Meanderer
Barging in Upper Loire

Passengers: 6	Your Hosts: George and Susan Kovalick
Size: 123 feet long	English Speaking Crew of: 5
Last Visited: 2012	Bicycles: 6
Rating: Deluxe	Air Conditioned: Yes

Cruise Rate Includes: 6 nights/7 days in a cabin with a private bath, chauffeured transfers from Paris to the barge & return, all meals, from dinner the first night to breakfast the last morning, all wines with lunch & dinner, open bar, daily escorted excursions and use of onboard bicycles.

Cruise Rate Does NOT Include: Airfare to and from France, cancellation insurance and crew gratuity (suggested minimum amount is 5% of the cruise price)

2013 value season rates

Whole-Boat Charter of 4: $27,900
Whole-Boat Charter of 5: $28,400
Whole-Boat Charter of 6: $28,900
Individuals: $4,950 per person double occupancy
Single Supplement: $4,950

2013 available value season dates

October 20 - 26

2013 regular season rates

Whole-Boat Charter of 4:$29,800
Whole-Boat Charter of 5: $30,600
Whole-Boat Charter of 6: $31,400
Individuals: $5,430 per person double occupancy
Single Supplement: $5,430

2013 available regular season dates

July 14 - 20	August 4 - 10	August 18 - 24
July 21 - 27	August 11 - 17

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2014 value season rates

Whole-Boat Charter of 4: $29,200
Whole-Boat Charter of 5: $29,700
Whole-Boat Charter of 6: $30,200
Individuals: $5,200 per person double occupancy
Single Supplement: $5,200

2014 value season dates

April 20-26	May 4 - 10
April 27 - May 3	October 19 - 25

2014 regular season rates

Whole-Boat Charter of 4:$31,300
Whole-Boat Charter of 5: $32,100
Whole-Boat Charter of 6: $32,900
Individuals: $5,700 per person double occupancy
Single Supplement: $5,700

2014 regular season dates

May 11 - 17	June 22 - 28	August 3 - 9	September 14 - 20
May 18 - 24	June 29 - July 5	August 10 - 16	September 21 - 27
May 25 - 31	July 6 - 12	August 17 - 23	September 28 - Oct 4
June 1 - 7	July 13 - 19	August 24 - 30	October 5 - 11
June 8 - 14	July 20 - 26	August 31 - September 6	October 12 - 18
June 15 - 21	July 27 - Aug 2	September 7 - 13

In April, 2008, we were delighted to be among the first guests welcomed aboard the Meanderer by then- new owners George and Susan Kovalick. Subsequently, we sent many Barge Lady guests to Meanderer and visited with the Kovalicks in our office, but have never taken a full-length cruise. After many invitations through the years, the time was finally right in July, 2012. So, what did we find? Answer: A cruise that rated high among our most joyous, fascinating, and high quality experiences EVER on the waterways of France.

The Kovalicks, pictured at left, are unlikely barge owners, but their maturity and varied professional experiences make them welcome additions to the industry. This personable couple make it all look easy due to their pre-barge stints in the travel, restaurant and fashion industries. As well, their personal lives – George grew up in Paris, Susan in London – and their personal interests of bicycling, hiking, boating, cuisine, history and the arts – match them well to the lifestyle of their guests. They work together as a compatible team (As George says: “I am the Captain, she is the Admiral!”) that attends to all aspects, including cuisine, housekeeping, décor and excursions. They are very clear that they know what quality is and how to provide it.

Susan’s personal dedication shows up everywhere. For instance, she was unhappy with cheeses purchased at the local supermarket, so she upgraded to a source for artisanal cheeses. She seems to know every lock-keeper along the canal and has good personal relationships with the wine producers, the Countess at one of the chateaux, and artisans and shop owners in every town. Because Susan has the key to the church in the tiny village of Montbouy, we were able to experience a rare and beautiful stained glass window in a building full of local history.

Top cuisine is a priority on Meanderer. Chef Sylvain created some of the best meals we have enjoyed in 27 years of barging. He also took the guests to a local market where we picked out fresh fruits, vegetables and fish - followed by a cooking lesson in his absolutely spotless kitchen. Here I am pictured at right with Chef Sylvain at the market.

The barge itself has always been elegant, but at the same time cozy. The Kovalicks added needed upgrades, such as teak flooring on deck, internet access and flat screen televisions in the cabins. Gorgeous flower arrangements and lovely, scenic watercolor paintings are among the personal touches which differentiate Meanderer. Even the chef gets into the act, with his own herb garden!

Meanderer cruises on the Canal de Briare, an historic waterway on which construction began in 1604! The scenery is absolutely breathtaking and there are many mile of absolutely pristine waterways, punctuated by adorable lock houses. It is easy to walk and bicycle on the towpaths which line the canal and on the back roads leading to villages. Sightseeing is very personalized, with two family owned chateaux, winetasting in Sancerre, and Fointainebleau, the hunting palace of French royalty. We absolutely recommend Meanderer for three couples or a family who wants top service, comfortable accommodations, and a personalized introduction to an uncommon region of France.

Meanderer

Upper Loire Barge Cruise Itinerary

cruising, exploring and bicycling on the

Canal de Briare

Montargis to Chatillion-sur-Loire
Sunday: Paris to Amilly
Champagne welcome, evening cruise
Meanderer's transfer agent will meet you in Paris at 2:00pm. (Guests who have booked a whole boat charter may be picked up at any one central Paris hotel of their choice. Guests who have booked on an individual cabin basis will all be met in the lobby of the Hotel Concorde Lafayette.) From there, you'll be chauffeured to the barge moored in Montargis, an estimated two hour drive from Paris. You'll meet Captain George Kovalick, Guide Susan Kovalick and the rest of the crew at a festive champagne welcome, followed by a cruise to the village of Amilly. Relax on deck and enjoy your first experience on the idyllic Canal de Briare.
Monday: Amilly to Montbouy
Magnificent Fountainebleau: Home to French Royals
Breakfast on village-baked pastries, fresh from the oven! Then we'll begin the morning cruise to Montbouy. Enjoy excellent hiking and biking opportunities - or choose to relax. The excursion program begins after lunch with a visit to the spectacular palace of Fountainebleau, pictured above, known for its ornate interiors and huge gardens. Generations of French royalty lived here and added decor reflecting many periods. Return to the mooring at Montbouy, where George has secured a key to the church and will take you on a pre-dinner visit to this lovely little village.

Tuesday: Montbouy to Chatillon-Coligny
Montargis - Busy Market Town
This morning, we'll drive back to Montargis for a browse around this busy town, criss-crossed by canals and floral displays. (Or, you can elect to visit the spectacular Medieval village of Ferrieres-en-Gatinais, a 20 minute drive from the cruise route.) The afternoon cruise ends in the charming village of Chatillon-Coligny. It's a short cruise, and once at the mooring there will be plenty of time for George to lead a biking tour of sights away from the canal.

Wednesday: Chatillon-Coligny to Rogny-les-Sept-Ecluses
Explore the attics of an Ancient Chateau!
This morning's excursion is to the Chateau of St. Fargeau. This castle is 1000 years old and is intimately bound up with the history of the region. Explore in attics, with their centuries of frameworks, a most unusual perspective in a French chateau! Upon return, set sail to our peaceful mooring at Les-Sept-Ecluses, a staircase of locks from the 16th century, pictured above, which recalls the early history of the canal system. Take the opportunity to get off and walk in this delightful area, and meet up with Meanderer back at the mooring!

Thursday: Rogny-les-Sept-Ecluses to La Gazonne
Nature Preserve Mooring
Choose your chateau today: The intimate Chateau de la Bussiere, pictured at right, with lovely gardens or the classic Chateau de Sully-sur-Loire, in the tradition of grand Loire Valley properties. Then it's back on board for a cruise to the mooring at La Gazonne, located in the midst of a nature preserve. Take a walk to visit the butterfly field or relax in the hot tub, and watch the swans glide by.

Friday: La Gazonne to Chatillon-sur-Loire
Sancere Region Winetasting
Early risers can join the chef purchasing in the market at the nearby town of Briare. Then, it's back on board for the most spectacular cruise of the week on the incredible Pont Canal, pictured below, a bridge which takes the Canal de Briare across the River Loire! This elegant structure was designed by Eiffel of Tower fame. After arrival at Chatillon-sur-Loire and lunch on board, depart to the hilltop village of Sancerre - with its incredible views over vineyards extending in every direction. There will be ample time to taste and compare wines of the region. Back on board, the Captain's Dinner ends your cruise in style.

Saturday: Chatillon-sur-Loire to Paris
A Sad Farewell
Depart after breakfast at 9:00am for your chauffeured transfer back to one location in central Paris, one location at Charles de Gaulle airport or one location at Orly Airport. Estimated arrival time at Orly and in central Paris is 11:00am; estimated arrival time at CDG is 11:30 am to noon. Please make all onward travel plans the day of departure on the basis of this timing. Guests booked in a whole-boat charter must transfer together; ie, ALL members of the party to central Paris , CDG Airport or Orly Airport. Guests booked on an individual cabin basis will be returned to the Hotel Concorde Lafayette at 3, Place du General Koenig, 75017 Paris from where they can easily get a cab to their Paris hotel or to either airport. We hope your Meanderer cruise provides lasting memories!


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 on the canals and waterways of France Or call us toll free at (800) 880-0071.

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Chatillion-sur-Loire to Montargis
Sunday: Paris to Chatillon-sur-Loire
Champagne welcome, then cross the Pont Canal
Meanderer's transfer agent will meet you in Paris at 2:00pm. (Guests who have booked a whole boat charter may be picked up at any one central Paris hotel of their choice. Guests who have booked on an individual cabin basis will all be met in the lobby of the Hotel Concorde Lafayette.) From there, you'll be chauffeured to the barge moored in Chatillon-sur-Loire. You'll meet Captain George Kovalick, Guide Susan Kovalick and the rest of the crew at a festive champagne welcome. Then experience an incredible cruise across the River Loire on the Pont Canal - Europe's longest canal bridge, designed by Gustav Eiffel. Re-live this highlight at the first of many gourmet dinners on board!

Monday: Briare to La Gazonne
Sancere Region Winetasting
During the morning we cruise to the exquisite nature mooring at La Gazonne. Afternoon excursion takes us to the world famous wine region of Sancerre with the opportunity to sample to local wines and explore the charming hill-top village.

Tuesday: La Gazonne to Rogny Les Sept Ecluses
Many Visit Choices Today!
The daily excursion program continues with a visit to the beautiful private Chateau of La Bussiere, with its incredible 18th Century garden or Chateau de Sully, a magnificent classic chateau of the Loire Valley. As an alternative we can visit the town of Gien. Set on the banks of the River Loire, the pretty town holds many attractions including the famous Faience Boutique, the Hunting Museum and the Chateau de Gien. We return to the barge for lunch and a cruise to Rogny-les-Sept-Ecluses and an opportunity to walk the ancient "staircase" of 7 locks, which stands as a monument to the old canal.

Wednesday: Rogny-Les-Sept-Ecluses to Chatillon Coligny
Geudlon - Watch a Medieval village being Constructed!
This morning we cruise to the charming village of Chatillon-Coligny. We'll be moored within a four minutes walk to the center of this vibrant and very pretty town. This afternoon excursion takes you to the splendid 16th Century Chateau of St. Fargeau. Alternate excursion is a visit to Guedelon - a spectacular project designed to create a medieval fortified village using tools and materials of that period.

Thursday: Chatillon Coligny to Montbouy
Magnificent Fountainebleau: Home to French Royals
A morning cruise takes us to the village of Montbouy with its beautiful church. Relax at the mooring and after lunch we visit the busy town and spectacular palace of Fountainebleau, home to generations of royalty.

Friday: Montbouy to Montargis
Explore a Busy Market Town
The morning cruise takes us to the regional capital town of Montargis. After lunch we visit the town with the week's best opportunity to explore a busy market town, people-watch or shop for souvenirs and exquisitely packaged confectionery from the famous Mazet Praline shop. Back on board, the Captain's Dinner ends your cruise in style - and that includes the elegant table!

Saturday: Montargis to Paris
A Sad Farewell
Depart after breakfast at 9:00am for your chauffeured transfer back to one location in central Paris, one location at Charles de Gaulle airport or one location at Orly Airport. Estimated arrival time at Orly and in central Paris is 11:00am; estimated arrival time at CDG is 11:30 am to noon. Please make all onward travel plans the day of departure on the basis of this timing. Guests booked in a whole-boat charter must transfer together; ie, ALL members of the party to central Paris , CDG Airport or Orly Airport. Guests booked on an individual cabin basis will be returned to the Hotel Concorde Lafayette at 3, Place du General Koenig, 75017 Paris from where they can easily get a cab to their Paris hotel or to either airport. We hope your Meanderer cruise provides lasting memories!

Meanderer Guest Book

"Barge owners George and Susan Kovalick are superbly professional at managing all elements of a barge cruise. The barge was beautifully appointed and maintained. Every member of the crew was genuinely friendly and requests for service were responded to promptly and fully. The quality and diversity of the food were also exceptional. Chef Sylvain is very talented and made each meal special and unique.

The cabins were comfortable, maybe even a little better than we expected in terms of bathroom facilities. We enjoyed most getting to know George, Susan and each member of the crew. They were uniformly friendly and helpful. High levels of organizational quality and consistency don't just happen. It is attributable to sound recruiting of employees and training. Those services provided by The Barge Lady were excellent. All questions about the cruise and requests for information were responded to promptly and well."
Bob and Katie Biggs, cruised September, 2012

"We couldn't have been pampered any more. The crew was friendly and helpful on all occasions. The cuisine was unparalleled for consistently at all meals, being absolutely delicious, varied, and visually appealing. Susan's excursions and informative commentary made our experiences interesting and enjoyable. She helped us understand and appreciate the area that we were visiting even more. Also, we really enjoyed the opportunity to bike along the canal. This gave us an opportunity to experience more of the surrounding countryside.

The cabins were comfortable, and thankfully, a little larger than I expected! Meanderer exceeded our expectations, primarily in the quality of the food and the degree of service. Also, the cleanliness and maintenance of the barge were superb. It was a delightful, relaxing trip. All our needs were cared for and we had a wonderful time. The information from The Barge Lady was quite helpful. We stayed at one of the hotels you recommended in Paris, L'Empereur, and had a very nice experience. Enjoyed Rue Cler very much. Thank you for a memorable barge cruise on the Meanderer!"
- Satisfied Guests, cruised September, 2012

"The cruise was fabulous and more than met our expectations. It was a most relaxing and enjoyable time for all of us. The cabin was so superior, it was larger than our hotel room in Paris! All of the food was superb, and the chef was gracious about preparing different dishes for my husband if the dinner was something that he did not eat. The presentations were lovely and the desserts were outstanding. The crew were most accommodating in every respect. The sightseeing trips were great and we appreciated the very personal touches that Susan added in her commentaries. This was a perfect trip in every respect - great food, great friends, great accommodations, wonderful weather and a fabulous barge and crew. Loved the hot tub!
- Maureen Horenstein,
cruised October 2011

"Our pre-trip information was great and we had no questions heading into the trip. Once on the barge, all our expectations were met. George, Susan and the entire crew were just incredible. All six of us gave this cruise a 20 on a 1-10 scale! Food was fantastic, barge was immaculate and we were treated like royalty.

Our cabins were very nice and the bed was great, the food was beyond excellent including all of the wine and cheese selections, the staff was great (when they chase you around with a bottle of wine, things are good!). The sightseeing was the right variety of learning and fun and all tours were just for the right length of time. The wine tour was really good.

This was just an exceptional experience. Truly a first class trip from start to finish and again, George and Susan are just two of the nicest people you could possibly meet. We are actually discussing doing another cruise with them at some point."
- Bruce Abbott, cruised September 2011

"The cuisine and the crew were excellent and couldn't have been any better. The countryside is beautiful and George and Susan are such interesting people to talk to. I really enjoyed having the different cheeses and wines from the various regions at our noon and evening meals. Our experience was absolutely perfect."
-Cathy and John Belcher, cruised September 2011

"We had an excellent experience and would definitely recommend both your group and the Meanderer. Our compliments to Ellen, The Barge Lady, as well as Susan & George and their crew!"
-Denise and Barry Jackson, cruised September 2011

“First of all let me reiterate what Carole and Ken have already told you---we had the absolutely best time ever on the Meanderer. From start to finish the experience was exceptional! The barge itself was a great place to be for 6 days and George and Susan are the best of the best! Plus the staff couldn’t do enough for us and were charming. Thanks again for all your help arranging this wonderful trip for us.”
- Peter and Susan Schwab, May 2011

“Ellen, our time on Meanderer was fantastic. We loved George and Susan. The rest of the crew were tremendous. The food, wine and cheeses were very special. The barge was kept unbelievably clean – it was spotless and very comfortable. Seldom does the reality of a travel experience live up to the hype, but this cruise did. Actually, we are out of adjectives to describe our wonderful six days on Meanderer!”
- Ken and Carole Latimer, May 2011

Meanderer Floor Plan

128 Feet long
Cabins 1 and 2: 125 sq ft
-Choice of one Queen or two Twin Beds
-Bathroom with walk-in shower
Cabin 3: 140 sq ft
-Choice of one Queen or two Twin Beds
-Bathroom with walk-in shower
Also in the Cabins
-Two bathrobes and hair dryer
-Safe in the closet
-Skylight and opening windows
-Satellite flat screen TV
-Video, DVD and CD player
Public Areas
-Charming salon/dining/bar area
-Framed watercolor pictures of regional scenes
-Teakwood sundeck with canopy and
-New for 2013: brand new and modern spa pool on deck that fits 6
-WIFI internet access throughout that can
accommodate six devices simultaneously
-Internet accessible laptop
-Chef’s herb garden
Vehicles
-9-passenger VW Caravelle
-5-passenger VW Toureg
6 Bicycles
Captain George Kovalick is a serious long-distance bicyclist and for 2013, will offer new bicycles suitable for both casual and serious riders - they are high end touring 2013 TREK DS8.5 Series, the best bicycles found on the French barges.