Coquelicot

In mid-afternoon, you will be met by a Coquelicot crew member at the designated meeting point. Relax as you are chauffeured to the barge moored in the town of Chalon-en-Champagne. A traditional Champagne welcome, complete with gourmet hors d'oeuvres, awaits you. As you unpack and explore your floating French villa, Chef is preparing the first gourmet dinner of the cruise.

This morning, the luxurious adventure begins with an introduction to the lively town of Chalons-en-Champagne, where you will discover Saint-Etienne Cathedral, a gem of Gothic architecture with stunning stained glass windows. After a lazy mid-morning cruise and lunch onboard, enjoy an effervescent excursion to Veuve Clicquot, one of the most celebrated Champagne houses in the world. Experience a private tour and tasting at Veuve Clicquot’s Maison du Potager, where you will delve into the captivating secrets and rich history of one of France's most legendary brands. Return to the barge for drinks and dinner.

Savor coffee and croissants during this morning's leisurely cruise. In the afternoon, your Tour Guide will accompany you to Maison Ruinart, the region's oldest established Champagne house. Enjoy privileged access to their storied underground cellars, normally closed to the public. An elegant gourmet dinner follows, each course paired with Ruinart’s most distinguished cuvées for a refined and intimate culinary experience. The evening culminates in a private visit to the ultra-exclusive “Secret Cellar,” where rare vintages are reserved for only the most honored guests, a truly exceptional finale to today's Champagne soiree.

Champagne's natural beauty is on full display during this morning's canal cruise. Laze on deck, visit your Captain in his wheelhouse, or explore the towpath by bicycle or on foot: the choice is always yours. After luncheon ashore at a charming bistro, discover the wondrous Reims Cathedral, one of the greatest examples of Gothic architecture in France. Twenty five French kings were crowned here between 1225 and 1825! Explore the town of Reims with its leafy boulevards, Roman remains, and sidewalk cafes. Relive this exciting day over aperitifs and appetizers as Chef puts the final touches on tonight's delicious dinner onboard.

This morning, Coquelicot slips off the canal and begins to cruise through the Marne Valley. From the comfort of the deck, perhaps with a Mimosa in hand, soak up some of the week’s most spectacular scenery. After lunch onboard, an enchanting Champagne tasting ashore at a local producer awaits. Then, taste the stars at Hautvillers Abbey as you pay homage to Dom Pérignon, the Benedictine monk who accidentally discovered how to make Champagne. Return to Coquelicot for cocktails and canapes before Chef presents tonight's dinner party onboard.

Laze on deck or lounge in the salon during this morning's final morning cruise. This afternoon, your Tour Guide chauffeurs you to a private tasting at Leclerc Briant, a local winery renowned for its pioneering biodynamic Champagnes. Continue to Épernay, the jewel of Champagne. Discover its iconic Avenue de Champagne, stretching nearly a kilometre and lined on both sides with magnificent mansions and prestigious wineries. Return to the barge and freshen up for tonight's sumptuous Farewell Feast onboard, toasting to your indulgent week on the Coquelicot in Champagne!

Departing no later than 9:00 am, you will be chauffeured to the designated drop off point.