River and canal barge cruises are one of the most relaxing, peaceful, and enjoyable ways to immerse yourself into European culture. See the real Europe, floating along shallow inland waterways, from a comfortable luxury barge.
European Waterways offers all inclusive barging experiences throughout Europe. They vary in size to accommodate between 4 and 20 passengers. Tandem barges can hold as many as 38 person. All vessels have an English speaking crew which includes Captain, master Chef, Housekeeper and Tour Guide.The all inclusive barge cruises include a high ratio of crew to passengers, open bar, free wine, gourmet cuisine onboard and ashore, excursions & entry fees, use of bicycles, air-conditioned mini-bus. Most have bicycles and the game of boules. All have a library, games, and CD/stereo.
What is included: All gourmet meals, good regional wines, and open bar with a large selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, chauffeured and guided sightseeing and use of barge equipment such as bicycles. Local transfers to the barge are also included. On family barge charter cruises, equipment for babies and children is included on most vessels: Cribs, travel cots, high chairs, car seats, toys, children bicycles, and baby bicycle seats.
Cabins are comfortable with a pleasing decor which is a blend of antiques and traditional furnishings with fine wood paneling and carpeting. Furnished with every modern comfort the cabins offer a choice of two twins or double beds, opening portholes/windows, closet, drawer storage, and private en-suite shower or bathroom. All hotel barges have central heating and most are air-conditioned. The majority of vessels also have a spa-pool on the sundeck and bicycles onboard to be used at your leisure. Two of the vessels are wheelchair accessible.
These floating boutique hotel barges meander along waterways that pass through the heart of France, England, Ireland, Scotland, Italy, Holland, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany. The cruises generally are 6 nights / 7 days in length (Sunday through Saturday.) Some themed and special cruises are longer. The seasons usually are from early April through mid-November. However, some areas of France and England and Scotland, are cruisable all year long.
As the canal barge glides through canals and rivers, guests go on fascinating local excursions, enjoy gourmet dining, explore little villages -- many from medieval times, meet local villagers, and shop in quaint boutiques. As you cruise through the rural countryside, you see a Europe that most tourists only dream about. Excursions to medieval villages, museums, chateaux, abbeys, cathedrals are included. Wine tasting and visits to vineyards are a part of each France itinerary.
Each morning and afternoon, guided tours to historic and cultural sites as well as vineyards and markets for shopping.
Gourmet dining by candlelight with a regional wine is a treat each evening. Enjoy fresh regional fare and local wines.
Who will be my fellow passengers? Persons who want an in-depth, personalized experience in Europe. All ages find canal barge cruises suit their special needs. Those who want to relax can sip a cool drink and watch the scenery and locals as the barge drifts down the waterway. Those who want to learn about history and culture meet locals and visit historical sites. Those who want activities enjoy village walks, hill climbs, or bicyling.
Rates, except for single and charter, are based on double occupany and do not include airfare.
Cruises in France
Canal du Midi: The 300 year old Canal du Midi skirts the sun-drenched shores of the Mediterranean before meandering inland through ancient villages, Roman fortifications and famed vineyards. This canal is defined by its beauty, lined with plane trees and crossed by pretty arched bridges. This is the perfect place for cycling or walking along scenic tow paths, or simply watching the scenery pass by as you relax on deck with a cool drink. In the distance you can see the Pyrenees, whereas closer to hand are the vineyards that stretch for thousands of square miles. Enjoy private wine tastings at chateaux en route, locations that vary with your choice of barge.
2011 Cruises -- Canal du Midi OR Provence:
April 3,10, 17, 24
May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
June 5, 12, 19, 26
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
August 7, 14, 21, 28
September 4, 11, 18, 25
October 2, 9, 15, 23, 30
November 6
Per person rates from $3650
Barge charter rates from $21,150
Photos Courtesy of European Waterways
Burgundy: Burgundy, the most popular hotel barging area in Europe, is renowned for its vineyards, Gothic churches, Renaissance châteaux and picturesque villages. This is a region of France in which gastronomic delights and the art of living have reigned supreme since Roman times. Excursions are arranged to places with story-book names, whether it be the quaint town of Clamecy, the famous palace in Dijon, the castle in Châteauneuf or to Vezelay, with its hilltop basilica St Mary Magdalene.
The Nivernais Canal in central Burgundy throughout the season. The Nivernais remains an undiscovered area, well off the beaten track on the edge of the Morvan hills. The sleepy hamlets, white grazing Charolais cattle, woods and forests are typical of the scenery we cruise through. Time seems to have stood still for over two hundred years. The hand-swung bridges are a delight and we pass old logging sites which are now almost forgotten by the local people. A cruise route chosen for its charm, beauty and serenity, there are visits to the stunning hilltop village of Vezelay and private Chablis wine tastings. Drift peacefully from one quiet village to the next and relax on deck watching the trees, fields and occasional lone fishermen as you drift by.
2011 Cruise Dates
March 27
April 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22, 24, 29
May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
June 5, 12, 19, 26
July 3, 10, 17, 24
August 7, 14, 21, 28
September 4, 11, 18, 25
October 2, 9, 15, 23
Per person rates from $3990
Barge charter rates from $28,000
Loire Valley: The spectacular Loire Valley and its main tributary, the River Cher, have carried cargo and passengers for over 2000 years, since pre-Roman times. The Valley of the Kings is a timeless region of spectacular beauty and grace. The Loire Valley is as rich in legend as it is in beauty and you will realise that, fortunately, little has changed over the centuries. Talk to a cheesemaker and find out why his is the most famous goat's cheese in France. Wind your way through the narrow streets of a centuries-old village, perhaps discovering hidden shops with hand-painted pottery, or stumble across an open market on your own.
The experienced captain will take you on unforgettable tours of Chateau de Chenonceau, the Villandry Gardens and a Troglodyte cave dwelling allowing you to become completely immersed in the wonders of the Loire. We do not neglect the fact that the Loire is a land that produces wines of the very highest standard so private wine tastings at Montrichard and the Domaine de Fontenay are arranged.
Cruise Highlights
Excursion to the Château D'Amboise
Cruise under the famed Château de Chenonceau
Visit a Troglodyte cave dwelling and see the silkworm nursery
Private tastings at Montrichard and Civray
Château visit to Valençay or Blois
Experience the colourful street markets
Optional Hot air Ballooning
2011 Cruise Dates:
June 26
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
August 7, 14, 21, 28
September 4, 11, 18, 25
October 2, 9, 16
Per person rates from $3950
Barge charter rates from $16,400
Provence: Provence is in the south eastern region of France on the Mediterranean Sea. The cruise travels along several distinctly different waterways including the River Rhone, the Petit Rhone, the Rhone-Sète canal, Thau lagoon and the Midi Canal, passing picturesque fishing villages, colourful markets and the Alpilles foothills. The endless vistas of tiled roofs, lavender fields and olive groves are synonymous with Provence. There are fascinating and historic towns such as Avignon, Orange, St Rémy, Valence and Arles to explore, and remarkable Roman and Greek ruins at places like Pont du Gard and Glanum. The region is, of course, also renowned for its wines, such as the leading appellation Châteauneuf du Pape, named after the Papal Palace that was once situated in the centre of the town.
Experience the colour and light that inspired Impressionist painters such as Van Gogh and Cézanne when they journeyed this region. Enjoy wine tastings at Châteauneuf du Pape and entrancing excursions to medieval and Roman sites. This is a region full of sophisticated architecture dating back to the Roman civilization and ruins of fortifications, arenas and aqueducts that continue to amaze modern engineers.
This is a perfect cruise for the nature lover as you cruise through the Camargue National Park, where you will find pink flamingoes, white horses and black bulls, and then on across the Thau Lake.
Paris: Paris, the ‘City of Lights', is one of the world's truly great cities. The River Seine, lifeblood of the city, splits it neatly in two, flowing past the Ile de la Cité and the famous cathedral of Notre Dame. The history and culture of Paris can also be discovered throughout its distinctive districts. The village atmosphere of hilly Montmartre with its elegant landmark the Sacre Coeur; the Marais district and its winding streets that evoke medieval Paris; and the grand 19th century boulevards that dominate so much of the city.
Paris has so much to offer with its huge variety of heritage, architecture and culture, from the grace of the Louvre Museum, to the ultra modern Opera de la Bastille; from the wondrous Eiffel Tower, to the Champs-Elysées headed by the Arc de Triomphe. All this, together with wonderful restaurants and some of the best shopping in the world make Paris an unmissable place to visit.
The 12 passenger Savoir Faire either begins or ends its cruise each week in the heart of Paris. During the summer months it will cruise between this incredible city and Burgundy and in the months of August and September she will cruise instead to the east into the renowned Champagne region. But the highlight of every itinerary is still the evening cruise through the centre of Paris past the floodlit Eiffel Tower and the magnificent Notre Dame.
Many people choose to visit Paris before or after their cruise, a visit in contrast to the peace and relaxation of the cruise itself. This is why the crew of the ultra deluxe flag ship, La Renaissance, pick you up and drop you off in the heart of Paris, a transfer by air conditioned mini bus included in the price of the cruise.
2011 Cruise Dates:
May 29
July 17
Per person rates from $6150
Charter rates from $46,900
Cruises in Germany and Luxembourg
The picturesque Moselle region of Germany is a wine lover’s paradise and is most famous for its wines made from the Riesling grape. The area is known for the steep slopes of the region's vineyards overlooking the River Moselle. The river runs through one of Europe's most beautiful valleys and is perfect for anyone wishing to experience the romantic Germany of castles, vineyards, and half-timbered villages. Unlike the more heavily visited Rhine, the Moselle allows the visitors to meander at a more leisurely pace among colourful towns, markets and forests.
2011 Cruise Dates:
September 18, 25
October 2, 9, 16
Per person rates from $6150
Barge charter rates from $46,900
Cruises in Italy
Italy is a country seemingly designed for hotel barging. Its beautiful canals and rivers pass through diverse landscapes and nature en route, from picturesque lagoon islands with their colourful houses, to wild beach dunes and pine woods with an abundance of birdlife. These waterways were once the ancient trade routes used by the Romans and the early Mediterranean settlers before them and are perfect for gaining a real insight into the many cultures, including Roman, Etruscan, Istrian, Byzantine and of course Renaissance, that have influenced the arts, architecture and history of the region over many centuries.
Venice of course is a jewel in the crown of any Italian cruise. The lagoon surrounding Venice, the Venice Lido beach, Hemingway's influence, the fabulous Villas on the River Brenta all complement the attractions of Venice itself where one could spend at least 6 months enjoying the amazing Renaissance architecture before venturing inside some of the buildings to discover the works of Canaletto, Tintoretto, and many other Italian masters.
Delicious seafood, local culinary specialities, fine wines and attentive service complete the picture of this fairytale adventure.
2011 Cruise Dates:
April 3, 10, 17, 24
May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
June 5, 12, 19, 26
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
August 7, 14, 21, 28
September 4, 11, 18, 25
October 2, 9, 16, 23
Per person rates from $3490
Charter rates from $57,000
Cruises in Holland and Belgium
Holland
Holland is famous, of course, for its tulips, but as a land with a rich artistic and cultural history, it has a lot more to offer. The western provinces of the land of water are populated by windmills which sit above the polders and along the very river that gave its name to Amsterdam.
Visitors are entranced by the colours of the bulb fields and the magnificence of the formal gardens such as the world-renowned Keukenhof Gardens, but at the same time marvel at the architecture and engineering feats of its innovative people.
Lovers of culture come from far and wide to tour the traditional Dutch cities and their many museums. Amsterdam, Rotterdam and Haarlem will charm you, just as they did the great artists, while other attractions such as the Delft Blue potteries and Gouda cheese market are equally memorable.
Belgium
Often called the ‘Essence of Europe’, Belgium is both multicultural and multilingual. Flanders in the north, a land crisscrossed by waterways, is particularly proud of its medieval cities Antwerp, Bruges and Ghent.
Suspended in time centuries ago, Bruges, the ‘Venice of the North’, is one of Western Europe’s prettiest medieval cities, with its picturesque market squares and network of canals.
Antwerp on the other hand boasts the country’s most impressive cathedral and tucked away in cobbled lanes and backstreets are antiques shops, art galleries, exclusive chocolate outlets and, of course, diamond shops.
There is also the attractive medieval canal-side city of Ghent with its imposing architecture of churches and the former houses of rich traders. The city has an extensive network of canals and endless streets to explore and boasts the largest number of listed buildings in Belgium.
2011 Cruise Dates
Holland:
March 27
April 3, 10, 17, 24
May 1
Holland and Belgium:
May 8
Per person rates from $6150
Charter rates from $46,900
Champagne: Since the reign of the Emperor Charlemagne, the Champagne region has been one of the great agricultural regions of Europe and now thanks to a type of sparkling wine to which the region has given its name, the word Champagne is known worldwide.
The region starts around 75 miles from Paris, around the city of Meaux and stretches along the beautiful River Marne to the city of Epernay, home of such renowned Champagne houses as Moet & Chandon. There is a plethora of vineyards spread across the undulating plains as far as the eye can see, brilliant green with the new leaves of spring, turning to gold as the grapes ripen in the autumn.
Also famous for its Champagne houses, Reims is one of the capitals of Champagne and certainly the most prestigious. It boasts one of the finest medieval cathedrals in the country where once the kings of France were crowned, including most famously, Charles VII, orchestrated by the loyal Joan of Arc.
The Champagne region is rich in other products, particularly its wonderfully creamy cheeses, with Coulommiers at its heart.
Cruises to this region are only in July and early August.
The itinerary includes a visit to taste the cheese at Brie, a tour of the Cathedral at Reims and of course Champagne tasting at Moet & Chandon.
2011 Cruise Dates:
July 24, 31
August 7, 21, 28
Per person rates from $4000
Charter rates from $39,000
Cruises in Scotland
The highlands of Scotland hold the very essence of this awe inspiring country. Cruise along the Great Glen from Inverness towards Fort William, through lochs, along rivers and the scenic and absorbing Caledonian Canal. Ancient castles leading to the water's edge, heather-clad hillsides and arguably the finest inland cruising scenery in the world.
The barge anchors below castles.Explore the Glens, Munroes and Bens of this spectacular land. The legends of the past, the taste of single malt and the mythical inhabitant of Loch Ness all contribute to a special magic only experienced in Scotland's dramatic Highlands.
2011 Cruise Dates:
January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
February 6, 13, 20, 27
March 6, 13, 20, 27
April 3, 10, 17, 24
May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
June 5, 12, 19, 26
July 31
August 7, 14, 21, 28
September 4, 11, 18, 25
October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
November 6, 13, 20, 27
December 4, 11, 18, 25
Per person rates from $3590
Charter rates from $17,900
Cruises in England
The Middle Thames is a slow meandering journey past Royal Palaces, quaint riverside towns and small local villages. A mixture of olde worlde England and the natural beauty of Surrey, Berkshire and Oxfordshire. From Henry VIII’s Hampton Court past Windsor Castle to Henley with frequent stops, which allow plenty of time to wander and explore, whilst we follow this old Viking trading route deep into rural countryside. Gentle exploration are the keywords, with good cycling and walking opportunities.
2011 Cruise Dates:
January 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
February 6, 13, 20, 27
March 6, 13, 20, 27
April 3, 10, 17, 24
May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
June 5, 12, 19, 26
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
August 7, 14, 21, 28
September 4, 11, 18, 25
October 2, 9, 16, 23, 30
November 6, 13, 20, 27
December 4, 11, 18, 25
Per person rates from 43990
Charter rates from $26, 000
Cruises in Ireland
The River Shannon represents Ireland at its finest. Rolling green fields, lakes and rivers, ancient Celtic monasteries and an abundance of wildlife are common place on our carefully chosen cruise route. The legends and fables of Ireland are found everywhere and are well understood by the warm and hospitable Irish people. Their extraordinary history has been varied and sometimes difficult but they somehow always find the time to chat and discuss the time of day
2011 Cruise Dates:
April 1, 8, 17, 24
May 15, 22, 29
June 5, 12, 19, 26
July 3, 10, 17, 24, 31
August 7, 14, 21, 28
September 4, 11, 18, 25
October 2
Per person rates from $3700
Charter rates from $35,000
Theme Cruises:
Antiques
Christmas
Cycling
Family
Fishing
Flower Show
Golf
Honeymoon
New Years
Tennis
Venice Regatta
Walking
West End London
Wine Appreciation
2011 Cruise Dates:
March 27
April 3, 10, 17, 24
May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29
June 5, 12, 19, 26
July 3, 10, 17, 24
August 7, 14, 21, 28
September 4, 11, 18, 25
October 2, 9, 16, 23
November 6
Per person rates from $5300
Charter rates from $42,500
Barging on Europe Rivers and Canals With European Waterways Barges
France: Burgundy and Loire Valley
Stoney Creek Travel
Weaverville / Asheville, NC
828-658-2582 / Toll Free 877-658-2582
Cruises in Italy
Cruises in Holland and Belgium
Cruises in Germany
Cruises in Scotland
Cruises in England
Cruises in Ireland
