French Country Waterways has launched the Adrienne
a luxurious, new all-suite barge that made her maiden voyage Sept.
18 in the Upper Loire Valley, gateway to the châteaux country. The
12-passenger vessel is opulently decorated in 18th-century country
French style with custom-made furniture adorned with intricate
woodcarving and rich fabrics. The vessel’s dining room features
Louis XV-style tables, chairs and buffets. Meals are served on
crystal and faience dishes from the renowned Gien factory in the
Loire.
The suites, decorated in ecru, caramel and crimson
colors, feature ornately carved motifs on the armoire, king
sized-beds, doors and bathroom vanity. Suites are also equipped
with a desk, individual air-conditioning and heating controls,
extra pillows, fresh flowers, heated towel bar, hair dryer and 110-
and 220-volt electrical outlets.
The Adrienne will sail six-night canal cruises
between Châtillon-sur-Loire and Nemours in the Upper Loire on
Sundays from April 2 (the start of the passenger vessel season on
the canals) to Oct. 29, 2006, when the season ends. The Adrienne’s
route on the Canal de Briare, Canal du Loing and Canal Latéral à la
Loire includes two unique barging experiences: cruising over the
River Loire on the world’s longest canal bridge, the Briare
Aqueduct designed by Gustave Eiffel; and mooring in
Rogny-les-Sept-Ecluses below a huge seven-lock staircase used from
1642-1887.
All-inclusive cruise rates are $3,995-$4,795 per person, double
occupancy, and are guaranteed when a deposit is made.
800-222-1236
www.fcwl.com
