Barge Cruise: Elisabeth
Cruise In France On The Burgundy Canal In Northern Burgundy Aboard The First Class Hotel-Barge ELISABETH
BARGE CRUISES: SEVEN DAYS/SIX NIGHTS
The 6-passenger barge Elisabeth is a 30-meter Dutch Luxemotor barge built in Rotterdam Holland in 1930. The barge is very comfortably appointed, and resembles a small boutique hotel that has been reserved just for you. There are three identical roomy cabins with twin or oversized queen size beds, each with its own ensuite bathroom. The salon/dining area offers a comfortable sofa, bar and dining table. The large wheelhouse is the perfect place to watch the world go by while chatting with the captain. The sundeck is ideal for enjoying 'al fresco' lunches and sunset dinners. The bow deck is great for quiet reading or peaceful sunbathing. Your leisure canal cruise aboard the Elisabeth will be restful and relaxed because your every desire will be taken care of by your personal crew of 4 who are there to serve you...what better way to enjoy the tranquil and picturesque canals of France?
The Elisabeth cruises at the start of the season on the Northern Burgundy Canal with visits to Chablis for wine tasting as well as to the 16th Century Chateau of Ancy le Franc and to Southern Champagne. From mid-summer to the fall, Elisabeth cruises on the Canal du Nivernais where visits include Chablis, the town of Vezelay with its 12th century basilica and the Grottes d'Arcy sur Cure with some of the oldest cave paintings in Europe.
We visited Elisabeth in August 2018 and met the owners, David and Matthew and found the barge to be beautifully decorated, comfortable and welcoming. David and Matthew, your warm and gracious hosts, along with Lily, their adorable four-legged crew member, shared with us wonderful hospitality and welcoming friendship.
Features
- Size of barge: 100 by 16.6 ft
- Number of Passengers: 6
- Number of Cabins (all with private bath): 3
- Crew: 4
- Air Conditioning and Central Heating: Yes.
- Salon: Split level salon/dining room with comfortable L-shaped sofa and leather chairs. High windows in the public area allow for light and privacy. Enclosed wheelhouse with seating for six. Stereo system in the salon only and wheelhouse. TV/DVD available in the salon.
- Bar: Open bar
- Deck: Large sundeck in front of the wheelhouse with teak wood arm chairs, two benches, dining tables and umbrellas.
- Spa Tub: No.
- Cabin Features: All cabins approximately 103 sq ft with twin beds or oversized queens including ensuite bathroom with shower.
- Vehicle for Transfers/Excursions: Air-conditioned minivan with individual reclining seats for excursions.
- Accessibility: Gangplank access. Barge fully hand railed and one step up to hand railed terrace. Step into wheelhouse and staircase down into passenger area.
- Bicycles: Six 21 speed all terrain bicycles are provided. Children's bicycles also available.
- Wi-Fi: Yes - limited in some areas
Elisabeth's Deck Plan
| ELISABETH 2022 and 2023 SEASON PRICES in US DOLLARS | |
|---|---|
| TYPE | REGULAR Apr 3 thru Oct 29 |
| Charter for 4 |
$26,000 |
| Charter for 5 |
$28,000 |
| Charter for 6 |
$30,500 |
What's Included
- 7 days and 6 nights on the barge in a cabin with private bath
- Transfers from Paris to the barge and return
- All meals beginning with dinner on Sunday through breakfast on Saturday
- All wines with lunches and dinners
- Open bar
- All escorted side-excursions (hot air ballooning, golf, etc. at additional cost)
- Use of bicycles
What's Not Included
- Suggested minimum 5% gratuity for the crew, to be given to the captain in equivalent Euros
- Overseas air transportation to Paris and return
- Trip cancellation insurance
|
Elisabeth 2022 Season Cruise Schedule* |
||
|---|---|---|
| Week | Route (Or Reverse) | Season |
| Apr 3 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Apr 10 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Apr 17 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Apr 24 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| May 1 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| May 8 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| May 15 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| May 22 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| May 29 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Jun 5 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Jun 12 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Jun 19 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Jun 26 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Jul 3 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Jul 10 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Jul 17 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Jul 24 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Jul 31 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Aug 7 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Aug 14 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Aug 21 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Aug 28 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Sep 4 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Sep 11 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Sep 18 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Sep 25 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Oct 2 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Oct 9 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Oct 16 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Oct 23 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
|
Elisabeth 2023 Season Cruise Schedule* |
||
|---|---|---|
| Week | Route (Or Reverse) | Season |
| Apr 16 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Apr 23 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Apr 30 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| May 7 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| May 14 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| May 21 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| May 28 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Jun 4 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Jun 11 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Jun 18 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Jun 25 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Jul 2 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Jul 9 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Jul 16 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Jul 23 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Jul 30 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Aug 6 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Aug 13 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Aug 20 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Aug 27 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Sep 3 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Sep 10 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Sep 17 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Sep 24 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Oct 1 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Oct 8 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
| Oct 15 | Tanlay-Montbard | Regular |
| Oct 22 | Montbard-Tanlay | Regular |
*Note: Cruise directions and sample itineraries may be in reverse and are subject to change and may depend on bookings and local navigation conditions. Alternate excursions of equal appeal are substituted when needed. For charter cruises special itineraries can be arranged.
SAMPLE ITINERARY*
Burgundy: Canal de Bourgogne
Tanlay to Montbard Spring to Mid-Summer 2022/2023
Burgundy: Canal de Bourgogne
Tanlay to Montbard Spring to Mid-Summer 2022/2023
Château d'Ancy le-Franc
Village of Chablis
Welcome aboard! After being met at a pre-arranged meeting point in Paris and transferred to Elisabeth, you will enjoy a champagne welcome with your captain and crew. After settling in to your guest rooms, you will enjoy your first dinner onboard introducing you to the wonderful local cuisine and wines of Burgundy.
Monday - Tanlay to Lezinnes
The first day of your study in relaxation begins with a leisurely breakfast of your choice. After this, your first cruise will be a gentle glide in to Lezinnes. After lunch your excursions begin. The first is to the Champagne region! You will be visiting the unique houses of Southern Champagne with opportunities to stock-up your cellars!. On your return to Elisabeth your only task is to relax and reflect on your experiences and enjoy another sumptuous dinner. After dinner, you can relax and make the most of your unique and comfortable environment, taking in the sunset and wildlife, as everything else is looked after by your hosts.
Tuesday - Lezinnes to Ancy-le-Franc
This morning's relaxing cruise is to Ancy-le-Franc. after lunch a short stroll takes us to discover the Renaissance delights of the 16th Century Chateau d'Ancy-le-Franc with a private guided tour. Another evening of fine wine, delicious food and great company awaits you.
Wednesday - Ancy-le-Franc to Ravieres
After an early breakfast, we will take you to one of the prettiest villages in France. Today you will be able to take in the sights, sounds and smells of the traditional food and drink market in the beautiful medieval village of Noyers. You will get to sample more of the wonderful local produce the Burgundy region has to offer. Perhaps try out your French and haggle with a stall holder or two for some ingredients of today's lunch?! On your return you will be served another delicious lunch. The afternoon is spent onboard relaxing during the cruise to Ravieres. Dinner on board.
Thursday - Ravieres to Buffon
Today, we tour the vineyards and town of Chablis, soaking up the atmosphere of this famous town and taste some excellent samples of this celebrated wine. We return to Elisabeth for lunch. Then all you have to do is sit back and enjoy a leisurely cruise to our next destination of Buffon where we moor next to the 18th Century forge. Cocktails, canapés and dinner on board.
Friday - Buffon to Montbard
After a leisurely morning, why not enjoy a walk or a cycle along the towpath, passing picturesque villages through which Elisabeth cruises on her way to our final destination of Montbard. This afternoon's tour of the oldest preserved Cistercian abbey and UNESCO World Heritage site at Fontenay. Tonight celebrate your time aboard Elisabeth with the Captain's Gala Dinner hosted by your Captain.
Saturday - Departure
After breakfast, sadly it's time to say goodbye - à la prochaine fois! Your private transfer will drop you back to your prearranged departure point.
Note: This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. The barge cruises in the reverse direction on alternate weeks.
SAMPLE ITINERARY*
Burgundy: Canal du Nivernais
Joigny to Mailly-la-Ville, Summer/Fall 2022/2023
Burgundy: Canal du Nivernais
Joigny to Mailly-la-Ville, Summer/Fall 2022/2023
Sunday - Paris to Joigny
After being met at a pre-arranged meeting point and transferred to Elisabeth, you will be greeted with a champagne welcome with your captain and crew. After settling in to your guest rooms, your first dinner onboard introduces you to the wonderful local cuisine and wines of Burgundy.
Monday - Joigny to Gurgy
The first day of your study in relaxation begins with leisurely breakfast. After breakfast, we take you on a walking tour of Sens, one of the oldest cities in France. Originally settled in the iron age and later fortified by the Romans, Sens boasts the first Gothic cathedral built in France, started in 1130. We return to Elisabeth for lunch and gently cruise the River Yonne to the beautiful, tranquil riverside village of Gurgy where we moor for the night. Relaxing and reflect on your experiences of the day and enjoy another fabulous dinner. After dinner, make the most of your unique and comfortable surroundings, take in the sunset and wildlife or enjoy a digestif, everything is looked after by your hosts.
Tuesday - Gurgy to Auxerre
This morning, you will be taken for a wine tasting in Chablis. You will visit the beautiful old town surrounded by 17,000 acres of Chardonnay vines. During your exclusive tasting you will discover the different styles of Chablis, including Grand Cru direct from the barrel. After returning to Elisabeth and enjoying lunch on board we depart Gurgy and cruise to the ancient city of Auxerre. Dinner on board
Wednesday - Auxerre to Vincelles
This morning we tour Auxerre. Formerly the capital of Lower Burgundy and strategically situated on the banks of the Yonne, your personal guide will tell the story of the city through its array of impressive buildings. Lunch today will be ashore at a traditional French restaurant who pride themselves in providing authentic Burgundian dishes. This afternoon we leave the River Yonne and move onto the Canal du Nivernais with our cruise to the village of Vincelles. Dinner on board.
Thursday - Vincelles to Accolay
This morning, after another breakfast of still warm pastries and breads from the artisanal village baker we tour the Grottes D'Arcy sur Cure, where pre-historic man lived and painted some 38,000 years ago! The paintings in the caves are still original and have remained untouched – truly awe inspiring. Following lunch on board this afternoon we cruise past the hilltop vines of Irancy on our way to Accolay for tonight’s mooring. Another delicious dinner awaits you on board this evening.
Friday - Accolay to Mailly-la-Ville
Our final cruise is to another pretty, sleepy village, Mailly-la-Ville. After lunch on board, your tour this afternoon is to Vezelay; one of the must-see UNESCO listed sites in Burgundy. The town is crowned by its 12th century basilica from where St Bernard delivered his rousing speech before the 2nd crusade in 1147. This evening we celebrate your time on board Elisabeth with our Gala Dinner!
Saturday - Mailly-la-Ville to Paris
After breakfast, sadly it's time to say goodbye -- à la prochaine fois! Your private transfer will drop you back to your prearranged departure point.
Note: This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. The barge cruises in the reverse direction on alternate weeks
Dining Aboard Elisabeth:
SAMPLE MENU
SAMPLE LUNCH
- Smoked trout, apple, fennel, broad bean, frisée and pomegranate salad
- A selection of local cheeses
- Tarte au citron
SAMPLE DINNER
- Amuse-Bouche of a wild mushroom tartine
- Herb tea infused snails with lardons and peas
- Poached chicken breast with morel mushrooms, truffle and cream reduction
- A selection of local cheeses
- Freshly made Earl Grey madeleines with goats milk ice cream
SAMPLE WINE MENU
- Domaine du Val Grevin Epineuil
- Domaine Bersan Cotes d'Auxerre Cuvee Marianne,
- William Fevre Chablis Grand Cru Bougros
- Chablisienne 1er Cru Grand Cuvee
- Benoit Cantin Irancy Palotte
Passenger Comments:
The barge was beautifully fitted out, everything practical provided, with lovely outside and inside spaces for togetherness. The trip (on the Nivernais canal in Burgundy) was through beautiful country, and picturesque small villages. The schedule, from visiting a 12th century market town to a cave containing paleolithic drawings, with ample free time to enjoy the barge travel was perfect. The food was divine. And finally, the barge operator, chef and guide were professional and fun and contributed greatly to our enjoyment of the trip.
E.M. MD USA
We have traveled the world and found this trip among the best trips we've taken!
M.R. MD USA
A fabulous journey, cruising through scenic Burgundy, visiting historic sites and savoring the delicious meals prepared by the talented chef. We spent a relaxing week on the barge and the owners were exceptionately attentive to our every need!
B&G H, MD USA
LINKS to Elisabeth Information
This page last updated December 25, 2023