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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Friday, February 14, 2020

Special Provence and Camargue Cruise for French Hotel Barge Anjodi

Anjodi's Special Provence & Camargue Cruise
Following in the Footsteps of Van Gogh



French hotel barge ANJODI is offering a unique Mediterranean cruise in the south of France which will include visits to the historic cities of Avignon & Arles. This special Provence-Camargue Itinerary between Avignon to Marseillan, France will take place the week of July 5-11, 2020. This cruise is also available in the opposite direction October 25-31, 2020 (value season).

These special weeks are both currently available as either a private cruise where you have the entire barge to yourselves or as a cabin cruise week where you book a cabin and share Anjodi with other like-minded passengers.



Pretty as a Picture


The beauty of the Provence countryside is legendary. Visitors instantly recognize why it held such fascination for painters like Cézanne and Picasso, and why Van Gogh painted more than 300 of his works here. In addition to the natural charm of the region, there is a great deal of historical and architectural intrigue surrounding the ancient palaces, gardens, and arenas of the sun-drenched cities along the way.


Itinerary highlights on the Anjodi Provence-Camargue cruise include a visit to the medieval city of Avignon, located on the banks of the Rhône River. Avignon was the seat of Catholic popes for more than 300 years during the Middle Ages. Guests will climb the gentle steps to the famed Rocher des Doms and its picturesque, English-style public gardens that feature numerous fountains and grottos.  This is followed by a tour of the 14th century Palais des Papes, or the Pope’s Palace, considered one of Europe’s largest and most important medieval Gothic buildings.

Arles & Aigues Mortes


There is also a visit to the city of Arles, famed for its association with Van Gogh. Guests will explore the 1st century Roman Arena, the St. Trophime Basilica and the museum of Provencal life.  Cruising a little further through the wetlands of the Camargue National Park, with its pink flamingos and white wild horses, Anjodi will moor at the walled city of Aigues Mortes. One of Europe’s most well-preserved medieval cities, in the 13th century Aigues Mortes was the port by which many crusaders embarked for the Holy Land. Here guests can visit the 12th century Constance Tower and enjoy dinner at one of the town’s many local restaurants specializing in regional cuisine.

A Taste of the Med


Bordering Italy and the Mediterranean Sea, Provence is one of the most popular vacation destinations in southern France, renowned for its lush lavender fields, ancient olive groves and vast stretches of vineyards. Anjodi's guests will tour the famous Chateau Neuf du Papes vineyard and indulge in a private tasting at a renowned winemaker. Fresh oysters with a sea view are also on the menu as the cruise continues across the Thau Lake (Etang de Thau) to Villeneuve les Maguelones, with the boat mooring just a short walk to a Mediterranean beach. This is followed by a tour of the 12th century Cistercian Abbey of Valmagne, a former Benedictine monastery and one of the oldest vineyards in the region. Afterwards, guests will stop at a local oyster farm for some fresh seafood and a glass of Picpoul de Pinet, a delightful white grape that has been grown near the Etang de Thau for centuries.

The Art of Fine Dining


For food lovers, the 8-passenger Anjodi is an attraction in itself having appeared numerous times on Rick Stein’s French Odyssey, a popular television series that followed the famous chef on his culinary adventures through Southern France. Onboard, guests can be assured of Rick Stein standard cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients that include fresh seafood from the nearby Mediterranean.

This cruise aboard Anjodi is the perfect way to appreciate art, be it the culinary creation on show around the dining table each evening, or the Roman architecture and sweeping natural vistas that inspired Van Gogh and Picasso.



About The French Hotel Barge Anjodi



French Hotel Barge Anjodi
 
Sporting a classic Dutch design, the 8-passenger Anjodi offers a choice of four air-conditioned staterooms which can be configured as either twins or double according to your preference, each with full en-suite facilities. The sun deck is spacious and has a heated spa pool (hot tub) — the perfect place, to watch the sunset after dinner on a warm Mediterranean evening.

Anjodi's highly professional crew of four is comprised of Master Chef, Tour Guide and Host/Hostess, led by a knowledgeable and experienced Captain who will ensure your cruise is memorable and more. Their knowledge of the region combined with the 8 bikes provided, will allow you to explore the areas you cruise through in as much detail as you desire.

Anjodi

Provence & Camargue Cruise Highlights:
  • Tour the famous Chateau Neuf du Papes commune and enjoy a private wine tasting
  • Explore the medieval city of Avignon
  • Visit Arles, the city famed for inspiring over 300 paintings by Van Gogh
  • Explore the 1st century Roman Arena, St Trophime’s Basilica, and the museum of Provencal life 
  • Visit the ancient walled city of Aigues Mortes
  • Cruise across the Etang de Thau to Villeneuve les Maguelones
  • Excellent towpath for walking and cycling
  • "Biking Plus" option available

Standard Classic Cruise Highlights:
  • Tour Carcassonne, the most complete medieval fortified city in existence
  • Narbonne's Archbishop's Palace and colorful market
  • Explore the spectacular hilltop village of Minerve
  • Private wine tasting at the 14th-century Château de Perdiguier
  • View the Pyrenees mountains across the vineyards and discover Cathar history
  • Cruise through the world's oldest canal tunnel at Malpas
  • Excellent towpath for walking and cycling
  • "Biking Plus" option available


 Don't Miss This Special Sailing




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
 

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Sunday, February 09, 2020

French Hotel Barge Rosa - Tastes of Gascony

Experience the Tastes of Gascony
Aboard French Hotel Barge Rosa

Gascony has some of the most delicious gastronomic traditions in France. Let the French Hotel Barge Rosa introduce you to the region’s food and wine in the most wonderful way.

Rosa cruises the areas of Gascony and Bordeaux


How better to spend a relaxed, romantic holiday than sampling some of the country’s delectable delights aboard a barge cruise? Here are a few of the specialties you should definitely try…


Confit de Canard

An iconic delicacy, confit de canard is a rich dish made from salt-cured duck legs cooked in their own fat. Traditionally, it was designed as a filling and sustainable dish for the winter months (it can be preserved up to six months once cured and cooked) and is often served with baked new potatoes and green vegetables, or used in a cassoulet.

Foie Gras

While it might be the subject of some debate, there’s no doubt this is one of the most sought after gastronomic pleasures of the area. The rich, silky smooth duck liver pâté can be enjoyed on its own or incorporated in mousses, terrines, and soups. It’s quite often served up simply sliced and quickly seared in a pan.

Cassoulet

Readily available on most menus around Gascony, cassoulet is a thick, heavy stew made from beans, sausages, and the classic confit de canard. It’s hearty, flavorful and usually served up with huge chunks of crusty fresh bread.

Cheese

Gascony’s most famous cheese is the blue-marbled sheep’s milk cheese, Roquefort, which is still produced in the limestone caves of Combalou. Aged for a minimum of three months, the nutty, buttery flavor of Roquefort goes wonderfully with fruit (figs and prunes particularly) and wine.

Wines and Other Tipples

The wines of Gascony have a reputation as being among the best in the country, and any wine aficionado will have plenty to make them happy here.

The dry, fruity wines of the Côtes de Gascogne are outstanding, and you’ll also be able to sample some lovely Sauvignon Blancs. For lovers of red, the local barrel-aged Madiran is known for its deep brown color and lingering flavor.

As well as the classic reds and whites of the region, there are two other tipples you should not miss the opportunity to try, Armagnac made from fortified wine, and Floc, a sweet aperitif that is somewhat of an acquired taste.
Authentic Armagnac

This alcoholic beverage is a signature speciality of Gascony. It is the oldest brandy distilled in France. In the past, it was consumed for its therapeutic benefits. While it does share some similarities with its counterpart cognac, Armagnac is different from because of the way it is produced. 95% of the drink is distilled only once, using a specific form of continuous still – the Armagnac alembic. It is then aged in 400-liter oak barrels and stored in cellars. It can even be matured for up to 50 years before being packaged in glass bottles.

Armagnac can be divided into two main categories: vintage and non-vintage. Vintage Armagnacs are distilled from grapes grown in a single year, with the date displayed on the bottle. Non-vintage Armagnacs can either be labelled by age, where the number of years quoted relates to the youngest component of the blend or by category: VS (minimum two years in wood), VSOP (at least four years), XO (more than six years) or Hors d’Age (10 years plus).

Armagnac is usually produced by smaller family businesses rather than large global conglomerates which makes it a true delicacy that is ideally savoured in its place of origin.
Wine from Château Bellevue la Forêt

Included in Rosa's standard itinerary is a visit to the famous vineyard Château Bellevue la Forêt. For wine lovers, this gorgeous estate is akin to a sprawling paradise of vine and vino. Spread out over 270 acres, it’s the largest single privately-owned wine estate in the southwest of France and the wines produced here have won several accolades and awards worldwide.

Château Bellevue la Forêt is produced from the following fine varieties :
  • 57 hectares of NEGRETTE (a variety specific to the Fronton Appellation and rarely encountered elsewhere)
  • 6 hectares of CABERNET FRANC
  • 16 hectares of SYRAH
  • 12.5 hectares of CABERNET SAUVIGNON
  • 7 hectares of GAMAY
  • 2.3 hectares of white grapes (Viognier, Roussanne, Petit Manseng).
This wine tasting is a wonderfully informative way to get to know a little bit more about the wine making process in an impossibly romantic surrounding!


Visit Gascony With Hotel Barge Rosa

Ready to head to Gascony to experience the fabulous food, wine, and landscape of this beautiful region? Have Paradise Connections arrange your luxury hotel barge cruise and the food, wine, and excursions are taken care of. You’ll be able to sit back, relax and enjoy one of the most memorable holidays of your life while Barge Rosa transports you to wonderful places of interest.

Each evening there's a three or four-course culinary journey that showcases the best of the regional specialties. After your meal, you are more than welcome to a digestif and a dip in the hot tub beneath the stars…


About The French Hotel Barge Rosa


Rosa's charming accommodation for eight guests features two double and two twin-bedded staterooms, each with private ensuite bathrooms, and a saloon that gives direct access onto the spacious sundeck. A cruise on Hotel Barge Rosa is the ideal way to explore this beautiful, pastoral region of Southwest France.

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







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
 



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Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess Charters

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess
SOLD OUT FOR 2020 

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess

We have had several inquiries recently for the Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess but unfortunately, they are sold out for the 2020 barging season.  In fact, they were completely booked up before Christmas.

Book Now For 2021

Why is Shannon Princess so popular? A big part of the Shannon Princess’ beauty is an itinerary that delves into Irish history, culture, and gastronomic offerings. From the moment you come aboard, you’re greeted with Irish coffee and ‘black velvets’ – a traditional Irish cocktail of stout beer and champagne – and are instantly transported into a world of ancient customs and lore. Their excursions include tours of magnificent estates, castles, medieval architecture, as well as samplings of traditional Irish fare such as Guinness, whiskey and oysters. It even features a private display of Ireland’s ancient art of falconry!

The River Shannon

At more than 224 miles, the River Shannon is the longest river in Ireland, flowing through 11 counties and boasting more than fifteen hundred years of incredible Irish history.  A cruise on the river is like taking a journey back in time, with dramatic natural views that have been practically unchanged for centuries. They include castles, forts, noble estates, and monastic settlements that attest to the important role the river has played in the country’s history.

The Shannon Princess will also sail across Lough Derg – one of Ireland’s most beautiful lakes and Christianity’s oldest pilgrimage site, passing one of the country’s rare forest parks.  Guests will enjoy dinner on board and watch the sunset on their way to the picturesque lakeside village of Mountshannon. One of the cruise’s most memorable experiences is a birds of prey demonstration featuring owls, falcons, and eagles, held within the walled garden of the Adare Manor estate, located on the banks of the River Maigue.  The demonstration includes an opportunity for guests to take pictures with a bird safely perched on their arms.

Ireland’s extraordinary landscape of rolling green hills and lush green vales have justly helped the country earn its title as the ‘Emerald Isle’. The Shannon Princess’ cruise through the heart of Ireland offers a truly memorable immersion into one of the world’s most captivating destinations.

Highlights

Key highlights on this charming itinerary include a tour of the Clonmacnoise ruins, a famed 6th-century university and early monastic settlement that is still haunted by the ghosts of saints and scholars from Ireland’s Golden Age of learning.  Guests will tour the crumbling remains of its cathedral, churches, towers and high crosses, as well as the large collection of early Christian gravestones. The itinerary also includes a visit to Leap Castle, considered one of Ireland’s most haunted establishments. Guests will be treated to a private tour by its eccentric owner, who will relate the castle’s chilling history of murderous greed and suicide – all while Irish musicians serenade them.  After dinner on board the boat that evening, guests can join the captain for a pint with the friendly locals at nearby Killeen’s pub.

Other itinerary highlights include a visit to Birr Castle, where the Earl of Rosse and his family still reside.  Guests can stroll through its lavish gardens and tour the science center, which houses the Great Telescope. Designed by the Third Earl of Rosse in the 1840s, it was the largest in the world for more than 70 years and is the largest historic scientific instrument still working today. Another fascinating excursion is the visit to Kilbeggan Whiskey Distillery – the oldest licensed whiskey distillery in the world, dating back to 1757, where guests can tour the ancient stills and sample some of the "Uisce beatha" (water of life).


About The Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess


Shannon Princess Barging Cruises In Ireland


Shannon Princess

The Shannon Princess has been thoughtfully designed throughout. The barge's inviting interior makes a charming floating living space – a perfect "Home away from home" for guests to enjoy. The welcoming atmosphere is enhanced by Ruairi and Olivia’s love of antiquities, crafts, pottery and art with many works by established and local Irish artists.  Onboard the barge a friendly & relaxed mood has been created by carefully mixing casual informality with quality service.

The Shannon Princess provides accommodation for up to 10 guests in 5 cabins which can be configured as double or twins, each with ensuite facilities. This barge is owner-operated with a total of five professional crew in attendance.You will be charmed with excellent but friendly service, gorgeous food & wines, and share in a slice of local life and knowledge.




PLEASE
Avoid disappointment and book early for 2021.






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

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Hotel Barge Savoir Vivre - Special Offer, Burgundy

Only ONE Cabin Left

The French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE has a very special offer for the week of April 12 - 18, 2020.

French Hotel Barge Savoir Vivre Cruises The Canal de Bourgogne in Burgundy


Savoir Vivre - Special Offer


Savoir Vivre has a very special offer for the week of April 12 - 18, 2020 with a discounted rate of $2500 per person. That's only $5000 for a cabin for two for an all-inclusive barge trip. Hurry, one cabin left!


About The French Hotel Barge Savoir Vivre


The luxury crewed French Hotel Barge SAVOIR VIVRE offers both cabin cruises and private barge charters along the Canal de Bourgogne in the Burgundy region of France. They have recently announced that beginning next season (2019), Savoir Vivre will be including transfers from Paris to Burgundy where the barge is moored.


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

Savoir Vivre is a bit different to the other hotel 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).






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
 


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