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We are proud to be a key supplier to the European Canal Barge community and be selected as Condé Nast Traveler magazine's barge specialist. We have no ownership or bias toward any barge; therefore, our recommendations are 100 percent objective and truly respond to your preferences. It's important for prospective customers to note that Frontiers does not recommend just any barge. The vessels we've listed on this website are top-shelf barges, ensuring a high level of quality in all aspects of your cruise, but still offering a cross-section of routes, levels of luxury, and budgets. Jill Jergel is our in-house barge specialist for all things 'European Canal and River Cruising' for good reason. She helped introduce the concept of a luxury barge vacation to the American traveler in 1983 and has personally inspected every barge we represent in Europe. You'll find her hand-picked selection of vessels in France, Germany, Holland, Belgium, Scotland, Ireland, and England are what you'll find in Frontiers' collection of European barge cruises. For every year since 2003, including 2022, Jill has been honored to be included on Condé Nast Traveler magazine's list of Top Travel Specialists and is specifically recommended for providing unique and professional arrangements in France and Europe on deluxe canal barge cruises. She's been to Europe countless times in her 45 years as a professional advisor and looks forward to putting her expertise to work for you! Take a look at our 2022 Barging and River Cruising Brochure
Barges
Adrienne
This stunning 12-passenger barge is the crown jewel of the French Country Waterways collection and has garnered rave reviews ever since she began gliding along the canals in 2005. Named for the company president's daughter, Adrienne is one of the most beautiful barges of its size cruising the canals of France.
Belmond Alouette
Owned and operated by longtime Frontiers partner, Belmond, the four-passenger Alouette is perfect for the Provencal-inspired trendsetter looking for an intimate barging experience.
Belmond Amaryllis
This luxurious "Belmond Afloat in France" barge, the Amaryllis, carries eight passengers along a fascinating combination of scenic river and canal cruising in Burgundy. Belmond spared no expense on this stylish barge – it shines in both passenger comfort and design.
Belmond Fleur de Lys
Frequently referred to as the "Rolls-Royce of barges," the six-passenger Fleur de Lys (sister ship to the Amaryllis) is among the most luxurious barges floating the canals of Europe. From the historic Dijon to the historic Vandenesse-en-Auxois, discover the region’s top castles and wineries in style.
Belmond Lilas
A breathtaking blend of Burgundy’s finest – discover a scenic landscape brimming with flavor and heritage on a luxurious cruise from Dijon to Saint-Léger. Exclusively for charter with plenty of room to accommodate up to eight passengers, Lilas boasts a soothing ambiance inside and out.
Belmond Napoleon River Cruiser
Belmond owned and operated, this luxurious 12-passenger river cruiser visits many of the classic sites of Provence from the Rhone River. Individuals may book one of the six equal cabins, or an intact party may charter the entire boat.
Belmond Pivoine
Best described as a chic base for a Champagne sojourn, Belmond Pivoine is a perfect sanctuary. Unwind in your floating home away from home after a day discovering the region’s highlights, as you retreat to your spacious cabin and revive.
C'est La Vie
C’est La Vie translates to “That’s Life,” and we would add, “That’s the good life!” The eight-passenger barge is a fantastic option for either two people booking a single cabin, or four couples traveling together. See the brochure here.
Elisabeth
David Wallace and Matthew Willis are the British owner-operators of the utterly delightful vintage boutique hotel barge, Elisabeth.
Enchante
True to her name, the eight-passenger Enchanté provides an enchanted voyage on the historic Canal du Midi. Enchanté cruises between Sallèles d’Aude and Trèbes, close to the medieval walled fortress town of Carcassonne.
Esperance
Operated by a dedicated and friendly owner with an excellent sense of style and appreciation of quality, no detail has been overlooked on board Esperance. Not only is this evident throughout the distinctively decorated barge, but it also is noticeable within its itinerary components.
Finesse
This chic luxury barge was designed to maximize space and comfort for the fortunate guests on board! Enjoy plentiful, abundant natural daylight as it streams through the huge picture windows and exceptional space in Finesse’s four equal 265-square-foot cabins.
Grand Cru
The chic, sleek design and state-of-the-art components of this spanking new, custom-built ultra-luxe vessel assures both comfort and relaxation in ultimate style while exploring the southern Burgundy countryside.
Grand Victoria
Frontiers has recommended Grand Victoria for decades. Her visionary fourth owners, Edward and Cindy Anderson, have years of experience hosting guests through the delights of Burgundy. They immerse you in everyday France, offering a personal approach to experiencing the quaint cafes, markets, culture, and traditions.
L'Art de Vivre
Bring the whole family aboard the charming eight-passenger L'Art de Vivre and cruise the magical Nivernais Canal in Burgundy between the medieval riverside town of Auxerre and Chevroches
L'Impressioniste
Cruise the Ouche Valley stretch of the Burgundy Canal, one of the most beautiful waterways in France, aboard the 12-passenger L'Impressionniste.
La Belle Epoque
Two experienced barge captains, who were pioneers in the industry, designed the distinct, 12-passenger La Belle Epoque with elegance, comfort and navigational practicality in mind.
La Nouvelle Etoile
The ultra-deluxe, eight-passenger La Nouvelle Etoile is owned and operated by Jan Meijer, the Leonardo da Vinci of barge design. Being born into a Dutch shipping family, Jan certainly knows more than the average barge captain about design and navigation, and this barge is his “dream” vessel.
Magna Carta
The attractive eight-passenger Magna Carta is an ideal venue for both first-time travelers to England as well as veterans. Cruise a delightfully pastoral English countryside itinerary on the Thames River from Hampton Court Palace to classic Henley-on-Thames, famous for the Henley Regatta.
Meanderer
George and Susan Kovalick are the clever owners of this extremely comfortable and spacious barge. They have added a gracious touch of style perfectly paired with hospitality to this longtime favorite of Frontiers’ clients.
Nenuphar
Cruise through the gently rolling hills and sloping vineyards of the Champagne region aboard the graceful 12-passenger Nenuphar, a member of the prestigious French Country Waterways fleet. Delight in her traditional elegance framed by an abundance of richly polished woods.
Panache
The beautiful 12-passenger Panache has sleek interior appointments that reflect the perfect blend of illumination and elegance, complemented by a very gracious welcome.
Prosperite
The glamorous and design-driven Prosperite is definitely a contender for the “most beautiful eight-passenger barge in France” award. Think "Mediterranean yacht” turned barge with lots of panache. It’s no wonder, as Prosperite’s creator is a savvy American hotelier with an award-winning boutique property.
Renaissance
Cruise the Sancerre region, a unique and enchanting corner in the hidden heartland of France, aboard the beautifully decorated, eight-passenger Renaissance. She offers a superb option for those who, in the words of the original owner, "appreciate nice things."
Rendez-Vous
This splendid four-passenger barge provides a quality cruise at a reasonable price and is perfectly ideal for two couples or a family who wish to cruise together! The interior of Rendez-Vous features a clean, neutral style with uncluttered, modern décor. Barge host par excellence Spencer Hayes and his partner, a builder, and hotelier, chose only the finest components and materials, creating a relaxed and welcoming ambiance.
Roi Soleil
The stylish six-passenger Roi Soleil represents a unique level of authenticity, comfort, and elegance in deluxe barging, particularly on the narrow Canal du Midi.
Saint Louis
The posh Saint Louis is an owner-operated boutique canal barge offering a diverse itinerary in the Bordeaux and Gascony regions on Canal de Garonne. Visit places like the charming wine village of Saint Emilion, the Lily gardens that inspired Monet, and a 12th-century hilltop town.
Savoir Vivre
The arrival of Savoir Vivre, with its forward-thinking British owner, James Waggott, brings us chic design and unheard of value on a barge that cruises one of the most splendid routes in Burgundy.
Scottish Highlander
This eight-passenger barge has the feel of a floating Scottish country house with traditional tartan plaids and a staff that appears clairvoyant in their anticipation of your wants.
Shannon Princess II
This crisp 10-passenger cruiser explores the monasteries, manor houses and riverside villages of glorious central Ireland on the River Shannon and Lough Derg. Owners Ruairi and Olivia Gibbons did not overlook a single detail to ensure your comfort when they created this beautiful vessel.
Spirit of Scotland
Recall the elegance and style of vintage steamships aboard the 12-passenger Spirit of Scotland while enjoying all of the modern comforts you’d expect on a luxury cruise. The friendly staff of six polished professionals is always ready to exceed your expectations with their special brand of hospitality.
Tango
This owner-operated eight-passenger barge makes even the seasoned locals stop to gaze. Tango exudes the French flair of her second-generation owner, Daniel Sak, who literally grew up on a barge and created his own striking vessel. He also happens to be a remarkable chef (just ask him to make his special Mousse au Chocolat for you!)
Meet Our Specialists
Specializes in Barging, River Cruises, and Western Europe
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A wine and food connoisseur, grandmother of two, and veteran member of the Condé Nast Traveler Specialist list.