Summer 2026 Standard Classic Barge Cruise Itinerary
Between Auxonne and Cusey
(River Saône and Champagne-Burgundy Canal)
Beautiful rural France awaits you as Prospérité takes you on a cruise from Auxonne, on the River Saône to the Champagne-Burgundy canal Sit back and see the peaceful, quaint villages pass by as Prospérité Meanders its way along this charming waterway, one of the last to be completed in 1907. The Champagne Burgundy canal connects the Marne and Saône rivers and, indeed, two of France's most iconic regions, Champagne and Burgundy.
SUNDAY, Day 1: Auxonne
In the afternoon, our driver will greet you at the designated meeting point. Relax in our transfer vehicle to Prospérité, moored in Auxonne on the River Saône. Enjoy a traditional champagne welcome and introduction to Prospérité and her crew before your first of many gourmet dinners on board.
MONDAY, Day 2: Auxonne to Pontailler-sur-Saône
Prospérité cruises this morning on the River Saône. As your world slows down, there's time to notice small things: the smell of bakeries drifting from town or the flash of sunlight on tiled roofs. This afternoon our Tour Guide introduces the Medieval village of Bèze, criss-crossed by waterways. With its ancient riverside residences and picturesque wash houses, Bèze is one of France's most photogenic villages. Discover the Grottes (caves) and remains of the Abbey before returning to Prospérité for cocktail hour and dinner.
TUESDAY, Day 3: Pontailler-sur-Saône to Cheuge
This morning, Dijon offers a pleasurable assault on the senses. Preserved palaces and beautiful churches, recalling the reign of the Dukes of Burgundy, vie for attention with specialty boutiques, small cafés, and serene gardens. Shop, sip, and stroll your way through this small city brimming with authentic French life. Return as Prospérité slips onto the peaceful Champagne-Burgundy Canal. Chef has been busy creating another epicurean dinner to be enjoyed onboard.
WEDNESDAY, Day 4: Moored in Cheuge
With our Tour Guide, encounter the best of Burgundy wine country. Starting in Beaune, where millions of bottles are still stored under cobblestoned streets, experience Hospice de Beaune, an immaculately preserved Medieval hospital. Then it's on to Le Bistro d'Olivier Leflaive in Puligny Montrachet for a wine tasting, lunch, and cellar tour. Relive this elegant day over cocktails and dinner – and what about digestives while lazing under the stars in your hot tub?
THURSDAY, Day 5: Cheuge to Pouilly-sur-Vingeanne
This morning, as Prospérité continues to cruise, relax on deck or explore the towpath and country lanes by bicycle. This afternoon, our Tour Guide introduces Château de Rosières. This fascinating castle, located just a few minutes from the canal, dates from 1321. Meet owner Bertrand Bergerot, who, with his youthful family, is restoring the castle and grounds; he'll share his passion for Medieval architecture. Back on board, enjoy cocktails and a chef-driven dinner menu.
FRIDAY, Day 6: Pouilly-sur-Vingeanne to Cusey
After a morning cruise, our Tour Guide chauffeurs you to Ferme de Montsaugeon. This farm produces goats-milk cheese amongst other regional produce. Meet the goats and charismatic owner Valérie for a demonstration of the cheese making process, a cheese tasting, and her insights into local life. Back on board, Chef is creating a candlelit multi-course Farewell Dinner, ending your cruise in style.
SATURDAY, Day 7: Depart from Cusey
After breakfast, you will be chauffeured to the designated drop off point.
Note: This is a sample itinerary which may be subject to change depending on local conditions. The route is run in reverse on alternate weeks.
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