For 50 years, European Waterways has offered luxury hotel barging – an immersive, all-inclusive “gentle voyage of discovery” focused on regional culture, history, wine, and cuisine. With a capacity of 6-20 passengers and a 1:2 crew ratio, European Waterways can provide an impeccable level of onboard service, as they transport guests along inland waterways often inaccessible to larger vessels. Recently, the line announced a collection of new and enhanced excursions to take guests “off the beaten track.”
Truffle hunting in the South of France
Guests aboard Anjodi engage in a culinary experience at Le Mas d’Antonin truffle farm hunting for the black truffle known as “black gold.” An expertly trained truffle dog assists guests on the hunt, and the adventure is followed with a feast as guests sample the truffles they have found with exquisite olive oils from the estate’s olive grove.
Wine Exploration in Burgundy and the Upper Loire
The Burgundy and the Upper Loire regions are renowned for their exquisite wines and rich cultural heritage. Travelers aboard Renaissance visit the historic family-run Sancerre winery established in 1900. European Waterways’ guests enjoy a private tasting of their wines along with a sample of the acclaimed ‘Crottin de Chavignol’ goat cheese which made the town of Chavignol famous.
Private wine immersion at Château on the Canal du Midi
Aboard Enchanté, guests have an enhanced visit to the family-owned Château de Paraza. Located on the banks of the picturesque Canal du Midi, the Château de Paraza was built on land once used to cultivate vines in Roman times. The château at the heart of the vineyard dates to 1612, and in 1620 it belonged to the father of the engineer who designed the Canal du Midi. Guests will have a private tour and tasting of its Minervois fine wines, followed by a gourmet lunch in the château’s elegant salon accompanied by one of the winery’s sommeliers who will explain the château’s rich history, dating back to the 17th century.
Pop the cork at a prestigious champagne house
Luxury hotel barge Panache is fitted out in traditional yacht style, the perfect ambience to cruise the Champagne region. The itinerary typically includes decadent brie cheese tastings, a tour of the Cathedral at Reims, Epernay, and of course, tastings at renowned and boutique champagne houses.
This summer, the luxury champagne house La Maison Boizel has been added to her tailor-made itinerary. Situated on the UNESCO-listed Avenue de Champagne, this premier champagne house dates back to 1834 and has been in the Boizel family for six generations. Guests will explore the underground cellars, which include the ‘family treasure’ featuring bottles dating back to 1834, and some of the greatest vintages of the 19th and 20th centuries. The visit is celebrated with a private tasting of two exclusive Boizel champagnes. On the return, there’s an optional visit to the Musée du Champagne, dedicated to the history and art of champagne making.
Led by knowledgeable onboard guides and often hosted by locals, European Waterways excursions offer a truly personalized experience that is always private, and often exclusive to European Waterways guests. If you’re interested in cruising with European Waterways, we recommend MEI Travel for a free, no obligation quote and free help throughout your trip.