Luxury hotel barges in France

European Waterways has just completed its latest series of expensive upgrades to several hotel barges as part of its ongoing fleet improvement programme.

Some of the vessels have recently spent time out of the water in various specialist boatyards where skilled craftsmen have refurbished the vessels for the new 2011 season.

These luxury, fully-crewed 'floating hotels' take passengers on unique voyages along canals all over Europe, including France, Italy and the UK and to keep them in tip-top condition, several hundred thousands of pounds have been spent on them this winter.

In particular, 'La Belle Epoque' cruising the Upper Burgundy Canal, has received some real TLC after 15 years loyal service as the company's 'flagship'. She has brand new air conditioning, wood panelling, insulation, electrics and even new beds have been installed. All this skilled, behind the scenes work means she will be like new when she starts cruising again in April.

'Anjodi', cruising on the bucolic Canal du Midi in Southwest France, now features brand new luxury bathrooms, saloon furniture and new soft furnishings throughout.

And 'L'Impressioniste' which glides sedately through the heart of Burgundy's wine growing region, has also benefitted from interior improvemnets, including one new bathroom, stylish new furniture, light fittings and bedding.

Prices for a 6 night cruise in 2011 aboard 'Anjodi' start from £2,490 for an individual booking and £17,500 for a full boat charter, 'La Belle Epoque' and 'L'Impressioniste' from £2,690 for individual bookings and £29,600 for a full boat charter.

European Waterways are currently offering 25% off the full boat charter price on selected hotel barges, and £500 off per cabin on specific departures in April, May and June.

For more information, visit: gobarging.com