Luciole Blog

25th – 31st August 2024

How wonderful it was to see four lovely ladies, who cruised with us two years ago, return with their friends. Thank you so much! What a delightful week it was, with matching blue t-shirts, sparkly rings, and an 80th birthday to celebrate. Yay!

We were also delighted to welcome the Luciole’s new Captain, Kevin. Enormously experienced, he took to the Luciole as if he had been steering the oldest barge in the business all his life (and hers!). It seemed to be a week of reconnecting with former crew. Arthur and Amelia, who crewed in 2016, were staying at Fontenille, as was William, who was aboard to help out and take photos. It was so nice having my two sons stay, along with Arthur’s fiancée, Amelia.

In Vincelles, there was an unexpected gathering of old barge friends, including three Captains, two balloon pilots, many matelots, and, we hope, a future Captain too (who is currently a most wonderful matelot).

In Auxerre, there was a tour of the engine room for Mike and Phil, and card games on the deck for others, before the Captain’s Dinner. After dinner, we took a stroll onto the passarelle, where flowers were thrown and photos were taken. With the backdrop of the Cathedral to the west and the big wheel to the east, it certainly added festive fun to this Olympic year.

A lovely week to remember—thank you once again. It was special.