Savoir Faire
Paris to Chablis Cruise

Passengers: 12
Size: 128 feet long
Last Visited: 2008
Rating: Deluxe, A/C , Families

2009 Prices

Whole-Boat Charter - Regular Season
Party of 12 - $52,900
Party of 10 - $50,600
Party of 8 - $48,300

Whole-Boat Charter - Value Season
Party of 12 - $40,250
Party of 10 - $37,950
Party of 8 - $35,600

Individual Cabins - Regular Season
$5,290 per person in a Twin-Occupancy Cabin
$2,695 single supplement

Individual Cabins - Value Season
$4,025 per person in a Twin-Occupancy Cabin
$2,015 single supplement

Regular Season Dates
May 24 to July 25
AND
August 23 to October 17

Value Season Dates
July 26 to August 22


2009 Paris to Chablis Cruise Dates
May 24 - 30
May 31 - June 6
June 7 - 13
August 16 - 22
September 20 - 26
September 27 - October 3
October 4 - 11

Barge Lady’s Kelly Weiss and her husband Tim cruised the Chablis Route May 18-24, 2008
We boarded Savoir Faire, moored in Paris at Bassin de L’Arsenal near the Bastille. As we stepped on board for a champagne welcome and hors d’oeuvres with Captian Chris Bennett, we were wowed by Savoir Faire’s public spaces. The pictures I had seen were nothing compared to the real thing. A gorgeous spacious salon complete with piano, an elegant dining room and our favorite - the back of the barge bar – where we enjoyed cocktail hours and after dinner cards nightly!

After settling into our cabin we went up to the top deck to enjoy a pre-dinner cruise and take in Paris. Our first dinner onboard set the bar high with delicious Wild Norwegian Salmon served with a Hollandaise and fresh asparagus. (Chef Carsten’s subsequent cuisine continued to impress and draw rave reviews from all onboard! We especially loved the lunches we were able to enjoy on deck, taking in the beautiful French countryside as we dined.) After dinner we cruised a little more to get the full effect of Paris by night – it was breathtaking – the perfect kick-off to our wonderful cruise.

Savoir Faire’s diverse and fascinating sightseeing program rounded out our perfect cruise week. Highlight’s for us were Fountainebleau and Chateaux-Vaux-le Vicomte as well as exploring villages like Sens along the route and bicycling as Savoir Faire cruised. However, our absolute favorite was the tour and winetasting at Domaine Laroche, followed by a very special wine and cheese picnic overlooking the Chablis Vineyards…incredible.

On our last full day we enjoyed a final delicious lunch on deck. We relaxed, sipping a smooth Beaujolais as Savoir Faire floated to her last mooring in Auxerre. We had plenty of time to wander the picturesque town, with winding streets and squares below belfries, half-timbered houses, shops galore and the magnificent gothic Cathédrale St-Étienne. Later, it was time for the Captain’s dinner, but not before one last aperitif in the back-of-the-barge-bar. Our final dinner was our favorite of the week, capped off with a wonderful Chateauneuf du Pape and Crepes Suzette.

Saturday morning was bittersweet, enjoying our last breakfast of fresh squeezed orange juice, croissants and Carsten’s savory omelets, knowing the week had come to an end. We left with new friends and wonderful memories of our fabulous first barge cruise in France.

Savoir Faire
Paris to Chablis Barge Cruise Itinerary

2009 Dates
May 24 - 30
May 31 - June 6
June 7 - 13
August 16 - 22
September 20 - 26
September 27 - October 3
October 4 - 11

Paris to Villenueve-sur-Yonne
Sunday: Board in Paris
You’ll be collected from your Paris hotel at 2:30 and transferred to Savoir Faire, at anchor in the center of Paris near the Opera Bastille. After your introduction to the barge and crew, there will be time to explore the immediate neighborhood, returning in late afternoon for our evening cruise through Paris. As the sun sets, Savoir Faire glides past such magificant sites as Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Eiffel Tower. Continue to cruise through dinner, the first of many prepared by our master chef

Monday: Paris to Melun
Bright and early (but not before the breakfast croissants are delivered!), we’ll leave Paris, cruising south on the River Seine towards our mooring in Melun. Once past the reaches of the city, the landscape begins to unfold in tranquil beauty. Luxury villlas and chateaux begin to appear on the riverbank while patient fisherman sit beneath the shade of willow trees. After lunch, tour the palace of Fountainebleau. Every monarch from Francois I to Napoleon left his mark on this magnificant chateau. Afterwards, explore the ornate gardens and the thriving town of Fountainbleau. Return for a stoll along the shaded riverbank of Melun and then another gourmet dinner.

Tuesday: Melun to Moret-sur-Loing
Begin the day with a peaceful cruise down the Seine towards Burgundy, land of Counts and fine wines. Our destination is Moret-sur-Loing, a lovely village best known as the home of Impressionist painter Alfred Sisley. He immortalized this village in many paintings. After lunch, drive to the romantic chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte. Built between 1656 and 1661 by Nicolas Fouquet, Finance Minister to Louis XIV, the chateau’s construction was monstrous even for those days. So lavish was the housewarming party that the King threw a fit of jealousy and hurled Fouquet in jail. Just to prove who was boss, Louis XIV built the Palace of Versailles, using the same team of architects and landscape designers!

Wednesday: Moret-sur-Loing to Labrosse Lock
After breakfast, visit the medieval town of Provins, now a well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ancient ramparts, watch a falconry show and browse in the shops. Return to the Savoir Faire for lunch and begin your river cruising. Begin on the Seine and then join the Yonne on the way to our overnight mooring above the lock of Labrosse, deep in the countryside!

Thursday: Labrosse Lock to Sens
We begin our cruise along the narrow canal section of Courlon, built to facilitate the transport of wines and other prized goods to Paris. Later we pass the photogenic town of Pont sur Yonne on the way to the overnight mooring at Sens. After lunch, your tour guide will present the Cathedral of St. Etienne in Sens. Begun in 1140 and housing one of the richest treasuries in France, this mighty Gothic cathedral is the first of its kind in Europe. Afterwards enjoy a stroll through this popular market town. Relax before dinner with a drink from the bar as the swans gather round in anticipation of a free meal! The perfect setting for the end of a perfect day.

Friday: Sens to Villenueve-sur-Yonne
This morning we cruise towards our final destination of Villenueve-sur-Yonne. Before lunch, your tour guide will escort you to this delightful town. View the 700 year old town gate as well as the magnificent Church of Notre Dame, the building of which lasted from the 12th to the 16th century. After lunch, drive to the world famous town of Chablis. First experience a panoramic vista of the Grand Cru vineyards and surrounding countryside, then savor a cellar tour and winetasting at Domaine Laroche. Return to the Savoir Faire to celebrate your last evening aboard. The Captain’s Dinner ends your cruise in style.

Saturday: Back to Paris
After a hearty breakfast you are driven to your Paris hotel or airport. Estimated arrival time is noon.

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"The Best of Burgundy and Upper Loire" 2009 Dates
Six-night cruises depart between June 14 and August 10

Nemours To Villenueve-sur-Yonne
In Upper Loire and Burgundy
Sunday: Nemours
Depart Paris at 2:30 PM for the scenic drive to Savoir Faire moored at Nemours in the Upper Loire. Your Captain welcomes you with a champagne reception and an introduction to the crew and ship. Tonight is the first of many gourmet dinners. Candlelit crystal and gleaming silverware add to the romantic ambience.

Monday: Nemours to Episy
Today we begin to cruise through the Upper Loire region. We float along the winding Canal de Loing, the landscape gently unfolding past open fields and forests bordering classic French towns. This is the perfect opportunity to cycle or stroll the towpath that lines the canal. After lunch, tour the Palace of Fontainebleau. It is often referred to as the “House of Centuries.” Every French monarch from Francois I to Napoleon III has left his mark upon this magnificent chateau. Afterwards, explore the ornate gardens and the thriving town of Fountainebleau. Our mooring tonight at Episy is especially peaceful. Weather permitting, your chef will happily prepare a stupendous “Savoir Faire BBQ.”

Tuesday: Episy to Moret-sur-Loing
Continue to cruise on the Canal du Loing to our overnight mooring at Moret-sur-Loing. Moret is a lovely village, best known as the home of Impressionist painter Alfred Sisley, who immortalized it in many paintings. Bicycle to the next lock or explore the villages along the route! After lunch, drive to the romantic chateau of Vaux-le-Vicomte (setting for the film “The Man In The Iron Mask”). Built between 1656 and 1661 by Nicolas Fouquet, Finance Minister to Louis XIV, the chateau’s construction was monstrous even for those days. Entire villages were razed and 18,000 workmen participated. So lavish was the housewarming party that the King threw a fit of jealousy and hurled Fouquet in jail. Just to prove who was boss, Louis XIV built the Palace of Versailles, using the same team of architects and landscape designers!

Wednesday: Moret-sur-Loing to Labrosse Lock
After breakfast, visit the medieval town of Provins, now a well-preserved UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore the ancient ramparts, watch a falconry show and browse in the shops. Return to the Savoir Faire for lunch and begin your river cruising. Begin on the Seine and then join the Yonne on the way to our overnight mooring above the lock of Labrosse, deep in the countryside!

Thursday: Labrosse Lock to Sens
We begin our cruise along the narrow canal section of Courlon, built to facilitate the transport of wines and other prized goods to Paris. Later we pass the photogenic town of Pont sur Yonne on the way to the overnight mooring at Sens. After lunch, your tour guide will present the Cathedral of St. Etienne in Sens. Begun in 1140 and housing one of the richest treasuries in France, this mighty Gothic cathedral is the first of its kind in Europe. Afterwards explore the shops in this popular market town. Relax before dinner with a drink from the bar as the swans gather round in anticipation of a free meal! The perfect setting for the end of a perfect day.

Friday: Sens to Villenueve-sur-Yonne
This morning we cruise towards our final destination of Villenueve-sur-Yonne. Before lunch, your tour guide will escort you to this delightful town. View the 700 year old town gate as well as the magnificent Church of Notre Dame, the building of which lasted from the 12th to the 16th century. After lunch, drive to the world famous town of Chablis. First experience a panoramic vista of the Grand Cru vineyards and surrounding countryside, then savor a cellar tour and winetasting at Domaine Laroche. Return to the Savoir Faire to celebrate your last evening aboard. The Captain’s Dinner ends your cruise in style.

Saturday: Back to Paris
After breakfast and a fond farewell from your crew before being chauffeured back to Paris. Estimated arrival time is 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 the canals and waterways of France Or call us toll free at (800) 880-0071.

Savoir Faire

Guest Book

"Dean's history lessons were superb - loved his commentary on the towns, cathedrals and chateaux.  The cuisine and crew were excellent - plus.  The entire experience was splendid - the Captain and entire crew bent over backward to give us the time of our lives!"
-Robert and Eve Eckhardt,  2008

"The first barge trip we have ever taken but it certainly won't be our last.  We are already thinking of next year on the Savoir Faire."
-Dr. and Mrs. James Brawner, 2008

"For a family of 23 people, our double charter proved to be an exceptional trip.  There were activities for guests age 14 to 83 to enjoy!  The Captains and crew did so much to make the cruise memorable.  The 4th of July celebration was spectacular!  Thanks so much!"
-Doug and Kitty Quarles, Jr.
 Marjorie II - Savoir Faire
 Double Charter, 2008

"Ellen, thank you for all the help with the trip.  Everyone loved it.  Chris and his entire crew were perfect.  I told Chris that his service was better than the Hotel Plaza Athenee!  They went out of their way to make us feel at home."
-Very Satisfied 2008 Guest

"Our trip went off without a hitch.  The captains and crews on the Savior Faire and Marjorie II were terrific...very friendly and seemed to go out of their way to make the side trips worthwhile."
-Bob Doolittle
Marjorie II - Savior Faire
Double Charter, 2008

"This was quite simply the trip of a lifetime. The barge was like a home and the staff was most accomodating. The cruising itself was most interesting especially the system of locks we passed through. Visiting the towns and sights on the canal was fascinating and we enjoyed each and every stop."
-Sally and Gregory Connell, 2007

"We loved seeing a new part of France and making new friends - what an enjoyable trip!"
-Warren and Nancy Butler, 2007

"Just with one word!! Wonderful!"
-Fred Vines and Cheryl Berry, 2007

"Ken and I have to say it was one of the best vacations we have ever had. Chris and Fran could not have been more welcoming and their staff, OUTSTANDING!!! I would recommend this trip to anyone who wants to relax, be treated like royality and eat the most wonderful meals. Evan, their chef is 5-star, Robert their butler, most enjoyable, Kerry so sweet and quietly efficient and of course Chris and Fran, most gracious hosts.
- Pat and Ken Neal, 2007

"We had a wonderful time on Savoir Faire and have told numerous people about you and The Barge Lady web site. The other three couples on the cruise were just fabulous company. They all joined the crew in making a huge deal out of our anniversary. It was really fun! The crew were all outstanding too!
- Linda Quarberg, 2007

"An absolutely delightful, delicious and relaxing way to see France in a different way. Thanks to Ellen, The Barge Lady - she's the best!"
- Dr. and Mrs. Daniel Aronzon, 2006

"It was better than we had hoped for. Our last night cruising through Paris was pure magic. We cannot praise our Captain and crew enough. Kevin, our tour guide,anticipated all our needs and was a true gem. We are already planning our 2007 barge cruise!
- Mr. and Mrs. Gary Albrecht, 2006

"Everything was new (deck furniture, bikes) and well-cared-for. The table settings were always different and lovely and featured French crystal and silvrware. This attention to detail was very appreciated!"
- William and Geri Muse, 2006

Savoir Faire Floor Plan

128 Feet long
-Bow cabin 142 square feet , Five cabins 116 square feet - all with twin or queen beds
-Individual DVD player in each cabin, large selection of movies
(Snuggle up with hot cocoa and your favorite film!)
-Wifi connection available
-Elegant barge with mahogany paneling
-Piano and large salon/dining room with large windows
-Separate bar at stern
-Two sun decks