specials for the 2012 barging season.

French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

These barging vacations are fully crewed and all-inclusive:

Six nights' accommodation on board in an air-conditioned, en-suite cabin.
The services of an experienced Captain / Host, Chef, Housekeeper(s), Driver/Tour Guide.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner aboard. A local lunch ashore, once per week on most barges.
An excellent selection of fine regional and international wines and spirits, plus an all day open bar, tea and coffee.
Daily excursions by chauffeured minivan and inclusive entry fees to castles, vineyards, markets and other local places of interest.
Use of barge facilities such as bicycles, boules, barge library and on certain vessels, a spa pool.

French Hotel Barge L'Impressionniste - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

French Wine Tasting Appreciation Barge Cruises - Barging in France

2011-07-23T14:47:00.000-04:00

Summer is now upon us and you've discovered you have a bit of free time for yourself. For lovers of fine wine, there is no better time to take a sun-kissed wine appreciation cruise with one of the crewed luxury French canal barges we represent.

Explore the region of Burgundy, the heart of renowned wine growing areas such as Chablis, Côte de Beaune and Côte de Nuits. For example, a wine cruise on board the 12-13 passenger L'Impressionniste on the Burgundy Canal gives passengers the chance to visit Clos de Vougeot - headquarters of the esteemed Chevaliers du Tastevin. Her sistership, La Belle Epoque, takes a different cruise through Burgundy and visits the vineyards of Chablis and Nuits St George, with wine tastings at winemakers such as the Domaine Servan, well-known for its superb Premier and Grand Cru wines.

Or you might choose to discover Languedoc-Roussillon in the south of France through a region famous for its excellent Minervois and Corbières wines. Journey along the 300-year old Canal du Midi and tour the historic Chateau Guery and Chateau de Perdiguier to sample their internationally renowned Corbieres and Chardonnay wines with 8-passenger barge, Anjodi. Or travel aboard the 8-passenger barge Enchanté and indulge in tastings at Saint Chinian, the first village in the region to receive the presitigious A.O.C. mark of approval.

French Hotel Barge Enchanté - Barging cruises in the south of France

There is an additional supplement for the specialized themed wine cruise charters to cover the cost of a professional wine guide, comprehensive wine itinerary and an upgrade of all wines to include Premier and Grand Cru. A wine appreciation cruise can be booked any time by a group chartering a barge.

The French Hotel Barge Amaryllis devotes one or two special weeks in the summer to a Grands Cru Wine Cruise for individual cabin bookings. Taste the 33 Grand Crus of Burgundy. No need to book a private charter. Take a cabin and cruise in the company of other like-minded individuals who enjoy fine wine. Read a previous blog post HERE about Amaryllis.

If you enjoy wine but wish to also explore other aspects of the region, our barges' standard cruise itineraries include wine and wine tastings and the barge crews have extensive knowledge of the wines of their region. Plus, they will tailor your charter to your interests, whether golf, wine, family... Just ask!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

Bonne fête !

2011-07-14T15:28:00.000-04:00

Today is "quatorze juilliet" or La Fête Nationale in France and we would like to wish all of our French friends and francophiles a BIG Bonne Fête !

It's great when the 14th happens to be a Thursday because then one can "faire le pont" or "make the bridge" and have a four-day weekend.

Did anyone put Édith Piaf on their iPod Shuffle that we gave for barging cruises taking place during the month of June and Bastille week? That should get you in the mood :)

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge EMMA: Special Offers on Barging Cruises in the Canal du Midi in the South of France for 2011 & 2012

2011-07-05T00:01:00.000-04:00

Liz & René, owner-operators of the French Hotel Barge EMMA, have announced a $500 per person discount on all new bookings for July and August 2011, whether for individual cabin cruises or private charter.

What's more, book a 2012 barging cruise before December 31, 2011 and receive a 10% discount!

Plus, we'd like to remind you of Emma's Surf & Turf package: See April 22nd post for Land & Sea Special

The French Hotel Barge Emma cruises on the canal du midi in the south of France. Their standard itinerary for July and August is between Carcassonne and Toulouse. You will find other possible itineraries on our eBrochure that they might be able to work into their schedule with some advance notice.

Liz & Rene are assisted by crew members, Rosie & Annette. Four crew for up to six guests! Emma has both air conditioning and central heating so climate control is not an issue whether you cruise during the height of summer or on cool days of spring or autumn. Emma accommodates up to 6 guests in 3 cabins each with ensuite, private bathrooms. One cabin is a Queen, while the other two can be configured as either as a Queen or two Twins according to your request.

Remember that EMMA can tailor your charter to your interests... wine tastings & vineyard visits, cooking, golf, tennis, walking tours, cycling tours, or just time out to relax and enjoy a side of France that most travellers don't experience.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book EMMA
View Emma's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Burgundy Barging Cruise & Guided Walking Tour, Oct 2011 aboard LA BELLE EPOQUE

2011-07-04T09:48:00.003-04:00

There are still cabins available for this highly popular Burgundy barge cruise & guided walking tour aboard the French Hotel Barge LA BELLE EPOQUE.

Barging & Walking in Burgundy, France - A wonderful combination

The original two Burgundy walking tour barging cruises were so popular that they added a third week which is scheduled for October 9-15, 2011. With autumn colors transforming the countryside, this is the perfect time of year to explore Burgundy with its rolling landscape, quaint villages and ruined castles.

There are currently only couple of cabins left so don't ponder too long!

This charter week was priced as a "regular season" but La Belle Epoque is offering the same special cabin cruise for the same special "value season" rate as the other 2 walking tour weeks, plus there is no additional supplement for this guided tour.

RATES: October 9-15, and October 23-29, 2011
Junior Suite: $4550/person, double occupancy

Suite: $4750/person, double occupancy

Now, $1000/cabin discount off the above rates!

You can view the full itinerary for the Guided Walking Tour cruise on La Belle Epoque's brochure.

The difference with this theme cruise is that it is available for individuals or couples to book a cabin and join others on board. No need to charter the whole barge and no extra supplements to pay for the services of the on board professional walking guide.

If you are part of a couple and not as keen about walking as your "better half", pas de problème... There are other activities available if you wish, or you can just chill out on La Belle Epoque and watch the countryside glide by while listening to tunes on your iPod or reading a book in the jacuzzi!

The French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque - Barging in France

This all-inclusive deluxe barge is 128 feet long, has two levels, a crew of 5, and accommodates up to 13 guests in 7 cabins, each with private, ensuite bathrooms. La Belle Epoque has been designed with both elegance and passenger comfort in mind with their air conditioning & central heating, and evidenced by the wood panelled saloon and dining room, The two sundecks have steamer chairs, recliners, parasols, a large dining table, plus a Jacuzzi spa pool.

Burgundy is among the most popular hotel barging area in Europe. It is renowned for its vineyards, Gothic churches, Renaissance châteaux and picturesque villages. This is a region of France in which gastronomic delights and the art of living have reigned supreme since Roman times.

Sounds good? Contact Paradise Connections and let's get started. As you can see, this is a very popular cruise and it books up quickly. Don't miss this opportunity!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book LA BELLE EPOQUE
View La Belle Epoque's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges & barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge SAINT LOUIS - Cabin weeks: Only 2 open

2011-07-03T09:02:00.000-04:00

The French Hotel Barge Saint Louis has only two cabin weeks available.

French Hotel Barge Saint Louis - Barging cruises in southwest France

Explore the French regions of Aquitaine and Gascony along the Canal de Garonne

Departure July 30, 2011: one cabin available - this includes going to the simply outstanding son-et-lumiere spectacle “Au Fil de l’Eau”
Departure August 20, 2011: two cabins available.

Au Fil de l’Eau

This amazing son-et-lumiere presentation takes place at Valence (near Agen) on a number of dates during the summer, making it available for two separate cruising weeks – July 30th and August 6th. It is a unique depiction of the history and people of this village, in the context of the canal. All the actors – 450 of them – are local amateurs and the event includes songs, music, fireworks and episodes from Valence’s past. Not to be missed !!

Saint Louis cruises the beautiful waterways of Southwest France, including the historic lands of Aquitaine and Gascony along the Canal de Garonne. Saint Louis accommodates up to 6 guests in 3 spacious staterooms which can be configured with either queen or twin beds.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SAINT LOUIS
View Saint Louis's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE - Availability 2011

2011-07-02T08:26:00.000-04:00

The French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE is almost completely booked for the 2011 season, but you're in luck if your "free" time coincides with theirs...

French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVIRE - Barging Cruises in Southern Burgundy, France

SAVOIR VIVRE has 2 of 4 cabins available for their cabin cruise (shared charter) week of July 31 to August 6, 2011. The cabin price for this special week is only $6000 ($3000/person).

Other weeks open in 2011 for private charter:

July 24-30
August 28 - September 3
October 23-29

Remember their family discount special offer... CLICK HERE

The French Hotel Barge Savoir Vivre offers an all-inclusive crewed barging vacation cruise for up to 8 guests, but with a bit of a difference... They do not have a dedicated on-board chef as crew member. Savoir Vivre has catered lunches aboard prepared by two local chefs, both of which have cooked on top barges in Burgundy. These buffets will be laid out easily and elegantly in Savoir Vivre's "Open Kitchen". All dinners are on shore at local, selected restaurants.

SAVOIR VIVRE: Ability to live life well and with intelligent enjoyment, meeting every situation with poise, good manners, and elegance. Etymology: French, to know (how) to live.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SAVOIR VIVRE
View Savoir Vivre's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge PROSPERITE: Only 2 weeks left in 2011

2011-07-02T03:50:00.000-04:00

The French Hotel Barge PROSPERITE has only TWO weeks open and available for charter this season.

French Hotel Barge PROSPÉRITÉ - Barging cruises along the canals of Southern Burgundy, France

The French Hotel Barge Prospérité cruises the Canal de Bourgogne (Burgundy Canal) of France. Enjoy the unparalleled history and beauty of the Burgundy region via barge travel in France — 150 vineyards, cellars and wine traders in the region are open for sampling and more than 32 fine restaurants bear Michelin stars, including four 3-star establishments.

Prospérité accommodates up to 8 guests in 4 suites, which can be configured as doubles or twins, with sitting area and desk, each having their own private ensuite bathroom. Prospérité is fully air conditioned and also has central heating when necessary, hot tub on the sundeck, bicycles, air conditioned minivan for excursions...

CURRENT 2011 AVAILABILITY:

July 17-23
July 31-August 6

RATES: Regular season, 2011 - April 24 through October 15:

6 guests: $47,400
7 guests: $48,650
8 guests: $49,900

Wouldn't this be a fabulous barge for a charter along the French canals?

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book PROSPÉRITÉ
View Prospérité's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Hotel Barges: Current special offers Barging Cruises (JULY 2011)

2011-07-01T09:44:00.001-04:00

CURRENT SPECIAL OFFERS FOR 2011 HOTEL BARGES - BARGING VACATIONS & CRUISES

SEE AUGUST 2011 SPECIAL OFFERS

French Hotel Barge NYMPHEA

Barging cruises in the Loire Valley

French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

These barging vacations are fully crewed and all-inclusive:

Six nights' accommodation on board in an air-conditioned, en-suite cabin.
The services of an experienced Captain / Host, Chef, Housekeeper(s), Driver/Tour Guide.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner aboard. A local lunch ashore, once per week on most barges.
An excellent selection of fine regional and international wines and spirits, plus an all day open bar, tea and coffee.
Daily excursions by chauffeured minivan and inclusive entry fees to castles, vineyards, markets and other local places of interest.
Use of barge facilities such as bicycles, boules, barge library and on certain vessels, a spa pool.

French Hotel Barge L'Impressionniste - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

French Barge EMMA has 2 cabins open for Bastille week 2011

2011-06-20T09:59:00.002-04:00

One of our favorite French hotel barges, Emma, has two of their three cabins available for Bastille week, July 9-15, 2011 (Toulouse-Carcassonne, canal du midi).

We will extend our iPod Shuffle offer to any Paradise Connection client who books Emma for this week.

Come watch the fireworks!

Plus, Emma has a $500/person discount for barging cruises in June, July and August 2011 (see here) so if Bastille week doesn't fit your schedule, let's find one that does!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book EMMA
View Emma's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

QUICK: iPod Shuffle Giveaway - French hotel barge cruises June 2011

2011-06-18T10:13:00.000-04:00

QUICK, there's still time to take advantage of our iPod Shuffle Giveaway for our clients booking a French Hotel Barge cruise taking place in the month of June 2011... Some barges have some great deals for June, see our previous blog post concerning special offers.

You're going to miss Fête de la Musique day (June 21st) which is one of our favorite French holidays, although you can do this at home: download some French Music (see below), buy a baguette, some brie, a bit of paté, and perhaps a bottle of Pastis to wash it down :)

Confirm your June 2011 French hotel barge cruise and get a FREE 2GB iPod Shuffle... or two... or three... or four... or more...

We'll send each person in your party (whether a cabin booking of 2, or a private charter booking for 12, for example) a handy gift to enjoy on your barging vacation...

Don't let it's tiny size fool you. With this 2GB player, you can pack up to 500 songs... That should do you for a week!

The latest generation of iPod Shuffle allows you to use playlists so you can use this feature to organize your French language lessons, and French music from A to Z, such as:

Antoine, Charles Aznavour, Jane Birkin & Serge Gainsbourg, Jacques Brel, Patrick Bruel, Maurice Chevalier, Mylène Farmer, Claude François, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Serge Gainsbourg, Johnny Hallyday, Indochine, Kassav, Claudine Longet, Eddy Mitchell, Vanessa Paradis, Édith Piaf, Sheila, Téléphone, Zouzou.

This offer is good for any Paradise Connection booking for a French barging vacation taken in June 2011. It might be a bit of a rush to arrange a last-minute charter for next week (June 26-July2), but we CAN do it... If you ask nicely, we might even extend our offer for a Bastille-week charter (July 10-16)...

We hope you'll be able to take advantage of this special offer from us at Paradise Connections.

Enjoy!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

Hotel Barges: Current special offers Barging Cruises (JUNE 2011)

2011-06-02T13:11:00.003-04:00

CURRENT SPECIAL OFFERS FOR 2011 HOTEL BARGES - BARGING VACATIONS & CRUISES - Updated June 12, 2011

See July 2011 SPECIAL OFFERS

French Hotel Barge ANJODI

Barging cruises on the Canal du Midi in the south of France

French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

French Hotel Barge L'Impressionniste - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

These barging vacations are fully crewed and all-inclusive:

Six nights' accommodation on board in an air-conditioned, en-suite cabin.
The services of an experienced Captain / Host, Chef, Housekeeper(s), Driver/Tour Guide.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner aboard. A local lunch ashore, once per week on most barges.
An excellent selection of fine regional and international wines and spirits, plus an all day open bar, tea and coffee.
Daily excursions by chauffeured minivan and inclusive entry fees to castles, vineyards, markets and other local places of interest.
Use of barge facilities such as bicycles, boules, barge library and on certain vessels, a spa pool.
Return transfers to and from local meeting/drop off point.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

Luxury Crewed French Hotel Barges - Barging Cruises in France, England, Scotland, Ireland, Holland, Italy, Germany

2011-05-23T13:32:00.000-04:00

For a selection of luxury crewed hotel barges we represent, please visit our web site, view our blog, read our monthly barging newsletter, or contact us!

A barging cruise is a wonderful vacation for singles, couples, family, friends, and corporate trips too!

Come and explore the European waterways aboard a quality, luxury, all inclusive, crewed boutique hotel barge.

Visit our website to view barges in France, England, Scotland, Ireland, Holland / Belgium, Italy, Germany / Luxembourg

French Hotel Barge EMMA - Super Summer Savings

2011-05-22T11:22:00.001-04:00

Liz & René, owner-operators of the French Hotel Barge EMMA, have announced a $500 per person discount on all new bookings for June, July and August 2011, whether individual cabin cruises or private charter.

So, if you book a barge trip aboard Emma for June 2011 you'll get a double dose of goodies...

a $500 discount per person, and
an iPod shuffle per person!

What's more, book a 2012 barging cruise before the end of 2011 and receive a 10% discount!

Just a reminder of Emma's Surf & Turf package: See April 22nd post for Land & Sea Special

The French Hotel Barge Emma cruises on the canal du midi in the south of France between Beziers & Carcassonne and Carcassonne to Toulouse. You will find other possible itineraries on our eBrochure that they might be able to work into their schedule with some advance notice.

Liz & Rene have two additional crew members, Rosie & Annette. Emma has both air conditioning and central heating so climate control is not an issue whether you cruise during the height of summer or on cool days of spring or autumn. Emma accommodates up to 6 guests in 3 cabins each with ensuite, private bathrooms. One cabin is a Queen, while the other two can be configured as either as a Queen or two Twins according to your request.

Remember that EMMA can tailor your charter to your interests... wine tastings & vineyard visits, cooking, golf, tennis, walking tours, cycling tours, or just time out to relax and enjoy a side of France that most travellers don't experience.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book EMMA
View Emma's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Barge SAVOIR VIVRE: Family Discounts Kids Special Offer

2011-05-19T10:26:00.001-04:00

James Waggott of the French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE announced that they are offering a family special valid for the remainder of the 2011 barging season.

We are pleased to offer HALF PRICE kids places for a limited allocation of 2011 cruise dates! Save up to US$6000 on the charter price!

French Hotel Barge Savoir Vivre - Barging in France
Barge Cruises in Southern Burgundy, France along the Canal de Bourgogne

James tells us a bit more about family-oriented charters aboard Savoir Vivre:

The Savoir Vivre offers a uniquely interesting and enriched luxury barge cruising experience and industry leading ALL INCLUSIVE value.

We are also very Family Friendly! Our 8-guest capacity with full twin/queen bed convertibility suits families of all sizes. And when you cruise with us you get whole boat exclusivity so that you can really make yourselves feel at home.

The family-style dining is casual and great for even the pickiest eaters. The quality of the food is without compromise. The tours are also relaxed and fun – our tour of an authentic goats cheese farm comes complete with goats!

Kids & parents can both feel relaxed aboard the Savoir Vivre. Parents know that their children are safe and children can enjoy the familiar, home-like atmosphere complete with relaxed salon area and open kitchen.

SPECIAL OFFER DETAILS:

8-person charter. Max 4 kids with $1500 discount each (Total savings up to $6000)
6-person charter. Max 3 kids with $1500 discount each (Total savings up to $4500)

CLIENT COMMENTS:

“Thank you so much for a beautiful trip! Our crew were wonderful with the whole family from our 1½ and 11 year old to all of the adult gang! The barge was beautiful, the side trips very interesting and the food and wine incredible. Thank you so much flexibility and love! We will take many wonderful memories with us.”

CABIN CRUISE WEEKS... REMINDER!

Savoir Faire still has availability on two special weeks that they have opened up to individual cabin cruises:

July 31-August 6: two cabins available
October 16-22: two cabins available

SAVOIR VIVRE: Ability to live life well and with intelligent enjoyment, meeting every situation with poise, good manners, and elegance. Etymology: French, to know (how) to live.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SAVOIR VIVRE
View Savoir Vivre's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

REMINDER: iPod Shuffle Giveaway - French hotel barge cruises June 2011

2011-05-10T11:37:00.000-04:00

We'd like to remind you about our iPod Shuffle Giveaway for our clients booking a French Hotel Barge cruise during the month of June 2011... Some barges have some great deals for June, see our previous blog post concerning special offers.

Fête de la Musique day (June 21st) is one of our favorite French holidays and we hope to be anchored in one of the French islands in the Caribbean... Perhaps Jimmy Buffett will show up in St Barths and do an impromtu gig! He could sing He Went to Paris and perhaps Last Mango in Paris :)

Confirm your June 2011 French hotel barge cruise and get a FREE 2GB iPod Shuffle... or two... or three... or four... or more...

We'll send each person in your party (whether a cabin booking of 2, or a private charter booking for 12, for example) a handy gift to enjoy on your barging vacation...

Antoine, Charles Aznavour, Jane Birkin & Serge Gainsbourg, Jacques Brel, Patrick Bruel, Maurice Chevalier, Mylène Farmer, Claude François, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Serge Gainsbourg, Johnny Hallyday, Indochine, Kassav, Claudine Longet, Eddy Mitchell, Vanessa Paradis, Édith Piaf, Sheila, Téléphone, Zouzou.

This offer is good for any Paradise Connection booking for a French barging vacation taken in June 2011, but check out the barges that are currently available for Fête de la Musique week.

We hope you'll be able to take advantage of this special offer from us at Paradise Connections.

Enjoy!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge Saint Louis - WiFi equipped

2011-05-06T08:07:00.002-04:00

More and more barges are becoming equipped with onboard WiFi access and the French Hotel Barge SAINT LOUIS has just joined the ranks.

Alasdair says:

"We now have internet availability on board. There is a laptop computer dedicated to guests’ use, and a device which has a connection availability at certain times of the day. No matter where we are, we should be able to obtain a connection."

French Hotel Barge SAINT LOUIS - Barging Cruises in SW France

Saint Louis cruises the beautiful waterways of Southwest France, including the historic lands of Aquitaine and Gascony along the Canal de Garonne. Saint Louis accommodates up to 6 guests in 3 spacious staterooms which can be configured with either queen or twin beds.

The hotel barge Saint Louis follows two different week-long itineraries, cruising along the peaceful Canal de Garonne that flows between the cities of Toulouse and Bordeaux in Southwest France. Each route has its own attractions and its own memorable highpoints.

Generally the rhythm of cruising aboard SAINT LOUIS consists of a half day of gliding the canal: enjoying the countryside drift by with a cool drink in your hand, walking the tow path, or biking into that picturesque town across the sunflower fields. The second half of the day is usually spent in a guided exploration of all that the region offers in historical sights, wine tasting, artisan crafts, and culture. All of your meals will be prepared from fresh local ingredients and served on board by their resident chef. An occasional meal might be enjoyed at a nearby restaurant serving the finest regional cuisine. The fully stocked bar, with excellent wines of the region, coffee, tea, and soft drinks is always available. Daily excursions, bicycles, indoor games and a small library are all included.

SAINT LOUIS currently has space available for individual cabin bookings on shared barge charters:

May 21-27
June 4-10
June 18-24
July 30 - Aug 5

and also some open spots for private barge charters:

May 28 - June 3
July 9-15
July 16-22
July 23-29
Aug 20-26
Oct 1-7

Alasdair & Barbara look forward to welcoming you aboard Saint Louis.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SAINT LOUIS
View Saint Louis's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Hotel Barges: Current special offers Barging Cruises (MAY 2011)

2011-05-05T10:38:00.006-04:00

CURRENT SPECIAL OFFERS FOR 2011 HOTEL BARGES - BARGING VACATIONS & CRUISES

French Hotel Barge ENCHANTE

Barging cruises on the Canal du Midi in the south of France

May is a beautiful month... I always liked it when I worked at an international bureaucracy in Paris as there was the possibility of THREE 3-or-4-day weekends in May... Vive la France :) We lived on the French canals for years and definitely recommend a barging cruise.

French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

iPod Shuffle Giveaway for June 2011 French hotel barge cruises (Fête de la Musique promotion)
French Hotel Barge EMMA - Land & Sea Package, Surf & Turf
MAGNA CARTA: Chelsea Flower Show Garden Cruise: May 22-28, 2011 (BOOKED)
MAGNA CARTA: Henley Regatta Cruise: June 26-July 2, 2011 (or standard charter)
MAGNA CARTA: Hampton Court Palace Flower Show Garden Cruise: July 3-9, 2011 (or standard charter)
SAVOIR FAIRE: Family Charters (June 26 through July 24, 2011 departures), special price
SHANNON PRINCESS: Guided Walking Tour (June 26-July 2, 2011), no additional supplement
SHANNON PRINCESS: Guided Cycling Tours, no additional supplement
SHANNON PRINCESS: Free Golf Day (June & July 2011)
AMARYLLIS: Special Grand Crus Wine Appreciation & Tasting Cruise (July 17 BOOKED and July 24, 2011 2 cabins open)
LA BELLE EPOQUE: Guided Walking Tours (October 9, 2011: opened new week 5 cabins open as October 16 & 23 are completely booked up!) no additional supplement

French Hotel Barge L'Impressionniste - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

These barging vacations are fully crewed and all-inclusive:

Six nights' accommodation on board in an air-conditioned, en-suite cabin.
The services of an experienced Captain / Host, Chef, Housekeeper(s), Driver/Tour Guide.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner aboard. A local lunch ashore, once per week on most barges.
An excellent selection of fine regional and international wines and spirits, plus an all day open bar, tea and coffee.
Daily excursions by chauffeured minivan and inclusive entry fees to castles, vineyards, markets and other local places of interest.
Use of barge facilities such as bicycles, boules, barge library and on certain vessels, a spa pool.
Return transfers to and from local meeting/drop off point.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

French Barge AMARYLLIS Grand Cru Wine Tour & Barging Cruise, Burgundy France: UPDATE

2011-04-26T09:39:00.001-04:00

AVAILABILITY UPDATE:

As of April 26th, there are only TWO cabins available for the first week and

the second week is fully booked.

ATTENTION LOVERS OF FINE WINES: The French Hotel Barge Amaryllis has devoted two special weeks this summer to a Grands Cru Wine Cruise. Taste the 33 Grand Crus of Burgundy.

This would be an excellent gift for Mother's Day or Father's Day!

Join Amaryllis on a 6-night cruise and experience this unique opportunity for the wine connoisseur to taste the 33 Grand Crus of Burgundy, including Bonne Mares, Montrachet and Romanée Conti. No need to book the whole boat as it is open on an individual cabin, shared charter basis.

RATES and DATES:

$10,000/person, double occupancy (i.e. $20,000/cabin)
July 17-23, 2011 (St Leger - Dijon) and ~~July 24-30, 2011 (Dijon - St Leger)~~

What’s included:

6 nights' accommodation on board Amaryllis
Breakfast, lunch & candlelit dinner each day
Refreshments on board after excursions
Wine with meals, liqueurs and bar drinks on board
Sightseeing excursions, including entrance fees
Wine expert
Use of bicycles
Air-conditioned vehicle with guide for sightseeing
All transfers as described in the itinerary
Return TGV between Paris and the Amaryllis

View the itinerary: Burgundy Grands Cru Wine Cruise

French Hotel Barge Amaryllis - Barging in Burgundy France

Travel in superb comfort on the luxury barge Amaryllis, where you will enjoy the delightful scenery and culture of Burgundy at a very relaxed pace. The wines that you will come to enjoy during the cruise are the heart and soul of the region, and have an honored place in the wine cellars and at the dinner tables of wine lovers all over the world.

The 8-passenger, 6-crew, ultradeluxe French Barge Amaryllis is one of the finest river cruisers in Europe, with all the amenities of a luxury hotel and the ambience of a country inn. You will cruise the Burgundy countryside in exceptional style. The air conditioned interior is traditionally French with contemporary touches set off by Louis XVI and XV antiques. Amaryllis has been decorated by some of the most respected names in France and Italy.

Domaine Ponsot

Cruise along the Canal de Bourgogne, River Saône, and the Canal du Centre as you wind your way through the famous wine region between Dijon and Saint-Léger-sur-Dheune.

Be sure to look at our supplemental web page for more information about places you'll see on this special wine tour cruise: REGIONS: Burgundy, Grands Crus

AVAILABILITY UPDATE:

As of April 26th, there are only TWO cabins available for the first week and

the second week is fully booked.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book AMARYLLIS
View Amaryllis's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges & barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Tulip photos - Dutch Tulip Barging Cruises - Book Now

2011-04-25T16:50:00.001-04:00

Today's online Daily Mail (a UK Newspaper) has some wonderful photos in a story about the tulip fields of Holland.

Read the article: The stunning tulip fields that look like they have been created with a giant pack of crayons... and they're a tourist attraction too - By MATT BLAKE

We have two barges in Holland, each with one week available in the beginning of May, so we can still arrange your Dutch Tulip Barge Cruise if you are quick :)

May 1-7, 2011: La Nouvelle Etoile Brochure - Tulip Cruise Itinerary
May 8-14, 2011: Savoir Faire Brochure - Tulip Cruise Itinerary

These weeks are completely open so they are available for private charter or on a shared cruise with individual cabin bookings.

Go Barging in Holland this spring!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging vacation holiday
Visit our website for more information on our barges and barging : www.BargeCharters.com

Luxury Crewed French Hotel Barges - Barging Cruises in France, England, Scotland, Ireland, Holland, Italy, Germany

2011-04-23T00:33:00.014-04:00

For a selection of luxury crewed hotel barges we represent, please visit our web site, view our blog, read our monthly barging newsletter, or contact us!

Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE: Cabin Cruise Weeks Update

2011-04-23T00:01:00.001-04:00

The French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE, who cruises along the Canal de Bourgogne in southern Burgundy, has opened up a new cabin cruise week (shared charter).

French Hotel Barge Savoir Vivre - Barging in France

Barge Cruises in Southern Burgundy, France along the Canal de Bourgogne

Savoir Vivre currently has designated cabin weeks for:

July 31-August 6, 2011: 2 cabins available
September 18-24, 2011: BOOKED
NEW ==> October 16-22, 2011: 2 cabins on hold & 2 cabins available

If you are a party of 4 and are willing to share the boat with 4 others, inquire about dates and we might be able to open up another cabin week for your group.

RATES, 6 nights:

Individual Cabin Bookings, Shared Charter:

$3000/person, double occupancy
$5000/person, single occupancy

Private Charter:

6 guests:$22,000
7 guests: $23,000
8 guests: $24,000

There are still a few weeks open for a private barge charter... but hurry, they won't last long!

See our previous post about Savoir Vivre. See our online brochure for Savoir Vivre & contact us.

SAVOIR VIVRE: Ability to live life well and with intelligent enjoyment, meeting every situation with poise, good manners, and elegance. Etymology: French, to know (how) to live.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SAVOIR VIVRE
View Savoir Vivre's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge EMMA - Land & Sea Package, Surf & Turf

2011-04-22T11:02:00.005-04:00

INTRODUCING TWO LOVELY LADIES, EMMA and VERONIQUE

French Hotel Barge EMMA --- Domaine La Véronique

EXCITING NEW VACATION OPPORTUNITY IN FRANCE FOR JUNE, JULY, & AUGUST 2011

Combine a 4-night cruise aboard the luxury crewed hotel barge EMMA on the Canal du Midi in the south of France and 3 nights in a luxurious Languedocian farmhouse nestling in the vineyards.

This is a unique opportunity to experience two vacations in one week. How? Read on...

For the first portion (Saturday afternoon through Wednesday morning), guests will be cruising along the Canal du Midi aboard the luxury crewed hotel barge “Emma” in the company of husband and wife team Liz and René Jacquot, ably assisted by their friendly crew of Rosie and Annette. This will then be followed by 3 days (Wednesday afternoon through Saturday morning) with husband and wife team Peter and Sally Shaw, in their beautiful home, “Domaine La Véronique”, set in the rolling vineyards and olive groves of Puisserguier.

Guests will receive a unique experience, with wonderful food and wine, combining the authenticity of France without sacrificing any creature comforts. You can be assured that you will be looked after by a team of professionals with 20 years' experience dedicated to providing you with the vacation of a lifetime.

WHAT IS INCLUDED?

Pick up on Saturday afternoon from nearest train or airport, and drop off the following Saturday morning
Accommodation for 7 nights with gourmet meals, excellent wines and an open bar
Guided excursions to discover the history and life of the Languedoc with English/French speaking guides
Use of bicycles on the barge
Use of the swimming pool at La Véronique. And route maps for walking

A FEW EXCURSION HIGHLIGHTS

Narbonne: steeped in Roman history, the Via Domitia and underground tunnels; the12th Century Cathedral; and not forgetting its covered daily market, renowned for its fresh Mediterranean produce.
Minerve: with its pre-historic and Cathar history, in its breath-taking location in the gorges of the Cesse and Brian surrounded by the garrigue smelling of wild rosemary and thyme, buzzing with honey bees.
Pezenas: a trade fair center from Medieval times and an important cultural center from the 16th century, with its history of Molière, wonderful architecture and doorways, makes a stunning visit. Shopper’s delight!
Carcassonne: La Cité, the largest and best preserved medieval town in Europe, with its huge ramparts, amazing towers, and wonderful castle. It’s a fairytale village!!

UNIQUE POINTS OF THE TRIP

Eight days / Seven nights – Saturday to Saturday
Two different chefs preparing gourmet regional food
Two spectacular settings
Possible optional extras:

Cooking workshops with Peter Shaw at La Véronique, as an alternative to (or in combination with) excursions
Golf at the nearby St Thomas golf club in Beziers
Horse riding at Puisserguier
Canoeing/ kayaking on the River Orb
Additional nights at Domaine La Véronique can be negotiated

PRICES: 7 nights

Accommodation is based on double occupancy. All bedrooms have en-suite bathrooms.
6 guests: $26,000
4 guests: $24,000

FRENCH BARGE EMMA

The French Hotel Barge EMMA is owned and operated by Liz and René Jacquot and have two additional crew members, Rosie & Annette. They cruise along the Canal du Midi in the south of France between Beziers & Carcassonne and Carcassonne & Toulouse.

EMMA is fully air conditioned and also has central heating, if needed. There are three guest cabins; one has a queen bed, while the other two can be configured as either queens or twins. Beautiful handmade Irish quilts from Oonagh Morisson add that extra touch of luxury. Each guest cabin has its own private, ensuite bathroom with sink, toilet and a normal sized shower with sliding doors. The interior is bright and spacious with beautiful arched double glazed windows which give you a good view of the outside countryside whilst cruising. The French oak furniture has been hand made by a master craftsman and the whole effect is warm and inviting.

EMMA has a spacious upper deck (385 square feet) with tables, chairs, and loungers. Shade from the sun, too, if you want it. This is a marvelous vantage point to see the wonderful countryside and a great place to enjoy cocktails before dinner. Later on, view the stars and set the world to right. And, of course, EMMA has bicycles and a minivan to chauffeur you to various excursions.

DOMAINE LA VERONIQUE

Peter and Sally Shaw invite you to enjoy their entire property Domaine La Véronique, a beautiful stone built farmhouse with an acre of land, and beautiful 360º views across vineyards and out to the Pyrenees.

Peter & Sally are well-known in the barging community as they used to charter their barge, La Tortue. Peter Shaw is an excellent and highly respected chef.

Véronique has three beautiful guests rooms with en-suite bathrooms, and each bedroom can be made up as a king size double bed or as twin beds. The ground-floor bedroom has wheelchair access. There is a comfortable living room (with grand piano, TV, sound system and WIFI internet access), a dining area and an immaculate kitchen.

Outside there is a wonderful swimming pool with beach area for easy access; several sitting areas with views over the countryside; terraces with tables for al fresco dining; and a boulodrome. You can walk straight from the Domaine into the countryside, up in to the hills or down in to the valley. It is the ideal setting for a quiet walk or a relaxing dip in the swimming pool.

Book soon while there is still good availability for this summer, especially since we will have to coordinate the two venues.

REMINDER: Paradise Connections has a special gift for June 2011 bookings. See HERE.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book EMMA
View Emma's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge ALEGRIA - Shared Cruise Week Available

2011-04-14T11:24:00.001-04:00

The French Hotel Barge ALEGRIA, a luxurious 4-guest barge cruising the Canal du Midi, has a couple who is looking for another couple to book the other cabin for October 1-7, 2011.

Cruise the canal du midi aboard the luxurious French Hotel Barge Alegria

The 4-guest rate is $21,000 so splitting the cost between the two parties would mean that you would be able to have a week aboard Alegria for $10,500 for your cabin. Excellent!

But, if you wish to book the whole boat for this week, this is possible too. First come, first served :)

Another interesting opportunity for Alegria is a 3-night Discovery Cruise, July 26-29, 2011. The charter price for this cruise is $12,880 for 4 guests.

If you wish a barging cruise aboard Alegria this season, you better hurry as there are only a few open weeks:

July 9-15
July 26-29 (3 night Discovery Cruise)
October 1-7 (Shared or Private Charter)
October 15-21 (Value Season = $18,400 for 4 guests)
October 22-28 (Value Season = $18,400 for 4 guests)

Congratulations, Olivier for your already successful upcoming third season and we hope that Paradise Connections will complete your calendar!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book ALEGRIA
View Alegria's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges & barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge PROSPERITE: Updates

2011-04-13T23:25:00.000-04:00

We have updated our online brochure for the French Hotel Barge PROSPERITE.

French Hotel Barge PROSPERITE - Barging in France

Luxury Crewed Barging Cruises in Burgundy

We have added a "Food & Wine" page with sample lunch and dinner menus, along with a wine list.

We also uploaded new itinerary pages... one for each direction:

Prospérité has a cabin week available October 2-8, 2011 for a shared barging cruise. There are currently THREE cabins open. Price: $12,500/cabin (i.e. $6250/person, double occupancy).

Prosperite has other charter weeks available... Inquire!

Prospérité accommodates up to 8 guests in 4 suites, which can be configured as doubles or twins, with sitting area and desk, each having their own private ensuite bathroom. Prospérité is fully air conditioned and also has central heating when necessary, hot tub on the sundeck, bicycles, air conditioned minivan for excursions...

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book PROSPÉRITÉ
View Prospérité's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

FETE DE LA MUSIQUE - June 21st - France

2011-04-10T11:49:00.009-04:00

Tuesday, June 21st, is Fête de la Musique day in France, but the festivities normally start up a few days beforehand with free street concerts everywhere. One year we saw Joan Baez singing on a stage set up at the Place de la Concorde in Paris!

To celebrate this festive occasion, we will send you and the other member(s) of your barging party a gift for any French hotel barge booking taking place in June 2011 (either a cabin booking or a private whole-barge charter)... See our iPod Shuffle Giveaway post for details!

Many of the French hotel barges are fully booked for the week but luckily there are still a few openings (June 19-25, 2011):

L'ART DE VIVRE - up to 8 guests
Availability: 1 cabin open
Route: Northern Burgundy: Canal du Nivernais - Auxerre to Clamecy
Brochure: http://www.bargecharters.com/barges/art-de-vivre/index.html
CLAIR DE LUNE - up to 6 guests
Availability: Fully Open - 3 cabins
Route: Canal du Midi: Beziers - Carcassonne
Brochure: http://www.clairdelune.ws/
EMMA - up to 6 guests
Availability: Fully Open - 3 cabins
Route: Canal du Midi: Beziers - Carcassonne
Brochure: http://www.bargecharters.com/barges/emma/index.html
LA REINE PEDAUQUE - up to 8 guests - wheelchair accessible
Availability: Fully Open - 4 cabins
Route: Southern Burgundy: Canal de Bourgogne - Dijon to Vandenesse
Brochure: http://www.bargecharters.com/barges/reine-pedauque/index.html
RENAISSANCE - up to 8 guests
Availability: 2 cabins open
Route: Upper Loire/ Burgundy: Canal de Briare - Montargis to Chatillon-sur-Loire
Special offer: Book before April 31, 2011 and receive a $2000/cabin discount
Brochure: http://www.bargecharters.com/barges/renaissance/index.html
SAINT LOUIS - up to 6 guests
Availability: 1 cabin open
Route: Canal de la Garonne: Agen to Montauban
Brochure: http://www.bargecharters.com/barges/saint-louis/index.html
SAVOIR VIVRE - up to 8 guests
Availability: Fully open: 4 cabins
Route: Southern Burgundy: Canal de Bourgogne - Fleurey-sur-Ouche to Vandenesse en Auxois
Brochure: http://www.bargecharters.com/barges/savoir-vivre/index.html

Unfortunately, the official Fête de la Musique website is not working today but should be soon... Here's the link: http://fetedelamusique.culture.fr

Remember to check out our iPod Shuffle Giveaway for June 2011 Barging in France vacations.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

iPod Shuffle Giveaway - French hotel barge cruises June 2011

2011-04-10T11:49:00.004-04:00

Fête de la Musique day (June 21st) is one of our favorite French holidays and we hope to be anchored in one of the French islands in the Caribbean... Perhaps Jimmy Buffett will show up in St Barths and do an impromtu gig! He could sing He Went to Paris and perhaps Last Mango in Paris :)

Confirm your June 2011 French hotel barge cruise and get a FREE 2GB iPod Shuffle... or two... or three... or four... or more...

We'll send each person in your party (whether a cabin booking of 2, or a private charter booking for 12, for example) a handy gift to enjoy on your barging vacation...

Antoine, Charles Aznavour, Jane Birkin & Serge Gainsbourg, Jacques Brel, Patrick Bruel, Maurice Chevalier, Mylène Farmer, Claude François, Charlotte Gainsbourg, Serge Gainsbourg, Johnny Hallyday, Indochine, Kassav, Claudine Longet, Eddy Mitchell, Vanessa Paradis, Édith Piaf, Sheila, Téléphone, Zouzou.

Enjoy!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

Hotel Barges: Current special offers Barging Cruises (April 2011)

2011-04-08T12:12:00.001-04:00

CURRENT SPECIAL OFFERS FOR 2011 HOTEL BARGES - BARGING VACATIONS & CRUISES

French Hotel Barge ENCHANTE

Barging cruises on the Canal du Midi in the south of France

It's April... Spring & Barging Season is here! We lived on the French canals for years and definitely recommend a barging cruise. We hope you can take advantage of one or more (you can have more than one vacation!) of these special offers.

French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

Click on the Barge's name to view their online brochure.

2011 season : Special offers for Full-Boat, PRIVATE CHARTERS (expired April 29, 2011)

2011 season: Special offers for CABIN BOOKINGS, Shared-boat charters (expires April 29, 2011)

MORE SPECIAL OFFERS / SPECIAL EVENTS:

See current special offers valid for May 2011: HERE

Conditions
Barges normal Terms & Conditions apply.
Some cruises may require a minimum of 4 passengers booked to guarantee the cruise.
These special offers are subject to availability, apply to new bookings only and cannot be used in conjunction with other offers.
Credit card payments on all offers carry a 2% surcharge (no charge for debit cards).

French Hotel Barge L'Impressionniste - Barging in France - Canal de Bourgogne

These barging vacations are fully crewed and all-inclusive:

Six nights' accommodation on board in an air-conditioned, en-suite cabin.
The services of an experienced Captain / Host, Chef, Housekeeper(s), Driver/Tour Guide.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner aboard. A local lunch ashore, once per week on most barges.
An excellent selection of fine regional and international wines and spirits, plus an all day open bar, tea and coffee.
Daily excursions by chauffeured minivan and inclusive entry fees to castles, vineyards, markets and other local places of interest.
Use of barge facilities such as bicycles, boules, barge library and on certain vessels, a spa pool.
Return transfers to and from local meeting/drop off point.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

New French Canal for 2016 Paris-Cambrai France

2011-04-08T09:41:00.002-04:00

I just read on the PBO (Practical Boat Owner magazine) website that:

"Western Europe's biggest engineering project since the Channel Tunnel was given the green light on Tuesday when President Nicholas Sarkozy announced France's scheme to link Paris to Cambrai in northern France by a 66-mile long, 54m-wide canal."

You can read the whole article here: Paris-North Sea canal confirmed, by Elizabeth Paine.

Paris is "A" and Cambrai is "B" --- Click image to enlarge

It is scheduled to open in 2016... only 5 years... BOOK NOW :)

UPDATE:

I just did a "google" and found a couple of articles from UK newspapers that are more informative:

The Independent: Sarkozy sets date for his mega-canal but promises it won't touch war graves
By John Lichfield in Paris -- 6 April 2011. They are a bit more pessimistic with 2020 being the completion date.

The Daily Mail: French link two rivers with £3.9bn supercanal so boats will be able to sail from Dunkirk to Paris -- 7 April 2011. This has a map of the Seine-Scheldt link.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

New Guided Walking Tour & Barging Cruise Week Scheduled Aboard La Belle Epoque

2011-04-07T22:34:00.002-04:00

The French Hotel Barge LA BELLE EPOQUE offered two Guided Walking Tour & Barging Cruises in Burgundy France this season (October 16th and 23rd departures). We noticed yesterday that BOTH weeks are now fully booked and we were sad that we could no longer offer this barging trip to you.

BUT DON'T DESPAIR !!!

Barging & Walking in Burgundy, France - A wonderful combination

La Belle Epoque has opened up a new week in their schedule for another Guided Walking Tour & Barging Cruise in Burgundy, France.

October 9-15, 2011

This charter week was priced as a "regular season" but La Belle Epoque is offering the same special cabin cruise for the same special "value season" rate, plus there is no additional supplement for this guided tour.

RATES:
Junior Suite: $4550/person, double occupancy
Suite: $4750/person, double occupancy

You can view the full itinerary for the Guided Walking Tour cruise on La Belle Epoque's brochure.

The French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque - Barging in France

This all-inclusive deluxe barge is 128 feet long, has two levels, a crew of 5 or 6, and accommodates up to 13 guests in 7 cabins, each with private, ensuite bathrooms. La Belle Epoque has been designed with both elegance and passenger comfort in mind with their air conditioning & central heating, and evidenced by the wood panelled saloon and dining room, The two sundecks have steamer chairs, recliners, parasols, a large dining table, plus a Jacuzzi spa pool.

Sounds good? Contact Paradise Connections and let's get started. As you can see, this is a very popular cruise and it books up quickly. Don't miss this opportunity!

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book LA BELLE EPOQUE
View La Belle Epoque's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges & barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Take a Spring Break: Barging Cabin Cruises April/May 2011

2011-04-05T18:31:00.002-04:00

Want to take a Spring Break but not sure what to do and where to go... Well, here's something to definitely consider... Book a cabin on a shared barging cruise week. No need to get a group together and you'll get to meet some new people, too.

We have listed Hotel Barges that currently have open cabins available for April & May 2011. There are other weeks open for private charters that are not listed here. If you are interested in a private charter, or if you'd like to know about availability for other months, just ask :)

CABIN WEEKS CURRENTLY AVAILABLE (as of April 5, 2011)

Click on the barge's name to view their online brochure

April 2011: Individual Cabin Bookings / Shared Barging Cruises

10-16: La Nouvelle Etoile: Holland (2 cabins open)
10-16: Magna Carta: England, River Thames (1 cabin open)

17-23: Enchante: France, Canal du Midi (1 cabin open)
17-23: Hirondelle: France, Burgundy (3 cabins open)
17-23: Shannon Princess: Ireland, River Shannon (1 cabin open)
17-23: La Bella Vita: Italy, Venice (4 cabins open)

23-29: Emma: France, Canal du Midi (2 cabins open)

24-30: Fleur-de-Lys: France, Burgundy (1 cabin open)
24-30: Hirondelle: France, Burgundy (1 cabin open)
24-30: Napoleon: France, Provence (3 cabins open)
24-30: Rosa: France, Gascony (2 cabins open)
24-30: Magna Carta: England, River Thames (2 cabins open)

May 2011: Individual Cabin Bookings / Shared Barging Cruises

1-7: Hirondelle: France, Burgundy (2 cabins open)
1-7: L'Impressionniste: France, Burgundy (1 single cabin open)
1-7: Shannon Princess: Ireland, River Shannon (3 cabins open)

8-14: Fleur de Lys: France, Burgundy (1 cabin open)
8-14: Scottish Highlander: Scotland, Caledonian Canal (1 cabin open)

15-21: Enchante: France, Canal du Midi (1 cabin open)
15-21: Hirondelle: France, Burgundy (1 cabin open)
15-21: L'Impressionniste: France, Burgundy (2 cabins open)
15-21: La Bella Vita: Italy, Venice (6 cabins open)
15-21: Magna Carta: England, River Thames (1 cabin open)

21-27: Saint Louis: France, Gascony (2 cabins open)

22-28: La Belle Epoque: France, Burgundy (3 cabins open)
22-28: Hirondelle: France, Burgundy (2 cabin open)
22-28: L'Impressionniste: France, Burgundy (4 cabins open)
22-28: Renaissance: France, Burgundy/Upper Loire (2 cabins open)
22-28: Rosa: France, Gascony (1 cabin open)
22-28: Shannon Princess: Ireland, River Shannon (2 cabins open)

29-June 4: Anjodi: France, Canal du Midi (1 cabin open)
29-June 4: La Belle Epoque: France, Burgund (1 cabin open)
29-June 4: Hirondelle: France, Burgundy (2 cabin open)
29-June 4: Savoir Faire: France, Paris-Auxerre (2 cabins open)
29-June 4: Scottish Highlander: Scotland, Caledonian Canal (2 cabins open)

Can't do a Spring Break? That's OK, ask us about Summer and Autumn availability.

Remember:

Shannon Princess has a Guided Walking Tour Cruise open for cabin bookings: June 26 - July 2, 2011. See itinerary.
Amaryllis: Grand Cru Cruise, open for cabin bookings: July 17-23 and July 24-30, 2011. See itinerary.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

Spring Dutch Tulip Cruises - Barging in Holland

2011-04-02T15:46:00.001-04:00

We only have a few openings left for Dutch Tulip Cruises this spring:

April 10-16: La Nouvelle Etoile (2 cabins open)
May 1-7: La Nouvelle Etoile (full boat, private charter)
May 8-14: Savoir Faire (full boat, private charter)

Not much time, so book soon!

See our online brochures:

La Nouvelle Etoile: BROCHURE
Savoir Faire: BROCHURE

For more information about what you may see on a Barging in Holland cruise, CLICK HERE

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barging holiday
For more information on our barges and barging, visit our website : www.BargeCharters.com

Hotel Barge SAVOIR FAIRE - Cabin Bookings Available

2011-03-29T09:43:00.001-04:00

The Hotel Barge SAVOIR FAIRE currently has a few weeks open for individual cabin bookings where you share the barge with other guests.

The Hotel Barge SAVOIR FAIRE - Barging Cruises in Holland & France

Weeks open for cabin bookings, 2011:

May 29 - June 4: Paris to Auxerre - 3 cabins open ($1000 off/cabin, expires April 1, 2011)
June 5-11: Auxerre to Ancy-le-Franc - 1 cabin open
Sept 4-10: Ancy-le-Franc to Auxerre - 3 cabins open
Oct 2-8: Ancy-le-Franc to Auxerre - 4 cabins open

September is a VERY popular month for barging, so that week of Sept 4-10 will certainly not last long!

SAVOIR FAIRE has one week open in Holland for private charter for May 8-14 (Haarlem-Haarlem) which is a wonderful time for a Dutch Tulip Cruise (see previous post, see itinerary). There is currently (expires April 1, 2011) a special offer for a 25% discount off normal 10 & 12 guest charter rates for that week... INQUIRE!

The Hotel Barge Savoir Faire is fully air conditioned (central heat, too!) and accommodates up to 12 guests in 6 well-appointed staterooms. Each stateroom can be configured with two twin beds or with one queen bed, and has ensuite private bathrooms. Each guest stateroom has a DVD player with an LCD screen and 2 sets of wireless headphones. The salon, dining area, and bar are finished in mahogany, teak and brass, decorated with antiques and paintings collected over the years.

If you are interested in other weeks, just let us know and we will check current availability for you. SAVOIR FAIRE cruises in France (see itineraries) between May 29 and Oct 15. They then reposition back to Holland with October 16-22, Paris to Ghent, and October 23-29 from Ghent to Haarlem.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SAVOIR FAIRE
View Savoir Faire's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Barge PROSPERITE now open for 4th July week

2011-03-28T13:57:00.000-04:00

The luxury crewed French hotel barge PROSPERITE has had a cancellation and is now available for the week of July 4th (July 3-9, 2011).

French Hotel Barge PROSPÉRITÉ - Barging vacations in France

6 guests: $47,400
7 guests: $48,650
8 guests: $49,900

Wouldn't this be a fabulous week for a family charter?

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book PROSPÉRITÉ
View Prospérité's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

RECIPE: Wild Garlic & Nettle Soup - Shannon Princess, Ireland

2011-03-22T00:40:00.002-04:00

I find this recipe very intriguing. When we lived along the various canals of France, I often found myself a bit too up-close and personal with nettles (ortie, in French).

This recipe is from the Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess.

WILD GARLIC & NETTLE SOUP

Ingredients:

1 large bunch of nettles
1 large bunch of Wild garlic
2 medium potatoes, diced
2 medium onions, roughly chopped
1 stick celery, sliced into small pieces
2 cups (1 pint) stock
1 cups (½ pint) milk or creamy milk for extra richness.
Small knob of butter
Salt and pepper

Garnish:

Cream or Natural yogurt
Wild garlic flowers

Method:

Wash the nettles & wild garlic in cold water and drain. Pat dry with a clean towel.
Melt the butter in a saucepan over a medium temperature and add the onions, nettles, celery and potato. Stir to coat mixture with butter and ’sweat’ them in the saucepan for about 5 minutes.
Now add the Wild garlic - just one minute before the rest of the ingredients are done. The nettles should be just wilted.
Pour the stock and the milk into the saucepan, bring to the boil then reduce the heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes.
Pour into a blender and zap. Season to taste with salt and pepper.
Serve garnished with cream or natural yogurt, and heads of wild garlic, accompanied by crusty sodabread.

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess II - Barging in Ireland

Barge Cruises along the Shannon River, Ireland

Visit Ireland and enjoy seeing the sights and soaking up the Irish culture with Ruairi & Olivia, owner-operators of the Barge Shannon Princess, along with their attentive crew. The barge accommodates up to 10 guests in 5 cabins which can be configured as either doubles or twins, as you prefer. Shannon Princess is available for private charters and individual cabin booking for shared charter weeks.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SHANNON PRINCESS
View Shannon Princess's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE: Special offer - Dine at l'Abbaye de la Bussière

2011-03-21T17:06:00.001-04:00

We just received this special offer from the French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE, who cruises the southern region of Burgundy, France.

l'Abbaye de la Bussière

A very special offer:

To demonstrate our commitment to offering new levels of experience and value we are offering dinner in the renowned, Michelin Star-awarded l'Abbaye de la Bussière for our next THREE bookings only. The restaurant needs no introduction, it is arguably the finest in Burgundy and features regularly as a highlight on the itineraries of the finest Ultra-Deluxe barge hotels. The setting is magnificent and the head chef, Emmanuel Hébrard, is a genius. What more can we say!

This is an indulgent and exciting restaurant which significantly enhances our already unique experience. We are delighted to offer it free for our next three full boat charters only.

We hope it will be one (or three!) of our clients who will be rewarded with this opportunity to dine at this wonderful restaurant on their Savoir Vivre charter this season. Book NOW!

See our previous post earlier today for more information about the French Hotel Barge Savoir Vivre.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SAVOIR VIVRE
View Savoir Vivre's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE: Barging Cruises in Burgundy France

2011-03-21T10:29:00.001-04:00

We have updated our online brochure for French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE.

French Hotel Barge Savoir Vivre - Barging in France

Barge Cruises in Southern Burgundy, France

The French Hotel Barge Savoir Vivre offers an all-inclusive crewed barging vacation cruise but with a bit of a difference... They do not have a dedicated on-board chef as crew member. Savoir Vivre has catered lunches aboard prepared by two local chefs, both of which have cooked on top barges in Burgundy. These buffets will be laid out easily and elegantly in Savoir Vivre's "Open Kitchen". All dinners are on shore at local, selected restaurants.

L'Auberge Gourmand - Velars-sur-Ouche, France

You can view further information about this and their 2011 Restaurant Guide on Savoir Vivre's CUISINE page.

Savoir Vivre is a new (completed first full season in 2010), purpose-built hotel barge. Savoir Vivre is 80-feet long, has air conditioning and central heating, and accommodates up to 8 guests in 4 identical cabins which can either be configured as 2 twin beds or 1 queen (your choice).

Entering a lock

Savoir Vivre is accepting cabin bookings this season, as well as private charters.

Please note that September is a VERY popular month and is already booking up across the various barges' calendars, but Savoir Vivre currently has September 4-10 open for a private charter, and September 18-24 open for a cabin booking.

They currently have designated cabin weeks for:

July 31-August 6, 2011: 1 cabin available
September 18-24, 2011: 2 cabins available

RATES, 6 nights:

Individual Cabin Bookings, Shared Charter:

$3000/person, double occupancy
$5000/person, single occupancy

Private Charter:

6 guests:$22,000
7 guests: $23,000
8 guests: $24,000

SAVOIR VIVRE: Ability to live life well and with intelligent enjoyment, meeting every situation with poise, good manners, and elegance. Etymology: French, to know (how) to live.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SAVOIR VIVRE
View Savoir Vivre's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge ST LOUIS: Special Offer MAY 7th

2011-03-15T17:40:00.000-04:00

The French Hotel Barge SAINT LOUIS has a special 15% discount for their May 7-13, 2011 cruise.

French Hotel Barge SAINT LOUIS - Barging in France

Barge Vacations along the Canal de Garonne, Southwest France

SPECIAL RATE:

May 7-13, 2011
Agen to Castets (see itinerary)
Maximum of up to 4 guests: $17,982 (normally $21,156)

Saint Louis cruises the beautiful calm waterways of Southwest France, including the historic lands of Aquitaine and Gascony along the Canal de Garonne. Saint Louis accommodates up to 6 guests in 3 spacious staterooms which can be configured with either queen or twin beds.

Please note that July 30 to August 5th has opened up for a cabin cruise week. There are currently two of the three guest cabins available. This week coincides with the outstanding spectacle called Au Fil de l’Eau (see www.aufildeleau.org for more information about this festival).

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SAINT LOUIS
View Saint Louis's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Guided Walking Tours & Barging Cruise - LA BELLE EPOQUE

2011-03-13T11:00:00.000-04:00

The French Hotel Barge LA BELLE EPOQUE is offering two Guided Walking Tour & Barging Cruises in Burgundy France this season.

Come to Burgundy next Autumn and enjoy La Belle Epoque's

special Walking Tour with like-minded individuals

DATES & AVAILABILITY:

We have two departures in 2011 for this special Guided Walking Tour:

October 16-22 (4 jr suites available, as of March 13, 2011)
October 23-29 (Sorry, fully booked)

Besides the fact that there is no special supplement for this guided tour, both weeks are designated as "VALUE" priced weeks, so you save again!

RATES:

Junior Suite: $4550/person, double occupancy
Suite: $4750/person, double occupancy

You can view the full itinerary for the Guided Walking Tour cruise on La Belle Epoque's brochure.

The difference with this theme cruise is that it is available for individuals or couples to book a cabin and join others on board. No need to charter the whole barge and no extra supplements to pay for the services of the on board professional walking guide.

If you are part of a couple and not as keen about walking as your "better half", pas de problème... There are other activities available if you wish, or you can just chill out on La Belle Epoque and watch the countryside glide by while listening to tunes on your iPod or reading a book in the jacuzzi!

This all-inclusive deluxe barge is 128 feet long, has two levels, a crew of 5 or 6, and accommodates up to 13 guests in 7 cabins, each with private, ensuite bathrooms. La Belle Epoque is fully air conditioned and has central heating. They have two sundecks with steamer chairs, recliners, parasols, a large dining table, plus a Jacuzzi spa pool.

Sounds good? Contact Paradise Connections and let's get started. This is a very popular cruise and it books up quickly. As you can see, the second week is fully booked, and there are already 2 cabins booked for the October 16th departure.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book LA BELLE EPOQUE
View La Belle Epoque's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges & barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Hotel Barge SAVOIR FAIRE: Family Barging Cruise Special Offer

2011-03-12T14:01:00.002-04:00

FAMILY COMES FIRST ABOARD THE SAVOIR FAIRE

And indeed this is a first ever...

Hotel Barge Savoir Faire - Barging in France

Cruise the French canals of Burgundy

For many years now, the Captain and crew of the Savoir Faire have enjoyed a steady increase in family charters aboard this splendid vessel and exceptional reviews. With far more public areas than many other barges, you need never feel crowded. Find a quiet corner, relax and enjoy the peace and beauty of the countryside as we gently glide past historical villages and delightful views.

Our family cruises are designed with your family in mind. We have, in addition to our marvellous itinerary, a multitude of offerings for children of all ages. Each day has been created to ensure that there's never a dull moment. This is one vacation that your children and grandchildren will remember forever.

For 2011 we are offering a spectacular opportunity to enjoy the very best of family barging.

2011 SUMMER FAMILY CHARTER DATES:

June 26 - July 2
July 3-9
July 10-16
July 17-23
July 24-30

FAMILY CHARTER SPECIAL RATE:

This offer has expired. See 2012.

Some of the activities we have planned for you:

- SOPHIE'S SIZZLING PIZZA SESSION

What fun! Learn how to make that perfect dough, choose your own toppings, into the oven and presto! - a pizza all of your own for lunch and we'll officially name it on our Blog. Let us film you making it and we'll post it for all your friends to see.

- COOKIE COMPETITION

Learn how to cook the best cookies ever. Create a new recipe with the chef and wow all your friends and family with your very own invention.

- POPCORN & MOVIE NIGHT

Snuggle up in front of a great movie with a big bowl of popcorn. Our lounge is perfect for this. A big screen, cozy chairs. A real snug family evening in.

- TREE CLIMBING & PICNIC

A marvellous experience high above. Explore the treetops and let the monkey out. This is something all your friends will want to know about. Relax afterwards with one of Sophie's Summer Picnics - a basket full of surprises!
(Please note that there is an additional charge for tree climbing)

- BBQ NIGHT

If the weather's bright, let's do it right. Give the chef a hand to prepare your favorite BBQ meal. Let's dine alfresco, enjoy the fresh air and watch the sunset.

- PIRATE TREASURE HUNT

A pirate afternoon making pirate hats, colour in or draw pirate ships, bake pirate-themed biscuits, followed by our Treasure Hunt for children and adults alike. Search out the clues on your map and discover the hidden treasure.

- FAMILY QUIZ NIGHT

Form your team and answer questions on general knowledge, music, sports, etc. A prize awarded to the winning team.

- GLASS PAINTING

Ruth is a qualified signwriter and her hobby is glass painting. She loves to teach people to paint designs on wine glasses. What a great souvenir from your vacation. Water-based glass paints are very safe for children to use and, if baked in the oven, are permanent. T-shirt painting could also be an option for children.

- NAPKIN FOLDING

Interested in making that next meal with your friends a little different? Take a napkin and our stewardesses will show you how to fold them into simple, yet impressive, designs.

- PETANQUE & PASTIS (or fruit juice) with the crew

Learn how to master this marvellous game, so beloved by the French and a mystery to others :)

- COOKING DEMONSTRATIONS

Your chef demonstrates how to make a regional speciality with your help and answers any questions. The finished dish is then eaten as part of lunch or dinner.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SAVOIR FAIRE
View Savoir Faire's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Ireland Guided Walking Tour & Barging Cruise, Summer 2011

2011-03-09T13:08:00.000-04:00

The Irish Hotel Barge SHANNON PRINCESS II invites you aboard for their

SUMMER SOLSTICE WALKING CRUISE
June 26 - July 2, 2011

There are still a few cabins available for the dedicated Guided Walking Tour barging cruise scheduled for Sunday, June 26 through Saturday July 2, 2011. This week is available for individual cabin bookings and on offer at regular 2011 cruise rates (US$4200/person, double occupancy) with no additional supplement for the tour guide.

Embrace the luxury and comfort of barging along with the satisfaction and exhilaration of quality guided walking tours in a unique & beautiful environment that only Ireland’s River Shannon can offer.

Shannon Princess provides the perfect floating vista for your Irish walking adventure. Walks are guided by professional walking guides, all with backgrounds in archaeology, history, natural science, and, of course, a smattering of local knowledge. Their luxury minibus and driver is in attendance on all walks, allowing walkers the freedom to extend walks or return to the barge at their wish.

Routes will typically vary between 14-20 km, or a 3 to 4-hour period. With undulating routes, many of the walks are areas of special environmental preservation. Enjoy alfresco gourmet lunch and refreshments catered by the barge crew and their support vehicle.

Irish Hotel Barge SHANNON PRINCESS II - Shannon River Cruises in Ireland

The all-inclusive boutique hotel barge SHANNON PRINCESS accommodates up to 10 guests in 5 ensuite staterooms and cruises the lower Shannon River in Ireland between Athlone & Killaloe.

Click Map to Enlarge

Walks include:

The Tain Trail
The Pilgrim's Path
The Slieve Bloom Way
The East Clare Way
The Graves of the Leinstermen

Learn more about this cruise. Read our newly updated Guided Walking Tour itinerary for the Shannon Princess II.

Guided Walking Tour cruises are also available for private, full-boat charters throughout the season.

We had a couple aboard Shannon Princess for the June 2010 Guided Walking Tour trip. They emailed us from the boat:

"...having the best time imaginable! I will write more about the experience when we get home, but I can't imagine ever topping this!"

Experience barging in Ireland this year.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SHANNON PRINCESS
View Shannon Princess's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge ROSA: Barging in France - Gascony

2011-03-09T12:52:00.001-04:00

If you watched the very successful BBC television series, French Odyssey with Celebrity Chef Rick Stein, a few years ago, you have already seen the French Hotel Barge ROSA. Well, after being beautifully refurbished by her new owners in 2010, she is ready for her first full season in her new guise.

French Hotel Barge Rosa - Barging in France - Gascony / Bordeaux

Barge cruises along the Canal des Deux Mers between Agen and Montauban

Rosa's route from Agen to Montauban on the Canal des Deux Mers in Gascony, a delightful waterway that links the Atlantic to the Mediterranean, features the best that the region has to offer: private wine, Armagnac and foie gras tastings, delightful French countryside, and fascinating excursions.

Rosa's charming accommodation for eight guests features two double and two twin-bedded staterooms, all with private ensuite bathrooms, and a redesigned saloon that gives direct access onto the spacious sundeck. A cruise on Rosa is the ideal way to explore this beautiful, pastoral region of Southwest France. It's easy to get there too, as there are convenient transfers from nearby Toulouse.

Click map to enlarge

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS:

Visits to historic Montauban & picturesque Auvillar
Negotiate the amazing inclined water plane at Montauban
Wine, Armagnac and foie gras tastings
Visit to Moissac and its ancient abbey
Traverse a 1000-foot aqueduct
Gastronomic dinner ashore
Explore the wines of Bordeaux with the guidance of your knowledgeable crew

Barge ROSA is available for individual cabin bookings and private charters from March 6 through November 12 for the 2011 season. ROSA has a regular and value season rates.

Book your April, May, or June 2011 cruise before April 1, 2011 and benefit from ROSA's special offer. See details HERE.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book ROSA
View Rosa's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

Irish Barge Shannon Princess - Bike Cycling Tours - New for 2011

2011-03-07T09:40:00.000-04:00

More good news from the Irish Hotel Barge SHANNON PRINCESS II...

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess - Guided Bike Touring Cycling Cruises
Barging in Ireland - Cruising the River Shannon

Olivia owner-operator of the Shannon Princess, told us that she's been working like a mad woman researching the area in regards to putting together an itinerary for a cycling tour. She has spent the past weeks driving, cycling, and visiting the route, as well as talking to guides and tour operators.

Her hard work has paid off... The Shannon Princess is now offering guided bike/ cycling tours with personal cycling guide, along with their luxury minibus as backup vehicle. Cycle through a series of quintessentially Irish landscapes: slow rivers, green hills, charming villages, and meandering country lanes. An ideal way to explore country estates and villages. Bicycle upgrades available on request.

We appreciate Olivia's efforts and she has put together a super itinerary. See Shannon Princess's bike touring itinerary HERE.

Some more good news? This guided cycling tour will be at no extra charge. That's right; no additional supplement for the guided tour... just the normal charter fee for groups of 6-10 guests.

Cruise & Cycle Barge Trip Highlights :

The hospitality and gourmet dining of boutique hotel barge Shannon Princess
Cruise & cycle with your personal cycling guide, along with the luxury minibus as backup vehicle.
Cycle through a series of quintessentially Irish landscapes: slow rivers, green hills, charming villages, and meandering country lanes.
Soak up fascinating traditions, visit historic sites and enjoy lively riverside culture.
A private whiskey tasting.
A private chocolate tasting.
Visit to a local cheese maker
No additional supplement for the guided cycling tour cruise, unless an upgrade in bicycles is requested.

Visit the Emerald Isle aboard the Irish hotel barge Shannon Princess II and cruise between Athlone and Killaloe along the River Shannon. Shannon Princess accommodates up to 10 guests in 5 cabins which can be configured as either doubles or twins, as you prefer.

Oh yes, can you stand some more good news? Book your 2011 Shannon Princess cruise by St Patrick's Day (March 17, 2011) and Paradise Connections will give each member of your barging group a free 2GB iPod Shuffle. See details HERE.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book SHANNON PRINCESS
View Shannon Princess's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com

French Hotel Barge LA BELLE EPOQUE - 2011 season

2011-03-04T10:28:00.002-04:00

We are very pleased to announce that the French Hotel Barge LA BELLE EPOQUE has undertaken a US$200,000 refurbishment project this winter.

French Hotel Barge LA BELLE EPOQUE - Barging in France

Barge Cruises in Burgundy on the Canal de Bourgogne

Some of the projects are:

New de-humidifier system has been installed which adds silent filtered ventilation to all below deck areas.
Stripping the cabins right back, replacing the insulation and rebuilding the interior walls.
All the electricity, wiring and air conditioning has been replaced.
The baths in both suites have been replaced with showers and the bathrooms have been retiled.
The cabins are being redecorated, re-carpeted and beautiful new bed linen.
There will be new solid brass light fittings and curtains throughout the barge.
The saloon is also being redecorated with new curtains, wallpaper and parquet flooring.

We hope to be receiving photos soon!

This all-inclusive deluxe barge has a crew of 5 or 6, and accommodates up to 13 guests in 7 cabins, each with private, ensuite bathrooms. La Belle Epoque is fully air conditioned and also has central heating. They have two sundecks with steamer chairs, recliners, parasols, a large dining table, plus a Jacuzzi spa pool.

Besides their standard itinerary, themed cruises are available for private charters: Guided walking tour, Family cruise, Bike touring / Cycling tours, Wine lovers tasting & appreciation cruise... If you have specific interests, let us know and we'll see about adapting a cruise to your desires.

Book your April, May, June, July, or August 2011 cruise before April 1, 2011 and benefit from LA BELLE EPOQUE's special offer. See details HERE.

Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book LA BELLE EPOQUE
View La Belle Epoque's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges & barging: www.BargeCharters.com