European Waterways FAQ

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Frequently Asked Questions about Hotel Barging

What is a Luxury Hotel Barge?

A barge refers to a specific style of hull, which is designed to navigate, in shallow, narrow, waterways. Most barges were built to carry goods into hard to reach areas of the country. Hotel barges, which are fully crewed and are operating today, usually are cargo hulls, which have been redesigned and totally rebuilt.They are barge hulls over which cabins and saloons have been constructed in order to accommodate travellers. Luxury barges are smaller vessels, accommodating a minimum of 6 passengers and a maximum of 12.

The cruises usually include all gourmet meals with wine, all shore excursions, "open bar" and bicycles for the use of the guests. These vessels cruise on small waterways, mostly canals. The purpose of a barge cruise is not to rush from Point A to Point B, but to relax in a stress free environment with fine food and wine, enjoy the delights of the countryside you are passing through, and get to know the "soul of the country." The barges travel neither far or fast.

Are these barges available for groups to charter only or can I book just one or two cabins?

You may choose to charter the entire vessel or block one or a number of cabins on board. When the vessel is chartered, you and your party will have the full capacity of the boat and may request certain deviations from the regular schedule and the service. When doable, our crews will make all efforts to accommodate. These special requests must be made known at the time of the first deposit and will be confirmed in writing.

What is the maximum number of people a barge can accommodate?

Our vessels carry between 4 and 12 . We can tandem barges and take groups of up to 20 persons.

What amenities can I expect on the barge?

All cabins have private, nicely appointed bathrooms with showers. Some suites include bathtubs. Several barges have saunas and on deck hot tubs or jacuzzis as well. Usually there are no telephones, TVs or computers. For emergency communications, barges do carry a cellular phone. However...anyone who chooses to break the tranquillity of the voyage for urgent business like baseball scores, elections or market closings...public phones are handily spaced along the canals.

Are barges cruises expensive?

Barges come in many styles and levels of luxury from rustic and comfortable like a good Country Inn to elegant, like a fashionable country house hotel. But the essence of barging is not decor...but the taste and texture of the region that is revealed in the welcome greeting of the villagers, the smiles and hearty charm of the lock keepers, and the personal & friendly attention of local artisans and guides. Barge rates do reflect the level of luxury and the season...but since they are inclusive, they are great value. Meals, wines, open bar, guided excursions and admissions...all included!

Generally speaking, the smaller the vessel, the more personal the service, and the more exclusive the experience. This is reflected in the pricing. Small vessels are ideal for families, groups of friends, or individuals who are attracted to the luxury of a barge cruise.

Will I have a language problem?

No. All our crewmembers speak English and are generally British. Other languages like Italian, German and French are also spoken. When cruising through mainly rural areas, one is quite likely to find the locals speaking with a strong dialect. Although sometimes difficult to understand, we still encourage you to try to communicate with them. English is the main language on board .

Will I be able to make special requests?

Special dietary requests can be made to the Chef or barge Captain prior to your cruise. Please advise our reservations department at least 4 weeks prior to your cruise. These requests should also be submitted to us as early as possible. If there will be a birthday or other special event to celebrate during your cruise, please let us know. We will try to accommodate these requests, however we ask that you understand that in some cases we may be unable to do so. Please make sure that you advise us of any food allergies or medical conditions that require special attention

What sort of activities will I find during my barge trip?

Lots! Each morning and again after lunch, guided tours to historic and cultural sites of the region provide guests many interesting choices from visiting chateaux, famous vineyards, country market towns, private gardens to museums celebrating art, weapons, textiles or bread! Other interests, like golf, ballooning, riding and tennis are also accommodated. (In between, there is fine food & drink) Each barge has a designated crew member guide and an air-conditioned van or bus that travels with it, for daily excursions to points of interest such as nearby chateaux, colourful local markets, ancient monasteries, or fascinating specialty museums.

Is barging only for the sedentary, older traveller?

Not at all! Canal cruising is for those who want a "close-up, personal" experience in Europe. Mature & younger travellers find the pace and comfort of a barge the ideal way to explore the real heart & soul of a country. More active types like to take off on village walks, hill climbs or bicycles...meeting up at the next lock. The unique advantages of a barge is that we can tailor an itinerary and celebrate a special event to suit the guests

How does your pricing work?

All prices were accurate when we went to press but are subject to change thereafter. Individual prices are applicable to two guests sharing a twin/double cabin. Prices for single travellers with incur a single supplement on all vessels except those with single cabins.

What do the rates on the barges include?

All meals catered for by our on board Master Chef, all good regional wines served throughout the cruise, open bar with a large selection of alcoholic and non alcoholic beverages, chauffeured and guided sightseeing and use of all barge facilities such as bicycles. Some barges also have jacuzzi, sauna, chart room with TV/DVD. Local transfers to your barge are included and we will advise you of your meeting point at time of booking. On our Family Charter Cruises equipment for babies and children will be included on most vessels; Cribs, Travel Cot, High Chair, Car Seats, toys, children bicycles and baby bicycle seats.

What do the rates on the barges not include?

Optional but highly recommended cancellation insurance Optional hot air ballooning, where available; Meals and snacks taken off the vessel when specified; All expenses associated with optional golf. Medical Cancellation Insurance: We strongly recommend the purchase of medical cancellation insurance within 14 days of submitting deposit for your cruise.

How long are the barge cruises?

Length of Cruise: Barge cruises are six nights / seven days in length. The great majority of our departures are on Sunday and finish on Saturday morning although some weekday departures are available.

What seasons do they cruise?

In France, Germany, Italy, Scotland, Holland, Belgium, the Czech Republic and England, most of our cruises start early April to mid November, but some vessels in France, England and Scotland offer cruises at other times of the year.

Cruising in Ireland takes place from beginning May to beginning of October. We also do a trans- Europe cruise twice a year in the late fall and spring.

If I am physically challenged can I cruise on one of your boats?

There are some programs, which are not feasible for travellers who are physically challenged. Please be sure to check with us prior to booking. Barges, as a rule, are not "handicapped friendly" since they rarely have elevators between decks, and the mooring is not alongside quays or piers. We do however offer a wonderful cruise in Southern Burgundy where the barge has a wheelchair lift between decks, lift for wheelchairs into the minibus and a wheelchair friendly suite. Please contact us for more information.

Will I feel confined?

Not if you enjoy meeting the locals, viewing passing vineyards and chateaux from a hot tub on deck, or sharing experiences with a congenial group of travellers on journeys more like "moving house parties. You will be able to get on and off your barge practically at will, to take a walk along the towpath or a bicycle ride to town. (Almost all the barges have bicycles on board for passenger use). Meet and talk to the locals, view the vineyards, or accompany the crew as they shop in the early morning for delicious, freshly baked bread and croissants. Learn the secrets of fine cuisine from your gourmet chef. Savour an amazing variety of local cheese and other delicacies. All of this in addition to the included sightseeing tours en route. The gentle movement of the barge, anchored at night, has caused dedicated insomniacs to report wonderful, restful sleep. It is the relaxed atmosphere aboard, the friendly and helpful crew, the peace and tranquillity of the countryside, together with the wonderful cuisine; lively conversation and interesting sightseeing that make it magical.

I've never barged before, where should I go first

Surprisingly, this question comes up pretty often. Classic barge cruising is now available across Europe. Because our vessels are Small enough to navigate the smaller canals and rivers , we concentrate on these, and leave the 100 passenger cruise ships behind! France is very popular, but have you considered the beauty of the Scottish Highlands or the intrigue of Venice?

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