European Waterways

Name: European Waterways
Address: Waterways House, Datchet, SL39JT, GB
Telephone: +441753598555
Price range: $$$$
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European Waterways

Welcome to our exclusive collection of hotel barge cruises This was the direction I realised we were heading towards.

It was sheer fascination with this amazing 17th century transport network which captivated my imagination back in the mid-seventies when I moved to La Maison Eclusiere de Fleury on the Nivernais Canal in Burgundy, and barging life on the European waterways began. After qualifying as a yacht master at early age, I spent time delivering motor and sailing yachts around the coasts of Europe. I then ha

d a year sailing in Greece in the Sporades islands in 1976 with a flotilla cruise specialist setting up their base and having lots of fun! At the end of 1976, I moved to Burgundy to start up a self- drive cabin cruiser business on the Canal du Nivernais. Whilst the self-drive business flourished, I had an immediate attraction to the larger barges which were still carrying wine and freight. I had a complete fascination as to how these skilled barge masters threaded their huge vessels into locks with about enough room for a credit card on either side! In 1982 I was joined by long standing friend John Wood-Dow and we decided to buy our first barge “Anjodi “, in Holland. An original Dutch hull from 1929, she had been retired from hauling grain for 10 years and was then lying, looking rather forlorn, in an Amsterdam backwater. After surveying and negotiating with the Dutch owner, Anjodi was purchased, and I cruised across the Ijsselmeer and up the Rhine in Germany to Strasbourg, before crossing the heart of Burgundy and sailing down the Rhone River to Agde in the south of France. A trans-European journey taking via 5 countries over three months… recommended to everyone as a life time experience! After a painstaking but thoroughly enjoyable two years transformation, employing a whole variety of skilled craftsmen and characters, Anjodi as she fundamentally is today was created. She became the premiere luxury hotel barge on the Canal du Midi and is still the most beautiful! Extensive use of hardwoods, polished brass and her graceful sheer combine to make a beautiful small ship which has proved a great success. No doubt helped along the way by appearing in the BBC’s cooking series French Odyssey hosted by celebrity chef Rick Stein. The creation of Anjodi led to successive other purchases and new builds with the fleet gradually evolving into the most extensive line up of luxury hotel barges cruising the inland waterways of Europe. Today we operate our sales and marketing head office from Waterways House in Datchet near Windsor. Our online reservation system connects us to the world’s travel industry, we print a gorgeous brochure and our staff share the same passion for barging as the directors.

24/01/2025

Get ready for a taste of luxury! We're excited to premiere our brand new video showcasing the stunning Kir Royale hotel barge in Champagne! Join us for a sneak peek of life on board, from fine dining to exclusive champagne tastings and breathtaking scenery. Watch now and let's raise a glass to the ultimate champagne cruise experience!

23/01/2025

🌿 Escape the Noise with the Ultimate Digital Detox 🌿

Ready to disconnect and truly unwind? Discover how a luxury barge cruise can help you recharge, reconnect with nature, and experience the bliss of slow travel. 🌍🚤

✨ Explore Europe’s scenic waterways.
✨ Savor fine cuisine and local wines.
✨ Embrace moments of pure relaxation – no WiFi needed!

📖 Read our latest blog to plan your perfect digital detox: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/blog/ultimate-digital-detox/

20/01/2025

🌊 Wave Goodbye to 🌊
Feeling those January blues? Let European Waterways lift your spirits! Picture yourself gliding through tranquil canals, surrounded by stunning countryside, indulging in fine cuisine, and exploring Europe’s hidden gems.

✨ Discover The European Waterways Way – where luxury meets slow travel.

💻 Read our blog to learn more: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/blog/the-european-waterways-way/

📅 Start planning your dream barge cruise and turn your into a blue-sky adventure!

17/01/2025

Alongside the stunning views from the charming La Belle Epoque, we were treated to exquisite French cuisine by the talented chef Leo Renusson. Here’s a glimpse of one of the incredible starters he prepared for us!

Find out more about La Belle Epoque here: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/fleet/la-belle-epoque/

16/01/2025

✨ Exclusive 2025 Offer! ✨

🌟 Save UP TO 20% on selected cabins and charters for travel throughout 2025!
💫 No Single Supplement on chosen departures across Europe!

Indulge in luxury, discover hidden gems, and immerse yourself in Europe’s finest waterways. This is your chance to save BIG and travel in style on a luxury barge cruise in France, Italy, and Scotland! 🌍🚤

👉 Limited availability – book now to secure your dream getaway! https://www.europeanwaterways.com/special-offers/?y=2025

13/01/2025

🎭✨ Discover the magic of Italy through music and luxury aboard our dedicated Opera Cruise, departing Sunday 13th July! Sail between Venice and Mantua on La Bella Vita, enjoying world-class opera performances and exclusive cultural experiences. From private recitals to guided tours of iconic opera houses, this is a journey that sings to the soul. 🚤🎶

Experience Italy like never before.
📖 Learn more: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/themed/opera/

10/01/2025

✨ Whilst on a luxury cruise in Southern Burgundy aboard Finesse, you'll step into the world of medieval decadence at Château de Germolles – the only surviving residence of the Dukes of Burgundy. Our latest blog uncovers the château’s rich history, romantic gardens, and exquisite architectural details that tell the story of Burgundian opulence. 🏰💫

Discover how this hidden gem offers a glimpse into the lives of nobility from centuries past.
📖 Read more: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/blog/ducal-decadence-chateau-germolles/

07/01/2025

🚤 Experience travel at a slower pace on a European Waterways luxury barge cruise – where luxury meets tranquillity. Our latest blog explores the very heart of our barge cruises, offering intimate journeys through Europe's hidden waterways, rich cultural experiences, and exquisite local cuisine. 🌿🍷

Step aboard and discover why our cruises are more than just a trip – they’re a way of life.
📖 Read more: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/blog/the-european-waterways-way/

27/12/2024

🍓 Mastering French Market Etiquette 🇫🇷

Shopping at French markets is more than a transaction – it’s a cultural experience! 🌱 Here’s how to shop like a local:

✨ Patience is key. The longest queues lead to the best produce – locals know this well. Once it’s your turn, it’s all about you. Ask about the origins, flavors, and best picks of the day.
✨ Hands off the goods! Unlike supermarkets, the vendor selects for you. Craving strawberries at their sweetest? Let the seller choose the ripest. Planning a weekend gathering? 🍈 Just mention when you need that melon to be perfect, and it will be!
✨ Farm to table freshness. Many stalls source directly from nearby farms, offering produce that’s been grown, picked, and sold with care.

Shopping at these markets is about connection, trust, and tradition – and it’s all part of the magic of France! 💛 Find out more about some of our favourite French Markets here: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/blog/top-7-markets-in-france/

24/12/2024

Festive Greetings from European Waterways! 🎄

Our offices will be closed on December 25 and January 1, but we’re still here to help during the holiday season:

✨ December 26 – A member of our USA team will be available to take your calls.
✨ December 27, 30 & 31 – Our UK and USA teams will be on hand to assist.
🔔 Normal office hours resume on January 2.

Wishing you a joyful and magical Christmas! 🚢✨

22/12/2024

🍷🔍 Dive into the world of Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) with our latest blog post! 🥂 Learn about the significance of AOC in French wine, how it guarantees quality, and what it means for wine enthusiasts. Read more and elevate your wine knowledge before your luxury barge cruise!

https://www.europeanwaterways.com/blog/complete-guide-to-appellation-origine-controlee-aoc/

19/12/2024

🍷 Wine before cheese? Or cheese before wine? 🧀

There is an argument about which you should consume first! And again, this is backed up by science. In a nutshell, it was discovered that cheese consumption actually improves the taste of wines. Whilst wine only slightly modifies the taste of cheese.

So, what does that mean when pairing? Taste the cheese before the wine. It will help pull forth those additional levels and soften as well. We will go a step further and recommend that you actually taste your wine, then taste your cheese and once more your wine. This gives you the full effect of how much cheese compliments and balances the two.

Find out more in our latest blog: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/blog/wine-and-cheese-pairing/

17/12/2024

In Paris for only one day? Why not walk like a Parisian and explore on foot!

One could argue that the French have perfected the art of walking. To truly see Paris like a local, take time to simply stroll, or ‘flâneur’ in French. Meander along the cobbed streets, stop for a drink at a curbside café, people watch and simply take in the atmosphere.

Paris centre is compact and easy to wander about. It is considered one of the best walking cities in the world. With an easy-to-access metro system with the option to select English as a language, plus many English-speaking station personnel – it’s easy to escape the crowds and travel further afield and emerge in another area of discovery.

These days we are all about our ‘steps’ but in Paris everyone walks everywhere. They don’t typically measure, but it is known they easily walk on average 7,900 steps per day.

For more, read our guide to 24 hours in Paris! https://www.europeanwaterways.com/blog/24-hours-in-paris/

09/12/2024

✨ Calling All Solo Travellers! ✨

Dreaming of an Italian Renaissance escape in Venice aboard La Bella Vita? Or perhaps a leisurely journey along the Burgundy Canal, or charming Champagne, or perhaps the Scottish Highlands? 🌟

We’re making solo adventures even more enticing by waiving the Single Supplement on selected 2025 departures! 🛳️ Experience the same luxury, fine dining, and exclusive excursions without the extra cost.

💡 Don’t miss this chance to explore Europe’s waterways your way!

📅 Book your 2025 solo adventure now: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/special-offers/?y=2025

07/12/2024

🍾 Discover the Charm of Champagne with European Waterways!

Join us on a journey through Champagne aboard Kir Royale, where the rolling vineyards, historic towns, and sparkling wine culture come to life. 🌟 From exploring ancient cellars to sampling world-class vintages, every moment is a toast to this region’s rich heritage.

💡 Champagne’s UNESCO-listed vineyards are not just picturesque but also the birthplace of the world’s most celebrated bubbly!

Step aboard the ultra deluxe Kir Royale, and savour the region’s unique charm. Indulge in fine dining, exclusive excursions, and of course, plenty of Champagne! 🥂

✨ Start your Champagne adventure today: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/fleet/kir-royale/

05/12/2024

In Burgundy, aboard L’Art de Vivre, you will be treated to a visit to this feudal French château which dates back to 1180. With its four cylindrical towers and keep surrounding a central courtyard, Château de Bazoches has a definite fortified look and feel.

Inside, in contrast you will find a much softer environment of elegant salons, beautiful wood-panelled libraries, elaborately painted ceilings and fine furniture. The château’s most famous resident was Sébastien Le Prestre de Vauban, a Marshal of France and a famous military engineer in his day. Vauban acquired Château de Bazoches in 1675, and his ancestors still own this historical and architectural gem today.

Experience the Château de Bazoches aboard L'Art de Vivre!
https://www.europeanwaterways.com/fleet/l-art-de-vivre/

27/11/2024

🌟 Black Friday Exclusive! 🌟

Dreaming of a Scottish Highland adventure? Gather your friends & family, and enjoy 25% OFF a whole boat charter aboard the luxurious Spirit of Scotland, cruising the stunning waterways on 6th April, 2025 only! 🚤🍃

📅 Book Between: Friday, 29th November - Friday, 6th December 2024
✨ Terms Apply:
• New bookings only, for this specific charter date.
• Cannot be combined with other offers.
• Provisional bookings can only be held for up to 24 hours!

Don’t miss this limited-time offer - start planning your unforgettable getaway today! 🌍✨

👉 https://www.europeanwaterways.com/fleet/spirit-of-scotland/

23/11/2024

Think you know your French markets? Discover Casteljaloux: A Spa Town with Market Charm in Southwest France! 🇫🇷

Nestled in the lush countryside of the Landes Lot-et-Garonne, Casteljaloux is famous for its soothing hot springs and vibrant spa culture. Wander through its historic centre and along quaint main streets lined with charming shops and cosy cafes—this is French relaxation at its finest!

A visit to Casteljaloux wouldn’t be complete without experiencing its lively market, held twice a week on Tuesday and Saturday mornings. Here, you'll find the best of local flavors: the renowned Agen prunes, juicy Marmande tomatoes, artisanal foie gras, and delicious cheeses.

If you’re cruising through southwest France, don’t miss the chance to soak up the sights, scents, and tastes of this delightful town!

Address

Waterways House
Datchet
SL39JT

Telephone

+441753598555

Website

https://www.europeanwaterways.com/

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Videos

Discover the Luxurious Hotel Barge Kir Royale – Your Gateway to Champagne!

Alongside the stunning views from the charming La Belle Epoque European Waterways, we were treated to exquisite French cuisine by the talented chef Leo Renusson. Here’s a glimpse of one of the incredible starters he prepared for us! 📹 Watch the full video here: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/video/everday-gourmet-justine-schofield-pea-mint-tart/

Everyday Gourmet Featuring La Belle Epoque | Pea and Mont d’or Tartlet

Alongside the stunning views from the charming La Belle Epoque, we were treated to exquisite French cuisine by the talented chef Leo Renusson. Here’s a glimpse of one of the incredible starters he prepared for us! Find out more about La Belle Epoque here: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/fleet/la-belle-epoque/

✨ Experience the epitome of luxury aboard luxury hotel barge La Belle Epoque as you navigate the stunning landscapes of Burgundy, France. Glide along the serene Canal de Bourgogne, where every turn unveils breathtaking views of rolling vineyards, charming villages, and majestic châteaux standing proudly against the horizon. Discover the quaint market towns that line the banks, each with its own unique charm and vibrant local culture. Immerse yourself in the timeless beauty of this enchanting region, where the gentle flow of the waterway mirrors the tranquillity of French countryside life. Join us for an unforgettable journey through elegance and serenity. #europeanwaterways #bargecruise #bourgogne #canaldebourgogne #bourgognefranchecomte #bourgognetourisme #dronevideo

✨ Explore the breathtaking Canal du Midi aboard Anjodi! This 17th-century engineering marvel stretches over 240 km, linking the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. Enjoy scenic strolls, cycling on tow paths, or just soak in the stunning views of the Pyrenees and sprawling vineyards from the deck. Your perfect escape awaits! 🍇🍷#canaldumidi #languedoc #suddelafrance #francetravel

Auxerre Cathedral, also known as Cathédrale Saint-Étienne d'Auxerre, is a stunning example of Romanesque and Gothic architecture located in the city of Auxerre, France. Construction of the cathedral began in the 11th century and continued into the 13th century, showcasing a rich blend of architectural styles. The exterior features intricate stone carvings, impressive flying buttresses, and tall spires that reach towards the sky. Notable elements include the magnificent rose windows, which are adorned with vibrant stained glass, depicting biblical scenes and saints. The cathedral serves as a significant historical monument and a symbol of the city’s religious and cultural heritage. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site, recognized for its architectural beauty and historical importance. Visitors are often struck by the harmonious proportions and attention to detail that define this magnificent structure.

🌟 Discover the magic of Ferrara! Join us on a quick tour of this Renaissance gem, featuring the stunning Schifanoia Palace, the majestic Estense Castle, and the breathtaking Ferrara Cathedral. Step back in time and explore the art and history that make Ferrara a must-visit destination! ✨

Everyday Gourmet with Justine Schofield Featuring La Belle Epoque | Foie Gras Toast with Confit of Onion & Smoked Salmon Blinis

The enchanting hotel barge La Belle Epoque transports us to our next destination: the historic Château de Ricey-Bas, Les Riceys en Champagne. Can you believe the kitchen here dates back to the 13th century? To complement this extraordinary setting, Justine is preparing Foie Gras Toast with Onion Confit and Smoked Salmon Blinis—a perfect pairing for such a remarkable location! See the full recipes here: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/video/everday-gourmet-justine-schofield-fois-gras-salmon-blinis/

🌟 Discover the enchanting Château Ancy-le-Franc! Nestled in the heart of Burgundy, this stunning Renaissance masterpiece boasts elegant architecture and beautifully landscaped gardens. Immerse yourself in the rich history and serene beauty of this iconic destination. A true gem waiting to be explored! ✨

✨ Cruising into the magical romance of #Venice ✨ Where every wave whispers tales of love, art, and adventure.

✨ Glide through history on the stunning Canal du Nivernais, one of France’s oldest waterways, aboard the charming hotel barge L'Art de Vivre. Enjoy breathtaking views from the deck or take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the picturesque towpath. Adventure awaits! 🚴‍♀️🌳

Domaine Chanson: in the heart of the Burgundy terroir

Guests aboard hotel barge L’Impressionniste have the opportunity to visit the enchanting Domaine Chanson, located in the heart of the Burgundy ‘terroir’ since 1750. 🍷🍇 As well as its charming history, culture and gastronomy – the French wine region of Burgundy is most famously known for its picturesque UNESCO-listed ‘Climats, terroirs’ – a specific selection of vineyard found exclusively on the slopes of the Côte de Nuits and the Côte de Beaune. Whilst you’ll have the opportunity to experience this fascinating site on many of our Burgundy cruises, you can get up-close-and-personal with a walk through a Côte de Beaune vineyard, followed by a private tour, tasting and mouth-watering lunch – all included in your visit to Domaine Chanson when you book your cruise aboard L’Impressionniste! https://www.europeanwaterways.com/fleet/l-impressionniste/

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Our Story

After qualifying as a yacht master at early age, I spent time delivering motor and sailing yachts around the coasts of Europe. I then had a year sailing in Greece in the Sporades islands in 1976 with a flotilla cruise specialist setting up their base and having lots of fun! At the end of 1976, I moved to Burgundy to start up a self- drive cabin cruiser business on the Canal du Nivernais.

Whilst the self-drive business flourished, I had an immediate attraction to the larger barges which were still carrying wine and freight. I had a complete fascination as to how these skilled barge masters threaded their huge vessels into locks with about enough room for a credit card on either side! This was the direction I realised we were heading towards.

In 1982 I was joined by long standing friend John Wood-Dow and we decided to buy our first barge “Anjodi “, in Holland. An original Dutch hull from 1929, she had been retired from hauling grain for 10 years and was then lying, looking rather forlorn, in an Amsterdam backwater.