Wine cruise

Any week for a charter group

Our Wine-Focused Cruise on the Nivernais Canal

Our cruise route on the Nivernais Canal is ideally situated to explore three distinct wine-growing regions in France: Chablis and Beaune in Burgundy, and Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé in the Loire Valley.

From the canal, you can see the vineyards of the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) wines of the Côte d’Auxerre, Saint-Bris, Irancy, and Coulanges-la-Vineuse. To the east, the renowned vineyards of Chablis are just a short distance away.

This cruising region is best known for its Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. However, other grape varieties flourish here as well. In Saint-Bris-le-Vineux, Sauvignon Blanc and Sauvignon Gris are grown; in Irancy, the ancient César grape - brought to France by the Romans - is still used. The Aligoté grape is also cultivated and is traditionally featured in the classic Burgundian aperitif, Kir, made with blackcurrant liqueur.

Featured Wine Regions

Chablis

In the afternoon, we visit the heart of Chablis for a wine tasting. This tour offers an introduction to authentic Chablis, crafted from Chardonnay grapes grown within the town's historic boundaries.

Beaune

Located south of our cruise route, Beaune lies in Burgundy's prestigious Côte d'Or. Vineyards sweep down from the Côte de Nuits into the Hautes Côtes de Beaune, where both Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes are cultivated.

Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé

To the west, in the Loire Valley, Sancerre and Pouilly Fumé are celebrated for their crisp Sauvignon Blanc wines. We visit both towns, located on opposite banks of the mighty River Loire - Sancerre perched high on a hilltop, and Pouilly a little farther south along the riverbank.

Wine Week itinerary

Sunday

We rendezvous in central Paris at a location of your choice before the transfer to the barge. The Luciole crew welcomes you aboard with a Champagne reception and canapés.

Monday

In the morning, we begin our cruise toward Vincelles, passing through a scenic stretch of the River Yonne.

The afternoon tour is to Chablis, we visit a winery in the heart of the town for a wine tasting, learning about authentic Chablis made from Chardonnay grapes grown within the town's boundaries.

Following a tour of the town, we enjoy sweeping views from Grand Cru Hill. On the return journey to the barge, we visit the renowned caves of Bailly Lapierre, home to Crémant de Bourgogne.

Tuesday

After a breakfast cruise, we depart in the bus for Beaune in the wine-rich region of the Hautes Côtes de Beaune, known for its Pinot Noir.

We visit the stunning Château de Meursault and enjoy lunch in a nearby town. In the afternoon, we explore the historic town and visit the Hospices de Beaune, a 15th century medieval gem famed for the coloured tiled roof.

Wednesday

A morning cruise to Mailly-le-Château, mooring beneath the dramatic limestone cliffs.

In the afternoon, enjoy a private wine tasting of Burgundian wines that offers deeper insight into the French term ‘terroir,’ which explains the great variation in the region’s wines.

Thursday

We begin the day with an early morning cruise toward Châtel-Censoir.

Later, we travel west by bus for a wine tasting and lunch in the enchanting hilltop town of Sancerre, with its breathtaking views over the River Loire. This region produces crisp, fruity Sauvignon Blanc - a contrast to the mineral-driven Chardonnays of Burgundy.

On the return journey, we visit Pouilly-sur-Loire, where Pouilly Fumé takes its name from the smoky bloom that forms on the grapes at ripeness. A fascinating day for wine lovers.

Friday

Our final cruise is to the medieval town of Clamecy.

In the afternoon, we visit the hilltop town of Vézelay to explore the UNESCO-listed Basilica of Mary Magdalene. There is also time to browse the town’s delightful boutiques, offering clothing, jewellery, art, and crafts.

In the evening, we celebrate the cruise with the farewell Captain’s Dinner.

Saturday

After breakfast, departure from the Luciole is at 9:30 a.m.

We arrive in Paris, at a location of your choice, by lunchtime.