Spring 2026
The galley work stretched well into early spring, beginning with the installation of six new water tanks beneath the galley floor. It was no small task – months of careful planning went into coordinating the maze of plumbing fittings needed to connect the six tanks, along with arranging different cranes to first remove the old tanks and then delicately lower the new ones into place. William and his dedicated team worked tirelessly, piecing everything back together with patience and precision.
With the tanks finally in place, attention turned to the galley itself. This transformation brought brand-new kitchen cabinets throughout, freshly tiled walls, and a new lino floor. Our friends Harry and Sarah built the cabinets at home before installing them aboard the Luciole, and gradually the kitchen space began to take shape once again. Sarah added the finishing touches, painting the cupboards, while outside the River Yonne rushed past at remarkable speed – a constant reminder of a very wet winter, and good news for filling the canal reservoirs!
With the galley completed at the end of March, the crew turned to the exterior, perfectly timed with a spell of excellent weather. Captain Charlie, Farouk and Poppy tackled the annual painting of Luciole – always a challenge, but with sunshine on their side, progress was swift. Once the painting was complete, the teak decking returned, freshly sanded and oiled by Bruno, who originally installed it back in 2012.
Of course, no work period would be complete without our Luciole tradition – a baguette sandwich lunch on the wall opposite the boat. It’s a moment to pause, share laughter and admire the progress we’ve made together, all while knowing the arrival of our first passengers is just around the corner. What a journey it’s been already – and what a truly wonderful team. Our sincerest thanks to each and every one of you.
Hotel barge Luciole
Cruising since 1976
Phone: 00 44 1625 576880
From USA: 011 44 1625 576880
WhatsApp: 00 33 6 09 92 20 76
Email: info@bargeluciole.com
23 Adlington Road, Bollington
SK10 5JT England
1-2 Quai de la Republique, Auxerre
89000 France
© Hotel Barge Luciole 2026
