(LifeWire) - Company Information
Massachusetts-based French Country Waterways has a small fleet of luxury hotel barges that carry up to 18 guests. Trips run from April to October, and the company offers several unique itineraries. A bus accompanies each barge, providing passengers with comfortable transportation to nearby attractions ashore.
Mission
French Country Waterways emphasizes luxury and relaxation on their voyages. The barges are designed to resemble country hotels, and the company aims for an elegant, classic atmosphere. There are daily bus excursions, and guests can also explore the villages and countryside independently, either on foot or by bicycles provided by the company.
Destinations
The barges sail on the canals of central France, including the Burgundy, Champagne, Alsace and Loire Valley regions.
Tour Participant Demographics
Most of the passengers are over age 50 and either American or Canadian. French County Waterways tends to attract passengers who are generally not cruise devotees.
Single Traveler Information
There is a single-supplement charge that ranges from $1,600 to $1,800.
Cost
Fares range from $6,600 to $8,200 per person.
Trip Length
All cruises are six-night trips.
Quick Facts About French Country Waterways
- All barges have English-speaking crews.
- Accommodation choices are king, queen or twin suites. All have private baths.
- Excursions include visits to castles and vineyards, a hot air balloon ride, tours of towns and special events such as festivals and farmer's markets.
- Meals include continental breakfasts (with freshly baked croissants), buffet lunches and multi-course dinners. Many of the ingredients come from local farms and bakers, and there is an extensive selection of local wines and cheeses. Some dinners are held onshore.
- French Country Waterways barges have no radios, televisions, phones or Internet service.
- All barges are air conditioned.
- There is no medical staff onboard, but the the barges are always near onshore medical facilities.
- French Country Waterways suggests that guests purchase trip insurance through their travel agent.
- Public areas onboard include lounges, sun decks and a library.
- A canal cruise is more leisurely than a river cruise: Barges move at 5 mph as opposed to river boats, which generally travel at 15 mph.
- The trips are all inclusive, including wine and liquor.
Contact Information
(800) 222-1236
French Country Waterways
P.O. Box 2195
Duxbury, Mass. 02331
www.fcwl.com
