Sunday, February 23, 2020

ITALY - Mantua's Palazzo Ducale

La Bella Vita's Italian River Cruise
Visit Palazzo Ducale in Mantua



A highlight of  LA BELLA VITA's Italian river cruise is a visit to the Lombardy city of Mantua. It is known by Italians as "La Bella Addormentata" (Sleeping Beauty). Surrounded by artificial lakes created to fortify the city in the Middle Ages, the city has been relatively untouched by modern development. Its old town was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007 in recognition of its Renaissance town planning.

Palazzo Ducale

Palazzo Ducale

Mantua is dominated by the Palazzo Ducale de Mantova, or the Ducal Palace. This colossal complex of rooms, towers, churches, and gardens was the residence of the powerful Gonzaga family for 400 years. They ruled as the Dukes of Mantua until 1707. At 34,000m², the only residence in Italy that can claim to be larger is the Vatican. The guided tour on La Bella Vita's Classic Cruise gives you the opportunity to explore beautiful Baroque and neo-classical buildings, such as the following historical gems…

Ducale Palace Gardens

Corte Vecchia

The Corte Vecchia is the oldest part of the complex. From it you can access the Palazzo del Capitano, linked to the Magna Domus around the year 1300 with a beautiful arcade. In the same century, a series of stunning Arthurian frescos glorifying the serving duke, Gianfrancesco Gonzaga, was painted by Pisanello. In the 1960s these incredible 700-year old paintings were rediscovered and fragments of the frescos and their preliminary drawings can still be seen in the palace.

Camera Picta


Another impressive room in the palace complex is the Camera Picta (Painted Room), also known as the Bridal Chamber. The walls are the canvas for a Renaissance masterpiece by Andrea Mantegna, painted between 1465 and 1474, which depicts the triumphs of the whole Gonzaga family. Make sure you raise your eyes to the ceiling, where you’ll see one of the earliest examples of an illusionistic di sotto in sù painting; an oculus (opening in the dome) reveals a blue sky with cherubs playing around its rim.

Isabella d’Este’s Studiolo

Isabella d’Este, who was Marchesa of Mantua around the turn of the sixteenth century, is known as the First Lady of the Renaissance. Her studiolo in the palace – a place to display and enjoy her collection of antiques, paintings and books – was a Renaissance retreat from the outside world. It has unfortunately lost all of its treasures to museums, but still boasts beautiful dark blue, starry walls.

With so much more to see and experience at the Palazzo Ducale, art and architecture lovers will savor this fascinating segment of La Bella Vita's Italian river cruise.




About The Italian Hotel Barge Bella Vita

Italian Hotel Barge La Bella Vita

La Bella Vita

La Bella Vita is a stylish 20-passenger vessel with a typically modern Italian interior, reflected in the use of vibrant colors throughout to create an atmosphere of casual relaxation. There is an inviting bar area in which to enjoy a glass of Prosecco and a spacious dining room with louver doors that open to give a perfect view as you are served delicious Italian specialties and wines.

There are two main deck junior suites and eight lower deck staterooms, all air-conditioned and with en suite facilities. The upper deck has a huge sun deck with a large canopy and comfortable loungers to relax and watch the world drift by.

Enjoy delicious regional cuisine, fine Italian wines and the services of an attentive crew that will make this an unforgettable cruise. 

La Bella Vita offers 6-night, all-inclusive private charters, as well as cabin cruises. Themed cruises such as family, golf, opera, and wine appreciation are available for private charters.





Discover the Waterways of Northern Italy



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book LA BELLA VITA
View La Bella Vita's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

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ITALY - Discover Byron’s Po at Villa Ca’Zen


Discover Byron's Po at Villa Ca'Zen

River cruising is one of the most immersive and relaxing ways to explore a destination, and the tranquil waterways of Europe offer a plethora of opportunities to enjoy this much-loved mode of slow travel. In Italy, the Po River flows 650km through the north of the country and provides the perfect setting from which to discover its landscape, people and history in the most delightful way.

Villa Ca'Zen

One popular stop on LA BELLA VITA's Italian river cruise itinerary through the Veneto region is the lovely Villa Ca'Zen, a 17th-century villa in the Po Delta Nature Reserve, the country's biggest regional park. The villa's long and interesting history is inextricably linked to one of Britain's greatest poets: Lord Byron.

Early History

In the early 1700s, many wealthy Venetian families established grand estates throughout the Po Delta region, using the area for shooting, fishing and crop cultivation. The Ca'Zen estate was built by the Zen family around that time and is situated on the site of a small stone tabernacle dedicated to Saint Margherita dating back to 1459.

The original estate included the Venetian-style villa, along with a chapel, stables, and a portico. The chapel has a beautiful aspect directly facing the River Po and contains two important statues from the famous Bolognese School that depict Mary and the Archangel Gabriel during the Annunciation. In the early 1800s, when the estate passed from the Zen family's hands to the Marchesi Guiccioli of Ravenna, two extra wings were added to the villa, along with some outlying cottages and several large granary barns.

Byron's Muse

The history of the villa took on a romantic twist through its association with Lord Byron, perhaps the most romantic of all the great Romantic poets. Byron fell deeply in love with an Italian beauty, Contessa Teresa Gamba who, unfortunately, was already very spoken for as the wife of Alessandro Guiccioli.

Despite her marriage, the attraction was instant and mutual and they became lovers. Angered by their liaison, her husband sent her away to languish in the family estate (Ca'Zen) – which was far from the parties and social life of Venice – in an attempt to place distance between the poet and Teresa. Alas for Guiccioli, Byron instead pursued his passion and travelled secretly to the estate to be with Teresa. Whether it was due to his own amorous state or the inspiring landscape itself, it was from here that the poet penned some of his most celebrated and beautiful works, many of which were dedicated to his ladylove and the river.

Beyond Byron

In the ensuing years, the estate was taken over by the Casalicchio-Avanzo family, and it was the wife of Cavalier Pericle Avanzo, Elaine Avanzo Westropp Bennett, who suggested using part of the country house to rent out to visitors looking for some bucolic respite. Its location in the heart of the environmental reserve is ideal for a host of outdoor pursuits. Today, the villa is also very popular as a wedding venue.

The romance, history, culture and landscape of this relatively unspoilt region combine to create a truly memorable experience both on and off the water.



About The Italian Hotel Barge Bella Vita

Italian Hotel Barge La Bella Vita

La Bella Vita

La Bella Vita is a stylish 20-passenger vessel with a typically modern Italian interior, reflected in the use of vibrant colors throughout to create an atmosphere of casual relaxation. There is an inviting bar area in which to enjoy a glass of Prosecco and a spacious dining room with louvre doors that open to give a perfect view as you are served delicious Italian specialities and wines.

There are two main deck junior suites and eight lower deck staterooms, all air-conditioned and with en suite facilities. The upper deck has a huge sun deck with a large canopy and comfortable loungers to relax and watch the world drift by.

Enjoy delicious regional cuisine, fine Italian wines and the services of an attentive crew that will make this an unforgettable cruise. 

La Bella Vita offers 6-night, all-inclusive private charters, as well as cabin cruises. Themed cruises such as family, golf, opera, and wine appreciation are available for private charters.





Discover the Waterways of Northern Italy



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book LA BELLA VITA
View La Bella Vita's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

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Saturday, February 22, 2020

Italy: History, Culture & Geology

The Waterways of Northern Italy:
History, Culture & Geology

A river cruise in Italy aboard LA BELLA VITA offers a wonderful way to get to know this diverse and fascinating area personally. One of the unique features of a river cruise in Italy is that you get first-hand experience and a real feel for the deep-rooted history of the area, the wonders of the geology, and the intricacies of the culture.


For any discerning traveler looking for their next luxury vacation with a difference, a cruise on the Italian waterways could be just perfect. Northern Italy is a haven for culture buffs. What better way to see the magic of Venice, the wonders of the Po Delta, the marvels of Mantua, as well as all that lies in between, than from the comfort of your luxury floating hotel, La Bella Vita?

As you cruise through the Venetian Lagoon, along the River Po and down the Canal Bianco, breathtaking landscapes greet you around every turn. Wake in the mornings to the sound of the local birdlife, spend long days soaking up the "bella vita" and indulge in evenings that bear witness to the incredible gastronomic delights that this Mediterranean gem is famed for.

Every waterway on this cruise has its own unique features and here we introduce each one and pay homage to its defining characteristics.


Venice Lagoon

The feature of many a picture postcard, this stunning blue-green, almost iridescent lagoon is mesmerizing whatever time of day or year you are fortunate to see it. It is hard to imagine that it stretches more than 50km from end-to-end and covers 550 square kilometers in total. La Bella Vita's wonderful cruise offers ample opportunity to take photos and indulge in the stunning surroundings that are made up of wetlands, marshes, and an intricate maze of channels. The tiny group of islands, known as Venezia (or Venice in English) is grouped around the Rialto Bridge and makes up the streets of this iconic city; one of the highlights of this river cruise in Italy.

In existence since the last ice age, the lagoon was formed when glaciers in the Alps melted with the rising temperatures causing rivers to cascade from the mountains and carve their way through Northern Italy and flow out into the Adriatic. Where the rivers met the sea, they slowed and dumped much of the sediment they had picked up along their journey to create the islands on which magnificent Venice stands today.


Giudecca Canal

This is Venice’s most prominent waterway, meandering through the city for four kilometers. It is wide and deep, making it navigable for even the larger vessels. The canal itself separates the district of Dorsoduro from Giudecca.

La Bella Vita's river cruise in Italy includes a relaxing trip along this canal, which is a wonderful way to see some of the city’s sites, including:
  • On the Giudecca Quay: Molino Stucky (19th-century factory complex), Le Zitelle Church, and the II Redentore Church by Palladio.
  • On the Dorsoduro district side: It Gesuati Church, the Santa Maria della Salute Church, and the Dogana da Mar (the former customs house that is now an art gallery).
Finish in St Mark’s Square after a guided tour of the Doge’s Palace, where you can enjoy an "al fresco" prosecco before dinner back on board.


Canal of the Orphans

The name is somewhat intriguing, although as you might expect, the reason it came to be called the Canal of Orphans is not a very pleasant one. Several theories exist but the most accepted one is that centuries ago when the Genoese arrived with their ships in an attempt to take the city, the Venetians laid waste to the majority of the soldiers, consequently leaving many children orphaned. Another theory suggests that this waterway was once used for executions by drowning.

Thankfully, the place is a much happier one today and resembles nothing of its former guise. La Bella Vita takes you along this canal early in the evening just as the activity in the city is slowing down and the atmosphere takes on a serenity that is nothing short of magical. Pass ancient monasteries, charming local fishing boats, and beautiful tiny churches. For any budding photographers on this river cruise in Italy, this is a dream come true!


Po Delta

A fascinating melange of waterways, the Po Delta has an interesting geological past. Formed between 2 million years ago and 75,000 years ago (the last glacial period), the Po Delta has undergone many changes.

Through the centuries the River Po went through many stages of evolution, enduring floods, creating itself new courses and battling marsh growth. Floods and human intervention ensued and today the Po Delta is all below sea level. Dunes and sandbanks are still protruding and the area is now a nature reserve rife with wildlife. Elegant herons stand proud while the fabulous flamingos and other birds forage for the rich pickings to be found here.


Bianco Canal

Crossing the Rovigo province, this water channel makes up the midsection of the Tartaro-Canalbianco-Po di Levante, and winds its way across 135km to link Mantova to the sea. A large part of it is man made and this section is known as the "Canal Bianco". The first section is natural and is called the "Tartaro" and the final short section is called the "Po di Levante".

The canal is navigable by small-to-medium-sized boats and is a popular one for leisure boats, yachts and luxury cruises, which is great news as it means La Bella Vita includes it in your trip. Along the Bianco Canal, visit Adria, the ancient Etruscan town, and then set off for the much anticipated wine tasting on the Bagnoli Estate, a centuries old winery that has produced vintages for the Venetian elite for years.


River Po Approaching Mantua

The most spectacular way to approach Mantua is by water. This city boasts a fitting end to a river cruise in Italy. Enveloped by water, the city is often overlooked, but beyond its rather timid appearance, it hides a plethora of Renaissance wonders. It is Florence in miniature and, once overseen by the Gonzagas family who ruled for more than 300 years, the city was founded on wealth; the Renaissance legacy proves it.

Its magnificent location is considered part of its romantic appeal but the way the Mincio River protects the town is not a work of chance. Alberto Pitentino is the engineer responsible for arranging the river’s course to suit the city’s landscape and, to this day, the island of Mantua stands true to the design of this talented designer.




About The Italian Hotel Barge Bella Vita

Italian Hotel Barge La Bella Vita

La Bella Vita

La Bella Vita is a stylish 20-passenger vessel with a typically modern Italian interior, reflected in the use of vibrant colors throughout to create an atmosphere of casual relaxation. There is an inviting bar area in which to enjoy a glass of Prosecco and a spacious dining room with louvre doors that open to give a perfect view as you are served delicious Italian specialities and wines.

There are two main deck junior suites and eight lower deck staterooms, all air-conditioned and with en suite facilities. The upper deck has a huge sun deck with a large canopy and comfortable loungers to relax and watch the world drift by.

Enjoy delicious regional cuisine, fine Italian wines and the services of an attentive crew that will make this an unforgettable cruise. 

La Bella Vita offers 6-night, all-inclusive private charters, as well as cabin cruises. Themed cruises such as family, golf, opera, and wine appreciation are available for private charters.





Discover the Waterways of Northern Italy



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book LA BELLA VITA
View La Bella Vita's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

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Friday, February 21, 2020

La Bella Vita: New Solo Traveler Cruise

Introducing La Bella Vita's
New Solo Traveler Cruise

Calling all solo travelers! We’re delighted to announce La Bella Vita's new and exclusive “Solo Cruise” departing Sunday, 11 October 2020

La Bella Vita's Itinerary
(click image to enlarge)

Cruising from Venice to the Renaissance city of Mantua, this 6-night, all-inclusive cruise enjoys La Bella Vita's Classic Cruise itinerary, with some additional "extra surprises" along the way that have been hand-picked exclusively for this departure.

And for a limited time only they're offering a special launch offer of 10% off per person!


Why Book a Solo Cruise?

Every aspect has been carefully designed to promote a sense of camaraderie for both the seasoned solo traveler as well as those who are new to going it alone. Special surprises also allow like-minded travelers to share in unique experiences and absorb Italy’s rich artistic and historical legacies – all while enjoying world-class wines and gastronomic meals together in complete luxury and comfort.

Enjoy our "Extra Surprises"

The Solo Cruise launches with the friendly crew greeting arriving guests with a glass of Prosecco, the sparkling wine produced mainly in Veneto, and introducing you to your fellow travelers.  You’re soon treated to a host of “extra surprises” hand-picked exclusively for this departure to complement the solo experience, such as an after-dinner stroll through elegant Venice. Visit the iconic and ornate Florian Café to mingle with the locals and enjoy specialty coffees, wine, cocktails, and desserts. En route the following day, you’ll also have the opportunity to stop on the Venetian island of Pellestrina for an aperitif at a bacaro – a traditional corner bar frequented by locals and known for their cicchetti (Venetian-style tapas).

Living La Bella Vita

La Bella Vita features a unique cruise route with a diverse itinerary that encompasses the Renaissance, Roman, Etruscan, and Byzantine cultures – four major periods in European history.  Holding a maximum of 20 guests, it is the perfect size for small groups to enjoy quality time together while also for offering plenty of space for some well-deserved "me time". La Bella Vita has a guest-to-crew ratio of 2:1 meaning that someone is always on hand to cater to your every need.

After cruising the Venetian Lagoon and mingling with the locals, the cruise will follow the River Po and Canal Bianco on its way to the city of Mantua, a UNESCO World Heritage site and a crown jewel in Italy’s Renaissance. Highlights include an exclusive dinner with a countess at her 17th-century riverside villa, a private wine tasting in the cellars of Villa Widmann-Borletti, interactive cooking demonstrations, and an onboard “opera night.”

Along the way, bear witness to colorful lagoon islands, tranquil countryside, and wetlands that are home to a wide variety of waterfowl, and even flamingos!  As with all our barging cruises, you can also enjoy a wide selection of regional wines and four-course gourmet meals cooked by the onboard master chef each day.

Con te partirò (Time to Say Goodbye)

Journey’s end features a visit to Mantua’s Ducal Palace – home to some 15 gardens and courtyards, a museum, 12,000 paintings and sculptures, a basilica, and theater.  It’s capped off with a festive Captain’s Dinner, where guests and crew can all relive the week’s most cherished moments.  It’s the time when everyone often exchanges contact information with the new friends they’ve made and promises to stay in touch.

Some even make plans to do it all again next year!

Special Offer: 10% discount

The price for this cruise is $5040/per person ($4050/person + $1550 single supplement, -10% discount).

This week will be exclusively for singles. However, if two friends wish to share and pay the per person rate based on double occupancy (no single supplements) and receive a 10% discount, that’s fine too.
Valid dates:
  • October 11-17, 2020 (value season)
Cannot be combined with other special offers 




About The Italian Hotel Barge Bella Vita

Italian Hotel Barge La Bella Vita

La Bella Vita

La Bella Vita is a stylish 20-passenger vessel with a typically modern Italian interior, reflected in the use of vibrant colors throughout to create an atmosphere of casual relaxation. There is an inviting bar area in which to enjoy a glass of Prosecco and a spacious dining room with louvre doors that open to give a perfect view as you are served delicious Italian specialities and wines.

There are two main deck junior suites and eight lower deck staterooms, all air-conditioned and with en suite facilities. The upper deck has a huge sun deck with a large canopy and comfortable loungers to relax and watch the world drift by.

Enjoy delicious regional cuisine, fine Italian wines and the services of an attentive crew that will make this an unforgettable cruise. 

La Bella Vita offers 6-night, all-inclusive private charters, as well as cabin cruises. Themed cruises such as family, golf, opera, and wine appreciation are available for private charters.





Let's reserve your spot !



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book LA BELLA VITA
View La Bella Vita's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

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Wednesday, February 19, 2020

Special Offer For Solo Travelers

Special Offer: No Single Supplement

If you are a solo traveler, or perhaps want to cruise with family or friends and would simply like a cabin to yourself, then our special "No Single Supplement" offer will certainly appeal. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, with all excursions and special events done as a group.


As solo travel soars in popularity, the single supplement fee for several of our 2020 departures are currently being waived on cruises in France and Italy.

The growing presence of solo travelers on European hotel barge cruises provides a lively addition to the unique mix of international guests who share gourmet meals onboard, as well as exclusive excursions to castles, chateaux, local markets, and wineries, among other attractions.


It’s a great treat for both couples and single travelers to share the daily escorted excursions to fascinating "off the beaten track" places and renowned attractions.  In fact, interacting with so many interesting fellow passengers from around the world is often the best part of the cruise, according to many of our guests!

Whether flying solo or coming with a whole host of friends and family, we’re sure to have a special offer to suit your need – take a look at our special offers page here.





Barges offering "No Single Supp" special

France: La Belle Epoque
  • Route: Canal de Bourgogne between Tanlay and Venarey-les-Laumes
  • Accommodations: up to 8 guests in 4 ensuite staterooms
  • Private charters and Cabin cruises
  • 2020 Dates for "No single supplement": July 12, 19, 26 
  • Itineraries: See itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure

France: Finesse
  • Route: River Saône & Canal du Centre between St-Julien-sur-Dheune and St-Jean-de-Losne
  • Accommodations: up to 8 guests in 4 ensuite staterooms
  • Private charters and Cabin cruises
  • 2020 Dates for "No single supplement": July 5, 12, 19
  • Itineraries: See itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure

Italy: La Bella Vita
  • Route: Venice, the Islands of the Venetian Lagoon, the Bianca Canal and the Po Valley
  • Accommodations: Up to 20 guests in 10 cabins
  • Private charters and Cabin cruises
  • 2020 Dates for "No single supplement": April 5, 19 and May 10, 17 
  • Exclusive Solo Traveller Cruise: October 11-17, 2020. Learn More HERE
  • Itineraries: See itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure





Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 


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Q&A: Barge Cruises for Solo Travellers

Questions & Answers
Barge Cruises for Solo Travelers


Are you a single traveler and considering a solo cruise? A barging voyage is ideal for you. Whether you’re a seasoned solo traveler or cruising for the first time on your own, solo cruising gives you the best of both worlds – the delightful company of like-minded travelers as adventurous as you are, and group activities that spark conversation and create lasting memories.

Read on for answers to frequently asked questions for cruising solo…

I’m new to solo cruises, what can I expect?
A safe, sociable environment where like-minded travellers will come together to experience the very best of the region – with the luxury of personal space when you want it, gourmet meals, fine wines, a crew to passenger ratio of 1:2 and so much more.

 Will I have my own room?
Absolutely! You can enjoy the comfort of a spacious and well-equipped cabin.

Do I have to attend every excursion?
No, however the selection of excursions are often hidden gems that are frequently inaccessible to larger cruise ships – so it would be a shame to miss out!

 Will I have to pay a single supplement?
Single supplements do apply on regular cruises but occasionally there are "no single supplement "offers. See our Special Offers page for details.

Where will I meet the group?
Guests are met at the agreed pick-up point and transferred by chauffeured minibus to the barge for a champagne meet-and-greet.

Is there a dress code on board?
Comfortable clothing is recommended on board, however you may wish to bring smart/party attire for the Captain’s Dinner on the last night of your cruise.

What’s included on this tour?
We offer an all-inclusive barge cruise experience. Transfers from the designated pick-up point, gourmet 4-course meals created by the onboard master chefs, a wide selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages throughout, an impressive wine list hand-picked and poured by the onboard wine expert, a selection of impressive and exclusive excursions to showcase the very best of the region and spacious accommodations.

Are gratuities included? If not, how much should I give?
A service charge is not included in the cruise fare. It’s entirely discretionary but is greatly appreciated by the crew if you would like to acknowledge recognition for the standard of service provided. As a guidance, the average tip given is approximately 5%.

What kind of food is provided?
To give you a true taste of the region you are cruising through, your chef will create mouthwatering menus using the finest ingredients from local markets and specialist suppliers. Please let Paradise Connectiions know of any dietary requirements at the point of booking to avoid disappointment.

Do I have a minibar?
Cabins do not have a minibar, however you are welcome to help yourself to the well-stocked open bar in the saloon.




Barges offering "No Single Supp" special

France: La Belle Epoque
  • Route: Canal de Bourgogne between Tanlay and Venarey-les-Laumes
  • Accommodations: up to 8 guests in 4 ensuite staterooms
  • Private charters and Cabin cruises
  • 2020 Dates for "No single supplement": July 12, 19, 26 
  • Itineraries: See itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure

France: Finesse
  • Route: River Saône & Canal du Centre between St-Julien-sur-Dheune and St-Jean-de-Losne
  • Accommodations: up to 8 guests in 4 ensuite staterooms
  • Private charters and Cabin cruises
  • 2020 Dates for "No single supplement": July 5, 12, 19
  • Itineraries: See itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure

Italy: La Bella Vita
  • Route: Venice, the Islands of the Venetian Lagoon, the Bianca Canal and the Po Valley
  • Accommodations: Up to 20 guests in 10 cabins
  • Private charters and Cabin cruises
  • 2020 Dates for "No single supplement": April 5, 19 and May 10, 17
  • Exclusive Solo Traveller Cruise: October 11-17, 2020. Learn More HERE
  • Itineraries: See itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure






Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 


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Special Offers & Discounts - Updated

Special Offers and Discounts for Barging Cruises


Updated February 20, 2020

With up to 20% off private charters and cabin cruises, now's the time to secure a fantastic deal on an all-inclusive luxury barge cruise.

Today we updated our Special Offers & Discount page for barge cruises so be sure to check it out. We have added dates to some of the previously discounted barges and have included 3 cabin weeks for Magna Carta in England. There are now 3 vessels offering a "No Single Supplement" special that you may wish to check out if you are a solo traveler.

NEW: 2021 Early Bird Specials (Roi Soleil, Canal du Midi)





Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 



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Sunday, February 16, 2020

Cruising Germany and Luxembourg with La Nouvelle Etoile

Romance and Riesling Aboard La Nouvelle Etoile in the Mosel Valley


The Mosel River snakes its way through eastern Germany, carving out a deep valley through forests and vineyards. For barge enthusiasts aboard La Nouvelle Etoile, this cruise gives the opportunity to explore two of the region's most famous attractions: its castles and its wines.


The “Queen of German Castles”

Eltz Castle

One of the highlights of a visit to the Mosel Valley is the chance to see Burg Eltz, a medieval castle straight out of a fairytale. Amazingly it is still owned by the same family who lived there in the twelfth century, unscathed by any of the wars that troubled the region over the past 850 years. Guests on this cruise benefit from a guided tour of the castle, with the opportunity to see the original Treasury, Armoury and numerous halls constructed in different centuries.


A Wonderful Wine Region

The steep slopes of the Mosel Valley make it a perfect place for growing grapes. As you travel the length of the river on your cruise you will notice that the terroir changes significantly depending on the location of the vineyard. Generally speaking, south-facing vineyards benefit from ten times more sunlight than those that are north-facing, and those on the slopes are better off than those planted on flat land.


Over 60% of the wine produced in the region is Riesling. You will have ample opportunity to taste the iconic tipple of the region on our cruise, as the itinerary includes a number of vineyard visits and tastings at famous wine villages along the river, including Winningen, Zell and Bernkastel.

If you’re looking for a barging cruise that combines incredible scenery with wine, gastronomy, culture, and history, this Classic Cruise of Germany and Luxembourg will tick all of your boxes.


Hurry...

Only one week left for this cruise in 2020
2 cabins booked, 1 cabin on hold, 1 cabin open
$8630/person, double occupancy
September 27 - October 3, 2020



About Hotel Barge La Nouvelle Etoile


Hotel Barge La Nouvelle Etoile
 
LA NOUVELLE ETOILE is a luxurious barge with very spacious accommodation for up to 8 passengers, offering a wonderful blend of traditional elegance and sophisticated, state of the art facilities. The four bedroom suites, each over 200 square feet, boast internet access and satellite TV and large bathrooms with double sinks. The barge is fully air conditioned and has an elegant, teak-lined dining area and saloon, with an attractive bar and piano, and features warm and inviting furnishings. On deck, there is a spacious sun deck with comfortable loungers and hot tub. Other facilities include internet access, exercise room, and 8 bikes.

La Nouvelle Etoile is designed to be fully accessible to wheelchair users and the less physically able. The doors are wide enough for wheelchair users to move easily from room to room and there is a lift between decks. One of the cabins is specially equipped specifically for wheelchair users. Their air conditioned minibus has a lift and special straps to secure a wheelchair in place.

La Nouvelle Etoile begins their season with Dutch Tulip Cruises in the spring, then offers a variety of cruises through France, and concludes their season with a Germany-Luxembourg itinerary.

La Nouvelle Etoile

La Nouvelle Etoile is a very popular barge and is already booking up for the 2021 barging season.


 Don't Miss This Boat!
Contact Paradise Connections


Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book LA NOUVELLE ETOILE
View La Nouvelle Etoile's online brochure
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

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