Savoir Faire
Paris to Chablis Cruise

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

2010 rates

LOW SEASON RATES
Whole-Boat Charter for 10: $38,000
Whole-Boat Charter for 12: $41,750
Individuals in a double-occupancy cabin: $3,800
Single Supplement: $1,900
LOW SEASON DATES - Paris to Chablis

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

REGULAR SEASON RATES
Whole-Boat Charter for 10: $41,000
Whole-Boat Charter for 12: $45,400
Individuals in a double-occupancy cabin: $4,100
Single Supplement: $2,050
REGULAR SEASON DATES - Paris to Chablis

September 19 - 25	October 3 - 9
September 26 - October 2	October 10 - 16

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

2010 Dates

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

Paris to Villenueve-sur-Yonne
Sunday: Board in Paris
Cruise through Paris as the sun sets!
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
Fabulous Fountainebleau Palace
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
16th Century Chateau
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
Medieval Town - Enjoy a Falconry Show!
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
A Mighty Gothic Cathedral
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
View the Vineyards...Then Taste!
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
A Sad Farewell
After a hearty breakfast you are driven to your Paris hotel or airport. 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.

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Villenueve-sur-Yonne to Paris
Sunday: Board in Villeneuve-sur-Yonne
Enchanting Burgundy Walled Town
Our drivers collect you at 2.00pm from your designated meeting point in Paris and escort you to the "Savoir Faire" moored about 2 hours away at Villeneuve-sur-Yonne. This picturesque town was founded in 1163 by Louis VII of France to protect the kingdom of France at the boundary of the Champagne. 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 a champagne reception, during which you are introduced by your Captain to your crew and the ship, you are free to settle into your cabins. Your guide is at hand to escort you around the town or you may enjoy wandering through its narrow streets on your own.After a drink in the ship bar, you will enjoy the first of many splendid dinners aboard, prepared by your personal master chef.

Monday: Villeneuve-sur-Yonne to Sens
Grand Cru Vineyard Panorama
After breakfast drive to the world famous town of Chablis where we have arranged a private tour of the ancient press and cellars of Domaine Laroche, followed by a pre-lunch wine tasting of their various fine vintages. Then we'll present a panoramic vista of the Grand Cru vineyards and the surrounding countryside. A little more wine and a sumptuous buffet lunch set the scene. Return to the SAVOIR FAIRE to continue your cruise to the ancient town of Sens. Your overnight mooring is five minutes from the town center. Relax before dinner with a drink from the bar as the swans gather around in anticipation of a free meal. The perfect setting for the end of a perfect day.


Tuesday: Sens to Labrosse Lock
Europe's First Gothic Cathedral
After breakfast your guide escorts you to the Cathedral of St. Etienne. 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 on your own through this popular market town.. Lunch is served on board, as 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 our way to the overnight mooring at Labrosse Lock. The importance of this waterway is evident by the presence of commercial barges - some of which may join us in the locks!

Wednesday: Labrosse Lock to Moret-sur-Loing
Ancient Town, Falconry Show
We begin the day with a great SAVOIR FAIRE breakfast. Afterwards, your guide escorts you to the medieval town of Provins where you can explore ancient ramparts, experience a falconry show and browse around the boutiques and shops. Provins is now listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site and is listed amongst the most interesting towns in France. We then return to the barge for lunch, followed by a leisurely cruise along the final section of the River Yonne to Mort-sur-Loing, home of the famous Impressionist painter, Sisley. He immortalized this town in many charming paintings. There's time to stroll along the beautiful riverbank before a refreshing cocktail and dinner.

Thursday: Moret-sur-Loing to Melun
Where French Kings Ruled - Fountainebleau
We begin our cruise north along the mighty Seine towards Melun. The landscape begins to unfold revealing the tranquil beauty so sought after by busy Parisiennes. Luxury villas and chateaus begin to appear along the riverbanks, as we cruise past fishermen patiently sitting beneath the shade of a willow tree. Your excursion this afternoon is to the magnificent chateau of Fontainebleau. To walk through Fontainebleau is to walk through the very history of France. Every royal family has added its architectural signature, resulting in an unrivalled display of opulence. Afterwards explore the town before your drivers escort you back to the SAVOIR FAIRE. This evening we shall be moored in the center of Melun. You will have the opportunity to stroll along the shaded riverbank and breathe in the fresh air before your candlelit dinner is served.

Friday: Melun to Paris
Another Glorious Chateau!
After breakfast your tour guide will drive you to the romantic Chateau of Vaux-le-Vicompte (setting for the film "The Man in the Iron Mask"). Our visit includes an opportunity to explore the magnificent formal gardens which are widely regarded as some of the best in France. Built between 1656 and 1661 for finance minister Nicolas Fouquet, the chateau's construction was monstrous even for those days. Entire villages were razed and 18,000 workmen called in. Famous architects, painters and landscapers were commissioned to reflect Fouquet's refined tastes. So lavish was the housewarming party, that Louis XIV threw a fit of jealousy and hurled Fouquet in jail. Just to prove who was boss, Louis XIV began building the Palace of Versailles! After joining the SAVOIR FAIRE for lunch, we continue to Paris. While cocktails are served beneath the Eiffel Tower, you chef prepares the farewell dinner. Afterwards, with the celebration champagne served on deck, the SAVOIR FAIRE glides past the magnificent church of Notre Dame, the resplendent Louvre art gallery, and the symbolic Eiffel Tower, each floodlit to show their magnificent beauty. Tonight we moor at the Port d'Arsenal, in the heart of the Bastille district.

Saturday: Departure
A Sad Farewell
We end the cruise with a nourishing breakfast and fond farewell from your crew, before your chauffeurs take you to your onward destination in Paris.You will depart at 9:00am and be chauffeured either to your hotel in central Paris or to Charles de Gaulle Airport. Do not book a flight out before 1:00pm. we hope to see you again on Savoir Faire.

Savoir Faire

Guest Book

"Our cruise was excellent.  Every need was catered for and all we had to do was ask and we received.  We had a great time!"
-Ian Bruce Andrews and Jane Elizabeth Hall, 2009

"At our post-barge dinner party, we asked our guests for feedback.  No one could just sum up our experience in a word or two - it started from AWESOME and expanded from there.  Most felt that the SAVOIR FAIRE was the trip of a lifetime, one that could not be improved upon.  We are still basking in the afterglow and working off the pounds put on!"
-The Kenney Family, 2009

"Our barge voyage along the canals and through the locks provided us with a unique, comfortable, and delightful way of experiencing charming villages and beautiful countryside."
-Robert Reed and Karen Saunders, 2009

"Excellent: staff, quality of service, supreme lunches and dinners, views of the countryside."
-Dr. Leona Zastrow, 2009

"Our first barge trip on the Savoir Faire through the Burgundy and Upper Loire Valley of France was unique and lovely!  The crew was greatly responsible with their delightful creativity and humor.  And, the food, wine and cheese for lunches and dinners on board were quite delicious and well-presented (even a sushi-making lesson one day!)  Day excursions to Vaux-de-Vicomte, Fountainbleu, Sens and Provins were great for history, architecture, culture and shopping.  A real highlight was a picnic in the Chablis region with a gorgeous vista of vineyards.  Bicycling countryside with its sunflowers, cornfields, churches and manor homes also was quite memorable.  We enjoyed the barge journey itself through locks, canals and rivers with lush scenery and pretty country surrounding route to read, converse, write postcards or in travel diaries and the like in the cozy parlor room.  The barge certainly was compact but well-designed within cabins and with front, back and topdecks, sitting and dining rooms and bar.  In all, August 2009 will be well-remembered for the most distinctive voyage!  Merci beaucoup!"
- Dara Hensley and Jack  Smith, 2009

"One of the nicest cruises we have had - with wonderful staff!"
-Carl and Karen Brasee, 2009

"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

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