For clients who have done several major ocean and river cruises or ones who may be weary of mega-ship crowds, consider selling another type of luxury sail: on a former industrial barge that’s been transformed into an elegant floating hotel. These flat-bottomed boats were made to coast along smaller waterways. With passenger capacity between six and 20, this type of voyage provides an intimate, more personalized trip — and a wonderful way to explore European villages, castles and architectural marvels in out-of-the-way places.
From mom-and-pop-owned barges carrying between two and four passengers to ultra-luxurious vessels that host up to 20, converted barges are operated by several companies. U.K.-based European Waterways has a fleet of 18 barges in nine countries. France is a popular barge cruise destination: French Country Waterways (based in Massachusetts) has immersive barge travel in France, as does Les Bateaux Belmond (mainly but not exclusively private charters); CroisiEurope is in France and Belgium and Chicago-based Barge Lady Cruises has extensive French offerings, plus a handful of other European destinations. Here are a few reasons to recommend barge cruising to your customers.
Passengers can take a cycling excursion when their barge is moored. (Photo Credit: European Waterways)
Bespoke excursions
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As clients gently coast along pastoral landscapes and historic routes that larger ships can’t navigate, they can soak up the architecture of grand châteaux, fortified villages, and historic city centres.
I recently explored the Canal du Midi – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – aboard European Waterways’ eight-passenger Enchanté barge, coasting from Salleles-d’Aude to Trebes. After being picked up at the Narbonne train station by private chauffeured minibus, we were welcomed with champagne and smiles by our crew of five – our captain, tour director, chef, housekeeper and hostess.
Highlights of our barge cruise included a truffle hunting demonstration and olive oil tasting at the mother-and-daughter-operated Mas d’Antonin, a private winery tour at the family-owned 17th century Château de Paraza in the Languedoc region, and discovering the fortified hilltop village of Minerve – known as one of the loveliest villages in France – to learn about its dramatic history. A visit to the city of Carcassonne enabled us to see the most complete medieval fortified city in existence, with its 52 watchtowers and portcullis.
While the barge is moored canal-side, clients can disembark to walk or cycle through historic villages to get an authentic taste of the vibrant local life.
Fine dining is part of the barge cruise experience (Photo Credit: European Waterways)
Elevated culinary journeys
For guests wishing to indulge in French gastronomy, with locally sourced ingredients and fine wine from regions toured during the day, barge cruises deliver a memorable experience. Some vessels have open kitchens where passengers can watch or assist the chef, and market visits are part of the fun, too.
Our breakfasts featured bakery-fresh breads and pastries, jams, fruit, cereals, yogurts, freshly squeezed orange juice, teas and coffee as well as eggs on request. Lunch was served bistro style, with soup or salad, local dishes and a cheese course or dessert. Dinner included a sampling of regional cuisine by candlelight. Both lunch and dinner were paired with fine regional wines. Guests enjoyed wine, beer and spirits from the well-stocked bar anytime, along with non-alcoholic beverages, tea and coffee.
Common areas on a barge are cozy and well-appointed (Photo Credit: European Waterways)
Onboard comfort and charm
Cabins are small but beautifully appointed, while public spaces — such as cozy salons to have a cocktail and upper decks to savour your morning coffee — are designed for social gathering with other passengers. The best part? Food, wine, and excursions, transportation to and from the train are all included. Gratuities (the guideline is 5 to 10 percent of the cruise fare) are the only out-of-pocket expenses onboard.
Clients can also bookend their barge cruise on either end with visits to other European cities. For example, we spent two days in Barcelona pre- and post-cruise. Other passengers head to Paris, Dublin, London or Venice.
Enjoy some quiet time on the sundeck of a barge (Photo Credit: European Waterways)
Expert Tips: What clients should pack for a barge cruise (and what to leave at home)
Space is limited onboard, so passengers should pack smart:
• They’ll be walking on centuries-old cobblestone streets and along steep vineyard paths, so comfortable, closed-toe shoes and a cross-body sling bag should make it on the packing list.
• Many barges have folding bikes onboard, so advise clients to bring cycling-appropriate clothing if they want to bike.
• Be sure they pack an adaptor that allows North American-style plugs.
• Because small barges don’t have medical personnel on board and will often cruise through small villages, suggest guests bring basic pain relievers, band-aids and other drugstore supplies.
• Passengers will be touring cathedrals and in some parts of Europe, women must cover their shoulders or legs. So, advise them to pack a sarong or other wrap in case they need to cover up.
• Sunglasses, sunscreen and a hat will protect guests during outdoor excursions.
• Most barges have small libraries, a selection of board games and decks of cards onboard. Clients should feel free to bring your art supplies, knitting or other hobby gear.
• Many barges have outdoor hot tubs, so a bathing suit comes in handy.
• Most important: loosely fitting clothing, as you will be eating gourmet food paired with exquisite wines.
• Leave the formal duds at home, because barge cruises are smart casual. Many barge cruises, including ours, have a captain’s farewell dinner where passengers and crew dress up, so one dressy outfit will suffice.
