Exceptional Service

Our English-speaking crews, mainly British or French, pride themselves on their level of personal service and attention to detail. Whilst their primary role is to maintain guest safety throughout, they’re also experts in anticipating your every need, so that all you need to do is relax.

Our Expert Crew

Your experienced Captain is sure to impress with their ability to guide their exceptionally large vessel into the smallest lock, and under the lowest of bridges with just inches to spare. If you’re keen to steer the barge yourself, feel free to ask your Captain who will do their best to find a less-challenging stretch to navigate with you. The barge’s master Chef will delight you with culinary creations that feature the best locally-sourced ingredients. They have the experience and imagination to produce dishes that cater to your specific dietary requirements. Often, our chefs will also be pleased to show off their skills with a cooking demonstration in the galley. Our attentive Hosts are there to anticipate your every need. From preparing the perfect cup of afternoon tea, to concocting a delicious cocktail to enjoy on deck. And, at the dining table, they’ll perfectly describe the characteristics of every hand-selected wine and cheese as they serve them with care. Each of our daily excursions are led by our extremely knowledgeable English-speaking onboard Tour Guides. From the moment you leave the barge, on the private chauffeured minibus and on excursions – their local knowledge combined will immerse you in the region’s history and culture. Our friendly Deckhands work behind the scenes, keeping an eye on things by ensuring the vessels are clean and tidy, carry out general maintenance, repositioning the hotel barge minibus and preparing the bicycles when guests require them.

L'impressionniste Captain, Melissa

Coq au vin is a real crowd pleaser on board – it’s authentic and classically rich, but without the heavy feel. I love to make it as much as I love to eat it.

Anjodi Captain, Laurent

I actually started my career as a Host, then a Tour Guide, and Deckhand before Derek Banks (company founder) encouraged me to take the leap and go for my very own boat licence!

La Belle Epoque Captain, Luke and Crew

Spirit of Scotland Captain, Helen