Life on Board

from European Waterways 2022/23 Brochure - Aagents

Travelling to Your Hotel Barge

Renaissance Sundeck

Whichever hotel barge you choose, you can be assured that a lot of thought and care has gone into its interior design and furnishings to create a welcoming and relaxed atmosphere on board, reminiscent of a ‘floating boutique hotel’.

A Home Away From Home

In the saloon and dining areas of your hotel barge, you will see that traditional features such as African hardwood panelling, antique furniture and period lighting are complemented by more modern features such as hand-woven rugs and beautiful banquette seating – along with expected creature comforts such as air-conditioning and central heating. There is Wi-Fi on board, a sound system, a selection of books and games, and on some barges – a TV/DVD player in the saloon or within the cabins. Most of the barges have a sensational deck-top spa pool, and sun-loungers to sit back and admire the passing countryside and villages. If you require a refreshment, our hosts will be on hand to whip up the perfect beverage. Or, if you’d prefer – you’re more than welcome to help yourself to our fully-stocked open bar featuring high-end alcoholic or soft drinks for whenever you please.

Wheelhouse Observation Area on Scottish Highlander

Unique Features

Each barge enjoys its own unique identity, some with interesting features such as a covered wheelhouse observation area – a cosy spot for wildlife watching, relaxing or perhaps seeing the Captain navigate the waters. Enjoying the delights of our on-board chef? Let us know! Some of our vessels feature a demonstration galley, where our chefs will be delighted to showcase their delicious creations and offer tips on how to recreate the menu at home. And, those with a love of music may choose to tickle the ivories on the lounge piano on some cruises. If at any point along the way, you feel you’d like to hop off and stretch your legs – feel free to wander along the towpath beside the barge on foot, or perhaps take advantage of the barge’s complimentary bicycles and meet your fellow guests at a lock further along the route.

The accommodation on each barge ranges from compact and charming twin or double Staterooms to more spacious Suites. Irrespective of size, every Suite or Stateroom is skilfully designed to make optimum use of space, and features private en suite facilities, a closet and drawer space. For any cruise, you can select a specific cabin of your choosing, particularly if you book early. For cabin information on room types, please refer to our deck plans on page 100. The category class refers primarily to the cabins. The service, gourmet meals, wines, escorted excursions and other amenities on board are of a similar standard on all of our hotel barges.