Art cruise

Any week for Charter Groups

A painter’s paradise in picturesque Burgundy

We have adapted our itinerary especially for artists, designed to offer a vibrant blend of landscapes, historic architecture, village charm, spiritual grandeur, and peaceful waterways — a full palette of inspiration. While the focus is on sparking creativity, each day also allows unhurried time to pause, sketch, and paint, letting ideas flow as effortlessly as the cruise itself.

Visits will inspire, and each evening’s mooring reveals a new and beautiful setting to reflect, create, and capture the moment on canvas.

We’ve shaped a very special sample itinerary — one that balances structure with flexibility, while leaving space for delightful surprises along the way.

And throughout the week, the Luciole follows her renowned cruise route, gliding gently along the Nivernais Canal and River Yonne. This timeless waterway, framed by vineyards, villages, and ever-changing scenery, gives a natural rhythm to the days. The voyage itself is as inspiring as the destinations ashore, with each stretch of water offering fresh perspectives to sketch, paint, or simply enjoy.

Tuesday

Cruise: Vincelles – Accolay

Visit: Auxerre

The dramatic silhouette of the Gothic cathedral and medieval clock tower. Perfect for urban sketching amid the city’s cafés, boutique shops, and atmospheric narrow streets.

A guided introduction to Auxerre’s history, including a visit to the Cathedral of St Étienne with its extraordinary Romanesque wall paintings in the crypt — among the oldest surviving in France.

Wednesday

Cruise: Accolay – Mailly-le-Château

Visit: Noyers-sur-Serein

Officially one of France’s most picturesque medieval villages: cobbled streets, half-timbered houses, and flower-filled squares. Idyllic “chocolate-box” village scenes and characters to sketch. La Porte Peinte Centre pour les Arts underlines the village’s long connection with artists.

Free time to explore and draw the village streets at your own pace.

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Thursday

Cruise: Mailly-le-Château – Châtel-Censoir

Visit: Vézelay

The Eternal Hill crowned with the majestic Basilica of Mary Magdalene. Rich inspiration in the Musée Zervos and local art galleries, along with sweeping panoramic views across Burgundy.

A guided explanation of the Basilica’s history, spirituality, and the artistic inspiration behind its creation.

Friday

Cruise: Châtel-Censoir - Clamecy

Visit: Clamecy

An interplay of water and reflection with its many bridges over small canals. Quiet medieval streets with an authentic, unspoilt atmosphere — ideal for contemplative sketching.

Leisurely time to wander the town, observe, and reflect artistically.