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European Waterways has experienced a 30% increase in bookings in the last three years, reflecting the growing luxury travel trend of river cruising and hotel barge travel. When it comes to the European barge cruising experience, it’s all about “taking the path less travelled,” says European Waterways’ director John Wood-Dow.

The company offers the largest fleet of luxury hotel barges in Europe, with 17 vessels cruising the canals and inland waterways of the rural countryside far from the bustle of major cities. European Waterways have the perfect itinerary for every traveller.

Experiential travellers

European Waterways are known for their unique and immersive experiences not to mention the gourmet fine dining and fine wines guests are treated to onboard. Experiences are constantly updated and refined, keeping the European Waterways sophisticated, seasoned guest in mind. From majestic displays of falconry to dining with a baroness at a 12th century Château and enjoying exclusive wine tastings and pre-dinner aperitifs onboard, guests are treated to an unforgettable experience.

Multigenerational travellers

The barges are also attracting multi-generation families and groups who charter the entire barge to themselves to pursue their favorite pastime, whether it is a family reunion, a cycling or hiking club, or wine appreciation society. They all have in common a desire to experience a different kind of holiday that is in direct contrast to the larger river cruises, where one can easily become lost in the crowd. Whether it’s golf, wine appreciation or a special occasion, itineraries can be modified to include more of what groups want. With multi-generational groups, for example, adults can savour gourmet meals prepared with locally sourced ingredients by our on-board master chef, while children can enjoy an informal array of delicious BBQ food.

Solo travellers

European Waterways have recognised the increase in solo travellers interested in hotel barge cruises and have accommodated accordingly. The convivial nature of the small barges makes them ideal for solo travellers, with boats holding small groups of between six and 20 passengers. The group come together every evening over delicious food and wine and share stories from the day. European Waterways has encouraged solo travellers by waiving the single supplement on more than 40 departures throughout Europe during the 2019 season.

European Waterways operates in regions of France, Italy, Ireland, Scotland, Holland, and the U.K.