L'Impressionniste
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The 12 passenger L'Impressionniste, sister ship to La Belle Epoque, began life as a cargo barge in Holland before undergoing a complete transformation into the powerful canal and river cruiser she is today.
 

Her light and airy interior features picture windows and a selection of prints, fabrics and wall colourings reminiscent of the turn of the century era, after which she has been named. She is crewed by a knowledgeable Captain, Master Chef and crew of three.

L'Impressionniste's classic route covers some fine rural cruising, with plenty of opportunity to cycle and stroll along the tow-path, and wander into nearby villages.

Cruise Highlights:

• All-inclusive open bar, free wines,gourmet cuisine, entry fees to excursions
• All-inclusive open bar, free wines, gourmet cuisine, entry fees to excursions
• Clos de Vougeot, home of the Chevaliers du Tastevin
• Wine tasting at Domaine Jafflin
• Visit Beaune, including Hotel Dieu Hospice & Main Champy
• Tour of Abbaye de la Bussiere
• Lunch at a Michelin-starred restaurant
• Tour of Chateau de Commain
• Tour Dijon and Ducal Palace 

 2010 Itinerary - Ouche Valley, Burgundy Itinerary - Dijon to Escommes

Early morning cruise and exclusive tour of the magnificent 12th Century Abbaye de la Bussiere. The ornamental gardens and lake, wine press, crypt and cellars are interwoven with ancient colonnades, stone staircases and huge stained glass windows. After a Kir Royale aperitif, we enjoy the gastronomic delights of Master Chef Olivier Elzer in the vaulted Michelin starred restaurant whilst enjoying the sommelier’s choice of local burgundies. This afternoon we visit the moat-encircled 13th century Chateau de Commarin. Going back 26 generations, the de Vogue family ownership portrays an insight into the glamorous lives of the French aristocracy as well as showing off the Chateau, stables and landscaped gardens. Light dinner aboard

Thursday -  Pont D’Ouche to Vandenesse

After breakfast we cruise to Pont D’Ouche, passing grazing white Charolais cattle, rolling hills and picturesque villages crossing the only canal bridge of the Burgundy Canal. In the afternoon we cross the premier cru vineyards into Beaune, capital of Burgundy wine country with a history going back over 2000 years. We absorb the fascinating 15th century Hotel Dieu Hospice and visit Maison Champy, Beaune’s oldest winery established in 1720 with even older cellars. Dinner on board.

 Friday – Vanenesse to Escommes
 
Our last day’s leisurely cruise takes us to the canal summit, 1250 feet above sea level, just before the Pouilly tunnel. Mid afternoon we continue to the mediaeval village, craft shops and castle of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois, once an outpost of the Dukes of Burgundy and offering a fine overview of the feeder lakes, canal and surrounding countryside. Captain’s Farewell Dinner on board

Rates 2010

Note: All prices are in Euro €

Features:

• Size of barge: 100 ft by 16.6 ft

• Number of Passengers: 13

• Number of Cabins (all private bath): 6

• 2 Suites, 4 Junior Suites

• Crew: 5

• Air Conditioning and Central Heating: Yes

• Salon: Saloon/dining area with 8 picture windows, 2 sofas and dining table seating 12.

• Bar: Open Bar

• Deck: Large sundeck with recliners, dining table, chairs, and umbrellas.

• Cabin Features: Being refit for 2007 with 5 cabins about 100 sq ft each with twin beds or double bed.

• Vehicle for Transfers/Excursions: Two air-conditioned minivans.

• Accessibility: Steps to salon and cabins

• Bicycles

Rates include:

Accommodation on board the barge
All meals, table wines and alcoholic beverages
All sightseeing and admittance fees as stipulated
Use of vessels' bicycles and other facilities
Round trip transfers from the meeting point to the barge are also included in the fares

Rates do not include:

Cancellation and holiday insurance
On board gratuities and items of personal nature