What is included in an all-inclusive luxury barge cruise?
- Transportation between the barge and designated meeting point. For barges close to Paris, most barges pick up and return guests to Paris.
- Six nights accommodation with ensuite private bathroom
- All meals and wines
- Open bar with alcoholic and soft beverages
- Guided excursions and entrance fees
- All amenities of barge including bicycles, library, music, games, etc.
What is NOT included in an all-inclusive luxury barge cruise?
- Air transportation to and from France or Europe
- Travel insurance
- Items of a personal nature
- Crew gratuity of 5-10%
What is a Half Board Cruise?
It may differ slightly with the barge, but you basically take one meal a day on shore at your expense. This lowers your barge price, and is a fun way to explore some of the local restaurants. The barge crew will help you with your restaurant choices. Please refer to the individual itineraries for details - L'Etoile, Emma, Colibri (booked for 2008), Esperance.
Where do I meet the barge?
At a designated meeting place which differs with each barge and possibly the direction of the cruise. Check the individual itineraries for more information. Most barges located close to Paris pick you up and bring you back to Paris by private motor coach or escorted rail transfer.
Do you have special rates for hotels in Paris?
We do have some special agent rates if you book select hotels through us. Otherwise, we provide a Trip Information Kit with recommended Paris hotels and restaurants. We are happy to book for you or you can book directly.
Can I pay for my barge cruise with my credit card?
Yes, unless otherwise indicated. Mastercard and Visa are widely accepted. American Express is accepted by some. There may be a limit on how much of the barge cost can be charged. Please inquire for details.
What is the best way to get Euros?
We have found the ATM's to be the most convenient and economical. They are widely available. Be sure to bring your 4-digit pin code, and confirm with your bank that your ATM card will work internationally. Keep in mind that you will be charged a service fee each time, so it's wise to take out what you will need for a few days. The barge crew will know where the most convenient ATM's are located. In a pinch, you can use a credit card to get cash, but remember you are charged interest from receipt of the money until you pay it off in full.
Should I bring traveler's checks?
In a word - NO! Traveler's Checks are becoming more and more difficult to use. Stores, hotels, restaurants and local banks are not able to cash them. Even banks in larger towns are refusing them. Do not count on using traveler's checks. They are becoming a thing of the past.
Is there laundry service on board?
Generally not. It would overload the barge's systems if they started doing laundry for everyone. There are a few exceptions such as La Nouvelle Etoile and Le Phenicien. We recommend that you bring what you need for the week and wash by hand the few things you must. Remember that a barge cruise is casual, and a lot of clothing is not necessary.
What about internet access?
Email access is generally not available with some exceptions on Emma, Meanderer, La Nouvelle Etoile and L'Etoile.
Is there a telephone on board?
The barge crew has a cell phone which can be used for emergencies. The crew will locate the public phones for you which can be accessed with a calling card.
I have special dietary needs. Can the chef accommodate me?
Yes, we provide a pre-cruise questionnaire where you can itemize your dietary needs. The chef will gladly accommodate vegetarians, allergies, preferences and the like. If you have extraordinary needs, please inform us at the time of booking so we can confirm their availability.
What if I have a medical emergency during the cruise?
Medical assistance in France is excellent. The crew will call the medics, take you to the hospital or do whatever is necessary to provide you with the care needed. We recommend the purchase of travel insurance including medical care and evacuation. For more information, please contact us.
What should I pack?
Barge cruising is casual so bring comfortable clothing with flat shoes preferred for the deck. If you think resort casual, you'll be fine. If you like walking or biking, bring tennis shoes. We recommend that you bring clothing you can layer to bundle up for colder or rainy days and lighten up for hot days. Weather is unpredictable so be sure to bring a rain jacket or umbrella. A suggested packing list will be provided with your booking. Luggage storage is limited with one suitcase and one carryon requested for most barges.
The brochures say the captain's dinner is dressy. Do I have to dress up?
That is up to you and your preferred style. Many passengers do dress up a bit for the last night's dinner, especially on the more deluxe barges, but it is not required. If you are chartering a barge, it is entirely up to your group's preferences. If you are on a hotel barge with other passengers, you may want to bring a slightly dressier outfit for the last dinner. But remember to keep your packing simple and light. A jacket and tie are not needed unless you go to finer restaurants on shore.