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| Afloat in France, France | |  |
Life on Board
The five boutique barges operated by Afloat in France are among them most exclusive and lavish ever built. Facilities include air-conditioning, powerful showers and even plunge pools on the newer boats. Oversized picture windows and spacious decks make guests feel a part of the landscape.
The two original craft, Alouette and her younger sister Hirondelle, are decorated in a light and contemporary style, while the grander boats - Fleur de Lys, Napoléon and Amaryllis - are sumptuous “floating fantasies” with double staterooms, generous bathrooms, and luxurious furnishings.
Dining
Wining and dining is a highlight of any cruise and the five-course candlelit dinners are a special treat. The table d’hôte menus on board the Afloat in France barges are of the very highest quality and include many regional specialities and fine wine.
Each week’s menu includes some of the chefs original recipes as well as regional specialities and seasonal delicacies unique to the particular are of the country in which you are cruising.
Crew
The specially trained crew pampers you from the time you arrive. Your personal guide introduces you to the district’s most renowned vineyards, architectural landmarks, regional activities and local traditions.
Alouette & Hirondelle
Amaryllis, Fleur de Lys and Napoléon
- Pilot
- Chef
- 2 Hostesses
- Guide
- Matelot (Sailor)
All five Barges have a high crew-to-guest ratio: although domiciled in France the staff are mostly native English speakers.
Excursions
When you first board the boat your guide will discuss with you the programme for the week and will try to accommodate any special interests you may have into the visits. |
The excursions are fully escorted by the experienced on-board guide and you are transported each day in the barge’s own air-conditioned minibus.
In addition to the wonderful scenery each region has a wealth of cultural and historical sights to visit.
Guides will take you to magnificent castles and châteaux such as the 12th century Château Marguerite de Bourgogne, the ruined castle at Minerve (once a Cathar stronghold besieged and captured by Simon de Montfort), or the splendidly ornate Basilica of Notre Dame de Fourvière in Lyon. |
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Enjoy walking tours of the many regional towns, such as Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy with its most splendid of historic buildings, and typical villages such as Solutré which affords a superb view of Mâcon, the river Saône and the Pouilly-Fuissé vineyards from the Rock du Solutré.
Shop at local markets for local delicacies, or in speciality food shops for famous cheeses and delicatessen. Watch a master craftsman demonstrate his skills with chocolate. Participate in a wine tasting or more correctly “dégustation” at renowned châteaux such as Chateauneuf-du-Pape.
These are just a few examples of the typical activities enjoyed during a cruise with Afloat in France. |
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