European Waterways Expands Its Canal Barging Fleet With Purchase of Two Ultra Deluxe Hotel Barges

Barging Luxury in Europe European Waterways announced the purchase of the stylish Enchantéand Finesse hotel barges, two

Barging Luxury in Europe

European Waterways announced the purchase of the stylish Enchantéand Finesse hotel barges, two double-decker vessels that reflect the ultimate in luxury canal barging. The vessels, which carry up to eight passengers and a crew of five that includes an onboard master chef, expand the company’s Ultra-Deluxe barge categories. Hotel barge Enchanté cruises the Canal du Midi, while Finesse explores the Canal du Centre and the Canal de Bourgogne in Southern Burgundy. Their purchases strengthen the company’s status as the largest operator of luxury hotel barges in Europe, with a total of 17 vessels. The purchases also come as barging vacations move out of the niche market category and into the mainstream, with more travellers discovering “the joys of hotel barging.”

European Waterways Expands Its Canal Barging Fleet With Purchase of Two Ultra Deluxe Hotel Barges 1
Acquisition of Enchanté and Finesse Strengthens European Waterways’ Commitment to Providing the ‘Ultimate Luxury Barging Experience’ (Pictured: Enchante Hotel Barge)

About European Waterways
Hotel Barging is a boutique, unique experience which offers an immersive, all-inclusive “gentle voyage of discovery” that focuses upon the culture, history, fine wine and gourmet cuisine of the region. With a six- to 20-person capacity and 1:2 crew ratio, European Waterways is able to provide an impeccable level of onboard service and can transport their guests on the intimate inland waterways that are inaccessible to larger vessels. This fascinating network of smaller canals allows for flexibility, spontaneity and ample opportunity to hop off and explore the beautiful surroundings via bicycle or on foot. In addition to this, there are daily chauffeured excursions “off the beaten track” to a wide variety of enthralling locations, from exquisite wine tastings to private tours of stately homes. With over 40 years experience and a fleet that spans nine countries, European Waterways is the largest luxury hotel barging company in Europe.  or visit www.europeanwaterways.com.

“The surge in canal barge cruising is part of a growing trend among travellers who seek out ‘slow travel’ experiences that allow them to become immersed in the history, culture and cuisine of the cruise region,” said Derek Banks, European Waterways’ Managing Director. “They are also ideal for today’s travel environment, as they can be chartered by families and small groups to create an exclusive ‘travel bubble’ that allows them to stay together throughout the entire six-night, all-inclusive cruises.”

Enchanté and Finesse offer the perfect mix of luxury accommodations and modern amenities.  They feature luxurious ensuite cabins, large sun decks for alfresco dining, and a spa pool. Guests can also avail themselves of the onboard bicycles to pedal along the gentle towpaths or explore the nearby villages. Barge highlights also include a spacious saloon with an open demonstration galley where the master chef prepares the day’s gourmet meals in full view of guests.

European Waterways’ purchases seamlessly incorporate all existing bookings while maintaining the highest standards of operation and service that the company’s customers have come to trust. Itineraries include wine tasting excursions to some of the region’s most prestigious vineyards, as well as tours of castles, aristocratic estates, and medieval villages. Meanwhile, for the 2022 season, the company will also implement a series of upgrades that include the addition of a Mercedes minibus to chauffeur guests to their daily excursions, upgrades to interior décor and the expansion of unique “Insider Experiences” such as live onboard music and private tours.

Enchanté and Finesse are participating in European Waterways’ spring 2022 specials that offer up to 20% off full-boat charters, valid when booked before February 21, 2022. The complete list of specials is available at https://www.europeanwaterways.com/special-offers/?y=2022.

Book With Confidence

European Waterways’ “Book with Confidence” policy provides flexibility in rescheduling future cruises, should they be impacted by government restrictions.
The health and safety of guests are also top priorities, with strict protocols in place that include crew and passenger temperature checks as well as deep cleaning and disinfecting of all cabins and public surfaces on the boats. For more information, visit www.europeanwaterways.com