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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RECIPE: Beef Bourguignon & More

Dining Delights Aboard La Belle Epoque

Recipes: 
Balsamic Vinaigrette - Hot Goat's Cheese Salad - Beef Bourguignon

Chef Arnis from French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque cruising the Burgundy of France, will entice you with his signature recipes.

Enjoy fine cuisine aboard French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque

Food and wine is a huge part of your experience aboard barging cruise. Enjoy world-class chefs whose creations take you on a different culinary journey each day. La Belle Epoque’s Latvian-born master chef Arnis Maskevics, shares his three signature recipes – a zingy balsamic vinaigrette, a hot goat cheese salad, and a comforting Beef Bourguignon.

Balsamic Vinaigrette

Ingredients
  • 2 tbsp honey
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
  • 1/2 tsp freshly crushed black pepper
  • 1 large garlic clove, minced
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil

Method
  1. In a small mixing bowl, whisk together the honey, balsamic, mustard, salt, pepper and garlic.
  2. Add the oil and whisk thoroughly to combine. Continue whisking until the dressing is fully emulsified.
  3. Store in a jar with a lid and refrigerate.
  4. Shake well before serving.

Hot Goat Cheese Salad

Ingredients
For the Marinade:
  • 290 ml extra virgin olive oil
  • 100 ml balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp brown sugar
  • Pinch of salt
  • Pinch of pepper

For the Salad:
  • Freshly ground black pepper
  • Olive oil for drizzling
  • 200 gram goat cheese log, cut into 1cm thick slices
  • Extra virgin olive oil
  • Fresh basil
  • Garden leaves of your choice
  • 100 grams cherry tomatoes
  • 100 grams sundried tomatoes
  • Splash of sundried tomato oil for seasoning

Method
  1. Preheat the oven to 170C / 325F / Gas 3. Preheat the grill to its highest setting.
  2. For the marinade, place all of the marinade ingredients into a large bowl and mix together well.
  3. Place the goat cheese rounds onto a baking sheet and place under a moderate grill. Grill for 2-3 minutes, until the cheese has melted and begun to brown.
  4. To serve, place the salad leaves, cherry tomatoes and sundried tomatoes into a large serving bowl. Top with the grilled goat cheese. Drizzle with a little of the marinade and sundried tomato oil for extra flavor.

Beef Bourguignon

Ingredients
  • 675 grams lean beef steak, cut into 5 cm cubes
  • 45 ml rapeseed or olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped
  • 200 grams baby carrots, tops removed
  • 2 large garlic cloves, peeled and finely chopped or crushed
  • 200 grams bacon lardons or pancetta cubes
  • 300 grams shallots or baby onions, peeled and left whole
  • 100 grams button mushrooms, halved
  • Salt and freshly milled black pepper
  • 2 tsp sugar
  • Handful of freshly chopped flat-leaf parsley, to garnish

Method
  1. Heat half the oil in a 1.7-liter ovenproof casserole dish with a lid and cook the beef in batches for 4-5 minutes until browned.  Remove and set aside.
  2. Cook the onions, carrots and garlic for 3-4 minutes.
  3. Bring to a boil, reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 2 minutes.
  4. Return the meat to the pot and sprinkle over the onions.
  5. Add the wine. Season and cook in a preheated oven at 150C / 300F / Gas 2, or on the hob under a very low flame for 2 to 2.5 hours
  6. 45 minutes before the end of the cooking time, heat the remaining oil in a large non-stick frying pan and cook the bacon lardons and shallots or baby onions for 4-5 minutes until soft, and lightly browned.
  7. Add to the casserole pot with the mushrooms, season, stir gently, then cover and cook for the remaining cooking time.
  8. Garnish with parsley and serve with boiled new potatoes, or mash and seasonal vegetables.

Dining on La Belle Epoque

Would you like to experience the exquisite menu on La Belle Epoque while cruising through Northern Burgundy?





About The French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque


French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque
Burgundy, France

La Belle Epoque

The French Hotel Barge La Belle Epoque is available for barging cruises on the Canal de Bourgogne in Burgundy, France. She accommodates up to 12 passengers in 6 guest cabins, each with ensuite, private bathrooms. There is a crew of six to pamper you during your barging vacation.

This deluxe vessel cruises the historic Burgundy Canal through some of the region’s most scenic countryside. Excursions include private tastings at several renowned Chablis vineyards, a visit to the village of Flavigny sur Ozerain (the setting for the movie Chocolat), and a visit to Noyers-sur-Serein with their cobbled streets and quaint, timbered architecture.

  • Route: Canal de Bourgogne between Venarey-les-Laumes and Tanlay
  • Up to 12 guests in 6 cabins
  • Private charters and Cabin cruises
  • Itineraries: See all itineraries
  • Learn more: Online Brochure




Sounds good?  Let's get you aboard!




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 and barging: www.BargeCharters.com
 
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Saturday, February 08, 2020

Historical Guide to the Burgundy Canal, France

The History of the Burgundy Canal

Planning a trip along the Canal de Bourgogne? Here’s a guide to the canal’s rich and complicated history…


The History of the Burgundy Canal

The history of the Burgundy Canal is long and complicated. Although the first act in support of its construction was the 1607 tax placed on local farmers to help finance a segment of the waterway, the final route was not agreed until more than 100 years later.

In the mid-17th century, Pierre Paul Riquet, the chief engineer of the Canal du Midi, proposed a route which was thought to be too expensive. Then, in 1696 the military engineer Vauban proposed five different designs – one of which was ultimately adopted 30 years later. However, work did not begin until 1777, at the beginning of the reign of Louis XVI.

Construction began in the west, alongside the River Yonne, working upstream towards the town of Tonnerre. A few years later, work began on the Saône side in the east, working west towards Dijon. The Yonne side of the canal fell rapidly behind schedule. And, due to inadequate funding – the construction of that section halted in 1793.

The French Revolution and the Napoleonic Wars further slowed progress on the construction. The State of Burgundy, however, pushed ahead – completing the first segment of the canal between the city of Dijon and the River Saône 15 years later. It was in December 1808 that the first barges arrived in the port of Dijon. Yet even with the support of the Emperor Napoleon, the completion of the full canal still met numerous delays due to problems with financing and construction.


The Building of the Tunnel

Finally the necessary funds were secured and the project was brought to completion. In late December 1832, the first boat to traverse the entire route of the Canal de Bourgogne set out from Paris, arriving in Dijon on January 3, 1833. The canal at last connected the north of France to the south and the River Seine to the River Rhône. One of the final challenges of the construction project was the complicated and impressive Pouilly Tunnel, which forms the summit. The building of the tunnel started in 1826 and took six years to complete, some say partly with forced labour in the form of English prisoners of the Napoleonic Wars.

The tunnel is two miles long and runs in a straight line. At the time of construction, 90% of the work had to be done by hand which was a hard and dangerous job. At its deepest section, the tunnel runs 150 feet below the surface. 32 shafts were constructed to assist in hauling the spoil to the surface during the digging and today, these shafts provide ventilation to the boats passing through the tunnel below.


Early Stages

In the early years of the tunnel’s use, bargees had to pull their barges along the length of the tunnel using a chain attached to the wall with passage through the tunnel taking up to 10 hours. In 1867 a steam tug was put into use to haul barges through the tunnel and in 1893, this was replaced by an electric tug, greatly reducing passage time. Although the tug is no longer used, visitors can still see it displayed in the small town of Pouilly-en-Auxois.

As well as constructing the canal itself, the builders had to address the problem of water supply which was particularly acute due to the height of the summit at Pouilly and the limited amount of natural water. In the end, two supply channels and seven reservoirs had to be built to store water upstream and keep the canal full during periods of drought. Even today, maintaining an adequate water depth in the canal is a constant challenge.


Burgundy's Lock Houses

Further construction included housing for lock keepers, as well as “maison gardes” which were occupied by teams of maintenance workers who would move along the canal to do repair work. Today, almost all the lock houses remain, but many of them have become holiday cottages as the numbers of lock keepers has fallen. Now, one keeper services a number of locks with the help of some automation and a car or scooter to move quickly between the locks in his or her charge.



The Shift from Commercial Importance to Tourism

Like the other canals in France, by the mid-19th century its commercial importance was starting to wane. By 1882, lock sizes had been increased to the Freycinet standard to allow 250 tonne barges to pass, but speeds were still slow compared to newly arrived rail transport, particularly with the Pouilly tunnel which only permitted one-way traffic. Fortunately, in more recent times, tourism has breathed new life into the waterway and the towns it serves, and today the Canal de Bourgogne is one of the most popular pleasure-boat destinations in France.

Luxury Barge Cruises in Burgundy

In addition to the undulating countryside and the historical significance of a number of towns on its route, the region is also famous for its superb wines. Scroll down for a summary of the French hotel barges we offer for the Burgundy region...




French Hotel Barges Cruising Burgundy

L'Art de Vivre
  • Route: Canal du Nivernais between Auxerre and Chevroches
  • Accommodations: up to 8 guests in 4 ensuite staterooms
  • Private charters and Cabin cruises
  • Itineraries: See all itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure

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
  • Itineraries: See all itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure

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
  • Itineraries: See all itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure

Grand Cru

  • Route: Canal du Rhone au Rhin and the Canal du Centre between Pontailler-sur-Saone and St Léger-Sur-Dhune
  • Accommodations: up to 8 guests in 4 ensuite staterooms
  • Private charters
  • Itineraries: See all itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure

L'Impressionniste

  • Route: Canal de Bourgogne between Escommes and Fleurey-sur-Ouche
  • Accommodations: up to 12 guests in 8 ensuite staterooms
  • Private charters and Cabin cruises
  • Itineraries: See all itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure

Prosperite
  • Route: Canal de Bourgogne between Plombieres-les-Dijon and Vandenesse-en-Auxois
  • Accommodations: up to 8 guests in 4 ensuite staterooms
  • Private charters and Cabin cruises
  • Itineraries: See all itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure

Renaissance
  • Route: Western Burgundy & Upper Loire: Canal de Briare between Montargis and Chatillon-sur-Loire
  • Accommodations: up to 8 guests in 4 ensuite staterooms
  • Private charters and Cabin cruises
  • Itineraries: See all itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure

Rendez-Vous
  • Route: Canal de Bourgogne between Fleurey-sur-Ouche and Escomme
  • Accommodations: up to 6 guests in 3 ensuite staterooms
  • Private charters
  • Itineraries: See all itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure

Savoir Vivre
  • Route: Canal de Bourgogne between Fleurey-sur-Ouche and Escommes
  • Accommodations: up to 8 guests in 4 ensuite staterooms
  • Private charters and Cabin cruises
  • Itineraries: See all itineraries
  • Learn more: Online brochure






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

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Sunday, January 26, 2020

English Hotel Barge Magna Carta Family Cruises

Family Cruises Aboard English Hotel Barge Magna Carta

Did you know, nearly half of all young families travel with their children? This means that kids and young adults are getting to experience international travel earlier in life than ever.

English Hotel Barge Magna Carta - River Thames Cruises

Magna Carta's collection of themed barge vacations includes an impressive family charter, taking kids on an interactive, educational and unforgettable adventure along Britain’s majestic River Thames.

Legoland Winsor Resort

Top sights include a tour of Legoland, Thorpe Park amusement park, and the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London – The Making of Harry Potter. Click to view choices on Magna Carta's Family Itinerary page.

Fabulous Food

With daily excursions keeping everyone entertained; parents and grandparents will especially enjoy the delights of our onboard master chef, who cooks up daily meals, served with complementary wines for the adults, and plenty of delicious options for kids.

A Magical Cruise

Experience the Harry Potter Studio Tour

Visiting the Harry Potter studio couldn’t be easier on Magna Carta. With their family cruises, you can swap up to four excursions from the barge’s classic cruise itinerary, and the "boy wizard" is always a top favorite.  Spot many of the costumes and props from the movies, experience all the wonders and magic of their iconic sets such as Diagon Alley and The Great Hall – the latter whose real-life inspiration, The Great Hall at Oxford’s Christ Church College, is also on the itinerary.

Younger children can also explore Beale Wildlife Park & Gardens, which is set on 30 acres of grounds and forests. The attraction includes miniature train rides, a toy museum and a deer park, as well as kid-friendly animals such as owls, meerkat and the llama-like alpacas.  Another option is a visit to Brooklands Museum.  Considered the birthplace of British motorsport and aviation, it offers an excellent history of transportation, including cars, motorcycles and planes, and features an aircraft factory, a flight simulator and the world’s first purpose-built race circuit.

Look Out Discovery Centre

More scientifically minded youngsters will enjoy a visit to Look Out Discovery Centre, which offers more than 90 science-themed activities for children. These include launching hydrogen rockets and building a life size house with giant blocks.  On other outings, guests can explore prehistoric caves, take archery lessons, as well as go paintballing and canoeing.  They can even waterski at Thorpe Lake Waterski, among other outdoor sports.

Enjoy Magna Carta's Hot Tub

There’s so much to do on a Magna Carta's family charter that the only time you’ll see disappointment in a child’s face is when you tell them the trip is over! But watch their faces light up again when they get back home and tell their friends about the great time they had.





About The English Hotel Barge Magna Carta


Magna Carta cruising the Royal River Thames
Moored at Winsor Castle

Magna Carta

The all-inclusive, crewed, luxury, English Hotel Barge Magna Carta accommodates up to 8 guests. She is approximately 120 feet in length and has two decks.

The lower deck boasts four full-width luxurious staterooms each averaging 200 square feet with private ensuite bathrooms. The staterooms may be configured as Kings or Twins according to your preference. Magna Carta has the most sophisticated modern amenities, including air conditioning, WI-FI internet access and underfloor heating in each of the four full width suites. Each suite has exceptionally spacious contemporary en-suite facilities and colour TVs and DVD players.

The upper deck comprises the main salon and dining areas with large picture windows and stylish furnishings. Outside you have the sundeck with comfortable seating and the spa pool/jacuzzi. There are eight bikes on board to take at your pleasure for rides along the tow paths.

The Magna Carta offers 6-night, all-inclusive private charters, as well as cabin cruises. Theme cruises such as golf, tennis, guided walking, family, flower shows, Henley regatta, antiques, etc, are available for private charters.




Interested ?  Let's reserve your spot !




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