La Nouvelle Etoile
Barging in Germany

Passengers: 8
Size: 128 feet long
Last Visited: 2008
Rating: Ultra Deluxe, A/C

2009 Prices

Regular Season
Whole Boat Charter: $52,900
Individuals: $6,900 per person double occupancy
Regular Season Dates
September 20 - 26,
September 27 - October 3,
October 4-10 and October 11 - 17

Value Season
Whole Boat Charter: $48,900
Individuals: $6,500 per person double occupancy
Value Season Dates
October 18 - 24

Fall on the River Mosel is wonderful-and trust Captain Jan Meijer to be the only barge to offer cruises on the different and beautiful route! A surprising number of vineyards and riverside towns line the Mosel River Valley. Guests will shop, stroll, taste wine, visit old castles and Roman ruins-and also be treated to a half-day tour of nearby Luxembourg. Having spent the season exploring Holland, Belgium and France, perhaps Nouvelle Etoile is saving the best for last!

Jan and Diana Meijer run one of the most accomplished and congenial operations in barging - beginning with the vessel itself. NOUVELLE ETOILE boasts a long list of innovations: an elevator, a handicap access cabin, computers in every cabin (with e-mail and a navigational system that the passengers can access), an exercise room, a washer and dryer for the guests and sput poles that allow the barge to stop anywhere without tying up.

NOUVELLE ETOILE ("New Star") is the dream barge of Captain Meijer, who was born into a Dutch shipping familly - and thus knows more than the average barge captain about design and navigation.  But not at the expense of elegance and comfort!

The spacious suites boast oversized showers, double sinks and rich interiors design.  The salon-dining room is designed for socializing.  Guests congregate at the gorgeous bar.  There is lots of good seating - even a piano for those so inclined.

The Meijers run a top operation - one defined by divine cuisine, the depth and breadth of the wine selection, and extremely literate sightseeing.  This attractive couple is front and center; tending bar, pouring champagne, and creating a lighthearted on-board ambiance.

The Barge Lady and her husband Monsieur Le Barge Lady criused in summer, 2008.  Please go to The Barge Lady Blog for my day to day diary of this fabulous trip!  We now understand due to our own first-hand experience why Jan and Diana have so many repeat guests!

La Nouvelle Etoile
Germany Barge Cruise Itinerary

2009 Germany Cruise Dates
September 20 - 26
September 27 - October 3
October 4-10
October 11 - 17
October 18 - 24

Remich, Luxembourg to Koblenz, Germany
Sunday: Remich, Luxembourg
After being met in mid-afternoon by our driver in either Frankfurt or Luxembourg City, you'll be chauffeured to La Nouvelle Etoille at anchor in the riverside village of Remich, Luxembourg.  After the traditional champagne welcome, enjoy the first of many gourmet meals. 

Monday: Remich, Luxembourg to Trier
This morning's visit is to Luxembourg City, a striking and newly fashionable destination.  Then, begin your cruise on the beautiful River Mosel, cruising to Trier, Germany, our port
for the night.

Tuesday: Trier to Bernkastel
Trier is the oldest town in Germany.  It's origins go back to Roman times when it was one of the outposts of the Roman Empire.  This morning we will view the Porta Nigra, the old town wall, and the magnificent St. Peter's Cathedral. If there is time, you can stroll in the square with its many shops.  In the afternoon we will cruise this incredible picturesque part of the Mosel River to reach Bernkastel, another famous wine village. Stop along the way in the village of Piesport where abundant remains of the Celtic times may be found. Taste the famous wine, Piesporter Goldtropfchen, at the cellars of Dr. Theo Haart.

Wednesday: Bernkastel to Zell
Continuing down the Mosel we come to Zell, one of the most beautiful towns on the river and famous for its wines. Visit the cellars of Dr. Josef Weiss, just outside of town. Then take an hour or two to shop and stroll in this delightful town!.

Thursday: Zell to Cochem
From Zell we take a leisurely cruise past numerous vineyards to the charming town of Cochem. In the early afternoon we will drive you to the castle Burg Eltz, also called the “Queen of the German Castles” because it is one of the few castles  not destroyed by the French King Louis XIV in 1689. A guided tour takes you through this fascinating 12th century castle.

Friday: Cochem to Koblenz
Cruise in the morning to Koblenz, a major port town at the confluence of three rivers.  There will be time to explore before tonight's Captain's dinner, hosted by Jan and Diana.  What about an after-dinner drink in a wine-stube?  There is a lot of nightlife to enjoy in this lively town!

Saturday: Return Transfer
After a last elegant breakfast, depart at 9:00am.  We'll chauffeur you either to the Frankfurt Airport, Frankfurt Rail Station, rental car pickup or hotel in the immediate area.  We hope to see you back again on NOUVELLE ETOILE!

This cruise runs in the opposite direction - Koblenz to Remich - on alternative weeks.

Please note: this is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions. Contact The Barge Lady for reservations and more information about Barging in Germany. Or call us toll free at (800) 880-0071.

La Nouvelle Etoile
Guest Book

"It was by far the most luxurious trip we've taken.  The personal attention, excellent cuisine (I can't just use the word "food"), fabulous wines, relaxed and friendly atmosphere - we just had such a great time!  We made new friends with the other passengers and felt like we were leaving family when we had to say good bye to Jan and Diana!  The whole crew was so gracious and professional.  The ship (again, I can't just call it a "barge") was spotless, beautifully appointed and very comfortable. I tell my friends we were on a luxurious yacht!"
-Thomas and Kathy Coyle, 2009

"The most upscale barge I have been on and I have been on at least two dozen barges and river boats.  Can you believe an elevator on a two-deck barge?  Hope to do it in the Champagne area next year."
-Ada and Erik Paulsen, 2008

"As our friends summed it up, you hit a Home Run.  Jan and Diana couldn't have been better host and hostess - they provide everything you need and then some.  The tours in Ireland and Germany were great - What's next?"
-Robert and Judy Drotman, 2008

"We have taken many barge trips and this was among the best - due to the staff and service provided.  We loved Captain Jan Meijer!"

Robert and Eugenia Mills, 2008
"What a glorious trip! This barge exceeded our expectations - none of our 4 previous barge trips was quite this grand!  The barge, captain and crew, food, side trips - all superb.  One thing that really impressed me was the quietness of the cabins - we never heard from anyone else.  I would highly recommend La Nouvelle Etoile to anyone.  Thanks, Ellen for the great job you did for us."
-Henry and Diana Moog, 2008

"The service by the staff was 5 star or higher.  This was the most intimate and relaxing vacation we have ever taken.  If you enjoy good converesation, beautiful sights, excellent wine, superb food, quality accomodations and relaxation, this is the trip for you!"
-Larry and Frances Anne Collmann, 2008

"A wonderful week filled with great scenery, food and service.  We are looking forward to our next trip.  The week was terrific for 3 generations making the trip together covering ages from 14 to 85."
-The Leeds Family, 2008

"Our barge cruise was quite enjoyable. Not only were the accommodations delightful but the staff was very pleasant and informative.  We had such a restful and relaxing cruise.  We can't forget to mention the wonderful meals and abundance of adult beverages.  Bloody-Marys have become a favorite past time on the weekends now that we are home.  We hope to book another trip in the near future."
-Gail Kodosky, 2008

"The barge trip was magical.  It was like taking a road trip through the beautiful French countryside without any noise or traffic.  The birds even sang happier tunes!  We felt "at home" on the barge the entire week."
-Marilyn Rogers, 2008

"Totally relaxing, low-key luxury.  Charming hosts, delicious food, and remarkably comfortable cabins"
- William Weaver and Frona Daskal, 2008

" First rate.  Jan and Diana made us feel at home and treated us royally.  We will go back again next year."
-Ron and Hannah Rogers, 2008

"It was terrific. We loved the ship. The owners and staff were exceptionally friendly and helpful. The food and drink were excellent. They met my husband's food issues without a hitch and the chef made is sound as if Mike was getting the better of the meals. Everyone was so gracious and were our friends rather than people there to take care of us. We can't wait to go again."
-Michael and Christine Harris, 2007

"As owner/operators, Jan and Diana Meijer take great pride in their barge - and it shows! Everything about the trip exceeded our expectations. Our only complaint was that the trip had to end."
-Steve and Anna Duff, 2007

"The crew of the Nouvelle Etoile were all both professional and personal. We enjoyed them as much as our fellow travelers. They spared nothing in pampering us beyond our wildest expectations. I don't believe that you could find a better travel experience on a barge, but thanks to this marvelous crew, we will be back for more."
-Gordon and Meredith Burns, 2007

La Nouvelle Etoile Floor Plan

128 feet long
-Four suites over 200 sq ft with twins or queen beds, TV, internet access, picture windows
-Beautiful, elegant salon/dining area with picture windows.
-Lovely piano in the salon.
-Elevator. One suite wheelchair accessible.
-Washer/dryer for guest use.
-Jacuzzi on deck.
-Exercize Room with machines and free weights.