Classic Canal du Midi Cruising in Contemporary Comfort on the Barge Johanna Somail
Along France’s Canal du Midi, where pleasure vessels moor along canal-side villages and centuries of history ripple through the locks, one barge offers a story as personal as it is picturesque.
The 4-guest, Premier-class Johanna Somail, freshly reimagined yet rooted in tradition, is helmed by owner-operator Captain William Cowley, who grew up aboard this very vessel. With painstaking care, he has restored and revived her by hand, blending artisan craftsmanship with contemporary comforts.
Now, Captain William personally welcomes private groups of two to four to cruise aboard Johanna Somail, where sunlit spaces and southern sophistication await. A fabulous foredeck invites hours of lounging, while two spacious cabins blend contemporary accents with traditional fixtures, creating a character-filled setting for canal life that is completed by gourmet menus and regional wines.
Crafted with produce from Captain William’s garden and paired with boutique wines from his personal cellar, Johanna Somail’s dining program showcases the Canal du Midi‘s seasonal abundance and local bounty.
Below, follow the journey of a Barge Lady guest who recently cruised aboard Johanna Somail, capturing not only the luxury of life onboard but also the rhythms of canal cruising, daily excursions, and exceptional cuisine that make this voyage unforgettable. Step aboard the stylish Johanna Somail…!
“Every so often, travel gifts you an experience so seamless, so soulful, and so full of heart, it becomes more than a vacation, it becomes a memory etched in the very best corners of your life. That was our time onboard Johanna Somail, a barge cruising the sun-drenched Canal du Midi under the tender and expert care of owner-operator Captain William Cowley.
From the moment we stepped aboard, we knew we were in for something special. Our cabin was a sanctuary of serenity — bright, spotless, and thoughtfully designed. The bed was a dream, the towels were plush, and the bathroom was beautifully appointed with excellent water pressure. Every detail had been seen to. Nothing was lacking.
And yet, as lovely as the accommodations were, it was the people who made the cruise unforgettable. The crew, consisting of a Captain, Hostess, Chef, and Tour Guide, welcomed us not just as guests, but as family.
Their camaraderie was effortless, their hospitality unmatched. Every moment felt genuine, every interaction infused with kindness, laughter, and care. We’ve never felt so looked after.
CAPTAIN WILLIAM IS THE SOUL OF JOHANNA SOMAIL
Captain William, in particular, is the soul of Johanna Somail. Born and raised aboard the barge, he grew up swimming in the nearby Étang de Thau and attending school in the postcard-perfect village of Le Somail. His deep connection to the Canal du Midi is woven into every moment of the cruise, from the curated excursions to his warm stories about life along the waterways.
Having worked as a boat mechanic and spent years aboard other hotel barges, Captain William has lovingly transformed Johanna Somail into a boutique floating hotel, his passion for craftsmanship and comfort apparent in every carefully chosen finish.
Our daily outings were brought vividly to life by our incredible Tour Guide, whose historical knowledge was not only vast but shared with contagious enthusiasm. He didn’t just recite facts; rather, he brought the region’s past into the present, making each visit feel fresh, exciting, and entirely unique.
EVERY MEAL CREATED BY CHEF BRYAN WAS A MASTERPIECE
And oh, the food! Every meal created by Chef Bryan was a masterpiece! The meals were creative, flavorful, and presented with the kind of joy that only true culinary artists possess. He navigated our dietary needs with ease and grace, crafting delicious, tailored dishes that we devoured. He explained each course with care and answered our many questions with warmth and humor.
The wine pairings — hand-selected by Captain William — were just as memorable: local, delicious, and full of personality, much like the cruise itself.
It’s hard to put into words just how perfect our week was. Everything flowed so naturally. The cruising, the cuisine, the companionship — all wrapped in an atmosphere of total ease. We left with full hearts and fond memories…and we cannot wait to return!
Special thanks to Barge Lady Cruises and our exceptional point person, Barge Lad Jonah McHenry, who helped us plan from start to finish. Jonah was always available, incredibly knowledgeable, and a true pleasure to work with—friendly, responsive, and genuinely invested in making our trip magical.” — Pat M, cruised 2025
Taste more of the Canal du Midi’s gourmet experiences here. For other French barges carrying between two and four guests, click here. To secure your own week in the south of France on the Johanna Somail, click here.