With the appeal of small-group travel continuing to grow in popularity, European Waterways has announced a last-minute “Cruises for Everyone” promotion of 20% off whole barge charter prices, applicable to selected cruise departures throughout its fleet this summer. With the discount, prices start as low as £17,800 for six nights and apply to a range of cruise areas in France.  

Among eligible departures are the July 8th, August 26th & October 21st departures of the 8-passenger L'Art de Vivre in Burgundy; the July 15th, August 5th & October 14th departures of the 12-passenger La Belle Epoque, also in Burgundy; and the August 26th & October 21st departure of the 12-passenger Panache in Alsace & Lorraine.  The promotion is valid through to August 6th, 2018.

According to Derek Banks, managing director of European Waterways, the company has been expanding their cruise options, as travellers from all walks of life and backgrounds discover the unique appeal of hotel barge cruising.  The relatively small number of guests per vessel - from 8 to 20 - allows European Waterways to tailor experiences to match the interests of each group, making them true “cruises for everyone.”

“Whether it's golf, wine appreciation, or special occasions such as anniversaries and birthdays, we can modify our itineraries to include more of what they love,” he said.  “With multi-generational groups, for example, adults can savour gourmet meals prepared with locally- sourced ingredients by our on-board master chef, while children can enjoy an informal array of delicious BBQ food. In addition to this, tailored family activities such as waterpark visits, zoo trips, or mini golf are available in abundance and we can even arrange tennis tournaments, bicycle rallies, or golf competitions to accommodate the sports enthusiasts amongst you.”

Operating one of the largest fleets in Europe, European Waterways can also provide experiences beyond the typical one-week cruises.  Where cruise routes permit, groups that wish to extend their holiday can charter two barges on consecutive weeks, with European Waterways chauffeuring them between the two.  Two barges can also be chartered in tandem on the same week to accommodate groups of up to 20, making them the perfect platform for a family reunion.

“Our goal is to ensure that every passenger, whatever their age, or special interest, has precisely what they need for a memorable holiday,” said Banks.

European Waterways' 6-night cruises include all gourmet meals, fine wines, open bar, daily escorted excursions, admissions and private chauffeured transfers.   

The 20% off promotion also applies to cabins on the selected departures.  Other cruises are also waiving the single supplement this season and offering alternative amenities. Promotions cannot be combined and other restrictions may apply. A complete list of specials can be found at https://www.europeanwaterways.com/special-offers/?y=2018.

About European Waterways

Hotel Barging is a boutique, unique experience which offers an immersive, all-inclusive “gentle voyage of discovery” that focuses upon the culture, history, fine wine and gourmet cuisine of the region. With a 6 to 20 person capacity and 1:2 crew ratio, European Waterways are able to provide an impeccable level of on board service and can transport their guests on the intimate inland waterways that are inaccessible to larger vessels. This fascinating network of smaller canals allows for flexibility, spontaneity and ample opportunity to hop off and explore the beautiful surroundings via bicycle, or on foot. In addition to this there are daily, chauffeured excursions “off the beaten track” to a wide variety of enthralling locations, from exquisite wine tastings to private tours of stately homes. With over 40 years' experience and a fleet that spans nine countries it is the largest luxury hotel barging company in Europe. For more information, call toll-free 1-877-879-8808 or visit www.europeanwaterways.com.