Guests are greeted in Paris in the early afternoon and transferred by private chauffeured minibus to the hotel barge moored in the historic town of Chateau-Thierry. This picturesque town, perched above the river and surrounded by vineyards known for producing renowned sparkling wines, is also famous as the site of a pivotal World War I battle involving American Marines. Upon arrival, enjoy a champagne reception as the Captain introduces the crew, followed by a delightful dinner onboard.

Begin your journey along the winding River Marne, cruising toward the charming riverside town of Dormans, home to a beautiful chateau, a historic water mill, and a World War I memorial. After a leisurely lunch onboard, visit La Maison Ayala, a renowned champagne house in Ay—one of the 17 rare villages classified as Grand Cru in the Champagne region. Explore the historic cellars, learning about the rich heritage and unique philosophy behind Champagne Ayala, followed by a private tasting. Return to the barge for a delightful dinner onboard.

After breakfast, embark on a guided visit to pay your respects at the 42-acre battlefield and monument at Chateau-Thierry and the American cemetery at Belleau Wood, where US forces fought one of the bloodiest battles of WWI. After returning to the barge and lunch on board, enjoy a relaxing afternoon cruise along the River Marne to your mooring at Damery—dinner on board.

After a leisurely breakfast, head off for a private champagne tour and tasting at the boutique Grand Cru winery of Frerejean Freres, located in the Cotes des Blancs village of Avize in the Champagne countryside. En route, stop at a picturesque hillside vineyard to learn some key attributes of champagne grape growing. Following the tasting, indulge in a gourmet, private lunch in the family domain salon. After lunch, rejoin the barge and set off on your afternoon cruise, leaving River Marne behind and making your way onto the peaceful Canal lateral a la Marne, to your mooring in Dizy—dinner on board.

This morning, visit La Maison Boizel, a prestigious champagne house on the iconic Avenue de Champagne. Explore the underground cellars, a UNESCO World Heritage site, which includes the “family treasure” featuring bottles dating back to 1834. Delve into the history and know-how passed down through six generations to when the house was built in 1834. After, enjoy a private tasting of two exclusive Boizel champagnes. On the way back, there’s an optional visit to the Musee du Champagne, dedicated to the history and art of champagne making. Return to the barge for lunch and continue your cruise along the canal to your pretty mooring at Tours-sur-Marne—dinner on board.

This morning, visit the magnificent 800-year-old Reims cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece where the Kings of France were crowned. Before spending some free time, wander around this delightful city with its grand squares and elegant shopping arcades. After lunch on board, cruise to your final mooring at Chalons-en-Champagne. Captain’s Farewell Dinner on board.

After breakfast, guests are transferred by private chauffeured minibus to Paris.