From the magnificence of the royal chateau at Fontainebleau to the quiet villages dating from hundreds of years ago, the Upper Loire immerses guests into a pastoral cruise route unlike any other in France.
La Nouvelle Etoile is owned and operated by the charismatic Captain Jan Meijer. Sophisticated and worldly, Jan’s lifelong passion lies in introducing barge guests to the many countries through which he cruises during the season. Jan was born into a successful Dutch shipping family; deluxe accommodations, elegant design, and glamorous style are requisites on his dapper barge.
In fact, La Nouvelle Etoile boasts a long list of premium innovations, such as an elevator, exercise room, and laundry facilities. The spacious deck is the perfect place to linger a with glass of wine, admiring the idyllic scenery as the barge gently cruises through the inland waterways of Europe.
When not relaxing in the hot tub, guests can explore their cruise region by walking or bicycling along the towpaths. Excursions include visits to historical highlights, local landmarks, and charming villages.
Gourmands thrill to La Nouvelle Etoile’s extraordinary culinary experience, which features the Upper Loire’s seasonal ingredients and regional specialties, served at a table replete with elegant Wedgewood china, Christofle silver, and the finest crystal. Wines are selected from both local Sancerre vineyards and New World producers, reflecting La Nouvelle Etoile’s international roamings.
Indeed, La Nouvelle Etoile is unique in that Jan begins the season in Holland during Tulip Time, and then floats to France via the canals of Belgium. Captain Jan spends most of the season in France, traversing many cruising regions, and then completes in the season cruising to Germany and Luxembourg on the petite Mosel River.
