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Elisabeth
Barging Burgundy

ElisabethElisabeth is a 30 meter Dutch Luxemoteur barge built in Rotterdam Holland in 1930. Originally converted in 1988 by her owner/operators Peter and Sheena Jenner, she has recently been refurbished and is now a comfortable home away from home. The large wheelhouse is the perfect place to watch the world go by whilst chatting with the captain. The sundeck is ideal for lounging, 'al fresco' lunches and sundowners. The bow deck is good for that quiet read or peaceful sunbathe. Restful and relaxed - the perfect words to describe a cruise aboard the Elisabeth.

Barge Elisabeth is privately owned and operated. Groups of friends or families are welcome, even if your children are young. (No minimum age limit) There is something for everyone on Elisabeth. She can be prepared with toddlers in mind. Cots, high chairs, paddling pools, bicycles for children - No problem, they have them.

Map
Elisabeth's Route in Burgundy


Elisabeth cruises past Burgundian vineyards, fortified farms, patient fishermen, and dramatic towering cliffs. The Canal du Nivernais is chosen for cruising as it is an area of outstanding beauty and because it offers so many things that make for a great holiday. Catch up on the daily news from the lock keepers as you help to wind the locks on this beautiful 18th Century Canal.

With the benefit of the crew's local knowledge and minibus, each day you will visit some of their favorite places. One day it might be a medieval town, with cobbled streets and a gothic cathedral, or perhaps a UNESCO World Heritage Site..another day a "foie gras" tasting. They have also found a delightful 12th century chateau and can take you to one of the prettiest villages in France. Of course, no visit to Burgundy would be complete without savouring the superb wines of this world famous wine region.

Naturally, when there are young guests aboard, the itineraries can be adjusted to suit all members of the party.

 
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Itinerary

Saturday - Auxerre
Afternoon rendez-vous at Laroche Migennes railway station, a short mini-bus ride to the Elisabeth, moored in the centre of the town. Alternatively pick up at the Hotel Maxime, Auxerre. Welcome aboard!

Sunday - Auxerre to Vincelles
Tour of medieval Auxerre, it's Cathedral and old cobbled streets. Cruise to Bailly then an option to visit the Caves de Bailly a vast system of caves hewn out of the rock-face where they now make the famous sparkling wine 'Cremant de Bourgogne'. Early evening cruise to Vincelles.

Monday - Vincelles to Vermenton
Morning cruise to the small town of Vermenton on the River Cure. Afternoon visit to the picturesque wine villages of Irancy and St Bris for a 'degustation' of their wines.

Tuesday - Vermenton to Mailly la Ville
This morning a visit to the medieval Noyers-sur-Serein, voted one of the prettiest villages in France. Today's cruise is back to the River Yonne and on to Mailly la Ville.

Wednesday - Mailly la Ville to Chatel Censoir
Morning cruise to the dramatic cliffs at the Saussois where we stop for lunch. After lunch we cruise to Chatel Censoir for tonight's mooring. Late afternoon visit to the 'Madeleine' at Vezelay, a UNESCO heritage site.

Thursday - Chatel Censoir to Clamecy
A beautiful, long morning's cruise to Clamecy. Afternoon visit to the stunning twelfth century chateau of Bazoches, built at the same time as the 'Madeleine' at Vezelay.

Friday - Clamecy
After breakfast return to Auxerre by minibus.

Note: On alternative weeks, this cruise is offered in reverse. This is our suggested itinerary which can be changed to suit people's interests.
 
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Elisabeth's Interior
Elisabeth's Interior
Cabins: Each cabin has a private shower, basin and wc. There is good closet and drawer space. Plenty of headroom. All rooms have fans and central heating. Each of our three cabins has its own character and color schemes.
Chablis cabin Chablis Cabin: Double or Twin Beds
Irancy Cabin Irancy Cabin: Double Bed
St. Bris Cabin St. Bris Cabin: Twin Beds
Salon - Dining Room: Elisabeth has an airy, split-level Salon - Dining Room with her original oak hatch beams, ceiling fan, and wood-burning stove (for those inclement days). Guests can make full use of the delightful Saloon with its very spacious and comfortable L-shaped sofa, library and selection of games. Leafy plants add to the ambiance. You will enjoy the convivial atmosphere around the dining table that comfortably seats eight. There is an additional seating area beside the well-stocked bar and a stereo system for your use.
Salon
   
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  Introducing the Crew
 
Crew
 

Elisabeth's proud owners, Peter and Sheena, have been living in Burgundy since 1990 and have acquired a love and knowledge of the region, its food and, of course, its wines. Peter is an experienced Captain, with a Class A French Barge License, and has piloted 38 meter hotel barges, as well as Elisabeth, for the last seven years. He loves the waterways and happily shares his enthusiasm for them with lots of anecdotes and stories. Sheena too enjoys the life afloat and in this way combines several favorite pastimes. She delights in cooking and entertaining and over the years has gained an extensive repertoire of regional menus by working with some excellent chefs. Married for over twenty years, they have two grown sons working in the Burgundy Region. They look forward to sharing their local knowledge, love of Burgundy and of barging, with you. ...Why not come and meet them and some of their friends? A third crew member joins us each season to assist us in making this a special holiday for you.

Finally, there's Bonnie! Our little West Highland White Terrier is affectionate, loveable, and firmly believes that everyone aboard is under her charge. She adores all children, especially anyone with a willing lap and a gentle cuddle.

   
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  Packing Hints and Suggestions
 
  • Elisabeth is a barge and soft luggage is easiest to stow away.
  • No stiletto heels to be worn please. They can cause accidents.
  • Deck or rubber-soled shoes are recommended for use on deck at all times.
  • Bring a warm sweater for those cooler days and evenings.
  • Wet weather gear for those cloudbursts is recommended.
   
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