Deluxe

Saroche

France, Southern Burgundy
Canal du Centre / River Saone: July 12 – October 24, 2026 & May 2 – July 24, 2027; Canal de Bourgogne: August 22 – October 16, 2027

Check-in Time / Location 2:00 PM in Paris

Capacity
6 Guests
Crew Members
4
Booking Type
Charter Only

Discover the sights, scenes, and secrets of Southern Burgundy on the Saroche while cruising with one of the most qualified and charismatic couples in barging, Captain Jason Ashcroft and Chef Dawn Coles.

Chef Dawn is a graduate of the prestigious Concord Hotel and Restaurant Management Scheme in the UK. Dawn’s passion for French cuisine is deliciously reflected in her gourmet menus and daily cooking demonstrations.  Captain Jason earned his degree in hospitality from the renowned Swiss Ecole du Hotelier. In addition to serving as the Captain and Tour Guide aboard Saroche, Jason is also an accomplished chef and trained sommelier.

Daily excursions introduce guests to delightful villages, local markets, and, above all, winetastings at venues where Jason is well known and can thus suggest vintages of unusually fine quality.  The scenic route in Southern Burgundy offers daily opportunities to explore the trails by bicycle or take a walk on the towpath.

Cabins and bathrooms were recently renovated in an Art Deco-inspired style. These cabins set a new standard for both beauty and comfort with their rich velvet wall coverings, thick soft pile carpets, and original 1930’s art work.  When not visiting Captain Jason in the wheelhouse or spinning craft cocktails in the salon, guests can lounge on the spacious deck.  The Barge Ladies are especially delighted to announce two newly installed fire pits, offering the coziest of places to connect for after-dinner drinks and starlit conversations.

Accommodations & Amenities View Deck Plan

Cabins
  • 128 ft long, with 6’8” – 8’8” ceiling height throughout
  • 3 cabins, all 190 sq ft, with 6’8” ceiling height
  • Choice of oversized queen or two twin beds
  • Ensuite bathroom with shower
  • Ample storage in cabins
Public Area
  • Salon and dining room
  • Wood burning fireplace in the salon
  • Deck with canopy or umbrellas
  • Outdoor dining space and seating
Amenities
Chauffeured Guided Sightseeing
Chauffeured Guided Sightseeing
Daily Housekeeping
Daily Housekeeping
WiFi (service fluctuates)
WiFi (service fluctuates)
Private Chef
Private Chef
Open Bar
Open Bar
Bicycles
Bicycles
Air Conditioning/Heating
Air Conditioning/Heating
Hair Dryer and Toiletries
Hair Dryer and Toiletries
Bathrobe
Bathrobe
Safe
Safe
Fire Pit
Fire Pit
Sound System
Sound System
220 volt outlets
220 volt outlets

Itineraries

Cruise Canal du Centre / River Saone July 12 – October 24, 2026
Cruise Canal du Centre / River Saone May 2 – July 24, 2027
*Your cruise could operate in the opposite direction. Please consult us before making arrival or departure plans.

Bicycling Opportunities:
Excellent 
 (Bicycling is completely optional.)
Sunday
Welcome Aboardsunday image
Welcome Aboard
Travel: Arrival to St. Leger-sur-Dheune
Meals: Dinner onboard

In the afternoon, you will be met by a crew member of the Saroche at the designated meeting point. From here, relax as you are chauffeured to the barge, moored in the heart of the Cote de Beaune at St Leger-sur-Dheune . A traditional champagne welcome and introduction to the crew awaits you, before your first gourmet dinner onboard.

Monday
Chateau Fit for a Queenmonday image
Chateau Fit for a Queen
Travel: St. Leger-sur-Dheune to Santenay
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner onboard

Set sail this morning on the Canal du Centre, moving into the heart of Burgundy wine country. Explore the towpath on foot or by bicycle, or just relax with a cup of coffee on deck. This afternoon, Captain Jason will introduce Chateau de Couches, an imposing Medieval fortress with a rich history dating back to the 11th century. The chateau was also the home of Marguerite of Burgundy, also titled Queen of France. Enjoy the elegantly restored chateau and its lovely gardens before returning to Saroche for this evening's gastronomic feast.

Tuesday
Destination Dijontuesday image
Destination Dijon
Travel: Santenay to Rully
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner onboard

This morning is devoted to Dijon, Burgundy’s elegant capital, where medieval streets open onto grand squares and centuries-old churches stand beside bustling cafés. Stroll past the Palace of the Dukes of Burgundy, where graceful fountains sparkle against centuries-old stone. The covered market beckons with the region’s flowers and flavors. Browse stalls laden with seasonal produce, fragrant spices, and local specialties. Return to the Saroche for a leisurely afternoon cruise. Beautiful views unfold en route to this evening’s mooring in Rully. Relax over aperitifs and appetizers onboard as Chef Dawn puts the final touches on tonight’s delicious dinner.

Wednesday
The Best of Burgundy in Beaunewednesday image
The Best of Burgundy in Beaune
Travel: Moored in Rully
Meals: Breakfast & dinner onboard, lunch ashore

The morning begins with a drive to Beaune, the enchanting wine capital of Burgundy, where thousands of bottles rest in cellars beneath the cobblestoned streets. Captain Jason will then present a cruise highlight, the Hospices de Beaune, an immaculately restored 15th-century hospital founded in 1443. Lunch follows at a charming local bistro ashore. Then, sip the exceptional elixirs of Patriarche Père et Fils, one of Burgundy’s most prestigious Domaines. Return to the Saroche for cocktails and canapés before tonight's onboard dinner party.

Thursday
Captain Jason's Knighthood of the Round Tablethursday image
Captain Jason's Knighthood of the Round Table
Travel: Rully to Fragnes
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner onboard

Cruise through 10 locks this morning as the Saroche descends toward the River Saône. After lunch, visit Clos de Vougeot, where monks began making wine in 1098, and learn about the Confrérie des Chevaliers du Tastevin, Burgundy’s famed wine society dedicated to preserving the region’s wines, cuisine, and traditions. In recognition of his sommelier expertise, Captain Jason has been inducted as a Knight of the Round Table and takes great pride in presenting this historic site. Continue to Maison Moillard-Grivot, a storied Burgundy estate founded in 1848, for a tasting of its boutique wines. Return to the Saroche, where Chef Dawn is preparing tonight’s epicurean dinner.

Friday
Roll Out the (Wine) Barrels! friday image
Roll Out the (Wine) Barrels!
Travel: Fragnes to Chalon-sur-Saone
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner onboard

This morning, Captain Jason introduces Art du Tonneau, where the ancient craft of barrel making comes vividly to life. Meet master cooper Frédérick Gillet, whose skilled hands transform raw oak into the elegant casks prized by winemakers, and watch as each barrel takes shape through time-honored techniques passed down for generations. Returning to Saroche, set sail for your last cruise on the canal, then enter the River Saone. Relax on deck and enjoy an afternoon of gentle floating. Meanwhile, Chef Dawn is creating a Farewell Feast, culminating your Burgundy adventure in sumptuous style.

Saturday
A Sad Farewellsaturday image
A Sad Farewell
Travel: Depart from Chalon-sur-Saone
Meals: Breakfast onboard

After breakfast, you will be chauffeured to the designated drop off point.

Please note: This is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions.

Saroche Route

Cruise Canal de Bourgogne August 22 – October 16, 2027
*Your cruise could operate in the opposite direction. Please consult us before making arrival or departure plans.

Bicycling Opportunities:
Excellent 
 (Bicycling is completely optional.)
Sunday
Welcome Aboardsunday image
Welcome Aboard
Travel: Arrival at Escommes
Meals: Dinner onboard

In the afternoon, you will be met by a crew member of the Saroche at the designated meeting point. From here, relax as you are chauffeured to the barge, moored in Escommes. A traditional champagne welcome and introduction to the crew awaits you, before your first gourmet dinner aboard.

Monday
Sip Wine and Taste Cheesemonday image
Sip Wine and Taste Cheese
Travel: Escommes to Chateauneuf en Auxois
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner onboard

This morning’s cruise takes Saroche down a flight of locks to a unique mooring at the foot of Chateauneuf en Auxois, a village perched high over the canal. Tour Guide Jason then chauffeurs you to winetasting in the charming village of Saint Roman, followed by a visit to a goat cheese producer. Back onboard, Chef Dawn is preparing a demonstration of souffle making, followed by dinner and digestifs.

Tuesday
Discover One of France’s Prettiest Villagestuesday image
Discover One of France’s Prettiest Villages
Travel: Chateuneuf en Auxois to Pont d'Ouche
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner onboard

This morning's excursion is to the village of Chateauneuf en Auxois. This charming hamlet is home to painters, potters, and weavers. After a private tour of the Chateau, there’s time to explore the shops and admire the ancient mansions lining the cobblestoned streets. An afternoon cruise provides the perfect opportunity to lounge on deck or explore by bicycle: the choice is always yours! Enjoy this evening's gourmet dinner onboard.

Wednesday
The Best of Burgundy in Beaunewednesday image
The Best of Burgundy in Beaune
Travel: Moored for the day in Pont D’ouche
Meals: Breakfast & dinner onboard, lunch ashore

This morning, Tour Guide Jason presents Beaune, where your visit begins at Hospice de Beaune, an immaculately preserved Medieval hospital built in the 15th century. Today's luncheon is enjoyed ashore at a charming bistro, followed by a special winetasting at Patriarche, where Jason, a trained sommelier, is a friend of the cellar master. Return to the Saroche for drinks and dinner onboard.

Thursday
A Grape Time Was Had by Allthursday image
A Grape Time Was Had by All
Travel: Pont D’ouche to La Bussiere-sur-Ouche
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner onboard

A morning cruise through divine scenery begins the day, with time to walk or explore by bicycle. This afternoon, Tour Guide Jason introduces Clos de Vougeot, where Cistercian monks made wine in the 12th century. Explore the preserved presses from which these iconic wines were produced, then enjoy a winetasting hosted by Jason, who explains the idiosyncrasies of French vinification. Back on the Saroche, aperitifs and appetizers precede an indulgent dinner onboard.

Friday
Destination Dijonfriday image
Destination Dijon
Travel: La Bussiere-sur-Ouche to Gissey-sur-Ouche
Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner onboard

Begin the day touring in the Medieval core of this enticing city. There is time to browse one of the best markets in France, pick up last minute gifts at the famed mustard shop, or relax in one of Dijon’s many cafes. Return to the Saroche for an afternoon cruise to Gissey, a classic French village which has been Jason and Dawn’s home for many years. Tonight’s Farewell Feast, accompanied by Grand Cru wines, ends your cruise in style.

Saturday
A Sad Farewellsaturday image
A Sad Farewell
Travel: Transfer from Gissey-sur-Ouche
Meals: Breakfast onboard

After breakfast, you will be chauffeured to the designated drop off point.

Please note: This is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions.

Saroche Route

Gourmet Dining

Lunch
  • Salad of Tomato, Mozzarella, Fresh Basil, and Olive Oil
  • Quiche Lorraine
  • Red Fruits of the Forest Marinated in Creme de Cassis Creme Fraiche
  • A Selection of Coffees, Teas, and Biscuits
  • 1 Lunch Ashore Inclusive of the Cruise Rate
Dinner
  • Roasted Red Peppers with Tapenade
  • Roasted Leg of Lamb Studded with Garlic and Rosemary, Gratine Dauphinoise, Port Jus and Seasonal Vegetables
  • Cheeses: Delice de Pommard, Regal du Bougogne, Camembert
  • Chocolate Fondant with Cream Anglaise
  • A Selection of After Dinner Drinks
Wine
  • Grand Cru Cotton 2014 Domaine Fatien
  • Hospice du Beaune 2008 Pommard Les Dames du Charité
  • Grand Cru Echezeau 2005 Patriarche Père et Fils
  • Mersault 1er Cru Les Charm Domaine Mucluski 2017
  • Camuzet Nuit Saint George 2015 1er Cru le Saint George

Rates & Dates

Accommodation
Value Season
Regular Season
Private Cruise for 6 guests-$48,000
Private Cruise for 5 guests-$42,500
Private Cruise for 4 guests-$37,600

Dates

2026 Regular Season Departures

July 12-18, 19-25, 26-1
August 23-29, 30-5
September 6-12, 13-19, 20-26, 27-3,
October 4-10, 11-17, 18-24

Additional Details

Included in the rate
  • 6 nights/7 days in a cabin with a private bath
  • Round trip chauffeured transfers to and from Paris
  • A dedicated onboard crew consisting of a Captain, Chef, Tour Guide, and Hostess
  • All meals onboard and ashore from dinner the first evening to breakfast the final morning
  • All wines served with lunches and dinners both onboard and ashore
  • Open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Daily escorted excursions including admittance fees
  • Unlimited use of onboard amenities such as bicycles and the fire pit
Not included in the rate
  • International airfare
  • Cancellation insurance – A Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policy is recommended
  • Suggested crew gratuity of 5-10% of the cruise price

*All rates are quoted in U.S. Dollars unless otherwise noted

Accommodation
Value Season
Regular Season
Private Cruise for 6 guests-$51,000
Private Cruise for 5 guests-$46,000
Private Cruise for 4 guests-$40,000

Dates

2027 Regular Season Departures

May 2-8, 9-15, 16-22, 23-29, 30-5
June 6-12, 13-19, 20-26, 27-3
July 4-10, 11-17, 18-24
August 22-28, 29-4
September 5-11, 12-18, 19-25, 26-2
October 3-9, 10-16

Additional Details

Included in the rate
  • 6 nights/7 days in a cabin with a private bath
  • Round trip chauffeured transfers to and from Paris
  • A dedicated onboard crew consisting of a Captain, Chef, Tour Guide, and Hostess
  • All meals onboard and ashore from dinner the first evening to breakfast the final morning
  • All wines served with lunches and dinners both onboard and ashore
  • Open bar with alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages
  • Daily escorted excursions including admittance fees
  • Unlimited use of onboard amenities such as bicycles and the fire pit
Not included in the rate
  • International airfare
  • Cancellation insurance – A Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) policy is recommended
  • Suggested crew gratuity of 5-10% of the cruise price

*All rates are quoted in U.S. Dollars unless otherwise noted

Are you ready to experience “The Good Life”
in Southern Burgundy?

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