Canal du Midi

Your Canal du Midi cruise in Languedoc will float through rolling countryside and canal-side vineyards - all under the dappled shade of plane trees lining the canal. Barge guests cruising on the Canal du Midi continue a tradition going back centuries. Built to link the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, the Canal du Midi was completed in 1681.

Now A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Canal du Midi is home to many

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barges, most of them small and family-owned. Consider one of these intimate barges for a private charter cruise for family and friends! The most popular route cruises between Beziers and Carcassonne. Other itineraries extend southeast to the Mediterranean ports of Agde or Sete.

A barge tour in the sunny Languedoc area of France is truly a cruise through history. The banks are lined with peaceful villages while, a short drive away are Roman ruins, the well-preserved Medieval city of Carcassonne and a beautiful abbey. Local markets in Beziers and Narbonne overflow with area produce, while shopping excursions for books, pottery, wine, olive oil, antiques and fashion enliven the local scene. Ancient and tranquil - yet colorful and stimulating: Experience the French Languedoc while cruising the Canal du Midi!

ALOUETTE - Canal du Midi, France
4 Guests, Ultra Deluxe
Alouette is now owned by Orient Express and will be re-launched in 2008 as an Ultra-Deluxe barge for four guests.

ANJODI - Canal du Midi, France
8 Guests, First Class
Your Canal du Midi cruise on Anjodi features wide-ranging sightseeing and comfortable cruising on this nautical-inspired barge. The salon was redecorated for the 2007 season.

ATHOS - Canal du Midi, France
10 Guests, First Class
Athos cruises the Canal du Midi between Salleles d'Aude and Marseillan, The relaxed and personalized ambiance aboard owner-operated Athos perfectly matches the mood of the Canal du Midi! The five cabins were rebuilt in 2007.

CLAIR DE LUNE - Canal du Midi, France
6 Guests, Deluxe
Clair de Lune cruises from Bezier to Carcassonne on its Canal du Midi route. This innovative barge was designed to provide light and space. The cabins are especially comfortable.

COLIBRI - Canal du Midi, France
4 Guests, Deluxe
Hotel barge Colibri spends most of the season cruising between Beziers and Carcassonne. Enchanting is the word for young owners Earl and Fiona! Their lovely decor is Provincial Inspired. Colibri is sold out in 2008.

EMMA - Canal du Midi, France
4-6 Guests, First Class
Emma cruises a beautiful route between Beziers and Carcassonne. Emma is the inspired cross-cultural creation of a French captain and an Irish chef. Enjoy al fresco meals on deck under their unique canopy!

FANDANGO - Canal du Midi, France
4-6 Guests, Deluxe
Canal du Midi cruise Fandango explores Mediterranean Ports on its route between Marseillan and Le Somail. The Fandango is owned and operated by Hazel Young - multi-talented chef, guide and shopper extraordinaire!

LA TORTUE - Canal du Midi, France
6 Guests, Firsts Class
Hotel Barge La Tortue will not offer Canal du Midi cruises in 2008. Please call us about similar barges featuring top cuisine and cuisine in Southwest France.

ROI SOLEIL - Canal du Midi, France
6 Guests, Ultra Deluxe
Roi Soleil offers Canal du Midi cruising is June, July, August and September. Her sleek lines and elegant decor epitomize French luxe. Guests can watch the chef in an open kitchen.

SHERBORNE - Canal du Midi, France
6 Guests, Casual Class
Sherborne will not offer Canal du Midi cruises in 2008. Please call us about other barges cruising on the Canal du Midi.

TANGO - Canal du Midi, France
6 Guests, Deluxe
Tango's cruise between Marseillan between Le Somail features Mediterranean Ports and the Canal du Midi. Chef Daniel Sak continues a dynamic family tradition on Tango. This beautiful barge has moderne-inspired decor and
divine French country cuisine.