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- France
- Northern Burgundy
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- Absoluut2
(8 Guests, Deluxe) - Adrienne
(12 Guests, Ultra Deluxe) - Amaryllis
(8 Guests, Ultra Deluxe) - Apres Tout
(6 Guests, Deluxe) - Bonheur
(4 Guests, Charming Class) - Caprice
(21 Guests, First Class) - Fleur de Lys
(6 Guests, Ultra Deluxe) - Hirondelle
(8 Guests, Deluxe) - L'Impressionniste
(12 Guests, Deluxe) - Papillon
(4-6 Guests, Deluxe) - Papillon Bike & Barge
(4-6 Guests, Deluxe) - Prosperite
(8 Guests, Ultra Deluxe) - Savoir Vivre
(8 Guests, Charming Class) - Who Knows
(4-6 Guests, Charming Class)
- Absoluut2
- Canal Du Midi
- Provence - Camargue
- Gascony
- Alsace-Lorraine
- Champagne
- Paris to Burgundy
- Loire Valley
- Upper Loire
- Gourmet Land Tours
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Southern Burgundy, France
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Prosperite Barging in Burgundy
| Passengers: 8 | Your Hosts: Spencer and Rejane Hayes |
| Size: 128 feet long | English Speaking Crew of: 6 |
| Last Visited: 2011 | Bicycles: 8 |
| Rating: Ultra 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 RATE
Whole Boat Charter for up to 8 guests: $45,900| March 31 - April 6 | October 13 - 19 |
| April 7 -13 | October 20 - 26 |
| April 14 - 20 | October 27 - November 2 |
2013 regular SEASON RATEs
Whole Boat Charter of 6: $53,900Whole Boat Charter of 7: $54,900
Whole Boat Charter of 8: $55,900
| April 21 - 27 | June 9 - 15 | July 21 - 27 | September 1 - 7 |
| April 28 - May 4 | June 16 - 22 | July 28 - August 3 | September 8 - 14 |
| May 5 - 11 | June 23 - 29 | August 4 - 10 | September 15 - 21 |
| May 12 - 18 | June 30 - July 6 | August 11 - 17 | September 22 - 28 |
| May 19 - 25 | July 7 - 13 | August 18 - 24 | September 29 - Oct 5 |
| May 26 - June 1 | July 14 - 20 | August 25 - 31 | October 6 - 12 |
| June 2 - 8 |
We boarded on a delightful summer evening. Prospérité was moored near an ancient bridge spanning the canal and, together with Barge Lady guests on board, we enjoyed cocktails on deck as the sun set. Ou
r truly gourmet dinner was then served from the open kitchen. The barge is perfectly maintained and the crew led by the low key but strategic leadership of Captain Spencer Hayes, who assembled a top crew of six, see the 2012 crew pictured at right. Spencer’s wife, Rejane Hayes (first row, far right) is the guide. Rejane is a native of Burgundy, a wine expert and entirely bi-lingual. Her infectious charm and deep knowledge add so much to the Prosperite experience. Other crew includes a chef, a captain’s assistant and two hostesses. Our guests have given Prospérité glowing reviews. With its still innovative physical plant, experienced crew, and location on France's premier itinerary, Prospérité provides great value in the Ultra-Deluxe category.Debuting in 2003, Prosperité was created by a hands-on American hotelier and represents a successful new approach which combines the best features of relaxed, contemporary lifestyle with every luxury in traditional, Ultra-Deluxe barging. Original ideas such as the demonstration kitchen where guests may watch and interact informally with the chef at work and the “open refrigerator” with drinks, snacks and desserts available twenty four hours a day, reflect modern living and entertaining in which everyone congregates in the kitchen.
The four, 270 square-foot cabins equally reflect contemporary standards with a roomy reading corner, large beds which (larger than most Paris hotel rooms) can be configured as one King or two Twins, and huge bathrooms with both shower stall and tub. Stunning decor in the upstairs salon and separate dining room is very casual chic, combining Italian leather couches with contemporary and antique accent pieces.
The itinerary includes wine and cheese tastings, visits to ancient towns, local markets, chateau and dinner out at the Michelin-starred Abbaye de la Bussiere, located within walking distance of the canal.
Prosperite
Burgundy Barge Cruise Itinerary
PLOMBIERES-les-DIJON to VANDENESSE-en-AUXOIS
on the Canal de Bourgogne
Timeless cruising on tree-lined canals... Winetasting in the Cote d'Or... Personalities of Burgundy... Hospice de Beaune... An idyllically beautiful route!Sunday: Paris to Plombieres-les-Dijon
Private Chauffeured Transfer - Of Course!
A member of Prosperite crew will meet your party at one pickup location in central Paris at 2:00 pm or, alternatively, one pickup location in Dijon, Beaune or the immediate Cote d’Or area at 4:00 pm and then chauffeur you via Mercedes Minivan to the barge, at anchor in in the petite port of Plombieres-les-Dijon, located just outside the larger town of Dijon. You'll be welcomed by the traditional champagne reception, and enjoy the first of many gourmet dinners on board. Tonight we stay in Dijon.
Monday: Dijon to Fleury-sur-Ouche
Where Medieval Monks Made Wine
Prospérité departs the port of Dijon - heading onto the Burgundy Canal for a tranquil morning cruise. Prospérité will go through the first of many locks, see at left. After lunch, devote the afternoon to an introduction to the Cote d'Or wine region lying south of the canal. First, we'll drive among the vineyards and villages of the "Route des Grand Crus" on the way to Clos de Vougeot, a 12th century chateau where Cistercian monks learned the art of winemaking. Explore the ancient wine presses and soak in the ambiance of this elegant chateau surrounded by vineyards. Then it is back to Prospérité, now moored in Fleury-sur-Ouche.
Tuesday: Fleury-sur-Ouche to Gissey-sur-Ouche
Join the Locals at the Dijon Market
This morning we'll drive back to Dijon, pictured at right, for a morning devoted to this lovely town. First, we'll walk the historic district, with its colorful tiled rooftop buildings, and then stop at the Covered Food Market, which was designed by Eiffel of Tower fame! A vast selection of produce, fish, cheeses, breads, baked goods and prepared delicacies brings this bustling market to life. There will be time to browse in tiny shops lining the cobblestoned streets, too. Then its back to Prospérité for lunch and an afternoon cruise to Gissey-sur-Ouche. On the way, what about getting out our bicycles for a meander on the towpath (see picture above) and into a village or two, see at right. Dinner on board ends this wonderful day.
Wednesday: Gissey-sur-Ouche to La Bussiere-sur-Ouche
Dinner at a Michelin-Starred Restaurant
A short morning cruise to Le Bussiere-sur-Ouche begins this eventful day. After lunch, begin with a quick stop at "La Ferme du Poisset," a nearby farm which produces very fine goat cheese. Yes, we'll taste some cheese! Then it's on to the adorable village of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois perched high on a hill overlooking the canal. Here is an enchanting old chateau - very simple but with history and ghosts around every corner. Then walk the cobblestoned streets of the village; perhaps one of the craft ships is open. Then it's back to Prospérité where there will be time to prepare for dinner at Abbaye de la Bussiere, a former Cistercian Abbey now immaculately restored into a hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant. Pictured below are Prosperite guests dining at Abbaye de la Bussiere.
Thursday: La Bussiere-sur-Ouche to Pont d'Ouche
Medieval Hospice in Beaune - Plus Shopping!
This morning, cruise deeper into the Ouche Valley to Pont D'Ouche. This is a great time to walk, bicycle or sit on deck and watch scenes of great beau
ty float by. After lunch, it's back into the Mercedes Minivan for a cruise high point; An excursion to Beaune. This enchanting town is the wine capital of Cote d' Or; underneath its streets lie hundreds of miles of wine cellars. Visit the 15th-century hospital Hotel Dieu; (pictured at left) it is gorgeously preserved and provides a unique glimpse of life in the Middle Ages. There may be time for an impromptu winetasting, browse the shops, or enjoy a cafe in the square. Then it's back to Prospérité to re-live the day at dinner on-board.Friday: Pont d'Ouche to Vandenesse-en-Auxois
You've tasted the Cheese...Now taste the Wine for an Ultimate French Experience!
Our final morning cruise takes Prospérité to Vandenesse-en-Auxios. Take a last, long morning to relax! Then, it's back to the Cote d' Or vineyards, passing through colorful villages on the way to a cellar tour/winetasting at Domaine Prieur-Brunet in Santenay. Return to your barge - now your home away from home - for cocktails and the festive Captain's Dinner. End your Prospérité cruise in style!
Saturday: Return to Paris
A Sad Farewell
You'll depart between 8:00AM - 9:00 AM and chauffeured as a group either to one location in central Paris or one location at Charles de Gaulle Airport. Driving time to Paris is estimated at three hours; driving time to Charles de Gaulle at four hours. Please do not book a flight before 2:00 PM on the day of departure. (Transfers which fall outside of these specific parameters can be arranged by us before departure at your expense.) We hope to see you soon on Prospérité!
VANDENESSE-en-AUXOIS to PLOMBIERES-les-DIJON
on the Canal de Bourgogne
Timeless cruising on tree-lined canals... Winetasting in the Cote d'Or... Personalities of Burgundy... Hospice de Beaune... An idyllically beautiful route!Sunday: Paris to Vandenesse-en-Auxois
Private chauffeured transfer - of course!
A member of Prosperite crew will meet your party at one pickup location in central Paris at 2:00 pm or, alternatively, one pickup location in Dijon, Beaune or the immediate Cote d’Or area at 4:00 pm, and then chauffeur you via Mercedes Minivan to the barge, at anchor in Vandesesse-en-Auxois. You'll be welcomed by the traditional champagne reception, and enjoy the first of many gourmet dinners on board with the romantic hilltop village of Vandenesse-en-Auxois as a backdrop.
Monday: Vandenesse-en-Auxois to Pont d'OucheRomantic Canal Cruise Past Colorful Lockhouses
Set sail this morning, heading down the Burgundy Canal to the tiny hamlet of Pont d'Ouche. We are deep in the heart of traditional Burgundy, exemplified by the lockhouses which line the canal. After lunch on board, we will introduce you to another facet of Burgundy, the culture of wine. We will pass through the villages of Puligny and Chassagne Montrachet on the way to winetasting at Domaine Prieur-Brunet in Santenay. These scenes are gorgeous, with vineyards hugging both hills in the distance and fields right beside the roads. Return to Prospérité for cocktails and dinner on board
Medieval Hospice in Beaune - Plus Shopping!
This morning we are still deep in the countryside, cruising from Pont d’Ouche to La Bussière sur Ouche. What about taking out the bicycles to explore? Or you can walk into a passing town for a cafe. The beauty of the region is spread out before you no matter what activity you choose. After lunch, it's back into the Mercedes Minivan for a cruise high point: An excursion to Beaune. This enchanting town is the wine capital of the Cote d'Or; underneath its streets lie hundreds of miles of wine cellars. Visit the 14th century Hospital Hotel Dieu; it is gorgeously preserved and provides a glimpse of life in the Middle Ages. There may be time for an impromptu wine tasting, a browse in the shops lining the pedestrian zone, or a cafe and pastry on the town square. Then it's back to Prospérité to re-live the day at dinner on board.
Dinner out at a Restored Cistercian Abbey
Scenes from out of an Impressionist painting float by on our cruise to Gissey-sur-Ouche. Depart at 9:30 am for an excursion to the ancient village of Chateauneuf-en-Auxois, perched high on a hill overlooking the canal. Here you will tour a haunting old chateau – simple but with lots of history. Lunch is back on board, and then at 3:30 pm, depart for a quick visit to a nearby cheese farm, “La Ferme du Poisset,” where goat cheese is produced. Yes, you will taste some cheese! Then it's back to Prospérité where there will be time to relax before dinner on shore at Abbey de la Bussiere, a former Cistercian Abbey now immaculately restored into a hotel and Michelin-starred restaurant.
Where Monks First Made Wine in Burgundy!
Another lazy morning cruise begins the day. After lunch, we will drive southward to the Cote d'or Vineyard region. First, we will drive among more villages and vineyards of the "Route des Giand Cru" on the way to Clos de Vougeot, a 12th century chateau where Cisterican monks perfected the art of winemaking (taking over a tradition begun by the Romans). Explore the ancient wine presses and soak in the ambiance of this elegant chateau surrounded by vineyards. Then it is back to Prospérité on Fleurey-sur-Ouch for dinner aboard.
Join the Locals at Dijon Market
A Sad Farewell
You will depart between 8:00AM - 9:00 AM and chauffeured as a group either to one location in central Paris or one location at Charles de Gaulle Airport. Driving time to Paris is estimated at three hours; driving time to Charles de Gaulle at four hours. Please do not book a flight before 2:00 PM on the day of departure. (Transfers which fall outside of these specific parameters can be arranged by us before departure at your expense.) We hope to see you soon on Prospérité!
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.
Prosperite Guest Book
"Several years ago my wife and I booked a cruise through the Barge Lady, which we considered one of the top two or three travel experiences we have enjoyed. This trip, on the Prosperite, over the same stretch of the Burgundy Canal as the first cruise, now tops our list by a considerable margin. Every single detail was perfection. Spencer Hayes and his wonderful wife, Rejane, are a Phd in how to handle hospitality. Our excursions were handled with charm and extensive knowledge. The chef, Herve Simon, was outstanding. The rest of the crew were young professionals that were delightful to interact with each day. We were the penultimate cruise and you could expect some of the "nice" to wear off a crew after 6 1/2 months of six day weeks; but this was not the case. I would be happy to run on for several pages, but you get the drift. Solid, solid professionals who pleased a group of seasoned travelers. We are pretty easy to get along with, but we know the difference between a Mercedes and a Rolls. Loved that Rolls."
- Neil and Anne Broderick, cruised October, 2012, repeat Barge Lady Guest
"I can't tell you how fantastic we all thought the trip was - barge just lovely and so comfortable with everything you could ever think of taken care of. The crew was incredible - an example of small thi
ngs they would do, was that we had a cooking class. There were two spices that Chef Herve used that we can't get here, and they had gone shopping for them and gave them to us the last night. Herve's food was beyond belief. LOVED going to the gorgeous gorgeous Abbey for dinner, and all the trips. We went to Fontenay - a truly incredibly beautiful Abbey. The best part of the whole thing, other than being with our friends, was Rejane, our guide. She is the loveliest person and literally the best guide we have ever had. If and when we ever go on another barge trip, we will definitely use you and highly recommend you to everyone."- Carolyn and Tom Huff, cruised October, 2012
"The cruise, trip far, far and away exceeded my expectations. We are all foodies and having Chef Herve introduce all his preparations and then give us a Foie Gras cooking lesson was beyond our expectations. Vincent and Anaisa gave wonderful explanations of the wines and cheeses also. Guide Rejane was truly one of the most personable and knowledgeable guides that we've ever had. She was not only engaging but so willing to adjust schedules to meet ours. We asked for different excurions other than the organized original ideas and she graciously accommodated our requests. The cabin was more than we'd expected along with the bathroom. It was a magical, carefree week. The experience and trip was beyond expectation."- Duncan and Mary Anne Moore, cruised October, 2012
"I have just landed from France and am still on the airplane. Prosperite WAY exceeded my expectations. We compared it to 5 Star Hotel and best Paris food...Easily up to 5 Star...and the food was consistently better...Having your own Chef is quite an experience...limited only by how much one can eat and still move about. Our group wondered - would Prosperite over deliver? It DID...more than we hoped for...both the physical plant (spotless) the crew, the Chef and the Captain .... and one unexpected pleasure...Captain Spencer's wife, Rejane, as our tour guide...she sparkles with historical and wine knowledge (an ex History major and a local Gal.. who knew?), wit and charm...we were dazzled with everything!"
- Don McLaughlin, cruised September, 2012
"We can sum up our experience on Prosperite in a few words- it was fabulous in all respects and was the best trip we have ever taken! Nothing was left to chance, the food was outstanding, the crew wonderful, our guide (Rejane) was terrific and the accommodations perfect."
-Butch and Lorna Pfaelzer, cruised September, 2011
"It was such a great trip - in all regards!! The cuisine was excellent - over the top fabulous, every meal. We 8 family members agree it was the best, and consistently good, food. The best we've ever eaten. The food changed all our stereotypes about "heavy French food" - it was all so FRESH and wonderful! Learning about the wine and cheeses was an amazing experience! The cabins were lovely and always well-maintained and all of the personal attention from the crew, the friendliness, the little "extras" in so many ways, made it an extraordinary trip. Each crew member was terrific - always positive, helpful, capable - really excellent crew and we genuinely thank them. Spencer is my new hero! His knowledge and enthusiasm on the excursions was great. We liked the variety and the length of the excursions as well - educational but not too much, only 1/2 day trips, which was a good plan."
Suzanne Brown, cruised September, 2011
"Our group thought it was the best vacation they have ever taken. It was way over their highest expectations. This was the second year we have taken Prosperite, and for good reason. The first year was outstanding and that's why we booked again. The three couples we took this year had no idea how wonderful the barge experience would be. They had HIGH EXPECTATIONS and the trip surpassed by far all their expectations. The Prosperite team is the best in every way - food, service, sightseeing (Rejane is the best guide!), and comfort."
-Dubac Preece, cruised August, 2011, repeat Barge Lady Guest
Prosperite |  |
Santenay Maladière 1er Cru 2001 Prieur-Brunet Corton Perrières Grand Cru 2000 Dubreuil-Fontaine Vosne Romanée Les Suchots 1er 2001 Manière Noirot Saint Emillion Grand Cru 1999 Château La Fleur Cravignac Bourgogne Hautes Côtes de Nuits 2003 Domaine Moillard-Grivot Côtes du Rhône 2002 E. Guigal Bourgogne Pinot Noir La Chapelle 2002 Domaine Dubreuil-Fontaine Volnay Santenots 1er Cru 2003 Vincent Girardin Brouilly 2005 Andre Vonnier Graves 2003 Marquis de Sainville Meursault Charmes 1er Cru 2003 Prieur-Brunet Sancerre 2004, Reverdy-Ducroux Chablis Grand Cru “Bougros” 2002 Domaine du Colombier Bourgogne Chardonnay “Cuvée Prestige” 2004 Domaine des Hautes Côtes Pouilly Fumé 2004 Guy Saget Bourgogne Aligoté 2004 Richard Manière Petit Chablis 2003 Domaine Jean Marc BrocardPouilly Fuisee 2001 Roger LasseratSaint Veran 2003 Cave de Prisse-Sologny-Verze |
Prosperite Floor Plan
128 Feet long4 Suites all 270 sq ft
-King bed or two twins
-Sitting area and desk
-Ceiling height of 6 feet/7 inches
-Spacious baths, each with brand new shower stall and full-size bathtub
-Bathrobes and ironing board/iron in the cabin
In the Public Areas
-Ceiling height of 6 feet/9 inches to
7 feet in the salon/dining room
-Top quality furnishings throughout
-Salon and separate dining room
-Picture windows throughout
-Demonstration kitchen - Watch the chef make pasta, desserts and more!
-Jacuzzi on deck
-Wifi
- Docking stations for i-pads and i-phones new for 2012
8 Bicycles
Btwin Elope model with 7 gears, mud guard, chair guard and bell. Town bikes designed for moderate cycling.
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Barge Cruising is better with the Barge Lady
• To Contact Us • 
Call us Toll Free: 1-800-880-0071
Email us: ellen@bargelady.com
101 West Grand Ave Suite 200 • Chicago, IL 60654
© 2012 All Rights Reserved
Barge Cruising is better with the Barge Lady
• To Contact Us • Call us Toll Free: 1-800-880-0071
Email us: ellen@bargelady.com
101 West Grand Ave Suite 200 • Chicago, IL 60654
© 2012 All Rights Reserved