SEVEN DAYS / SIX NIGHTS
The 8-passenger Ultra Deluxe Prosperite cruises on the picturesque Burgundy Canal through the heart of the Burgundy wine region. Prosperite has developed into one of the top barges in France, under the low-key but strategic leadership of veteran Captain Spencer Hayes. Debuting in 2003, Prosperite was created by a hands-on American hotelier and combines the best features of relaxed, contemporary lifestyle with every luxury in traditional Ultra-Deluxe barging. For the 2010 season the Prosperite is available for charter only.
Expressly designed and constructed to meet the expectations of upscale travelers, it features a level of accommodations unmatched on France's inland waters with some of the largest rooms and highest level of amenities you will find on any of the barges in France. Each of the four, 270 square-foot cabins has a roomy reading corner, especially comfortable king-sized bed or twin beds and a huge private bathroom with both shower stall and bathtub and heated towel racks. Stunning decor in the upstairs salon and separate dining room combine Italian leather sofas with contemporary and antique accent pieces. There is a demonstration kitchen where guests may watch and interact informally with the chef at work and an “open refrigerator” with drinks, snacks and desserts available 24 hours a day. Or you may want to chat with the captain or crew in the comfortable enclosed wheelhouse or relax in the hot tub on the foredeck.
Imagine yourself on a journey with family or friends traveling quietly along ancient waterways. Through countrysides of great beauty and into the heart of unspoiled medieval villages and charming vibrant towns. Burgundy -- the very name conjures up visions of grapes ripening under the warm August sun and luscious red wine. Even in a nation known for its devotion to fine cuisine, Burgundy stands apart for its outstanding food and drink. While best-known for its outstanding eponymous red wine, the province is also home to a number of other fine wine appellations -- Chablis, Cote-de-Nuits, Hautes Côtes, to name just a few -- as well as more than 32 fine restaurants bearing Michelin stars, including four 3-star establishments. Some 150 vineyards, cellars and wine traders in the region are open for sampling their delicious wares.
The region is a feast for the eyes as well as the palate. The provincial capital, Dijon, once the seat of the Dukes of Burgundy, possesses a trove of preserved 14th century architecture, as well as the Musée des Beaux Arts, recognized as one of Europe's finest collections of medieval art. Everywhere, history is thick before you. Resplendent chateaus dot the countryside, a reminder of the grandeur of court life under the ancient regime. Yet in 21st century France, Paris is only a few hours away.
Sophisticated European travelers have long known the pleasures of touring France's charming waterways by barges. Now more and more travelers are discovering this perfect method for seeing the beauty of the French countryside up close. Time seems to stand still as the barge slowly motors by quaint stone churches and well-kept houses, periodically pausing at moss-covered locks, as it makes its leisurely way from one town to the next. You can catch up on your reading on deck, enjoy a delicious, well prepared repast from the fully equipped kitchen or simply relax to the gentle sounds of water lapping against the hull, and enjoy the quiet sensation that comes with unplugging yourself from the 24/7 world. If you're feeling more adventurous, there are daily excursions in the accompanying Mercedes minibus into the surrounding countryside, to explore the local chateaux or sip the wares of one of the many local vineyards.
We loved it. There was plenty to do but also time to relax. The food and wine was fantastic . The accomodations could not have been better for a barge.I thought the entire staff was a+. Cyril, the chef was truely charming and could not have been more willing to share his kitchen with an interested guest.
-- C.M., PA, USA
This was the first time the whole family ever vacationed together, and we all said it was the best vacation we ever had! Both the barge and the cabins exceeded our high expectations. The photos of the barge do not do it justice. The service was superior. Spencer and Jonathan know their business, and Haley and Kelsey met our every need with a smile. The meals were
delicious and varied. Eric is a treasure!
-- R.C., FL, USA
Wonderful. A unique experience and a memorable trip. The service was excellent. Could not have been better. Kelsey and Ann and Jonathan were terrific, as was Spencer, of course. Superb food and wine. We wished we could take Chef Eric back to the States with us. Eric's cooking was the best we had in France.
-- J.B., NJ, USA
In a word our barge trip was superb! We've traveled a great deal and this was by far the nicest week we have spent on vacation. Everything was done to perfection; the boat was restored beautifully and every comfort considered, we cannot say enough about the entire crew. They were highly professional but warm and gracious. The food was a memorable experience in itself. All and all a fine experience, which we would highly recommend. Thank you for your help and suggestions.
-- K.P., RI, USA
Food and wines were incredible! Never have we been so consistently surprised at taste, presentation, and variety. The staff was consummately informed about the origins of the food, cheeses, and wines and shared information about such in an authoritative, yet "unstuffy" and friendly manner. The wines were very impressive and perfectly matched with the food for each meal----4 course lunches and dinners (sometimes 5) and 3 new cheeses at each along with 2 new wines at each.
Service was outstanding! We really felt that we were special people, even royalty! Everyone tried their very best to please us. On the first morning I felt like a bit of cheese from the previous night's dinner for breakfast. From then on, there were morning cheeses out just for me without my asking.
Eric is a wonderful cook, and the wine choices were top-notch and provided an excellent overview of the range of choices available. I am a critical guy, and always have some criticism in me. But this is a first for me, as I have none to offer. There's not one thing I would change. The whole experience from first contact with you to the drop-off at our hotel, rated a 10 out of 10.
-- J.M., USA
Sunday - Chauffered Transfer from Paris to Dijon
A representative of Prospérité will meet you at 2:00 PM at one Paris hotel of your choice and then chauffeur you via Mercedes Minivan to the barge, at anchor in Dijon. You'll be welcomed by the traditional champagne reception, and enjoy the first of many gourmet dinners on board. Tonight we stay in Dijon.
Monday - Dijon to Fleury-sur-Ouche - Chateau du Clos de Vougeot
Prospérité departs the port of Dijon - heading onto the Burgundy Canal for a tranquil morning cruise. Prospérité will go through the first of many locks. After lunch, devote the afternoon to an introduction to the Cote d'Or wine region lying south of the canal. First, we'll drive among the vineyards and villages of the "Route des Grand Crus" on the way to Clos de Vougeot, a 12th century chateau where Cistercian monks learned the art of winemaking. Explore the ancient wine presses and soak in the ambiance of this elegant chateau surrounded by vineyards. Then it is back to Prospérité, now moored in Fleury-sur-Ouche.
Tuesday - Fleury-sur-Ouche to Gissey-sur-Ouche - Join the Locals at the Dijon Market
This morning we'll drive back to Dijon for a morning devoted to this lovely town. First, we'll walk the historic district, with its colorful tiled rooftop buildings, and then stop at the Covered Food Market, which was designed by Eiffel of Tower fame! A vast selection of produce, fish, cheeses, breads, baked goods and prepared delicacies brings this bustling market to life. There will be time to browse in tiny shops lining the cobblestoned streets, too. Then it's back to Prospérité for lunch and an afternoon cruise to Gissey-sur-Ouche. On the way, what about getting out our bicycles for a meander on the towpath and into a village or two? Dinner on board ends this wonderful day.
Wednesday - Gissey-sur-Ouche to La Bussiere-sur-Ouche - Dinner at a Michelin-Starred Restaurant
A short morning cruise to Le Bussiere-sur-Ouche begins this eventful day. After lunch, begin with a quick stop at "La Ferme du Poisset," a nearby farm which produces very fine goat cheese. Yes, we'll taste some cheese! Then it's on to the adorable village of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois perched high on a hill overlooking the canal. Here is an enchanting old chateau - very simple but with history and ghosts around every corner. Then walk the cobblestoned streets of the village; perhaps one of the craft shops is open. Then it's back to Prospérité where there will be time to prepare for dinner at Abbeye de la Bussiere, a former Cistercian Abbey now immaculately restored into a hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant.
Thursday - La Bussiere-sur-Ouche to Pont d'Ouche - Medieval Hospice in Beaune - Plus Shopping!
This morning, cruise deeper into the Ouche Valley to Pont D'Ouche. This is a great time to walk, bicycle or sit on deck and watch scenes of great beauty float by. After lunch, it's back into the Mercedes Minivan for a cruise high point; An excursion to Beaune. This enchanting town is the wine capital of Cote d' Or; underneath its streets lie hundreds of miles of wine cellars. Visit the 14th-century hospital Hotel Dieu; it is gorgeously preserved and provides a unique glimpse of life in the Middle Ages. There may be time for an impromptu winetasting, browse the shops, or enjoy a cafe in the square. Then it's back to Prospérité to re-live the day at dinner on-board.
Friday - Pont d'Ouche to Vandenesse-en-Auxois - Romantic Village Perched High Over the Canal
Our final morning cruise takes Prospérité to Vandenesse-en-Auxois. Take a last, long morning to relax! Then, it's back to the Cote d' Or vineyards, passing through colorful villages on the way to a cellar tour/winetasting at Domaine Prieur-Brunet in Santenay. Return to your barge - now your home away from home - for cocktails and the festive Captain's Dinner. End your Prospérité cruise in style.
Saturday - Return to Paris - A Sad Farewell
You'll depart between 8:00AM - 9:00 AM and chauffeured as a group either to one location in central Paris or one location at Charles de Gaulle Airport. Driving time to Paris is estimated at three hours; driving time to Charles de Gaulle at four hours.
Note: PROSPERITE will cruise this route in the opposite direction on alternate weeks. Pickup and return will always be in Paris and sightseeing the same, albeit on a slightly amended schedule.
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*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.
| PROSPERITE 2010 SEASON PRICES in US DOLLARS | ||
|---|---|---|
| ACCOMMODATION | LOW Apr 4 thru May 22 Oct 17 thru Oct 30 |
REGULAR May 23 thru Oct 16 |
| Charter for up to 8 |
$39,900 |
$49,900 |
| PROSPERITE 2011 SEASON PRICES in US DOLLARS | ||
|---|---|---|
| ACCOMMODATION | VALUE Apr 3 thru Apr 23 Oct 16 thru Oct 29 |
REGULAR Apr 24 thru Oct 15 |
| Charter for up to 8 |
$39,900 |
$49,900 |
What's Included
- 7 days and 6 nights on the barge in suites with private baths
- Transfers from Paris to the barge and return via private minibus
- 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
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