Cruise in the South of France on the Canal du Midi or Provence and the Camargue aboard the
Ultra-Deluxe Hotel-Barge ENCHANTE
SEVEN DAYS/SIX NIGHTS
Enchante was originally built to navigate the canals and rivers of Europe and has now been completely refurbished to the highest standard, with its inaugural cruise in August 2009 on the Canal du Midi. Enchante provides luxurious accommodation for up to 8 guests in 4 equal suites with twin beds or oversized queen bed, each approximately 200 sq ft, with a superbly appointed ensuite bathroom with shower and luxurious bath products.
Enchante is tastefully furnished in exotic hardwoods creating a bright and airy atmosphere. She has a large, spacious salon where the attention to detail is exceptional. She has a demonstration kitchen for guests to view the chef, internet connection on board and a guest computer available, DVD/TV and air conditioning throughout.
Guests relax on the spacious sun deck, with al fresco dining, gorgeous hot tub and luxurious sun loungers.
Enchanté's highly professional crew of four includes a master chef, tour guide and hostess, led by a knowledgeable and experienced captain who will ensure your cruise is memorable and more!
Cruise Highlights:
- All-inclusive:
open bar, high quality local and regional wines paired with gourmet cuisine, entry fees to excursions
- Canal du Midi Cruises:
Tour Carcassonne, the most complete medieval fortified city in existence
Visit the ancient Roman city of Narbonne
Explore the 12th century hill-top fort of Minerve
See the Pyrenees mountains across the vineyards and discover Cathar history
Experience Narbonne's colorful indoor market
- Provence & Camarque Cruises:
Visit the famous Palais des Papes -- go back in time to the era of the 'Other Rome', when the Popes moved to France
Enjoy a superb wine tasting at Chateauneuf du Pape
Explore Arles with its 2000-year-old Roman Arena, and visit some of Vincent Van Gogh's haunts on foot.
See the medieval fortified walls of Aigues Mortes
Cruise to the fascinating Camargue National Park with its wild white horses, abundant sea bird life, pink flamingos, bulls, and cowboys
Cruise across the Etang de Thau, an inland salt-water lagoon with acres of mussel and oyster beds
- Regional Gastronomy Specialties:
Cuisine samples: Noisette d'Agneau en Croûte de Sel avec Sauce Romarin, Ragout de Calamars 'Provençàle'
Wine cellar samples: Domain de Guéry, Château de Nouvelles, La Clape, Château la Condamine Bertrand
Cheese board samples: Le Saint-Remois, Fromage de Chévre au Poivre at au Thyme, Tomme de Valdeblore
Features
- Size of barge: 100 by 16.5 feet
- Number of Passengers: 8
- Number of Cabins (all with private bath): 4
- Crew: 4
- Air Conditioning and Central Heating: Yes
- Salon: Large spacious salon, demonstration kitchen, guest computer, and DVD/TV.
- Bar: Open bar
- Deck: Sun deck with hot tub, dining table, sun loungers
- Spa Tub: Yes
- Cabin Features: 4 equal twin/queen cabins (approx 200 sq ft), each with ensuite bathroom with shower.
- Vehicle for Transfers/Excursions: Air-conditioned 9-seater (including driver) mini-van
- Accessibility: Steps to salon and cabins
- Bicycles: 8 18-speed touring bikes: typically 4 Dawes AT Bikes, 2 ladies AT bikes and 2 larger AT bikes
Enchante Deck Plan
Passenger Comments:
Enchante was super - the crew was great, food was wonderful and it was relaxing, there was plenty to do, never boring. Top of the line service! Cabin accommodations are super-large and well laid out. Meals and wines were the best I've ever had, the cheeses were wonderful too.
Bill T., California June 2011
What a sensational week we just spent on Enchante cruising the Canal de Midi, it was wonderful. The barge was comfortable, the food sensational, the staff friendly, efficient and extremely knowledgeable and this was all topped off by perfect weather. The sightseeing excursions were well organized and interesting.... it was truly a memorable experience! Our cabin accommodations were excellent, the rooms were spacious and beautifully decorated and very comfortable indeed. Perfect meals, they were delicious, as were the wines which were well chosen to complement each dish. We were very impressed with Louisa the barge owner. We all found her professional and caring attitude set the mood for a very memorable week. Thank you!
Kathy & Malcolm R., Australia May 2011
The trip not only met but exceeded our expectations! The Enchante is an incredible barge and the staff is top drawer. Louisa (an owner) did an incredible job as tour director - what a gracious lady. Chris, the chef, prepared fantastic meals and was gregarious, inviting and made our dining experience fun! One of our party spent hours with him in the galley preparing meals - a highlight for her. The hostess, Amanda, was well versed in the local wines and cheeses and did a wonderful job of attending to our needs. Captain Phillipe was quite entertaining. Cabin accommodations were wonderful, meticulous and more spacious than expected. Service was the BEST. The crew made us feel like part of the family and I felt as if I were a guest in their home.
Kathie and Glyn L., Michigan September 2011
Louisa was the best tour guide I ever experienced and we have traveled extensively around Europe.
-- B.F., California, USA, May 2010
The barge was beautifully designed and decorated, the crew were wonderful and the food and wine pairings were superb. The crew went above and beyond the norm to be helpful. They were delightful friendly people. We particularly enjoyed the excursions to Minerve and Carcassonne under Ed's excellent guidance.
-- R.S., England, September 2010
What a fantastic experience! Roger and his crew went out of their way to do everything possible for us. The cuisine was wonderful, the tours exciting and the hospitality superb. Cabin accommodations were excellent and more spacious than we anticipated, our hostess kept things immaculate. We were truly pampered for the whole week. This cruise far exceeded our expectations.
-- Sarah & John, California, June 2010
Enchante was our first barge trip and we absolutely loved it. We so enjoyed the comforts of the entire boat, including the bedrooms, the main cabin and the deck. The crew was just exceptional. You can't find nicer, friendlier, or better qualified people than Louisa, Roger, Peter and Kate, they were a joy to be with. We not only thoroughly enjoyed the beauty of the Canal du Midi, but also the crews' knowledge of the history of the canal and the area. Our high points was cruising down the Canal du Midi on a beautiful, warm day with stunning views of the countryside and small villages with six other friends.
-- L. & G. A., Colorado, May 2010
Fabulous. Beautiful, relaxing, fun. The cabins were really nice size and nicely decorated. Exceeded our expectations. The service was outstanding. Everyone was so accomodating and warm and helpful. We felt right at home and yet, very pampered. Every meal was absolutely delicious and beautifully presented.
The excursions were fun and very informative. I think there was a good balance between the excursions and the cruising. Loved the canal -- it's so peaceful and you see parts of the country that you probably would never visit.
Louisa and Roger were the nicest, most wonderful couple and made everything about the cruise so enjoyable. The barge is beautiful and very comfortable and the canal was such a lovely setting in which to relax. Although I suggest including more salads and vegetables, the food was all really delicious including the fabulous wines.
We looked into many other barges and I feel we absolutely chose the most beautiful and special barge. After our experience, we would highly recommend the Enchante without reservation. It is a very special experience.
-- A.K., R.K., NY, USA
SAMPLE ITINERARY*
Canal du Midi:
Salleles d'Aude to Puicheric
Sunday - Sallèles d'Aude
Passengers are met at the designated meeting point in Narbonne by the Captain at 4pm and escorted by minibus to Enchante moored in Salleles d'Aude. Champagne welcome followed by dinner aboard.
Monday - Sallèles d'Aude to Le Somail
Morning cruise through the series of locks and narrow bridges of the Robine Canal, built after the Canal du Midi to link Narbonne and the Mediterranean, to the charming and historical village of the Le Somail, purpose built for the Canal du Midi. Take some time to explore the old bookstore of Le Somail. Afternoon excursion to a wine tasting in Saint Chinian, the first village of the region to receive the much envied French mark of approval for wines known as A.O.C. (Appellation d'Origine Controlée), teamed with an excursion to "Oulibo", Occitan for olive. This cooperative olive oil press is a great opportunity to sample the famous Lucques olive. Dinner aboard.
Tuesday - Le Somail to Roubia
This morning's excursion is to Narbonne, a Roman Mediterranean capital where the Visigoth monarchs once lived. Enjoy a visit to the Archbishop's Palace and the indoor market at the hub of this bustling canal side town, where you will have time to shop or simply absorb the relaxed atmosphere. Afternoon cruise, through vineyards and pine trees along the "grand bief," another engineering prowess unique to the Canal du Midi, to Roubia, a picturesque mooring under the trees and a perfect opportunity to try your hand at pétanque the local sport of boules. Dinner aboard.
Wednesday - Roubia to Homps
This morning we take the minibus to a Benedictine Abbey founded in the 8th century. Nestled in the village of Lagrasse, awarded the title of "Plus beaux villages de France" (most beautiful villages of France), now home to many artisans who have set up workshops in the medieval centre, the restored Abbey was once one of the most prosperous thanks to Charlemagne's charter. A chance to sample some local cuisine with lunch ashore in a spectacular setting overlooking the Corbières. Afternoon cruise under the shade of the plane trees which line the canal, we gently circle the contours of the land to reach the port of Homps once an important commandery for the Knights Hospitalier. Dinner aboard.
Thursday - Homps to La Redorte
Morning excursion to Minerve, the ancient capital of the Minervois, which boasts a 12th century Cathar fort surrounded by deep limestone gorges. Besieged by Simon de Montfort in 1215, its hilltop location affords spectacular views. Afternoon cruise along the 330 year old Midi canal ascending its trademark locks, walking from one to the next or perhaps cycling ahead to explore the village of La Redorte famous in the 11th century for its basket weaving. Dinner aboard.
Friday - La Redorte to Puichéric
Fascinating morning tour of Carcassonne. Dating back to the Gallo-Roman era, this is the most complete medieval fortified city in existence today with its 52 watchtowers, portcullis and extraordinary repertoire of defenses, which resisted the many armies that tried to storm this glorious Camelot setting. We cruise in the afternoon to Puichéric, past "l'Epanchoir", one of the canal bridges invented by Pierre Riquet for the Canal du Midi. Farewell Dinner aboard.
Saturday - Puichéric to Narbonne
After breakfast depart Puichéric and return to Narbonne by about 11am.
Note: This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. On alternate weeks the cruise operates in the reverse direction.
SAMPLE ITINERARY*
Provence:
Rhone River, Canal du Rhone a Sete:
Avignon to Marseillan
Sunday - Avignon
You are met at the designated meeting point in Montpellier and escorted by minibus to Enchante moored in Avignon for a Champagne Welcome. Spend your first night and enjoy dinner on board.
Monday - Avignon to Arles
This morning we cruise to Colombiers via the world's oldest canal tunnel at Malpas, an engineering feat made possible by the draining of the Etang de Montady nearby. In the afternoon we cruise down the mighty Rhone River to Arles, passing the immense citadel of King René at Tarascon, and the foothills of the Alpilles. Dinner on board.
Tuesday - Arles to Aigues Mortes
This morning we explore Arles, the Roman Arena, St. Trophime's Basilica and the Museum of Provencal life. We visit some of Vincent Van Gogh's haunts on foot through the pedestrianized heart of this old capital of the Camargue. Then cruise down the Petit Rhone and on to the Canal de Rhone à Sete, passing several herds of wild Black bulls. We moor at Aigues Mortes. Dinner on board.
Wednesday - Aigues Mortes to Frontignan
Stroll from our mooring outside the town walls to visit the Tour de Constance, built in 1248 as a lighthouse and since used as a prison. Then in the afternoon we cruise the Canal du Rhone à Sete through the Camargue National Park with its wild horses, black bulls and pink flamingos, to the hamlet of Les Aresquiers where we are 200 yards from the Mediterranean. Dinner on board.
Thursday - Frontignan to Marseillan
An early start to pass under the lifting Bridge at Frontignan, then we sail out onto the Thau Basin, a large, inland, salt water lake. Mid-morning we stop briefly at Bouzigues to visit the museum of the lake with its exhibition on oyster culture, which is the main activity of the many local fishermen. After lunch on board, we have a short minibus ride to the 12thC Abbaye de Valmagne with its vast Cistercian church and beautiful cloister. Our tour ends with a chance to taste its award-winning range of wines. Returning to the barge, we have an afternoon cruise on the lake to the port of Marseillan. Dinner on board.
Friday - Marseillan
Before the hotel barge embarks we have an opportunity to tour the cellars and distillery of the world famous aperitif, Noilly Prat, followed by a tasting. Then an afternoon cruise on the Canal du Midi, through the renowned round lock and finishing our voyage on the River Herault. Captain’s Farewell Dinner on board.
Saturday - Marseillan
After breakfast, disembark the barge and transfer by minibus to the designated drop off point in Montpellier by 11am.
Note: On alternate weeks the cruise will be in the reverse direction. This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change.
Enchante
2012 Season Cruise Schedule* |
| Week |
Route |
Season |
| Mar 4 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Value
|
| Mar 11 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Value
|
| Mar 18 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Value
|
| Mar 25 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Value
|
| Apr 1 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Value
|
| Apr 8 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Value
|
| Apr 15 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Value
|
| Apr 22 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Value
|
| Apr 29 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Regular
|
| May 6 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Regular
|
| May 13 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Regular
|
| May 20 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Regular
|
| May 27 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Regular
|
| Jun 3 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Regular
|
| Jun 10 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Regular
|
| Jun 17 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Regular
|
| Jun 24 |
Puicheric -Capestang |
Regular
|
| Jul 1 |
Capestang-Marseillan |
Regular
|
|
| Cruise Schedule* ... continued |
| Week |
Route |
Season |
| Jul 8 |
Marseillan-Avignon |
Regular
|
| Jul 15 |
Avignon-Marseillan |
Regular
|
| Jul 22 |
Marseillan-Capestang |
Regular
|
| Jul 29 |
Capestang-Puicheric |
Regular
|
| Aug 5 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Regular
|
| Aug 12 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Regular
|
| Aug 19 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Regular
|
| Aug 26 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Regular
|
| Sep 2 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Regular
|
| Sep 9 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Regular
|
| Sep 16 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Regular
|
| Sep 23 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Regular
|
| Sep 30 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Regular
|
| Oct 7 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Regular
|
| Oct 14 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Value
|
| Oct 21 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Value
|
| Oct 28 |
Puicheric -Salleles d'Aude |
Value
|
| Nov 4 |
Salleles d'Aude-Puicheric |
Value
|
|
The Enchante's route through the south of France, from Salleles D'Aude to Puicheric on the Canal du Midi. For a more detailed look at the cruise route, view our map of the Canal du Midi.
*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.
ENCHANTE
2012 SEASON PRICES in US DOLLARS |
| ACCOMMODATION |
VALUE
Mar 4 thru Apr 28
Oct 14 thru Nov 10 |
REGULAR
Apr 29 thru Oct 13 |
|
Suite (per person, double occupancy) |
$5,300 |
$6,100 |
|
Suite Single Supplement |
$2,000 |
$2,280 |
|
Charter for up to 6 |
$37,000 |
$42,500 |
|
Charter for 7 |
$38,750 |
$44,500 |
|
Charter for 8 |
$40,500 |
$46,500 |
What's Included
- 7 days and 6 nights on the barge in a cabin with private bath
- For Canal du Midi cruises: transfers from Narbonne to the barge and return for cabin bookings; for charters other locations between Montpellier and Toulouse are possible. For Provence cruises: transfers from Montpellier to the barge and return for cabin bookings; for charters other locations between Montpellier and Avignon are possible.
- All meals beginning with dinner on Sunday through breakfast on Saturday
- All wines with lunches and dinners
- Open bar
- All escorted side-excursions (hot air ballooning, golf, etc. at additional cost)
- Use of bicycles
What's Not Included
- Overseas air transportation to Paris and return
- Transportation from Paris to the pickup location and return
- Suggested 5-7% gratuity for the crew, to be paid in equivalent Euros to the captain
 |
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Last Update: January 12, 2012
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