Horizon II 

Barging in Burgundy

Passengers: 8
Size: 128 feet long
Last Visited: 2007
Rating: Ultra Deluxe, A/C, Families

2008 rates

Whole Boat Charter
$52,760 - Prime Season (Applies to Whole Boat Charter pricing only)
$49,560 - High Season
$46,360 - Value Season
$41,160 - Shoulder Season
Individuals
$6,595 - High Season
$6,095 - Value Season
$5,595 - Shoulder Season
Prime Season Dates: September 7 - October 18, 2008 (Whole Boat charter Pricing Only)
High Season Dates: May 18 to July 12 and August 24 to October 18, 2008
Value Season Dates: May 4 to May 17 and July 13 to August 23, 2008
Shoulder Season Dates: March 22 to May 2 and October 25 to November 8, 2008

The Barge Lady and husband "Monsieur le Barge Lady" enjoyed a luxurious week-long cruise on Horizon II in July 2007.

The route between Pouillenay and Tanlay on the Canal de Bourgogne is divinely beautiful - cruising through fields, forests and wonderful towns and villages. It is rural, chic and interesting - all at the same time - and just a 90-minute drive from Paris.  We boarded to find Horizon II a very handsome and classic barge. The salon reminds of an English gentleman's club, decorated in rich colors, comfortable furniture and antique accent pieces. The cabins are spacious and extremely well- arranged with ingenious storage space and brand new baths with full-size shower.

Horizon II is one of five vessels owned and operated by French Country Waterways. As on all of them, the greatest strength is especially experienced crew and depth of programming. For instance, our sharp and congenial guide Michael was able to arrange a viewing of the Tour de France on a day's notice. Included in the cruise price was a first-rate dinner at the Michelin-starred Le Relais Bernard Loiseau in Saulieu.

Sightseeing on the route is varied. Here again, we saw the advantage of personalized planning when we were guided through the Forges de Buffon by the current owner, a charming French woman who also welcomed us into her home. For me, the most outstanding sight is the Renaissance Chateau at Ancy-le-Franc. Now owned by a consortium of American investors, much of it has been extensively and gorgeously renovated.

Our chef Gregoire presented delicious meals and we drank many Grand Cru wines. At the end of the cruise we were presented with color copies of every wine label, a list of cheeses and the dinner menus.

Horizon II

Barge Cruise Itinerary

Tanlay to Pouillenay on the Canal de Bourgogne

Sunday: Paris to Tanlay
From Paris, you are escorted via private motorcoach to Tanlay where Horizon II is moored. Welcome reception and dinner on board.

Monday:  Tanlay to Ancy-le-Franc
Cruise on the Burgundy Canal to the village of Ancy-le-Franc. Afternoon visit to the 16th century chateau of Ancy-le-Franc, one of the finest examples of Renaissance architecture in Burgundy. The interiors are furnished with a number of original period pieces.

Tuesday: Ancy-le-Franc  to Ravieres
Morning drive to the vineyards of Chablis, where you will sample several vintages of these famous wines at the property of a private grower. Although widely imitated around the world, only the wines produced in this region can truly be labeled Chablis. Scenic afternoon cruise to the village of Ravieres.

Wednesday: Ancy-le-Franc to Montbard
Morning visit to the medieval port city of Auxerre. Join the Horizon II's guide for a walking tour of the St. Etienne Cathedral and the historic quarter, where cobblestone streets fan out from a Renaissance clock tower. Afternoon cruise to Montbard.

Thursday: Montbard to Veneray-les-Laumes
Tour the Forges de Buffon, founded by the 18th century naturalist, Georges-Louis de Buffon. You will be greeted by the present owners who are your hosts for a visit of the estate and gardens. Afternoon cruise to Venarey-les-Laumes. Dinner ashore at the renowned Michelin three-star restaurant, La Cote d'Or, in Saulieu.

Friday: Veneray-les-Laumes to Pouillenay
Visit the splendid Abbaye de Fontenay, founded in 1118 by St. Bernard. This meticulously preserved site is a rare example of the distinctive architecture and industry typical of the early Cistercian orders. Cruise to the picturesque village of Pouillenay. Festive Captain's Dinner on board.

Saturday: Pouillenay to Paris
After breakfast, you are chauffeured back to Paris. Estimated arrival time is 11: 00 AM to Noon.

Please note: This is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions. The route will run in reverse on alternate weeks. Contact The Barge Lady for reservations and more information about Barging in Burgundy on the canals and waterways of France -  Or call us toll free at (800) 880-0071.

Horizon II Guest Book

"We had such a great time on Horizon II. The crew, led by guide Michael and hostess Debs were genuinely fun and wonderful to be with. Michael was really an expert at arranging memorable off-barge experiences. For instance, we visited the local market in conjenction with Ancy-le-Franc chateau, and he was able to provide a picnic and viewing of the Tour de France. This was a last-minute request, expertly fulfilled. The route is gorgeous, the food delicious and the barge spacious and comfotable. We hope to cruise with French Country Waterways again!"
- Nick and Ellen Sack, 2007

“The finest cruise ever. We love your boat, the itinerary, the cuisine, and each crew member. Your entire staff devoted themselves to our total comfort. They like each other and their job, and that shows! Thank you for a wonderful vacation”
 - J.S. August 2007

“The crew couldn’t have been better. They all truly seem to love what they do and that carries over! They were informative, happy, friendly and just genuinely nice people! The food was the best we’ve ever had in France; even better than some very top restaurants in Paris. Your chef truly has a gift.”
 - R.D. May 2007

“If, after reading this questionnaire, it sounds like we are having a love affair with French Country Waterways – it’s because we are! It was a perfect trip in every way!”
R.J. October 2007

“Everything was wonderful!! Perfect!! Paradise!! Can’t wait to go on another!!”
 - K.F & R.S. October 2007

Horizon II Floor Plan

128 Feet long
-Four large suites (average approximately 170 sq ft) with twins or king beds
-Beautiful salon and dining room with large windows and classic English decor
-Large sundeck.