Winter
As winter settles in, we’re still very glad not to be cruising the Seine to the shipyard this season, battling ice, freezing mornings, and bitter temperatures.
Instead, the Luciole is safely laid up, and the winter work programme is now well underway. January has brought some real momentum on board, with several major projects already moving from planning into action.One of the biggest milestones so far has been in the engine room: we have now replaced the large river-water-cooled air-conditioning chiller, a key part of the boat’s heating and cooling system. This new unit will significantly improve cold-water circulation throughout the vessel, ensuring more reliable climate control for guests in both warm and cooler conditions – an upgrade that will make a noticeable difference over the coming seasons.
Above deck, the most challenging task on our list has also taken a major step forward: the old fresh-water tanks have now been successfully removed. These six heavy tanks held a total of 6,580 litres (1,738 US gallons) and were fitted unbelievably tightly beneath the galley floor. We always knew this would be a complex operation, but the reality proved just as demanding as expected.
With very limited headroom and few suitable anchor points inside the boat, a straightforward lift simply wasn’t possible. Instead, we used an engine hoist to carefully raise each tank into position. From there, a cable puller was brought in to gradually draw the tanks through the interior, inch by inch. A specially built ramp allowed them to be guided safely up and out onto the deck – a slow, methodical process that required both patience and precision. Clearing this hurdle is a huge achievement, and it means we can now move ahead with installing the brand-new replacement tanks.
We’re especially pleased that the new stainless-steel tanks have been manufactured locally by a specialist stainless-steel company experienced in producing high-quality marine equipment. Having them built nearby, by experts who understand the demands of life on the water, gives us great confidence in the longevity and finish of the new system.
And while we have everything opened up, this is also the perfect opportunity to completely renew the galley itself. It will be replaced with smart, professional stainless-steel units, giving it a cleaner, more modern look – and a far more practical workspace for the seasons ahead.
A big thank you to Harry, Sarah, Tim, and Tom for their hard work, positivity, and excellent attitude through some difficult and heavy jobs. We’ll continue to keep you updated as the winter work progresses – and as the to-do list (slowly!) gets shorter.
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
