Cruise in France on the Canal du Nivernais in Northern Burgundy aboard the First Class Hotel-Barge LUCIOLE

SEVEN DAYS / SIX NIGHTS

The 14-passenger 'Luciole' reaches the very heart of France. To travel from Paris - where we meet our guests each week - is to be transported to another world.

Beautiful and historic, the waterway on which we travel provides a step back in time. Of all European barge cruise routes this must surely be the finest. Each curve in the route presents an exciting panorama, to be explored, should you choose, on a stroll between locks - or from the sun deck of the 'Luciole'. Visits are made also to vineyards, market towns or chateaux, in a region where hustle knows no place.

With our warm-spirited and expert crew of six, all of whom are British or English-speaking, we combine gastronomy and comfort with thoughtful personal service throughout each cruise.

The 'Luciole' is owned by John and Penny Liley. Previously, John was editor of a leading British yachting magazine, while books he has written include France-the Quiet Way, an exploration of the entire canal and river system of France. These early journeys inspired him to select the Nivernais cruising area and establish the present hotel-barge business in 1976. This was with another barge, 'Secunda', forerunner to 'Luciole'. Continually updating the fittings and furnishings on board, Penny and John ensure the smooth-running of each cruise.

Penny first worked on the 'Luciole' as a chef in 1986, and has since played a major role in creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere on 'Luciole', where a feeling of calm and attention to detail is apparent as soon as one steps aboard.

Available for whole-boat charter or individual bookings, the 'Luciole' allows its guests to explore in comfort the intimate up-country waterways of central France. From the air-conditioned saloon big picture windows allow uninterrupted views of the passing scene. Refreshments are freely available at all times from our open bar.

Three double-bedded cabins are available, each of which can be converted into twins, together with three further twin-bedded and two single cabins on board. Each has its own private shower and toilet facilities. Individually-controlled air-conditioning is installed throughout.

Meals on board the Luciole are treasured times: opportunities to sit and relax and share with friends, old or new, a summer luncheon or dinner by candlelight. The warm ambiance, for which the 'Luciole' is well known, is no better experienced than when gathered round a table with the anticipation of unfolding culinary delights.

The chef is encouraged to be innovative and imaginative, marrying French cuisine with a contemporary twist while using fresh local ingredients to inspire and spoil you. Your day commences with the arrival of freshly baked bread and pastries. Lunch is a feast of salads and savory dishes, followed by a selection of cheese. The four-course evening meal is the gastronomic highlight of each day, to be concluded, on the starlit nights for which Burgundy is noted, with coffee on our observation deck. Wines from far and near are chosen to complement the menu. With Chablis on our doorstep, local vineyards are well represented; but wines from the Cote d'Or are also on our list, together with Chateauneuf du Pape and selections from Bordeaux.

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Features

• Size of barge: 114 ft. by 17 ft.
• Number of Passengers: 14
• Number of Cabins (all with private bath): 8
• Crew: 6
• Air Conditioning and Central Heating: Yes
• Salon: The salon/dining area has large picture windows, comfortable seating and dining areas with dining table for 14
  
• Bar: Open bar
  
• Deck: Sundeck with chairs, dining table and umbrellas.
• Spa Tub: No
• Cabin Features: Cabins average 107 sq. ft. with bath. Three cabins with twin or double beds, three cabins with twin beds, and two single cabins, all including ensuite bathroom with shower.
  
• Vehicle for Transfers/Excursions: l6-passenger air-conditioned Mercedes van
• Accessibility: Steps to salon and cabins.
• Bicycles: 8 sturdy roadster bicycles. Additional bicycles can be provided upon request.

Luciole's Deck Plan

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Passenger Comments:

If planned in heaven, our cruise couldn't have been better. The crew service was beyond great, in the kitchen, on the tours ... everywhere. We were in awe at each meal. Excursions were just the right length. Neil injected fun into the history, too bad that our teachers didn't do the same! Please tell the wonderful crew that they set the tone for this successful trip.
Joyce M., Canada April 2011

Luciole was fabulous! Everything was great - the barge was freshly cleaned - the crew was wonderfully friendly and helpful - the food was exceptional in every way - wines - what can I say - delicious! Tours were great and just the right length of time and Neil was a wonderful guide giving us lots of information, but not too much. Our group loved the relaxed mode of travel with time to walk, bike and just sit.
Vera R., Tennessee April 2011

Luciole was a little slice of heaven. The boat was comfy and clean. We didn't know what to expect about our cabins never having been on a barge cruise, but the bed was comfortable and the crew kept our rooms and bathroom clean. The staff were personable, accommodating and always had a smile for us. And the food was magnificent!!! It's only due to portion control that we didn't come home 15 pounds heavier than when we left. The chef made us feel like we were his audience on the cooking TV channel. The meals were elegant, extremely tasty and varied. The Luciole and staff were a wonderful experience, we will remember it for many years.
Riffi and Rick, Tennessee April 2011

Luciole was absolute bliss. The ULTIMATE indulgence !!! The barge route was most enjoyable with good opportunities to walk or cycle between locks. Excursions were well-planned and there was a good mix. We did appreciate the leisurely approach to the day. Meals and wines were most enjoyable with a great variety, lots fresh produce, and those FRESH croissants, pastries and breads appeared each morning as if by magic regardless of where we happened to be moored for the night. There was a great variety of wines which were well-described and presented. We found our cabin accommodations surprisingly comfortable considering the small area available. Bedding was good and the ensuite facilities were not at all cramped and very well fitted out. Luciole, you gave us all a memorable experience!
Clients, Australia May 2011

At the Captain's dinner, Neil suggested a 'toast to the oldest lady on the trip.' I cringed and looked at the other 6 women...noticing a quietness in the air. A perfect trip...and now it'll be 'possibly tainted' for one woman. I should have know better after spending a week with Neil and the crew...! It was a toast to the LUCIOLE! Whew! And we all laughed and cheered...AGAIN! It was a marvelous time...made so by a captain/mgr and crew that were a 'perfect match!' They were our nurturing family the entire trip. We've been on lots of boats all over the world, with all kinds of crew and guests and appreciate the really 'special gifts' an 'employee' can give that may seem small ...but are HUGE to the guest. Our chef, Sebastian is a 'star.' Look out Jamie Oliver! Every meal was tasty, special and creatively presented. A feast for the senses. Indeed, I would recommend the Luciole! I spent a week with a charming, accomplished, professional crew who knew how to play and to laugh at themselves while always being professional... with warmth and joy. This week, I've been missing my new 'family.' Please give them all my regards and thanks for the best trip in ages!
-- Bev G., California, USA, June 2010

Luciole service is considerate, friendly, courteous, and knowledgeable. Service appeared almost by magic; we never lacked for anything. Meals and wines were very fine, and many new experiences in both. The excursions were just perfect.
-- Pat G., California, USA, April 2010

Our barge trip was excellent, wonderful, exceeded our expectations. Restful, educational, with outstanding food. Cabin accommodations were good... as expected, small. Service was top-notch. A wonderful crew, always helpful and friendly. Hard to beat the meals and wines. This chef had a firm grasp on excellent French cuisine, but made it even more interesting. We were completely unfamiliar beforehand with the barge route, the scenery was idyllic. Excursions were well-selected, enjoyable and educational, especially Vezelay. The camaraderie quickly developed with the other 12 passengers and was a pleasant surprise. Of all the trips we have taken on water or land, my very favorite are those on small barges in Europe, preferably fewer than 20 passengers. This one was no exception. Thank you.
-- B. & B. R., New Mexico, USA, June 2010

Luciole provided an amazing trip. A nice balance of excursions and free time when cruising. LOVED LOVED LOVED cruising and walking along the towpath. Cabins are cozy and adequate. Meals and wines; All delicious. Sebastian did a great job meeting the needs of a variety of people. Neil's enthusiasm for his local history on excursions is infectious.
-- L. A., California, USA, June 2010

Wonderful trip! Attentive staff, fantastic food, knowledgeable and informative introductions to the region and its food and wine. Superb. The barge route is beautiful and peaceful. I especially appreciated being able to walk as much as I liked along the canals.
-- S. A., California, June 2010

Excellent crew in every respect. Food was superb and the wine and cheese were chosen with care. The tour guide was knowledgeable and all the crew made us feel like family. The barge was well equipped and comfortable. The route was charming in every way. Very beautiful.
-- E.F., Oregon, USA

This wonderful and beautiful week was a real pleasure for my daughter and myself as we cruised, toured and dined with terrific passengers and a delightful crew. From all of my travels, this trip was the best, a perfect panacea from a hectic life of noise and deadlines. Very, very relaxing.
-- A.B., Illinois, USA

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Luciole 2012 Season Cruise Schedule* Week Route Season Apr 15 Clamecy-Auxerre Value Apr 22 Auxerre-Clamecy Value Apr 29 Clamecy-Auxerre Value May 6 Auxerre-Clamecy Regular May 13 Clamecy-Auxerre Regular May 20 Auxerre-Clamecy Regular May 27 Clamecy-Auxerre Regular Jun 3 Auxerre-Clamecy Regular Jun 10 Clamecy-Auxerre Regular Jun 17 Auxerre-Clamecy Regular Jun 24 Clamecy-Auxerre Regular Jul 1 Auxerre-Clamecy Regular Jul 8 Clamecy-Auxerre Value Jul 15 Auxerre-Clamecy Value Jul 22 Clamecy-Auxerre Value

Cruise Schedule* ... continued Week Route Season Jul 29 Auxerre-Clamecy Value Aug 5 Clamecy-Auxerre Value Aug 12 Auxerre-Clamecy Value Aug 19 Clamecy-Auxerre Value Aug 26 Auxerre-Clamecy Value Sep 2 Clamecy-Auxerre Regular Sep 9 Auxerre-Clamecy Regular Sep 16 Clamecy-Auxerre Regular Sep 23 Auxerre-Clamecy Regular Sep 30 Clamecy-Auxerre Regular Oct 7 Auxerre-Clamecy Regular Oct 14 Clamecy-Auxerre Value Oct 21 Auxerre-Clamecy Value Oct 28 Clamecy-Auxerre Value

The Luciole's route through Burgundy, from Auxerre to Clamecy on the Canal du Nivernais For a more detailed look at the cruise route, view our map of the Canal du Nivernais.

*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.

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LUCIOLE 2012 SEASON PRICES in US DOLLARS
ACCOMMODATION	VALUE Apr 15 thru May 5 Jul 8 thru Sep 1 Oct 14 thru Nov 3	REGULAR May 6 thru Jul 7 Sep 2 thru Oct 13
Cabin (per person, double occupancy)	$3,650	$3,950
Single in Single Cabin	$3,650	$3,950
Charter for up to 14	$39,000	$49,000

What's Included

- 7 days and 6 nights on the barge in a cabin with private bath
- transfers from Paris to the barge and return
- 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
- 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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