Sunday, May 15, 2011

What is a Typical Day on a Barge Cruise?

A barge cruise abounds in beautiful scenery, relaxation and activity, exquisite gourmet meals, fine wine, interesting people, new adventures and more . . .


8 passenger Savoir Vivre in Burgundy
Imagine a typical day on board a charming floating home with a friendly crew to care for you. You wake up to the smell of freshly baked bread and croissants. The aroma of coffee pulls you from your bed, and you pad to the dining room where breakfast awaits you at your leisure. Then maybe a shower, or not, as the barge warms up the engine and casts off for a few hours of cruising through villages, vineyards, farms and oh-so-pretty countryside.




Le Phenicien offers barge and bike cruises
 A walk along the towpath or bike ride to a nearby village energizes you with exercise and fresh air. Or maybe you read a good book on deck and watch the world float by. With fascination, you watch the workings of the locks and marvel at the 300-year-old engineering feat that allowed cargo to be transported by barge.



Freshly prepared dishes every meal

Lunch is a luscious buffet of salads, cheeses and culinary delights prepared by the chef. Wine is served, bien sur, with every meal. Stories of the origin and history of each wine and cheese served delight guests.






Carcassonne, an excursion on the Canal du MIdi
Then it's into the chauffeured van for your daily excursion. Maybe today you taste wine in an ancient cave where the family has made wine for generations. The entertaining guide regales you with history and stories of the local culture. Tomorrow it may be an open air market, a medieval village or an architectural wonder.



The inviting cocktail lounge on Savoir Fair
Back on the barge perhaps a nap is in order before aperitifs on deck. Maybe a game of petanque on shore as the chef prepares a gourmet feast. How about a friendly game of cards?




   
 
Gourmet dining on board Luciole

The day is capped with a delectable dinner in the company of your fellow passengers. Your friendly hostess serves 4 to 5 courses paired with regional wines. Vegetarian or allergic? No problem! Dietary requests are gladly accommodated.



Happy guests on board Athos on the Canal du Midi
 
Bon nuit, sweet dreams. You wonder where the day went as you realize how relaxed and content you feel. Your comfy cabin welcomes you to dream of another fun day ahead.

Get ready for another day of adventure and fun.