
Marseillan to Le Somail on the Canal du Midi
Sunday
Guests are met at the Clarion Suites in Narbonne and transferred by private chauffeured minibus to Anjodi.
Enjoy a welcome of chilled Champagne with canapes and the opportunity to meet your crew, followed perhaps by a relaxing stroll through the lakeside Mediterranean village of Marseillan, home of Noilly Prat vermouth, enjoying a view of the oyster beds.
Dinner on board.
Monday
This morning we embark on our cruise along the 330-year-old Canal du Midi through the Bagnas nature reserve, with potential sightings of flamingos, white egrets, and other migrating birds, under bridges built from the local black volcanic stone.
After lunch on board, we visit Pezenas, the beautiful 16th-century capital of Languedoc, mostly known for its associations with the French playwright, Moliere.
An optional visit to a nearby Mediterranean beach is possible.
Dinner on board.
Tuesday
After breakfast, we cruise further along the Canal passing through the 7-lock flight of unique oval locks at Fonseranne to arrive at Malpas.
After lunch, we enjoy an informative winery tour and tasting at the 14th-century chateau de Perdiguier, named after Charles V's finance minister and famed for its frescoes and Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay wines.
Dinner on board.
Wednesday
This morning's excursion is to Narbonne, a Roman Mediterranean capital where the Visogoth monarchs once lived.
We tour the Archbishop's Palace, Cathedral and Via Domitia and explore the indoor market at the hub of this bustling town, where you will have time to shop or simply absorb the vibrant atmosphere.
We return to Anjodi for lunch and cruise through the oldest tunnel in the world at Malpas before mooring up at Capestang, previously a fishing port. Take time to explore the 14th-century architecture of the village.
Dinner is ashore tonight in a gastronomic restaurant in nearby Beziers.
Thursday
This morning we continue our cruise, passing through several locks on the Canal de la Robine before reaching our mooring at Sallèles d'Aude.
Following lunch, we take an excursion to Minerve, the ancient capital of the Minervois, which boasts a 12th-century Cathar fort surrounded by deep limestone gorges.
Besieged by Simon de Montfort in 1210, its hilltop location affords spectacular views and the museum's fascinating miniature recreation of the bloodthirsty Cathar rebellion complete the intriguing picture.
Dinner on board.
Friday
In the morning we embark on our final cruise as we rejoin the historic Canal du Midi to the delightful village of Le Somail.
After lunch, we visit Carcassonne.
Dating back to the Gallo Roman era, Carcassonne is the most complete medieval fortified city in existence today.
With its 52 watchtowers, portcullis and extraordinary repertoire of defences, it resisted the many armies that tried to storm this Camelot setting.
Our day ends with the Captain's Farewell Dinner on board.
Saturday
After breakfast, guests are transferred by private chauffeured minibus to their choice of location in Narbonne.
More information about the Midi Canal