The Barge Cruising Experience
Luxury barge cruising offers a unique experience that sets it apart from any ordinary cruise you’ve encountered. Rather than actively searching for experiences, you’ll discover that many cherished moments will naturally unfold before you. Enjoy every moment as you leisurely delve into the local cuisine, wine, and history of each area. To gain a deeper insight into this experience, take a moment to explore a typical day aboard a luxury barge outlined below.
After a restful night in your delightful accommodations, rise feeling rejuvenated and prepared to embrace the day. Breakfast is usually light yet packed with flavor, featuring an assortment of fresh fruits, croissants, preserves, yogurts, and drinks. The ingredients are often sourced from nearby villages; by the time you awaken, the team has already cycled into town to gather fresh croissants and baguettes for the day, while orange juice is being freshly pressed for a vibrant morning boost. This is your opportunity to savor a relaxed beginning to your day.
Every morning, you will sail along the waterways that weave through the stunning countryside. This truly is one of the most breathtaking moments of the day. It’s an ideal time to enjoy a cappuccino and unwind as you drift through the lush scenery. At each lock, you have the chance to walk or bike along the waterway and discover charming local villages. Barge cruising is all about embracing a relaxed pace, so there’s no need to fret about being left behind if you choose to wander. The next lock is always just a short distance away! For those seeking more excitement, the crew is more than happy to offer suggestions for longer cycling routes.
Lunch is thoughtfully designed to be light yet indulgent, featuring a delightful combination of fresh local ingredients paired with the exquisite wines of the region you are exploring. And, of course, no dining experience in France is complete without savoring French wines and cheeses along with your meal. Most lunches will be enjoyed on board your luxury barge, crafted by your private chef, allowing you to relish the meal while taking in the stunning scenery.
France offers a wealth of sights and activities, and afternoons are typically dedicated to exploring and visiting local attractions. While the itinerary for each barge and region differs, they are all carefully crafted to provide you with the most enriching experiences. Depending upon the itinerary, you’ll have the chance to tour iconic châteaux, savor wine tastings at local vineyards, and wander through charming medieval villages. Some activities may be easily accessible on foot, but each barge also provides transportation for excursions that are further from the waterways.
As you return from your afternoon adventures, the crew will greet you warmly back on board, inviting you to unwind at your leisure. The talented chefs excel at crafting the perfect afternoon cocktails to enhance your exciting day. For a touch of true luxury, uncork a delightful sparkling wine from the region and raise a toast to the final moments of your afternoon. After all, this time is yours to enjoy however you wish!
In the evening, cozy dining rooms transform into intimate and sophisticated spaces perfect for experiencing the stunning flavor profiles your chef creates. While the dress code on board is casual and comfortable, the flavors and presentation of the courses are exquisite and complex. Each chef focuses on local growers and suppliers to source the best ingredients daily according to each season. Every course is perfectly paired with a selection of local vintages and dinner comes to a close with another tasting of French cheeses to round out another indulgent meal.
Following dinner and dessert, transition your conversation to the saloon for a relaxing nightcap or a warm cup of coffee as you contemplate your day. Evenings should be a time of unwinding. Frequently, guests opt for a final trip topside to savor the fresh evening air and admire the stars before heading back to their cozy suites for the night