Whether it is catching a tennis match at the French Open, betting on the favourite in the Prix de L'Arc de Triomphe horse race, or cheering on a driver at Le Mans, Europe's large selection of annual sporting events promise to satisfy fans of every kind. For some UK travellers, attending one of these world-famous competitions, as spectators, represents only one part of their European holiday, which can be complemented with a European Waterways' luxury hotel barge cruise, either to commence, or complete their adventure.

"Travelling on one of our many vessels is always a great way to experience a different aspect of European culture and to fully immerse yourself in all the wonderful sights, cuisine, and customs that Europe has to offer," said European Waterways' Managing Director, Derek Banks. "Since our hotel barges offer weekly departures, there are always cruises available before and after every major sporting event, whether tennis, golf or cycling; motor or horse racing."  

Tennis and a Barge Cruise: A Perfect Match

Of the many events on the sporting calendar in Europe, two that always draw large crowds are the French Open in Paris and Wimbledon in London. Held in May and June, respectively, these tournaments take place during Europe's spring and summer seasons, prime times to experience the luxuries offered by European Waterways' hotel barges L'Art de Vivre in Burgundy and Magna Carta on the River Thames.

The 8-passenger L'Art de Vivre comes equipped with a sun deck, a relaxing spa pool and newly renovated cabins, all of which create a comfortable and soothing pre or post tennis experience. The vessel's itinerary features excursions ranging from exploring the cathedrals of Auxerre to private wine tastings at renowned cellars in the region.  For the ultimate in convenience, guests are picked up and dropped off in Paris and driven in air-conditioned comfort to the vessel.  A number of cruise dates are available around the dates of the French Open, May 25 - June 8.  Rates are from £3,090 per person, and include all meals, wines, an open bar, daily escorted excursions and local transfers and admissions. Rates are based on double occupancy. Whole boat charters are also available.

With weekly cruises on the Magna Carta departing from London on dates that align with Wimbledon's June 23 - July 6 timing, this vessel offers passengers the opportunity to spend a week relaxing in luxury while cruising along the River Thames. The Magna Carta offers multiple sightseeing excursions such as exploring Hampton Court Palace and Cliveden and great walking and bicycling opportunities along the Thames Path, all of which will further enrich anyone's European travels.  Rates are from £ 3,170 per person per person, and include all meals, wines, an open bar, daily escorted excursions and local transfers and admissions. Rates are based on double occupancy. Whole boat charters are also available.

Bringing Luxury to the Fore

In late September, Scotland will be welcoming thousands of golf enthusiasts hoping to catch a glimpse of their favourite players at the Ryder Cup. It is the first time in more than 40 years and only the second time in its history that this ultra-competitive event will be held in Scotland.

The Ryder Cup offers another opportunity for spectators to extend their trip by embarking on a European Waterways' cruise aboard the Scottish Highlander - an intimate 8-person hotel barge, offering a wide range of sightseeing opportunities, including a tour of the Glen Ord whisky distillery; seeing Eilean Donan and Urquhart castles; exploring Cawdor Castle and gardens, home of Shakespeare's Macbeth; as well as a chance to be the first to "finally" catch a glimpse of elusive Nessie, the Loch Ness Monster! With multiple departure dates that align with the Ryder Cup's September 23 - 28 staging, a cruise on the Scottish Highlander is a great way to see the other, spectacular "greens" of the Scottish countryside. Rates are from £2,450 per person and include all meals, wines, an open bar, daily escorted excursions and local transfers and admissions. Rates are based on double occupancy. Whole boat charters are also available.

About European Waterways

The hotel barging experience is different from large vessel river cruising. It offers a slower paced, "gentle voyage of discovery" along the more intimate canals and waterways of Europe, allowing a small number of guests to become more fully immersed in the culture, history and gastronomy of the region. European Waterways is Europe's largest all-inclusive luxury hotel barging group, offering vacations in nine countries and carrying over 2,000 passengers a year.  Celebrating its 40th anniversary, today they own and operate a fleet of luxury barges and market cruises in France, Italy, Scotland, Ireland, England, Germany, Belgium, Holland and Luxembourg.  Pioneers in hotel barging, they were the first company to offer a cruise on the Canal du Nivernais in Burgundy, and through the "chateau region" of the Loire Valley. They are also the only cruise company offering barge cruises in Scotland and in the Venetian lagoon and River Po valley.

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Full details: www.gobarging.com:                              Tel: +44(0) 1753 598555

For press information: Jill Faulds, JF Associates, + 44 (0) 1795 536446; jill@jfapr.co.uk

Or:  Chris Gant, European Waterways, + 44 (0) 1753 598555; chris@gobarging.com