Chouette: Luxury cruising in the Upper and Lower Nivernais Canals

Refurbished for 2003, Choutte is one of the prettiest barges on the waterways of France, and the only hotel barge offering the flexibility of half board and bed and breakfast cruises.

She can accommodate up to six guests in comfort in a friendly, informal yet private atmosphere. This delightful Dutch luxemoteur barge, beautifully restored to include wood panelling, oak floors and two spacious lounges decorated with original art works and antiques, continues to provide her guests with a high standard of accommodation and service. A feature of Chouette is her traditional nautical feel and attention to detail. There is a sun deck complete with dining area, and lounging and dining furniture.

Offering fully heated luxury accommodation in three cabins, two doubles and one twin each with it's own charm plus 3 spacious bathrooms. The two sitting rooms are a delight for that quiet moment among the many books available, or a chance to listen to some peaceful music as the water laps the boat gently. The galley is fully equipped and is at your disposal throughout your cruise.

Each day the English captain and his Irish wife, both of whom are bi-lingual, will suggest a number of possible activities for you to enjoy. You may choose to relax on the sundeck, or in either of the lounges, take a bike ride on our modern bikes or follow the excellent visits; these visits are all inclusive on the half board cruise, and transport assured by private minibus. transport to these visits is fully inclusive on the Casual Cruise, our new half board cruise for 2004 . If you opt for the Bed and Breakfast cruise, the crew will be happy to arrange visits, restaurants and taxis for you.

Stepping aboard Chouette is a truly wonderful experience; the boat is simply stunning, both spacious and intimate, and with a wonderful team to make your stay a truly memorable one.

A typical itinerary:

Sunday: Early afternoon you are met by your captain, Chris, and escorted directly to Chouette for our traditional warm welcome. Time to explore the wonderful medieval town, Auxerre, with its half timbered buildings and magnificent cathedrals. Auxerre boasts the title of the second most protected sector in the Burgundy region after Dijon.

Dinner ashore.

Monday:Morning cruise past vineyard clad slopes and rolling pastures to Bailly where you can enjoy an excellent lunch. An afternoon wine tasting in the 12C cellars of Madame Bersan at St Bris introduces you to the local Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Early evening cruise past grazing white charolais cattle to the tranquil port of Vermenton. Dinner ashore.

Tuesday: Morning tour to the enchanting 14C fortified town, Noyers. Lunch at a local inn. Afternoon cruise through the Yonne Valley past quaint lock-side cottages and sleepy hamlets. Time for an early evening stroll beneath the chalky cliffs of Mailly le Chateau before dinner ashore.

Wednesday: Morning cruise past picture perfect landscapes towards the towering cliffs of Saussois. Splendid views from the cliff tops. Lunch at canal side restaurant. Afternoon cruise to Chatel followed by a tour of Veselay, one of Burgundy' most famous treasures with the Roman Basilica of Sainte Mary Magdalene. Dinner at a typical French restaurant where you can enjoy a wide selection of regional dishes and wines.

Thursday: Morning cruise past fortified farms and beautiful scenery followed by a tour of the picturesque 12c Chateau de Bazoches and lunch ashore. Afternoon cruise to enchanting setting at Basseville. Dinner ashore at a charming canal side inn with outdoor terrace and lawns.

Friday: Morning cruise past tree- lined riverbanks. Lunch at nearby restaurant. Free time to stoll around Clamecy with its 14C church and fascinating medieval buildings. Late afternoon cruise to idyllic port of Chevroches. Time for a peaceful stroll through this historic village before the farewell dinner ashore.

Saturday: After a hearth breakfast you are escorted by minibus to your point of departure.

Departures are on Sundays, from April 4th to October 31st inclusive.

The price includes:
• 6 nights aboard (Sunday to Saturday)
• 5 day cruise
• Captain plus minimum of 1 crew
• Daily continental breakfast
• Daily simple set menu lunches
• Daily chauffeured, guided sightseeing in air conditioned minibus (guest admission fees are paid for BY THE GUESTS)
• Starter Pack : red and white wines, beer, water and sof drinks( details available on request)
• Van transfer to/from dinners out (when required) within a defined radius
• Geared bike for each guest
• Pickup/drop off: Auxerre or Larroche Migennes (direct rail link from Paris)

Bed and Breakfast cruise : $9,130 for up to 6 guests
A "self drive" alternative, providing a captain plus one crew member, breakfast, security, knowledgable consultant about where to go and what to do. In addition to this your hosts are at hand to assist you with restaurant reservations and the language.

Includes :
• 6 nights aboard (Sunday to Saturday)
• 5 day cruise
• Daily Continental breakfast
• Captain plus 1 crew
• Geared bike for each guest