Meaning “Grandmother” in the Breton language, the Mam Goz offers her guests an insider’s introduction to the epicurean pleasures and cultural treasures of Provence-Camargue.
The Mam Goz is proudly owned and operated by Chef Eric and Hostess Christel Cochennec. A native of Brittany, Eric met Christel, who is originally from Belgium, when both were working in the airline industry — he as a pilot and she as a flight attendant. Choosing to raise their family in Provence because of its natural beauty and cultural cachet, their professional backgrounds and personal interests translated perfectly into a second career into the world of hotel barging.
Built in Germany in 1923, the Mam Goz was refit in 2016 from a commercial vessel into a floating French boutique hotel. Reflecting the warm ochre hues of Provencal sunshine and the soothing cerulean blues of southern skies, the décor is designed for convivial comfort and French festivity. Three cozy cabins offer clever storage, while the chic salon and spacious deck beckon for hours of relaxed socializing.
A balanced itinerary reveals the region’s landscapes, history, and highlights. Guests discover the famed monuments in Avignon and Arles; explore Provence’s hillside villages and the Camargue’s small coastal towns; taste freshly pressed olive oil from the grove of an artisan producer; and mingle with locals during a visit to a morning market. While the Mam Goz is docked, guests are welcome to stroll or cycle ashore.
Cuisine is often the entry to any culture, and Eric and Christel are especially pleased to present the authentic Southern French fare for which France is celebrated. Crafted with olive oil, savory herbs, and fresh spices from the region, they delight in sharing their personal passions for the culinary bounty of Provence. Meals are of course paired with the fine wines and small batch spirits of the Rhone, Luberon, and Languedoc. Guests are further immersed into the rustic gastronomy of Provence-Camargue through three lunches ashore at charming bistros and locally-owned auberges.
The Barge Ladies are pleased to bring the Mam Goz into our collection as a wonderful choice for casual travelers who wish to taste and tour their way through the south of France, as well active guests who especially enjoy being outdoors. Adding to the onboard festivities is a petite canine crew member, Jazz. While many guests may enjoy his four-legged company, please note his presence is completely optional.
Last visited 2019
