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Barges In France: Adrienne
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Cruise in France on the Canal de la Marne au Rhin in Alsace, and on the Aisne River and the Canal de l'Aisne a la Marne in Champagne aboard the Ultra Deluxe Hotel-Barge ADRIENNE

SEVEN DAYS / SIX NIGHTS

The 12-passenger Adrienne has been designed to offer the utmost in quality and comfort for its guests. With handcrafted French provincial furnishings throughout, she offers six generously-sized king or twin suites, sleek marble baths and custom made cabinetry and armoires in rich maple. It has a beautiful salon and dining area where passengers can relax and enjoy superb cuisine and vintage wines. The barge is fitted with a spacious canopied deck with comfortable furniture made for relaxing and enjoying the picturesque views.

In the 2012 season, between April and July, the Adrienne cruises in the Lorraine region between Nancy and Strasbourg. Then between July and October, Adrienne moves to the Champagne region, cruising through the picturesque Marne River and Canal, in a region that produces the world's celebrated champagne and which has also witnessed centuries of history shaping events.

During the cruise in Alsace, you'll see Chagall's remarkable stained glass window in Sarrebourg, experience the Inclined Plane which is a boat lift that raises or lowers the Adrienne 146 feet in an engineering marvel that takes the place of 17 locks, saving a full day of cruising. The week also includes a walking tour of Nancy, visits to the village of Lutzelbourg and the town of Saverne, a private wine tasting at Domaine Bechtold in Dahlenheim, and walks through the city of Strasbourg with the old quarter of small canals and half-timbered houses. One of the highlights of the week is the dinner ashore at Michelin star Le Cerf, in Marlenheim.

During your Champagne region cruise, you will have the opportunity to tour the Coronation city of Reims, the third century Roman cellars of the house of Ruinart, enjoy champagne tasting at Moët & Chandon, and an elegant dinner ashore at the one of France's most prestigious restaurants Michelin star restaurant Boyer Les Crayères in Reims. Visitors can discover a grand historical heritage, from the triumphant victories of Joan of Arc and Napoleon to the 20th century battles of the great World Wars. The extensive vineyards date to Roman times, but it was the discovery of effervescent wine in the 17th century that made Champagne recognized around the world as the symbol of celebration.

You are greeted at the meeting point hotel by our tour guide, who will escort you via private motorcoach to the mooring where your luxury hotel barge awaits. Once aboard, you are welcomed by our cordial, English-speaking crew, and ushered to your comfortably appointed stateroom, complete with private bath. Spend the first evening becoming acquainted with your fellow passengers who, like you, seek to experience France in a special way.

Each morning, your barge gets underway for the day's cruise. As it navigates the frequent locks on the canal, it is easy to step directly ashore for a leisurely stroll. If you feel adventurous, take one of the barge's bicycles to explore the quiet lanes and quaint villages nearby. Or, simply relax on the sundeck and watch the lovely French countryside slowly unfold before you. During the day, you are invited to join an excursion via private motorcoach to a nearby point of special interest. Each itinerary has been selected to include a varied sampling of the region ... romantic castles, historic towns, and renowned vineyards for wine tasting. At certain chateaux and estates, your tour will be conducted by the owner, whose family has been in residence for generations. Your Captain will also arrange for you to enjoy special local events which occur during your cruise, from lively farmers' markets to the fireworks on Quatorze Juillet. As an option to the cruise, you may also be able to experience the adventure of a hot air balloon flight, depending on the location and the weather.


Features

  • Size of barge: 128 ft
  • Number of Passengers: 12
  • Number of Cabins (all with private bath): 6
  • Crew: 6
  • Air Conditioning and Central Heating: Yes
  • Salon: Elegant salon with comfortable sofas and chairs, separate dining room, picture windows
  • Bar: Open bar
  • Deck: Sundeck with canopy, deck chairs and 3 tables
  • Spa Tub: No
  • Cabin Features: 6 suites with king bed or twins, each 157 sq ft, including ensuite marble bathrooms with shower
  • Vehicle for Transfers/Excursions: Air-conditioned Mercedes 13 passenger mini-bus
  • Wheelchair accessible: No
  • Bicycles: 8
  • Dinner ashore: Dinner at a Michelin star restaurant included.



Adrienne's Deck Plan
Adrienne's Deck Plan



Passenger Comments:

Our cruise on Adrienne was fantastic!! Excellent in all respects. Not a single constructive criticism. We would highly recommend this trip to anyone. Cabin accommodations were very nice and large considering the size of the barge very nice, and well-maintained, the rooms were attended to by crew immediately in the morning and during dinner. Our meals and wines met the highest standards. The food was delicious, unique and imaginative, and plentiful. Each lunch and dinner was an experience in itself. Even the simple breakfasts of local pastries, cheeses and meats were excellent. Crew service was top notch. The meal service was excellent. The region was beautiful, and the trip down the canals smooth, excursions were very interesting. There was an excellent mix of local interest, wine tastings, and historical significance. The trip in all respects exceeded our highest expectations.
Larry D. and Adele G., California September 2011

We had a great trip. The staff was wonderful... the cabins, food, wine....all excellent. Our dietary request was consistently met with substitutions that were at least as good as the rest. NK, CT, USA, June 2010

Absolutely the finest of everything. The chef, crew, boat, attention to every detail were beyond comparison. The cabin was lovely - very well designed and surprisingly spacious. The bathroom was beautifully appointed, towels and linens very good quality, decor was very pleasing.

Incomparable service! Glenn was charming, always pleasant, helpful, informative and upbeat. Tom, Amelie and Michelle were equally wonderful, helpful, always ready to lend a hand or satisfy a request - all worked really hard but maintained a terrific disposition - pretty amazing group.

Cyril worked magic in the kitchen and we felt that he was every bit as talented as the chef at the 3 star restaurant we went to in Chagny. Each meal was a masterpiece of flavor, presentation, texture - a work of art. Dining was an experience and we eagerly anticipated each evening to see what Cyril would create. We were always thrilled with the outcome. The wines were magnificent, varied and totally enjoyable - a treat.

Excursions were very interesting - diverse. Loved the tastings, the information along the way, the towns, the history.

The barge and cabin surpassed my expectations. I was thinking it might be smaller and a little cramped, but found it to be luxurious and beautiful. The high points of the cruise? Dinner!
-- B.G. & D.G., TN, USA

SAMPLE ITINERARY:*
Champagne:
Canal de l'Aisne a la Marne, Marne River
Maizy to Chateau-Thierry
July-October 2011

Sunday  
Passenger's will be met by our guide at the pre-determined hotel, and escorted via private motor coach to the Adrienne's mooring in Maizy.  Champagne reception and Welcome Dinner on board, the first of many glorious meals.

Monday  
Morning cruise on the Canal de l'Aisne a la Marne to Courcy.  After lunch, drive to the historic Chemin des Dames or Ladies' Road.  This 18 mile stretch of road has been the site of many epic battles, from Julius Caesar in 57 B.C. to the Great War.  Dinner ashore at the two-star Michelin restaurant, l'Assiette Champenoise, located in Tinqueux.

Tuesday  
Morning cruise to our next overnight mooring in the town of Sillery.  Afternoon walking tour of Reims, the Coronation City of French Kings, including a visit to the majestic Gothic Cathedral. 

Wednesday  
Morning visit to the Premier Cru champagne village of Ludes, for a private cellar tour and tasting at the family-owned House of Ployez Jacquemart.  Enjoy an afternoon cruise to the village of Conde-sur-Marne. 

Thursday  
After a leisurely morning cruise to Cumieres, we drive to Epernay, the capital of Champagne.  Tour the vast cellars of Moet & Chandon, followed by a private champagne tasting on the property. 

Friday  
Morning cruise through the vineyards along the winding Marne Valley to Chateau-Thierry.  Afternoon drive to the American Cemetery and World War I battlefields at Belleau Wood.  We return to Adrienne for our festive Captain's Farewell Dinner on board.

Saturday  
Depart Adrienne at 9:30am for private transfer to the return point hotel in Paris, arriving by about 11:00am.

Note: This is a sample itinerary and it is subject to change. On alternating weeks this itinerary will operate in the reverse direction. Your Captain will schedule Hot Air Balloon flights during the cruise upon request. Balloon flights are dependent on favorable weather conditions with a minimum of six passengers, payable directly to the Balloon operator.


SAMPLE ITINERARY:*
Alsace
Canal de la Marne au Rhin
Nancy to Strasbourg
April to July 2011

Sunday
You will be escorted via private transfer from our meeting point in Strasbourg to the ADRIENNE's mooring in Nancy.  Champagne reception and Welcome Dinner on board.

Monday
After a short early morning cruise, take a walking tour of Nancy, including Place Stanislas, considered one of the grandest squares in all of France.  You can visit the Fine Arts Museum or the Musée Historic, a museum dedicated to the rich history of Lorraine.  Afternoon cruise on the Canal de la Marne au Rhin to the village of Xures.

Tuesday

Morning cruise through the beautiful open countryside of Lorraine and the plateau of reservoirs to the evening mooring in Xouaxange.  After lunch, depart for a visit of a local crystal maker, a very prominent industry in the area.

Wednesday
Morning visit of Sarrebourg to visit the 13th century Chapel of the Cordeliers, with a stunning stained glass window designed by the painter Marc Chagall.  Return to ADRIENNE for an afternoon cruise which includes the Inclined Plane, an engineering marvel which allows the vessel to slide down the hillside into the valley below.  Cruise to the village of Lutzelbourg, nestled in the beautiful Zorn valley.  

Thursday

Morning cruise through the forested valley into the charming town of Saverne.  After lunch, tour the cellars and enjoy a private wine tasting at Domaine Bechtold in Dahlenheim.  Dinner ashore at Le Cerf, in Marlenheim, honored with one Michelin star.

Friday
Morning cruise to the final mooring in Hochfelden. After lunch, drive to the historic city of Strasbourg.  Tour the town center including the magnificent 12th century Cathedral and La Petite France, an old quarter of small canals and half-timbered houses.  Return to ADRIENNE for the Festive Farewell Dinner on board.

Saturday
After breakfast, depart the ADRIENNE for the transfer to the return point hotel in Strasbourg, arriving by 10:30 AM.

Note: This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change.  Alternate cruise weeks will be in the reverse direction.



Adrienne
2012 Season Cruise Schedule*
Week Route Season
Apr 1 Strasbourg-Nancy Early/Late
Apr 8 Nancy-Strasbourg Early/Late
Apr 15 Strasbourg-Nancy Early/Late
Apr 22 Nancy-Strasbourg Early/Late
Apr 29 Strasbourg-Nancy Value
May 6 Nancy-Strasbourg Value
May 13 Strasbourg-Nancy High
May 20 Nancy-Strasbourg High
May 27 Strasbourg-Nancy High
Jun 3 Nancy-Strasbourg High
Jun 10 Strasbourg-Nancy High
Jun 17 Nancy-Strasbourg High
Jun 24 Strasbourg-Nancy High
Jul 1 Nancy-Strasbourg High
Jul 8 Strasbourg-Nancy Value
Jul 15 Maizy-Chateau Thierry Value
Cruise Schedule* ... continued
Week Route Season
Jul 22 Chateau Thierry-Maizy Value
Jul 29 Maizy-Chateau Thierry Value
Aug 5 Chateau Thierry-Maizy Value
Aug 12 Maizy-Chateau Thierry Value
Aug 19 Chateau Thierry-Maizy High
Aug 26 Chateau Thierry-Maizy High
Sep 2 Maizy-Chateau Thierry Prime
Sep 9 Chateau Thierry-Maizy Prime
Sep 16 Maizy-Chateau Thierry Prime
Sep 23 Chateau Thierry-Maizy Prime
Sep 30 Maizy-Chateau Thierry Prime
Oct 7 Chateau Thierry-Maizy Prime
Oct 14 Maizy-Chateau Thierry Value
Oct 21 Chateau Thierry-Maizy Early/Late
Oct 28 Maizy-Chateau Thierry Early/Late


The Adrienne's routes through Champagne, from Maizy to Chateau Thierry and Alsace, from Nancy to Strasbourg.
The Adrienne's routes through Champagne, from Maizy to Chateau Thierry and Alsace, from Nancy to Strasbourg. For a more detailed look at the cruise route, view our map of the Canal de l'Aisne a la Marne in Champagne, and the Canal de la Marne au Rhin in Alsace.

*Note: Cruise directions and sample itineraries may be in reverse and are subject to change and may depend on bookings and local navigation conditions. Alternate excursions of equal appeal are substituted when needed. For charter cruises special itineraries can be arranged.


ADRIENNE
2012 SEASON PRICES in US DOLLARS
ACCOMMODATION EARLY/LATE
Apr 1 thru Apr 28
Oct 21 thru Nov 3
VALUE
Apr 29 thru May 12
Jul 8 thru Aug 18
Oct 14 thru Oct 20
HIGH
May 13 thru Jul 7
Aug 19 thru Sep 1
PRIME
Sep 2 thru Oct 13
Suite (per person, double occupancy)
$5,295
$5,795
$6,295
$6,295
Suite Single Supplement
$1,595
$1,595
$1,595
$1,595
Charter for up to 12
$61,140
$65,940
$70,740
$75,540


What's Included
- 7 days, 6 nights in a cabin with private bath
- Transfers from Paris to the barge and return for Champagne cruises; transfers from Strasbourg to the barge and return for Alsace cruises.
- All meals starting with Sunday dinner through Saturday breakfast
- Wines with lunches and dinners
- Open bar
- All side tours and excursions
- Use of bicycles
- Dinner ashore at a Michelin star restaurant

What's Not Included
- Overseas air transportation to Paris and return
- Transportation from Paris to Strasbourg and return for Alsace region cruises
- Optional hot air balloon flights
- Suggested minimum 5% gratuity for the crew, to be given to the captain in equivalent Euros

Special Places Travel, LLC
"Barges in France (and the rest of Europe) ... for the experience of a lifetime!" ™

For booking information,
Phone (toll-free): 1-877-64-BARGE (1-877-642-2743)
Outside of the U.S.: 001.443.321.3614
or E-mail: info@specialplacestravel.com



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Last Update: January 12, 2012

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CLIA-Cruise Lines International Association, OSSN-Outside Sales Support Network. 
Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover Cards Welcome