C’est la Vie is owned and operated by the remarkable Captain Olivier and Tour Guide Deb Megret, barge industry veterans since 1985 and 1986, respectively. Their reservoir of talent is apparent upon boarding the C’est la Vie, as every detail has been thoughtfully addressed.
Hailing from a family who has been active in the industry since its inception, Olivier has an outstanding barging pedigree, having grown up on the French canals. He offers uniquely intimate insights into the world of barging, and thrives on introducing guests to canal cruising. Deb’s background is equally as impressive, as she honed her hospitality skills on the inland waterways of her native Britain. This dynamic duo met as crew on a barge cruise, and the rest is history.
Between them, they boast decades of experience working aboard luxury barges in all positions: Chef, Captain, Tour Guide, and Hostess. Their reservoir of talent is apparent upon boarding the C’est la Vie, as every detail has been thoughtfully addressed. This handsome barge welcomes guests to four of the most spacious and luxuriously-appointed cabins on the canals, a wonderful amenity for those to whom personal space is paramount.
While relaxing on the expansive teak deck, guests are pampered by the attentive crew, perhaps while savoring a glass of wine from Oliver’s well-stocked cellar. Active pursuits such as bicycling and strolling along the canal’s towpath are the perfect way to explore the region’s natural beauty, or guests can socialize in the window-lined salon and dining room and admire the pastoral scenery as it floats by.
Culinary delights reveal the region’s abundance of food and wine; locally-produced vintages, many from the celebrated vineyards of Sancerre, are perfectly paired with seasonally inspired gourmet cuisine. Guided excursions to the area’s attractions and antiquities encourage guests to explore the Upper Loire’s best sights and scenes.
