Go Barging is now accepting reservations for a brand-new vessel, the Enchante, set to debut in 2009. A double-decked hotel-barge, the Enchante will be featured on two new, specially designed itineraries that highlight the most alluring regions of Southern France.
One of the Enchante’s two alternating itineraries features the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, often considered a marvel of 17th-century engineering. The cruise begins in Montpellier, France and explores historic chateaus, the world’s oldest canal tunnel at Malpas, and bustling old towns before it ends in Le Somail along the Canal du Midi.
The second itinerary explores Provence and Camargue. Highlights include visits to Avignon and its Palais des Papes, cruising through the picturesque Camargue National Park and town tours of Arles and Pezenas — once homes to artist Vincent van Gogh and playwright Moliere.
Both of the Enchante’s new cruise itineraries were specially designed for Go Barging by Louisa and Roger Gronow who, together, have more than 20 years of extensive luxury barging experience and share a love of Southern France.
According to Derek Banks, Go Barging’s managing director, the Enchante has four double-bedded, air-conditioned suites, each of which features a lavish bathroom appointed with luxurious bath products. The suites have exotic hardwoods and elegant furnishings, televisions, DVD players and Internet connection. The Enchante’s spacious sun deck will serve as a vantage point for sightseeing and has an alfresco dining area, hot tub and comfortable loungers.
Onboard dining is a strong emphasis for this product, with five gourmet dinners served onboard with regional wines and an open bar. Guests will also dine out one evening at an outstanding local restaurant. Those with a special interest in cooking will have the opportunity to observe the chef at work in the vessel’s demonstration galley.
Prices start at $5,890 per person, based on double occupancy, and include shore excursions and admittance fees, as well as pick-up and transfers to and from designated points.
“This is truly an experience of a lifetime, but because our barges can only accommodate a very limited number of people, we always advise our clients to make their reservations early,” said Banks. “I can personally assure our guests that, whichever itinerary they choose, it will be a memorable and highly satisfying experience.”
Go Barging
www.gobarging.com
