Our particular hostess’ knowledge and local contacts were second to none, and we were sad to learn that she was moving on to start a new life with her partner (although the Captain reckons she’ll be back!!) Belmond operate this in a personal way by having their own luxury minibus which the tour hostess/guide drives between each docking point and then taking the guests off to local points of interest and for various activities. Our 3 night fam trip gave us a great taste of some of the excursions that may be experienced. After dinner we were then treated to a sample of the type of entertainment that Belmond can arrange for its guests – a fantastic duo, supposedly cousins of the Gypsy Kings, whose guitar playing and singing were outstanding and had us up on our feet. Once we’d settled in we set off for a little cruise up the river and back to start our luxury barge experience, watching the sunset with drinks and canapes. Guests may choose to travel by rail if they prefer, which I would recommend due to the journey length and comfort! We were welcomed with chilled champagne, which was very much appreciated and a sign of things to come. We joined the boat, under the command of mad Scot Captain John, at St Jean-de-Losne, having transferred from Paris by luxury people carrier.
#BELMOND AFLOAT IN FRANCE PROFESSIONAL#
On the roof of my particular boat, Napoleon, (all boats are individual and have slightly different facilities), there was a good size area with sun loungers, a hot tub and a dining area for al fresco lunches – perfect for making the most of the weather, viewing the beautiful scenery and watching the world go by.ĭespite the high standard of the product there is no pretension, with a casual relaxed atmosphere – no dressing for dinner unless you choose to do so! The crew are exceptionally personable and will join in on conversations, entertainment etc – but remaining professional at the same time. The cabins are larger than expected, with comfortable bedding, plenty of storage and good size shower rooms. All meals and drinks are included throughout, including champagne and quality wines.
The food is of an exceptional standard, all freshly prepared on board by the skilful chef, and paired with delicious regional wines chosen by the very knowledgeable wine hostess.
They comprise of a Captain, his 2nd in command, chef, 2 on-board hostesses and an onshore host/guide. The boats are designed with a stylish and comfortable country house elegance, with a crew of 6 to attend to you in a relaxed and informal style. However on the larger boats there are specific sailings which allow you to book individual cabins within a cruise.
#BELMOND AFLOAT IN FRANCE FULL#
The majority of sailings are sold as full vessel charters, for which the itinerary and excursions can be personalised. This is one of those rare products that unless you know of it already you wouldn’t know to ask for it – something truly special and once experienced a) never forgotten and b) desperate to be repeated!įor all lovers of luxury, intimate travel, boutique high end accommodation or river cruising on a personal level, this is the ideal option.īelmond, synonymous with luxury train journeys such as the Venice-Simplon Orient Express and Northern Belle, as well as stunning hotels worldwide, has a fleet of barges converted to hold 4-12 guests in true luxury on several rivers in France. Have you ever considered meandering along the waterways of southern France on a luxury barge, converted from an original working boat? No? Nor had I until I was invited to travel with Belmond on one of their “Afloat in France” barges on the River Saone.
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