Tuesday, March 22, 2016

Special Offers for Barge Cruises Updated

Just a quick note to let you know that we have updated our Special Offers & Discounts Page that you can view here:  CLICK HERE FOR SPECIALS

We will have some new posts soon!



French Hotel Barge Anjodi - Canal du Midi, France



Let's Go Barging !



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barge trip
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

It's not how far nor how fast, it's the pleasure of the journey that keeps people coming back for more.


Wednesday, February 17, 2016

Hotel Barge Panache - Special cruises, special offers, spring availability

SPECIAL CRUISE: The 12-passenger Hotel Barge Panache will be cruising from Courtrai, Belgium (30km north of Lille, France) through Picardy to Paris, from May 22 through June 4 this year.

 Hotel Barge Panache - Cruising Holland, Belgium, and France

The first cruise (May 22-28, 2016) has a World War One theme, with an itinerary that includes excursions to Ypres and the Menin Gate, Somme battlefields, and memorials.

For the second cruise May 29-June 4, Panache offers a choice of excursions, with or without a WWI theme. These can include:
  • The Armistice Clearing in the forest of Compiegne where the Armistice was signed on November 11, 1918
  • The Thiepval Memorial, a monument to 75,000 "missing" from the Battle of the Somme
  • Château de Chantilly, a superb example of 16th-century Renaissance architecture with wonderful art treasures and gardens
  • Auvers-sur-Oise, Van Gogh’s resting spot and a place of pilgrimage for art lovers
  • Monet’s home and gardens at Giverny, when the gardens should be looking at their best
  • Château de Malmaison, a delightful country house and home to Napoleon’s Empress Josephine

Menin Gate Memorial
Thiepval Memorial
Vimy Ridge Memorial
There is still plenty of availability on both cruises along with special offers of a discounted rate if booked before March 29, 2016:

Availability and pricing as of February 17, 2016:
Discounted rate: $2500 off/cabin
Discounted rates: $12,000 off 12-person private charter rate, i.e. $45,000 for up to 12 guests.
Panache would love to welcome you aboard for one of these fascinating voyages through the landscapes of Belgium and Northern France that witnessed events a century ago that changed the course of history.

=== Here's Another Option For This Spring ===



There is also some space available for a few dates in Holland this spring. Discounts are valid for new bookings confirmed by March 29, 2016:
  • April 3-9 (Holland): 3 cabins open, 3 booked - $2500 off/cabin
  • April 24-30 (Holland): 1 cabin open, 5 booked - $2500 off/cabin
  • May 15-21 (Holland-Belgium): 3 cabins open, 3 booked - $2500 off/cabin

Panache cruises the French region of Alsace-Lorraine in the summer and autumn. Contact Paradise Connections to book your barging trip.

Let's Go Barging with Panache in 2016 !



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


Sunday, February 14, 2016

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess: Updated availability

Happy Valentines Day!

This morning we received an updated calendar from the Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess, a 5-cabin vessel that cruises the River Shannon in Ireland.

Shannon Princess is the only hotel barge we have in Ireland so, if you fancy an Irish barging trip this year, it is time to get off the fence and book.

What a fantastic Valentine present!

Read our previous Shannon Princess post which gives availability details... CLICK HERE.



 Go barging in Ireland in 2016!


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
 

Thursday, January 28, 2016

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess Availability Update

Availability Update...

February 14: Updated calendar... There has been a few changes but hopefully one of the open weeks for Shannon Princes will work for you.

January 30: Another update. A few more cabin bookings and one private charter. That leaves only TWO weeks open for a private charter: May 15-21 and September 25 - October 1.

January 28: Looking at Irish Hotel Barge SHANNON PRINCESS this morning, we noticed that 3 weeks of their calendar is no longer available. See current availability below.


January 14: This morning we received an email from Ruari and Olivia with current availability for their Irish Hotel Barge, Shannon Princess. They are pretty well booked for the 2016 barging season but there are still a few openings available (see below).

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess

Visit the Emerald Isle aboard the owner-operated hotel barge, ShannonPrincess II, cruising the River Shannon between Athlone and Killaloe. Explore the lovely Irish countryside... not only the rich wildlife and spectacular scenery, but their myths and legends as well. Pass by ancient monasteries, prehistoric cities, forts and Celtic vilages, while floating along the tranquil Shannon river.

Shannon Princess accommodates up to 10 guests in 5 cabins which can be configured as either doubles or twins, as you prefer. Throughout the barge, you will find antiquities, crafts, and art with many works by Irish and local artists.

Shannon Princess is available for private charters and individual cabin booking for shared charter weeks.

View our online brochure for the Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess which includes their various themed itineraries such as their golfing cruise. Then contact Paradise Connections to start planning your barging vacation.

Owner-Operated, Ruairi & Olivia

On board, Ruairi is Barge skipper and enthusiastic tour guide with an unsurpassed knowledge of the river and its loughs. Olivia is master chef and serves up exquisite cuisine throughout the day that never fails to elicit gasps of delight from guests. Together they lead a professional crew providing excellent and friendly service.

Current 2016 availability as of February 14, 2016:
  • May 15-21: 5 cabins open for private charter or cabin cruise
  • June 19-25: 3 cabins open, 2 booked
  • July 17-23: 1 cabin open, 4 booked
  • August 7-13: 5 cabins open for private charter or cabin cruise
  • August 14-20: 2 cabins open, 3 booked
  • August 21-27 5 cabins open for private charter or cabin cruise
  • Aug 28-Sept 3: 2 cabins open, 3 booked

Shannon Princess is booking up fast this season. If you want to do an Irish barge trip this year, please book ASAP to avoid any disappointment.


Don't wait any longer... Go barging in Ireland !



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
 

Tuesday, January 26, 2016

French Hotel Barge Clair de Lune : New Route Summer 2016

We'd like to remind you that the French Hotel Barge CLAIR DE LUNE will be cruising a new route on the Canal du Midi this summer and they have a SPECIAL OFFER...

French Hotel Barge Clair de Lune - Barge Charters in the south of France on the Canal du Midi

NEW ROUTE


THE FRENCH HOTEL BARGE CLAIR DE LUNE typically cruises the Canal du Midi between the little village of Le Somail and the old fortified city of Carcassonne. BUT this summer between July 17 and September 24, 2016, they will be altering their route with a new itinerary between Trebes and Naurouze, thus allowing another voyage of exploration along this historic canal.

Click image to enlarge map

During this summer period, guests on board Clair de Lune will enjoy an extra insight into the 330-year old Canal du Midi and the Languedoc-Roussillon region. She will cruise a route further west between Trebes and Naurouze on a gentle voyage through delightful countryside past canal-side villages and under the pretty, arched bridges that make this waterway so special.

Along the way, there will be excursions to some of the most interesting places the region has to offer, such as Castelnaudary, home of the classic French dish, cassoulet. Clair de Lune will also traverse the impressive Fresquel aqueduct en route to her final destination of Nuarouze, the canal’s highest point. And to quench the thirst during this relaxing summer cruise, there will be even be a private tasting at a winery producing the region’s distinctive sparkling wine, Limoux. (See sample summer 2016 itinerary HERE).

This is a fabulous cruise for wine, food, and history lovers alike.

SPECIAL OFFER:


Book before February 15, 2016 and receive a $6000 discount off the full-boat, private charter price for July and August 2016 cruises. This is still advantageous even if you are a group of four, for example.

COMPARE STANDARD PRICES FOR SUMMER 2016

WITH DISCOUNTED RATE

VALUE SEASON
July 24-Aug 27
REGULAR SEASON
July 3-23, Aug 28-Sept 3
Private Charter
6 guests
$29,000
(-$6000=$23,000)
$32,500
(-$6000=$26,500)
Private Charter
5 Guests
$27,800
(special=$23,000)
$31,100
(special=$26,500)
Private Charter
4 guests
$26,600
(special=$23,000)
$29,700
(special=$26,500)


French Hotel Barge Clair de Lune - Barging Cruises on the Canal du Midi, France


The French Hotel Barge Clair de Lune offers all-inclusive, crewed barging cruise vacations for up to six guests for private full-boat charters or by individual cabins aboard a cabin cruise week. Enjoy her three stylish cabin suites, sun-deck with spa pool and, of course, bicycles for exploring the towpath, countryside, and nearby villages.

Clair de Lune's standard itinerary (cruises the Canal du Midi between the charming village of Le Somail and the fortified city of Carcassonne, where you will discover some of the most beautiful scenery in the south of France along the way.  During your voyage along the tree-lined Canal du Midi you will visit historical sites such as the spectacular Cathar town of Minerve, the elegant city of Narbonne, and enjoy wine tastings at renowned local domaines.



You can find lots of information about Clair de Lune in our online brochure such as sample itineraries, rates, crew, cuisine & wine aboard including sample mentus, and details about the barge's layout, accommodations and amenities. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions or if you want to book!

Let's Go Barging In 2016 !



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


Monday, January 25, 2016

French Hotel Barge Emma : Special Offers Canal du Midi

THE FRENCH HOTEL BARGE EMMA is offering 20% off selected weeks of 2016.

French Hotel Barge Emma - Canal du Midi, France

Emma, a six-passenger French hotel barge that cruises along the Canal du Midi in the south of France, is offering a 20% discount across the board for both private charters and individual cabin weeks.

SPECIAL OFFER: 

20% off standard rates for the following weeks in 2016. Current availability shows three cabins open for either private charter or "by the cabin" cruises on the dates specified below:
  • April 30 - May 6
  • May 7-13
  • May 28 - June 3
  • June 4-10
  • June 11-17
  • June 18-24
  • June 25 - July 1

STANDARD PRICES FOR 2016

SIX NIGHTSFIVE NIGHTS
Private Charter
up to 4 guests
$25,000
(-20%=$20,000)
$22,000
(-20%=$17,600)
Private Charter
5 Guests
$27,000
(-20%=$21,600)
$23,000
(-20%=$18,400)
Private Charter
6 guests
$30,000
(-20%=$24,000)
$25,000
(-20%=$20,000)
Individual Cabin Week
per person, double occupancy
$5500
(-20%=$4400)
$5000
(-20%=$4000)



FRENCH BARGE EMMA

The French Hotel Barge EMMA is owned and operated by Liz and René Jacquot and are assisted by two additional crew members, Amanda and Joanne. They cruise along the Canal du Midi in the south of France between Beziers & Carcassonne and Carcassonne & Toulouse. They also have a Beziers to Aigues-Mortes itinerary available upon request.

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 while 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.

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.

Emma is available for private charters and individual cabin bookings for shared charter weeks. They also offer 5-night charters if that works better for your vacation plans and budget.



Take a break in the south of France! Shall we pencil you in?


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
 


Thursday, January 14, 2016

Barging In Ireland: 2016 Openings For Shannon Princess


This morning we received an email from Ruari and Olivia with current availability for their Irish Hotel Barge, Shannon Princess. They are pretty well booked for the 2016 barging season but there are still a few openings available (see below).

Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess

Visit the Emerald Isle aboard the owner-operated hotel barge, ShannonPrincess II, cruising the River Shannon between Athlone and Killaloe. Explore the lovely Irish countryside... not only the rich wildlife and spectacular scenery, but their myths and legends as well. Pass by ancient monasteries, prehistoric cities, forts and Celtic vilages, while floating along the tranquil Shannon river.

Shannon Princess accommodates up to 10 guests in 5 cabins which can be configured as either doubles or twins, as you prefer. Throughout the barge, you will find antiquities, crafts, and art with many works by Irish and local artists.

Shannon Princess is available for private charters and individual cabin booking for shared charter weeks.

View our online brochure for the Irish Hotel Barge Shannon Princess which includes their various themed itineraries such as their golfing cruise. Then contact Paradise Connections to start planning your barging vacation.

Owner-Operated, Ruairi & Olivia

On board, Ruairi is Barge skipper and enthusiastic tour guide with an unsurpassed knowledge of the river and its loughs. Olivia is master chef and serves up exquisite cuisine throughout the day that never fails to elicit gasps of delight from guests. Together they lead a professional crew providing excellent and friendly service.

Current 2016 availability as of January 14th:
  • June 19-25: 3 cabins open, 2 booked
  • July 17-23: 1 cabin open, 4 booked
  • August 7-13: 5 cabins open for private charter or cabin cruise
  • August 14-20: 5 cabins open for private charter or cabin cruise
  • August 21-27: 5 cabins open for private charter or cabin cruise
  • Aug 28-Sept 3: 2 cabins open, 3 booked
  • September 4-10: 1 cabin open, 4 booked
  • Sept 25-Oct 1: 5 cabins open for private charter or cabin cruise
  • October 2-8: 5 cabins open for private charter or cabin cruise



Don't wait any longer... Go barging in Ireland !



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
 

Tuesday, January 05, 2016

Updated Special Offers / Discounts for Barge Cruises 2016

We have updated the special offers and discounted rates for 2016 barge cruises. 

Check it out: HERE.



French Hotel Barge Anjodi - Canal du Midi, France



Let's Go Barging !



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barge trip
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

It's not how far nor how fast, it's the pleasure of the journey that keeps people coming back for more.


Monday, December 28, 2015

Scottish Traditions : Hogmanay, January 1st

With the New Year nearly upon us, you may be interested to know a little more about the tradition of Hogmanay on December 31st in Scotland.
The origins of Hogmanay stretch back to the pagan practice of sun and fire worship in mid-winter.  For centuries, fire ceremonies such as torchlight processions, bonfires and fireball swinging have played an important part in the Hogmanay celebrations as fire has always been one of those positive symbols of hope and enlightenment.

When the Romans invaded Britain, this was assimilated into their Winter festival "Saturnalia and when the Vikings arrived later, their Yule celebrations became the twelve days of Christmas. Those traditions have been passed through the generations and become magnified into the celebrations we all know today.

There is no certainty as to the precise origins of  the word “Hogmanay”.  It may have come from the Gaelic “oge maiden” meaning “New Morning”, or perhaps from the Anglo Saxon “Haleg Monath” meaning “Holy Month”.  Some say it is a product of Gaelic or Norman-French origin such as the Norman French word “hoguinane” meaning “gift at New Year” or “Homme est né” ( French for “Man is born”).

Celebrations in Scotland on New Year’s Eve typically involve the partaking of a wee dram or two with friends and family, and some traditional music and dancing.  In the run-up to midnight, many Scots go “First Footing”, a night-time door-to-door tradition when custom dictates that if you receive a visit from a “tall, dark stranger”, bearing a lump of coal, a cake or a coin, you are assured of good luck and prosperity in the coming year. This tradition is believed to refer to Viking times, when the sight of a blonde stranger at your door was likely that of a Viking invading enemy instead of a well-wisher.

Hogmanay fireworks in Edinburgh

Finally, of course, events reach their peak at midnight, with the clock chiming, the bagpipes playing, and the singing of Auld Lang Syne. As to when the celebrations finish... well that’s anyone’s guess!



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barge trip
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

It's not how far nor how fast, it's the pleasure of the journey that keeps people coming back for more.


Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Tasty Scottish Treat For The Holidays: Tipsy Laird

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

Here’s a recipe for a delicious dessert, the Tipsy Laird, a Scottish version of the classic sherry trifle which is often served on special occasions like Christmas or New Year’s Eve. 



Tipsy Laird - makes 6 servings


Ingredients

  • 8 sponge fingers
  • 3 tablespoons of raspberry jam
  • 6 digestive biscuits (or ratafia biscuits, or Maria cookies)
  • 1 dram of sweet sherry
  • 1 dram of whisky or Drambuie
  • A handful of fresh raspberries
  • 1 cup of double cream
  • 1 tablespoon of caster (powdered) sugar
  • Flaked almonds toasted to decorate

For the custard:

  • 2 egg yolks
  • 1.5 ounces of caster (powdered) sugar
  • 4 drops of vanilla essence
  • 1 cup of milk
  • 2/3 cup of double cream

Method

Start by making the custard.
  • Beat together the egg yolks and sugar until pale.
  • Mix the cream, milk and vanilla in a pan and warm to just below boiling point.
  • Pour into the beaten egg mixture, blending well.
  • Return to the pan over a low heat and stir continuously until thickened.
  • Transfer to a bowl and cool.

Next:
  • Spread the sponge fingers with the raspberry jam and place in the bottom of a large glass bowl or small trifle dishes.
  • Roughly crush the biscuits and scatter over the jammed sponge.
  • Mix the sherry and whisky (or Drambuie) and pour over the biscuit and sponge.
  • Leave it to soak in.
  • Whisk the double cream and caster sugar to thick peaks and fold in more whisky if preferred.
  • Pour the cooled custard over the sponge and top with a layer of raspberries.
  • Spoon over the thickened cream and decorate with a scattering of toasted flaked almonds.

Enjoy!



Contact Paradise Connections Yacht Charters to book your barge trip
Visit our website for more info on our barges and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 

It's not how far nor how fast, it's the pleasure of the journey that keeps people coming back for more.