European Waterways has launched its new Champagne Cruise, Kir Royale, an elegant eight passenger luxury hotel barge.
The Kir Royale will cruise the River Marne and the Canal latéral à la Marne in Champagne, with icons Maison Boizel, Maison Ayala, and Frerejean Frères as part of her week-long Champagne Voyage.
With a captivating history that dates back to World War Two, Kir Royale has undergone a remarkable transformation and is now a contemporary floating oasis. After months of renovation, this luxury vessel has emerged as a unique getaway destination in the heart of France’s famed Champagne region.
Stepping aboard, guests are greeted with a signature champagne welcome hosted by the Captain and his crew. From here, you’ll enter the spacious salon that’s decorated with bespoke furnishings, and features a charming bar, lounge piano, and a dining area that seamlessly opens on to an impressive galley kitchen for a front-row seat to watch the chef’s culinary magic unfold. With four-course meals served each day, perfectly complemented by hand-picked wines, each meal is a true event in itself.
Each of the hotel barge’s four generously sized staterooms boast modern amenities including ultra-modern en suite bathrooms adorned with his and hers sinks, luxurious rainforest showers and premium L’Occitane products. Every detail onboard Kir Royale exudes comfort and sophistication.
Guests can experience the ultimate in relaxation and luxury on Kir Royale‘s expansive sun decks. Unwind in style on the forward deck, where a heated spa pool and plush loungers await or savour a sumptuous al fresco dining experience on the spacious rear deck, sheltered from the elements. And for the pièce de résistance, head to the rooftop deck for a breathtaking panoramic view of the rolling vineyards and picturesque landscapes that make this region so famous.
Kir Royale allows guests to indulge in the finest experiences the Champagne region has to offer along the picturesque River Marne and the Canal Lateral à la Marne. Cruising past verdant vineyards and chocolate box villages, travellers will explore historic sites like Château-Thierry, and Belleau Wood – home to the World War One battlefield and monument, and the American cemetery.
From private tours and tastings at renowned champagne houses like Maison Boizel on the iconic UNESCO-listed Avenue de Champagne in Épernay to exploring historic landmarks like the majestic cathedral in Reims, where 33 Kings of France were crowned, every day brings new adventures.
Guests will visit the boutique winery of Frerejean Frères, known for its premier and Grand Cru wines, with a private gourmet lunch in the salon of the family domaine. A third excursion includes a private tour and tasting at Maison Ayala, a prestigious champagne house located in the Grand Cru village of Aÿ. Founded in 1860 by Edmund Ayala, Maison Ayala is revered for producing high-quality, elegant, and complex champagnes using traditional methods.
The sweeping beauty of Champagne’s majestic countryside, blanketed with vineyards, is on full display, during this six-night cruise and of course the famed Kir Royale cocktail is ready for passengers as they take this extraordinary cruise discovering the journey of the grape in Champagne.
