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Barges In Holland, Barges in France: Savoir Faire
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Cruise in Holland and Belgium and in France on the Canal du Loing, Canal du Nivernais and Yonne River in Northern Burgundy aboard the Deluxe Hotel-Barge SAVOIR FAIRE

SEVEN DAYS / SIX NIGHTS

The 12-passenger Savoir Faire offers luxury barging in Holland in the spring for its tulip cruises, then cruises in Northern Burgundy and Champagne in the summer and early fall, returning to Holland in October. The Savoir Faire dates back to 1932 when she was built as a transport barge in the Belgian estuaries. During World War II, her bow was replaced with a landing bow so she could sail up on the beaches. She was sunk during the war but later lifted from the river bottom and completely refurbished.

In 1979, the barge was brought to Holland where she underwent a total metamorphosis and was converted into the elegant three-decked hotel barge that she is today. Carrying just 12 passengers and built on the largest hull that can cruise the waterways, the former "Etoile de Champagne" was substantially refurbished in 2005 and renamed the "Savoir Faire." She continues to maintain the very high standard of excellence in cuisine, accommodations and service that she has been known for. As an owner-operated luxury barge, the Savoir Faire prides itself in customizing your cruise week to your desires.

ABOUT YOUR HOST ... Chris Bennett has been the captain and owner since the end of 2004. His extensive experience on the waterways of France has included operating a successful hotel barge in Burgundy that received rave reviews from its passengers, setting the stage for his operations aboard the Savoir Faire. He is a gracious, attentive and knowledgable host assisted by a crew of four including a master chef.

GOURMET CUISINE and FINE WINES ...
Savoir Faire's master chef selects only the freshest ingredients to prepare the subtle sauces and the delicate pastries that are so much a part of exceptional French cuisine.

A grand selection of fine regional wines accompanies lunch and dinner, complementing the superb cuisine.

All meals are served in Savoir Faire's elegant mahogany panelled dining room with the finest crystal, Wedgewood china and Christofle silver.

ACCOMMODATIONS ...
The Savoir Faire features six staterooms. Each can be configured with two twin beds or with one queen bed. Staterooms 2 through 6 each have a separate toilet and shower. Stateroom 1 has a large bathroom with shower. All cabins offer good lighting, a large number of electrical outlets, and include 220v European standard and 110v U.S. standard power outlets.

In the public areas, the Savoir Faire is unique with five separate areas for passenger enjoyment -- whether for a personal retreat, a quiet conversation, a small group get-together, or for all passengers to enjoy together. The salon, dining area, and bar are finished in mahogany, teak and brass, decorated with antiques and paintings collected over the years, and with new original works of art introduced by Chris and Fran.
* The main lounge has a panoramic view, comfortable custom-made furniture, upright piano, game table, and library.
* Adjacent to the lounge is an elegant dining room, large enough to double as a dance floor on festive evenings, and a writing desk in its own quiet corner.
* To the aft is a cozy cocktail lounge, a favorite meeting place for aperitifs or quiet conversations, with stereo and CD player.
* Outside there are two spacious decks -- a fore deck that opens directly from the main lounge, and an elevated observation deck offering a magnificent view of the passing countryside.


Features

  • Size of barge: 140 ft by 16.5 ft
  • Number of Passengers: 12
  • Number of Cabins (all with private bath): 6
  • Crew: 6
  • Air Conditioning and Central Heating: Yes
  • Salon: The main lounge has panoramic views with eight large windows and comfortable custom-made furniture, upright piano, dining and library areas. The aft cocktail lounge has a bar, French doors and comfortable seating.
  • Bar: Open bar
  • Deck: There is a forward sundeck off the main lounge as well as an observation deck on the upper deck, both with comfortable deck chairs and tables.
  • Spa Tub: No
  • Cabin Features: Six suites on the lower deck: forward suite is 142 sq ft with ensuite bathroom with shower, sink and toilet. Five suites are 116 sq ft, with separate ensuite toilet and shower facilities. All cabins with twin beds or queen bed.
  • Vehicle for Transfers/Excursions: Air-conditioned 9-seater (including driver) long wheelbase minibus with an additional minibus if there are more than 8 guests.
  • Accessibility: Steps from lounge to cabins and to upper observation deck.
  • Bicycles: 12 bikes


Savoir Faire's Deck Plan
Savoir Faire's Deck Plan



Dining Aboard the Savoir Faire
SAMPLE MENU

    Continental Breakfast:
  • Pastries
  • Breads
  • Cereals
  • Fruit
  • Yogurt
  • Eggs made to order


  • Lunch:
  • Pan fried fois gras, served on warm brioche, with an assortment of fresh salads
  • Souffle of Parmesan and Marrow, served on warm roast vegetables in olive oil (vegetarian)


  • Evening Meals:
  • Steak tartare with roquette salad
  • Cream of Mussel and Saffron soup
  • Oeuf en Meurette - poached egg in a Bourgignon sauce
  • Tartare of Salmon, capers and dill, topped with a fresh quail’s egg
  • Smoked duck and poached pear salad, with blue cheese dressing
  • Feuillete of roast avocado and Brie with a walnut dressed salad (vegetarian)


  • Desserts
  • Tart Amandine with Crème Anglaise
  • Lemon Posset with Langue du chat biscuits
  • Homemade nougat glace with a fresh fruit coulis
  • Dark Chocolate Soufflé with a white chocolate sauce
  • Strawberry Meringue Roulade with a Summer Fruit Coulis
  • Paris Brest, with Crème Anglaise


Passenger Comments:

The cabin accommodations were excellent. The boat, crew and owners were absolutely top notch and wonderful people. The meals and wines were the best in the world. We loved the 5 star chef!
-- G.M., IL, USA

We have fully enjoyed our stay aboard the Savoir Faire. Bar none, this has been the best vacation we have ever had. The service, food and tours have all been superb. We will be recommending you to all we know. Thank you so much captain Chris and your crew for your professionalism, willingness and the ability to make this such a fabulous vacation. It will be hard to beat this for our future anniversaries!

It was a seamless and wonderful trip, balanced like a fine wine. We now have a new standard for vacations

I'm sure you have all heard the old joke about heaven and hell... In heaven the chefs are French, the trains are English, the mechanics are German, the lovers are Italian and everything is organized by the Swiss. In hell, the chefs are English, the trains are German, the mechanics are French, the lovers are Swiss and everything is organized by the Italians. We have found a new heaven, the Savoir Faire, where the chef is Polish, the deckhand is German, the tour guide and steward are English and the whole thing is run by an British Captain. Thank you so much, this has been incredible!!

Captain Chris and crew... thank you so much for making our first trip to France the best ever. This voyage was by far the most memorable, interesting, fun and of course we owe you a huge thanks. We will recommend you to everyone who asks. You did a wonderful job of making our memories with our friends so much richer. The food, the service and the ship were beyond words. The trip of a lifetime! - hats off to all of you!

The trip was simply excellent. We had a most congenial staff, captain and group. Much laughter. The flowers were at their peak and the fields just simply breathtaking. We all travel often but agreed that this trip was very special! Memories are truly made of this.
-- J.F., GA, USA

The whole barge trip was extraordinary and the perfect vacation for celebrating a 70th birthday. What a perfect way to travel with our entire family (14 in all). Please extend a thank you and lots of love to all aboard the Savoir Faire. We loved every minute of our trip. Thank you!
-- T.C., USA

What a fantastic boat! It is large, luxurious, sparkling clean, and in perfect condition. The newly decorated cabins are so clean and delightful -- we felt very special to be a part of this. Captain Chris Bennett is a dream -- intelligent, dedicated to your every comfort, precise and a joy to spend time with. The crew the week we sailed included some newcomers who tried so hard to make things perfect -- they won the hearts of all those aboard. We relaxed as we have not been able to relax in years -- we ate as we have never eaten -- healthful food that was gourmet all the way -- and the dedication to fine wines made us feel very special and pampered. The route was lovely and the last night in Paris was icing on a very special cake.
-- S.B., VA, USA

This was one of our favorite adventures. Captain and crew were exceptional as were the meals, accommodations and excursions. Great way to see the countryside. Our cabin was much larger than our hotel room in Paris! Wonderful service by staff. Very professional. Exceptional meals and a wonderful tour of French wines and cheeses. The excursions were a very nice mix of historic sites with some wine tasting and tours through the countryside. The barge route was lovely, peaceful route, wonderful towns along the way (I'm still trying to pick from over 1,000 pictures!).

I don't think things could have been any better. This was our first barge trip. My husband wasn't too sure about the whole idea initially but the second day out as we were riding bikes in the sunlight along the canal he said, 'I never want to leave this place.' We were planning our next barge trip that evening.

The barge trip on the Savoir Faire was awesome!! The entire trip was well beyond all our expectations. Captain Chris and Fran were the perfect host and hostess - very attentive to all our needs and very warm and caring to our entire family. They were very intelligent and knowledgeable and great to talk to about so many things. They became part of our family. Our children and grandchildren were thrilled and delighted with every aspect of the trip.
-- T.C.

Your boat is magical - with a warmth and charm that is infectious. The beautiful meals and trips and cruising made for an all too short week. Thank you for all you did to spoil us throughout. Speaking for all of us, this week exceeded all expectations and has set a high bar for future trips that are sure to come. Many thanks for everything!
-- M. McG.

SAMPLE ITINERARY*
Tulip Cruise in Holland
Haarlem to Haarlem
Sunday
Scenes from Tulip Cruises in Holland, including classic windmills, tulips in the fields, the tulip displays at Keukenhof, and Delft for pottery and china painting.  Excursions also include visits to museums with the Dutch Masters, and cheesemaking at Gouda. We meet at an Amsterdam hotel in the city centre at 2pm (Schipol Airport pickup can also be arranged) and transfer to the barge moored in the center of Haarlem for a champagne welcome. We will relax for the afternoon with a cruise to Zaandam, where we will moor for the night and you will enjoy your first gourmet dinner on board.

Monday
After breakfast we will take a short drive to the Zaanse Schans to visit a working windmill, a clog maker, and a cheese maker. In the afternoon we will cruise to Amsterdam, through the heart of the city where the small canals and architecture will take you back to a previous century and then along the Amstel River to Ouderkerk. Dinner on board.

Tuesday
An early rise and drive to the colorful flower auction in Aalsmeer. Upon return we will set off for a cruise on the canals to the cheese Mecca of Gouda. After lunch, we will take a drive out to a local cheese farm. Besides cheese, you will find beautiful buildings, excellent shopping, and the most magnificent stained glass windows in Holland. Dinner on board.

Wednesday

A morning cruise to Rotterdam through the center of this busy port and then onto Delft. Visit the Delft Pottery works, where beautiful hand-painted ceramics are still made. Spend the rest of the afternoon strolling around this beautiful historic town. Dinner on board.

Thursday

A morning cruise through the canals past Leiden, across the Brasemmer Lakes to Oude Wetering. Spend the afternoon at the famous Keukenhof Gardens with the largest display of flowers in the world. Here you will see hundreds of varieties of tulips, hyacinths, and other beautiful bulbs. Dinner on board.

Friday

Morning cruise to Haarlem, a picturesque town and the home of the famous Dutch painter Frans Hals where we will tour its museum. Farewell celebration on board and your last elegant gourmet dinner.

Saturday
This will be your last breakfast on board. Passengers disembark at 9:30am and are driven to either the Schipol Airport or their hotel in Amsterdam.

Note: This is a sample itinerary. Itineraries are flexible and subject to change.
SAMPLE ITINERARY*
Amsterdam to Paris
Three Country Cruise

Sunday
Guests are met at their hotel in Amsterdam at 2pm (pickup at Schiphol Airport can also be arranged) and driven to the Savoir Faire for a champagne welcome and a cruise through the heart of the city to the quaint little town of Ouderkerk.

Monday

Morning cruise along the canals to the town of Gouda, famous for its cheese. Afternoon visit to the Keukenhof Gardens, the largest display of flowers in the world. Here you will see hundreds of varieties of tulips, hyacinths and other bulbs. After we return to the Savoir Faire there will be time for a stroll around Gouda where we will find the most magnificent stained glass windows in Holland.

Tuesday
A cruise out of Gouda to the river Ijssel and across the Holland's Diep, part of the Dutch estuaries, to the charming old fortress town of Wilemstad. This town is preserved in its original state, with windmill dykes, an old church and a 15th century arsenal.

Wednesday
Today we will leave Holland and cross the border into Belgium and travel to Antwerp. Antwerp is the city of Rubens, where we can take a tour of Rubens' house, then a walk in the old quarter of this beautiful Flemish city.

Thursday
We catch the flood tide up the winding "Sea Schelde" which takes us to the town of Ghent. You will have plenty of time to visit this beautiful town in the afternoon.

Friday
You cannot pass through this part of the world without a visit to the beautiful little town of Bruges, known as the "Venice of the North." The chef will pack a picnic lunch, so there will be plenty of time to explore the many museums, buy some of the handmade lace or take a boat trip in the small canals that wander through the town. Rejoin the Savoir Faire in late afternoon to cruise along the river Schelde to the French/Belgian frontier.

Saturday
Guests who have selected 6 nights will be transferred to Brussels Airport or Ghent to arrive by about 11am. After passing the frontier, the Savoir Faire continues along the river Schelde, through the town of Valenciennes to the junction of Canal du Nord at the little French village of Arleux. The cars will take guests to Cambrai along the way.

Sunday

The Savoir Faire begins her climb over the Vermandois Hills of Picardie through the many locks and several tunnels of the Canal du Nord. The scenery is splendid -- rural France at her best, and a good towpath allows guests to walk between locks. After lunch, the cars take an excursion to Amiens to visit what must be one of the greatest of all the Gothic cathedrals with its powerful, towering columns.

Monday
The cruise continues along the Canal du Nord as it drops down into the valley of the river Somme; a short trip on the Somme before climbing over another watershed and down to the valley of the river Oise to moor in the riverside town of Compiegne. There are many places to visit, including the train where the World War I Armistice was signed, as well as the Royal Palace.

Tuesday

As the Savoir Faire continues down the lovely Oise River, guests are taken on an afternoon excursion to the old Roman town of Senlis with its quaint narrow streets, ancient churches and interesting museums, rejoining the Savoir Faire for an evening cruise to the river town of Pontoise.

Wednesday
Loaded down with a picnic lunch, deck chairs and tables, the cars take guests on a day excursion to Giverny to visit the home and gardens of the Impressionist Claude Monet. The gardens should be at their best at this time of the year, and we can visit the water lily pond and the Japanese bridge that inspired so many of Monet's paintings. Moor for the night in Pontoise.

Thursday

Cruise to Bougival in the morning and visit Malmaison, the home of Napoleon, its many rooms lavishly furnished by Josephine. Guests rejoin the Savoir Faire for an evening cruise into Paris and we moor in the heart of Paris, beside the Place de la Bastille.

Friday

A day moored in Paris with a chance for guests to tour and shop in Paris Centre. Your guide will be available to accompany you through Paris. Captain's Farewell Dinner on board.

Saturday
After breakfast, guests will leave the barge at 9:30am and are driven either to their Paris hotel or to the airport.

Note: This is a sample itinerary. Itineraries are flexible and may be changed according to passenger requests and local conditions. In May, the cruise route is Amsterdam to Paris; in October, the cruise route is Paris to Amsterdam.

SAMPLE ITINERARY*
Champagne
Seine River, Marne River
Epernay to Paris

"Champagne and Brie Cruise"
A glorious week of cheese and wine tasting while cruising on the Marne, one of the most beautiful rivers in France.

Sunday
You are transferred by air-conditioned minivan from your Paris hotel or airport at 2pm and driven directly to the Savoir Faire, moored in Cumieres, 2km from the heart of Epernay. After an introduction to your ship, you are given time to settle in to your cabin before joining your captain and crew for our welcoming champagne reception. There will be time to stroll through the village before coming back on board where your master chef will delight you with the first of many delicious meals.

Monday

This morning, after breakfast, we visit Reims and its magnificent cathedral. We then join the Savoir Faire for lunch and a short cruise to the delightful little town of Damery, with its 13th century church, which was part of a former Benedictine priory. Later this afternoon we visit the Abbey of Hautvilliers where the monk Dom Perignon first made champagne. Dinner aboard.

Tuesday
You are now entering the true Champagne region. Your hosts have arranged a pre-lunch visit to the world famous cellars of Moet and Chandon for a tour and tasting. We then continue to cruise to Chateau Thierry, were we shall moor for the night. This pretty town offers a promenade along the original walls of the town with views over the Marne valley. This whole area was the scene of American battles in World War I. Nearby is the American Monument. Built in 1929, at an altitude of 660 feet, the monument keeps alive the memory of the American troops who fought in WWI. Optional visit to Belleau Wood battlefield and the American cemetery. Dinner aboard.

Wednesday
Your cruise today will take you through picturesque landscapes so loved by both the French and visitors abroad. Today we have arranged a tour of some of our favorite places and a selection of visits to small family-run vineyards so that you can try their fine selection of champagnes. Our mooring for the night is at La Ferte, which offers beautiful, refreshing promenades along the river. Dinner aboard.

Thursday
Today we cruise to Meaux, in the very heart of Brie, famous for its wonderful cheeses of the same name. Nearby, on the route to Soissons, stands a monument that commemorates the 5th September 1914, the extreme point of advance of the German troops and the date of the French counter-attack. We visit Coulomniers, one of the centers of Brie cheese. Your personalized visit to a master cheese maker will enable you to see the cheese-making process first hand and to sample a variety of the world famous Brie cheese, along with wines from his excellent cellar. Dinner aboard.

Friday
This morning we leave Meaux and head towards the mighty Seine which will take us into the very heart of Paris. Our cruise will take us past Coupvray, the birthplace of Louis Braille, the inventor of the alphabet for the blind. At St. Maur des Fosses we pass through the tunnel, which enables us to bypass the shallow waters of the Marne Loop. Today we visit the magnificent Chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte. The wonderfully-proportioned chateau and its exquisite gardens are the highlight of this visit. Built between 1656 and 1661 for Finance Minister Nicolas Fouquet, the chateau's construction was monstrous even for those days. Entire villages were razed and 18,000 workmen called in. Famous architects, painters, and landscapers were called in to reflect Fouquet's refined tastes. So lavish was the housewarming party, that Louis XIV threw a fit of jealousy and hurled Fouquet in jail. Just to prove who was boss, Louis XIV began building Versailles.

We finish our journey with an exclusive evening cruise through Paris. As the Savoir Faire glides past the magnificent church of Notre Dame, the resplendent Louvre art gallery and the symbolic Eiffel Tower, you will be joined by your captain and his wife for cocktails followed by the farewell Captain's Dinner. Paris by night is referred to as the 'City of Lights' and is one of the greatest sights to behold anywhere in the world. As we pass beneath the Eiffel Tower and the floodlit bridges, you can see from our panoramic observation deck why this capital has been the focus of so many creative artists and authors. The very essence of Paris comes flooding down to the banks of the Seine, overwhelming the senses and firing the imagination. Our final berth for the night is in the Arsenal, a stone's throw from the lively district of the Bastille.

Saturday
After a hearty breakfast, you will depart the barge at 9:30am and our chauffeurs will drive you to your hotel or airport in Paris.

Note: Itineraries are flexible and may be changed according to passenger requests and local conditions. The itinerary is in the reverse direction on alternate weeks.

SAMPLE ITINERARY*
Upper Loire & Northern Burgundy:
Seine & Yonne Rivers, Canal du Loing
Villeneuve-sur-Yonne to Nemours
Welcome aboard for your magical journey through time, as we glide past picturesque villages and mighty Gothic towns. From the sun kissed slopes of Chablis to the inner sanctuaries of French kings and noble knights, this cruise promises golden memories with every turn you take.

Sunday - moored overnight in Villeneuve-sur-Yonne
Your chauffeurs collect you from your Paris hotel at 2pm for the scenic drive to the Savoir Faire, moored near the restaurant of the famous actress Lesley Caron in the 11th century town of Villeneuve-sur-Yonne. Your hosts welcome you aboard with a Champagne Reception and an introduction to your crew and ship. Before dinner, your tour guide is at hand to escort you around Villeneuve-sur-Yonne, which was founded in 1163 by Louis VII of France to protect the kingdom of France at the boundary of the Champagne. In 1204 Philippe Auguste held parliament in the city, and Saint Louis resided in the city before departing for the Eighth Crusade. In 1594 the city was burnt down. During the French Revolution the name was changed from le-Roi (the king) to sur-Yonne (on the Yonne). In 1870 a memorial for the dead was designed by the sculptor Emile Peynot. The city was governed from 1927 till 1935 by the infamous mayor Marcel Petiot, who was guillotined in 1946, after being convicted of 27 killings. We shall also have an opportunity to view the 700 year old town gate as well as the magnificent Church of Notre Dame, the building of which lasted from the 12th to the 16th century. Tonight your chef welcomes you to your table with the first of many offerings. Round off the day with a gentle stroll along the picturesque River Yonne.

Monday - Villeneuve-sur-Yonne to Sens
After a leisurely breakfast, your tour guide drives you to the world famous town of Chablis where you will first see a panoramic vista of the Grand Cru vineyards and the surrounding countryside before enjoying a tour of the ancient press and cellars of Domaine Laroche, followed by a pre-lunch "aperitif" wine tasting. After lunch your cruise begins as we glide out of Villeneuve-sur-Yonne past the riverside villages of the Upper Yonne. There are opportunities for biking along the pathways that follow our route. As we set off this afternoon you can enjoy the sweeping views from the panoramic deck of the Savoir Faire. We arrive later in the afternoon at our mooring in Sens, which takes its name from one of the most courageous of Gallic tribes, the Senons, who invaded Italy and seized Rome. Your overnight mooring is five minutes from the town centre. Relax before dinner with a drink from the bar as the swans gather round in anticipation of a free meal.

Tuesday - Sens to Labrosse lock

After a leisurely breakfast your tour guide is available to accompany you around Sens to see the Cathedral of St Etienne. Begun in 1140 and housing one of the richest treasuries in France, this mighty Gothic cathedral is the first of its kind in Europe. Afterwards enjoy a stroll on your own through this popular market town before returning to the Savoir Faire. After lunch we begin our cruise past the photogenic town of Pont sur Yonne and enter the narrow canal section of Courlon, built to facilitate the transport of wines and other prized goods to Paris. The importance of this waterway is evident by the presence of commercial barges - some of which may join us in the locks! Tonight we moor at our peaceful countryside setting above the lock at Labrosse.

Wednesday - Labrosse to Moret-sur-Loing

We begin our cruise along the final part of the river Yonne and join the Seine where we cruise to our overnight mooring at Moret-sur-Loing, known to many as the home of the famous Impressionist painter Alfred Sisley. This enchanting setting is an inspiration for artists to this very day. After lunch, your tour guide will drive you to the Unesco World Heritage site of the medieval town of Provins, originally home to one of the Champagne Fairs that were crucial to the medieval European economy, when the city was under the protection of Counts of Champagne. Provins is well-known for its medieval fortifications, such as the Tour Cesar (Caesar Tower) and well preserved city walls. The Saint Quiriace Collegiate Church is located here. The Empress Galla Placidia is said to have presented Ancona with the relics of Judas Cyriacus. However, the saint's head was situated at Provins, which was brought over from Jerusalem by Henry I of Champagne, who built a church in this town to contain it. This still stands as the Saint Quiriace Collegiate Church, although construction work during the 12th century was never completed due to financial difficulties during the reign of Philippe le Bel. A dome was added in the 17th century, and the old families of Provins who lived in the upper town were called "Children of the Dome." For the kids (and grown ups) there is the option of taking in a Medieval show with eagles and horses galore!

Thursday - Moret-sur-Loing to Episy
Today is the beginning of our cruise into the Upper Loire region, as we pass along the winding Canal de Loing. Once onto the canal the landscape unfolds as we slowly pass open fields and forests bordering classic French villages and towns. Affectionately known as the "Gardens of Paris," this little known region gently reveals its secrets as we discover a waterway teeming with wildlife. This is the perfect opportunity to cycle or stroll along the path that follows the canal. Why not lend a hand at one of the many manual locks - your crew are at hand to explain how these work and to show you the ropes! After lunch, your tour guide drives you to the romantic Chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte (setting for the film "The Man In The Iron Mask"). Our visit includes an opportunity to explore the magnificent formal gardens which are widely regarded as some of the best in France. Built between 1656 and 1661 for finance minister Nicolas Fouquet, the chateau's construction was monstrous even for those days. Entire villages were razed and 18,000 workmen were called in. Famous architects, painters and landscapers were commissioned to reflect Fouquet's refined tastes. So lavish was the housewarming party that Louis XIV threw a fit of jealousy and hurled Fouquet in jail. Just to prove who was boss, Louis XIV began building the Palace of Versailles. This evening we moor at a peaceful countryside setting next to the hamlet of Episy. Weather permitting, your chef will happily prepare a stupendous Savoir Faire BBQ.

Friday - Episy to Nemours
This morning we cruise towards our final destination of Nemours. Once again, there are plenty of biking and walking opportunities. After lunch your drivers take you to the Palace of Fontainebleau. It is often referred to as the "House of Centuries" due to the fact that every French monarch from Francois I to Napoleon III has left his mark upon this magnificent chateau. To walk through the splendour of the inner sancturaries of noble kings and queens is to step back through time. Afterwards you will have time to explore the ornate gardens and the thriving town of Fontainebleau. You then return to the Savoir Faire to celebrate your last evening aboard.

Saturday - departure 9.30am

We end the cruise with a nourishing breakfast and fond farewell from your crew, before your chauffeurs take you onward to Paris.

Note: This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. It runs in reverse on alternate weeks.



Savoir Faire
2009 Season Cruise Schedule*
Week Route Season
Mar 29 Haarlem-Haarlem Value
Apr 5 Haarlem-Haarlem Value
Apr 12 Haarlem-Haarlem Regular
Apr 19 Haarlem-Haarlem Regular
Apr 26 Haarlem-Haarlem Regular
May 3 Haarlem-Haarlem Regular
May 10 Haarlem-Ghent 14 Day, 3 Country
May 17 Ghent-Paris 14 Day, 3 Country
May 24 Paris-Villeneuve-sur-Yonne Regular
May 31 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne-Nemours Regular
Jun 7 Nemours-Villeneuve-sur-Yonne Regular
Jun 14 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne-Nemours Regular
Jun 21 Nemours-Villeneuve-sur-Yonne Regular
Jun 28 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne-Nemours Regular
Jul 5 Nemours-Auxerre Regular
Jul 12 Auxerre-Paris Regular
Cruise Schedule* ... continued
Week Route Season
Jul 19 Paris-Villeneuve-sur-Yonne Regular
Jul 26 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne-Nemours Value
Aug 2 Nemours-Villeneuve-sur-Yonne Value
Aug 9 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne-Nemours Value
Aug 16 Nemours-Paris Value
Aug 23 Paris-Epernay Regular
Aug 30 Epernay-Paris Regular
Sep 6 Paris-Epernay Regular
Sep 13 Epernay-Paris Regular
Sep 20 Paris-Montargis Regular
Sep 27 Montargis-Villeneuve-sur-Yonne Regular
Oct 4 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne-Nemours Regular
Oct 11 Nemours-Paris Regular
Oct 18 Paris-Ghent 14 Day, 3 Country
Oct 25 Ghent-Haarlem 14 Day, 3 Country


Savoir Faire
2010 Season Cruise Schedule*
Week Route Season
Mar 28 Haarlem-Haarlem Value
Apr 4 Haarlem-Haarlem Value
Apr 11 Haarlem-Haarlem Regular
Apr 18 Haarlem-Haarlem Regular
Apr 25 Haarlem-Haarlem Regular
May 2 Haarlem-Haarlem Regular
May 9 Haarlem-Ghent 14 day - Three Country
May 16 Ghent-Paris 14 day - Three Country
May 23 Paris-Villeneuve-sur-Yonne Regular
May 30 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne-Nemours Regular
Jun 6 Nemours-Villeneuve-sur-Yonne Regular
Jun 13 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne-Nemours Regular
Jun 20 Nemours-Villeneuve-sur-Yonne Regular
Jun 27 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne-Nemours Regular
Jul 4 Nemours-Auxerre Regular
Jul 11 Auxerre-Paris Regular
Cruise Schedule* ... continued
Week Route Season
Jul 18 Paris-Villeneuve-sur-Yonne Regular
Jul 25 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne-Nemours Value
Aug 1 Nemours-Villeneuve-sur-Yonne Value
Aug 8 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne-Nemours Value
Aug 15 Nemours-Paris Value
Aug 22 Paris-Epernay Regular
Aug 29 Epernay-Paris Regular
Sep 5 Paris-Epernay Regular
Sep 12 Epernay-Paris Regular
Sep 19 Paris-Villeneuve-sur-Yonne Regular
Sep 26 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne-Nemours Regular
Oct 3 Nemours-Villeneuve-sur-Yonne Regular
Oct 10 Villeneuve-sur-Yonne-Nemours Regular
Oct 17 Nemours-Paris Regular
Oct 24 Paris-Ghent 14 day - Three Country
Oct 31 Ghent-Haarlem 14 day - Three Country


*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.


SAVOIR FAIRE
2009 SEASON PRICES in US DOLLARS
ACCOMMODATION VALUE
Mar 29 thru Apr 11
Jul 26 thru Aug 22
REGULAR
Apr 12 thru May 9
May 24 thru Jul 25
Aug 23 thru Oct 17
14 DAY, 3 COUNTRY
May 10 thru May 23
Oct 18 thru Oct 31
Cabin (per person, double occupancy)
$4,025
$5,290
$8,625
Single Occupancy Cabin
NA
NA
$9,775
Single Occupancy Supplement
$2,015
$2,645
NA
Charter for 8
$35,650
$48,300
NA
Charter for 10
$37,950
$50,600
NA
Charter for 12
$40,250
$52,900
$70,000


SAVOIR FAIRE
2010 SEASON PRICES in US DOLLARS
ACCOMMODATION VALUE
Mar 28 thru Apr 10
Jul 25 thru Aug 21
REGULAR
Apr 11 thru May 8
May 23 thru Jul 24
Aug 22 thru Oct 23
14 DAY - THREE COUNTRY
May 9 thru May 22
Oct 24 thru Nov 6
Cabin (per person, double occupancy)
$4,025
$5,290
$8,625
Single Occupancy Cabin
NA
NA
$9,775
Single Occupancy Supplement
$2,015
$2,645
NA
Charter for 8
$35,650
$48,300
NA
Charter for 10
$37,950
$50,600
NA
Charter for 11
$39,100
NA
NA
Charter for 12
$40,250
$52,900
yet to be announced


SPECIAL SALE OFFERS: Savoir Faire is offering the following sale prices on new 2009 bookings booked through August 1, 2009:
  • AUGUST CABINS: $3,700 per person for individual cabins on Aug 2, and Aug 9 cruise weeks.
  • FRANCE CRUISES, Aug-October: $44,900 for charter up to 12 passengers for Aug 23 through Oct 17 cruises.
  • 3-COUNTRY CRUISE, Oct 18-31: $56,000 for 2 week cruise from Paris to Amsterdam, or $40,250 for 1 week cruise. Schedule: Oct 18-24 Paris to Ghent, Belgium; Oct 25-31 Ghent to Amsterdam. Individual cabins may be booked on the 3-country cruise but only for a minimum of 8 passengers booked.
All special offers apply only to new bookings. Cabin bookings are based on double occupancy, and dates shown. The special charter rates apply only to dates shown.

What's Included

- 7 days and 6 nights on the barge in six cabins, each with private bath
- Transfers from Paris or Amsterdam (depending on cruise route) to the barge and return
- All meals beginning with dinner on Sunday through breakfast on Saturday
- Open bar and all wines with lunches and dinners
- All escorted side-excursions
- Use of bicycles

Note: Three country cruise is 12 days, departing Sunday and concluding Friday


What's Not Included

- Overseas air transportation to Amsterdam or Paris and return
- Hot air ballooning option, typically 200 euros per person, 4 person minimum, when available, dependent on weather.
- Suggested minimum 5% gratuity for the crew, to be paid in equivalent Euros to the captain.

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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Text copyright © 2004-2007, 2008 Chris Bennett. All rights Reserved. Photo credits: Photos of interior of the Savoir Faire by Sue Porth and Don Dillin; Location and other photos by Sue Porth, Don Dillin and Chris Bennett; Cuisine photography by Don Dillin. Web design by Don Dillin.
Last Update: June 27, 2009

Barges in France, A Division of Special Places Travel, LLC.
Barges in Europe, A Division of Special Places Travel, LLC.

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