Lone Star
Barging in Burgundy

Passengers: 8
Size: 126 feet long
Last Visited: 2008
Rating: Ultra Deluxe, A/C, Families

2009 rates

Whole-Boat Charter- $45,000
Lone Star will book on charter-only basis in 2009

In 2009, LONE STAR will leave Burgundy for less-traveled and fabulous routes in Champagne and Alsace-Lorraine. Please find dates and itineraries under our Champagne and Alsace-Lorraine sections, as well as updated photos and guest feedback from the successful 2008 season.

Created by dedicated Texan owners, Lone Star was originally conceived as a barge for their family. It combines the best of U.S. style space and amenities with the charm of European-trained crew. The result is a very welcoming vessel which feels and "lives" like a home - and now can be YOUR floating home-away-from-home in France.

The window-lined salon and dining area is a place to really relax and watch the world go by. Decor is in warm shades of blue and cream, acented by comfortable couches and a beautiful wood bar. The owners upgraded the space in 2008 with new furniture, curtains and dining room chairs - among many major improvements to this already classic and spacious vessel. Colorful table settings both in the dining room and on deck reflect the warmth and fun of Lone Star.
Guests in 2009 will have access to a computer in the salon and will enjoy movies on the flat screen television.

The four spacious suites are panelled in ash and cherry wood and offer such amenities as individually-controlled heating and air conditioning, choice of Queen or Twin beds, 110 and 220 volt electricity in the bedroom and bath, and ample storage as well as a writing desk. Most unusually, there are three windows on each exterior wall.

Crew is a great strength. Multi-talented Captain Olivier Megret is a 20-year industry veteran (and hails from a prominant "barging family" which has crewed all over France for generations). Captain Megret is a reliable guide and companion in Burgundy, as he lives very close to the route. He is also a liscensed balloon pilot and has had culinary training. He is joined by a top gourmet chef and additional experienced crew.

In April 2008, we boarded Lone Star moored in Vermenton. We were delighted to be with Captain Olivier and his wife Debbie, who is Lone Star's guide. 2008 Chef Tadek served some of the best food we have EVER enjoyed on the canals. In the Menu section, find some of these meals as well as a picture of Tadek at work. We plan to revisit Lone Star in 2009!

Lone Star

Burgundy Barge Cruise Itinerary

Lizennes to Sens

On the Canal de Bourgogne and River Yonne

Sunday: Paris to Lizennes
You’ll be met at 3:00pm in central Paris and chauffeured to Lone Star at anchor in Lezinnes, a typical village. Arrive in late afternoon – with plenty of time to enjoy the traditional Champagne Welcome and the first of many gourmet dinners on board.

Monday: Lizennes to Tonnerre
A lovely morning cruise to Tonnerre provides plenty of opportunities to bicycle or walk. Tonnerre is a very old city with buildings from many eras – including a Roman bath! After lunch, we’ll drive to the gorgeous Renaissance chateau Ancy-le-Franc. Known for its 16th-century wall paintings and frescos (which are said to rival Fountainebleau), Ancy-le-Franc has been extensively and sensitively renovated. Return to Lone Star for another dinner on board.

Tuesday: Tonnerre to Flogny-la Chapelle
Cruise the Burgundy Canal, now lined by Poplar trees – a perfect morning to put on your walking shoes and explore the towpath! After lunch, head to the famed wine village of Chablis for a private tasting – followed by a panoramic view of the vineyards. Dinner on board – perhaps featuring more wines of Chablis!

Wednesday: Flogny-la Chapelle to St. Florentin
Relax today as we cruise through beautiful scenery to St. Florentin, a town with a beautiful Renaissance church. Today we are taking a quick trip to the Champagne region! The Medieval city of Troyes looks like a film set for a period Tudor drama and has much to offer – from pedestrianized streets showcasing half-timbered houses to an elegant Gothic cathedral. Return to Lone Star for another great dinner.

Thursday: St. Florentin to Joigny
This morning take a short drive to the 12th century Cistercian Abbeye of Pontigny – a memorable example of the beauty and simplicity of monastic life. Then it’s back to the present as we leave the Burgundy Canal and cruise onto the River Yonne to Joigny. Tonight it’s world class dining at the Michelin 3-starred restaurant La Cote Saint-Jacques, elegantly located on the river.

Friday: Joigny to Sens
A morning river cruise passes the village of Villeneuve-sur-Yonne – where actress Lesley Caron owns a restaurant. Then it’s on to Sens and a visit to France’s first Gothic cathedral. What about coffee in the square or a browse in the shops? Work up an appetite for the gala Farewell Dinner – which ends your cruise in style!

Saturday: Sens to Paris
After breakfast, our driver will take you back to Paris. Estimated arrival time is noon. We hope to see you again on Lone Star!

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.

Lone Star
Guest Book

"Our stay on the Lone Star was perfect!  It was beyond our expectations.  Of course this was largely due to our wonderful crew who did everything possible to ensure a perfect trip.  I think the high light was dinner at a three star Michelin restaurant with our Captain, Olivier...what a magical night."
-Durrell and Gwen Hillis, 2008

Lone Star Floor Plan

126 Feet long
Cabin 1 = 226 sq feet
Cabin 2 = 226 sq feet
Cabin 3 = 220 sq feet
Cabin 4 = 236 sq feet
-Three windows on each exterior side
-Choice of Twin or Queen Beds
-Beautiful cherry wood wardrobe with lots of storage
-110 and 220 volt electrical outlets in both cabin and bathroom
-Large and window-lined salon and dining area
-Flat screen television
-Teak deck with awning if needed
-Large wheelhouse with guest seating