European Waterways has announced the acquisition of the elegant, two-story hotel boats Enchanté and Finesse, embodying the pinnacle of luxury canal travel. The vessels can accommodate up to eight passengers and a crew of five, including an onboard chef. Enchanté cruises the Canal du Midi, while Finesse explores the Canal du Centre and the Canal de Bourgogne in southern Burgundy. These acquisitions further solidify the company's position as the largest operator of luxury hotel boats in Europe, with a total fleet of 17 vessels.
“The rise in popularity of canal cruises is part of a growing trend among travelers seeking slower travel experiences that allow them to immerse themselves in the history, culture, and cuisine of the cruise region,” says Derek Banks, Managing Director of European Waterways. “They are also ideal for the current travel environment, as they can be chartered by families and small groups to create an exclusive travel bubble, allowing them to stay together during the six-night, all-inclusive cruises.”.
Enchanté and Finesse offer the perfect blend of luxury accommodations and modern amenities. They feature luxurious en-suite cabins, spacious al fresco dining decks, and a pool with a spa. Guests can also make use of the onboard bicycles or explore nearby villages. Onboard highlights include a large lounge with an open kitchen where the chef prepares gourmet meals daily in full view of guests.
The itineraries include wine tasting excursions to some of the region's most prestigious vineyards, as well as visits to castles, estates, and medieval villages. For the 2022 season, the company will also implement a number of improvements, including the addition of Mercedes minibuses to transport guests to their daily excursions, upgrades to the interior décor, and the expansion of unique experiences such as live music on board and private tours.
The Enchanté and the Finesse are participating in European Waterways' Spring 2022 offers, which offer up to 20% off full boat rentals, valid if booked before February 21, 2022.
