European Waterways, for those of you who are not familiar with the line, has a series of hotel barges that cruise the inland waterways of nine European countries. They visit canals, rivers, lakes, lagoons and lochs, and are ideal for people looking for an intimate cruise, either travelers of similar interests, or for those choosing a whole barge charter for a family or group of friends.
This year, European Waterways has announced in their 2012 brochure that they are making a new addition to their fleet- the Panache.
The Panache is a 12-passenger, 128-foot luxury hotel barge that will cruise the canals of Holland and France. It features 6 double/twin en-suite cabins, sundeck and spa pool, along with large public areas and a saloon with panoramic windows.
Voyages are beginning this spring (April and May) with a series of “tulip” cruises that begin and end in Haarlem. These journeys will include a number of guided visits to attractions such as the spectacular Keukenhof Gardens, the world famous Delft pottery and the cheese centre of Gouda.
European Waterways reports that after cruising from Bruges down to Paris in late May, the Panache will reposition and cruise the beautiful Canal de la Marne au Rhin from Nancy to Strasbourg in Alsace Lorraine. This region has a unique mix of French and German cultures, Baroque and Romanesque architecture, storybook hamlets and wonderful white wines. Shore excursions will feature hilltop villages and chateaux, private wine tastings and negotiating the world’s largest ÔÇÿbarge lift’ at Arzviller.
European Waterways’ hotel barge cruises aboard the Panache include a 6 night cruise, accommodation in an ensuite twin/double cabin, all meals and fine wines, an open bar, excursions and local transfers. Full boat charters are also available.