Magnolia luxury barge cruises

Add to my favourites

Share by email

Check availability for 2026 and 2027

Hotel Barge Magnolia

Cruise highlights

6 passengers
★★★★ 4 star rating

Chateau de Meursault: Enjoy a private wine-tasting in this prestigious domaine
Discover the mysteries of a much-loved culinary delight on a local Truffle farm
Visit the wine capital of Burgundy, Beaune, with its magnificent Hotel Dieu Hospice and lovely town centre
Visit a 14th-century private chateau of Germolles
Discover the ancient art of barrel making

3 cruise routes & itineraries

From Chalon-sur-Saône to Saint Julien-sur-Dheune, 2026
Saône Valley

From Fleurey-sur-Ouche to Escommes, Spring 2026
Burgundy Canal

From Dijon to Escommes 2027

Magnolia cruise file

Prices

Charters from 30, 400 €

Boat size

Length 124′8″ ft (38.00 metres)
Width 16′7″ ft (5.05 metres)

Specifications

Crew members : 5
Up to 6 guests
Suites : 1
Double cabins : 2

Also

Central heating
Air-conditioning
Spa or pool
Wifi
Demonstration galley
CD, DVD library, iPod dock
Volkswagen minibus
Bicycles : 6

Guests have awarded ★★★★★ stars

Guests comments

We cannot begin to describe how wonderful Magali and Nico and the Magnolia crew are. They are a family. And they make you feel part of their family as well. While we are all skeptics of words like "the best", because words are just words...but our family can say, without any hesitation whatsoever that, "there is NONE better" than the Magnolia and her family/crew. We simply adore them all. And they made us feel adored as well. Just go.
(July 2025) Baxter ★★★★★

Our experience on Magnolia was wonderful. Great crew including fabulous chef.
(September 2021) FUNDE... ★★★★★

5* for the barge Magnolia, the Burgundy Canal, Hotels Afloat customer service and website.We are very likely to book again and to recommend Hotels Afloat to others.
(November 2019) Charl...

The Magnolia went above and beyond our expectations!The crew Magali & Nico (and beautiful little Mila) went out of their way to make sure we enjoyed every minute of the holiday.We rate the barge 10/10We appreciated the peace and quiet with amazing restaurantsGoogle lead us to Hotels Afloat, and we rate you a 10 for attention to details and help and would book again. Nico mentioned they may move the barge one year, if they do we would love to know so we can come again!
(September 2017) Carol...

We really appreciated the small intimate personal environment and the excellent serviceBoat rate: 10/10Burgundy canal: Appreciated the surrounding nature and the visits to special historical sites and villagesWe rated Hotels Afloat 10/10 and will book again.We very much enjoyed the trip with Magali and Nicolas on their barge Magnolia. They were very personable, attentive, and accommodating in their service. We very much enjoyed our trip with them and would love to do it again!!!
(May 2017) Kai a...

About Magnolia barge cruises

Lovingly converted by your hosts, Nicolas and Magali, the Magnolia barge provides a unique and peaceful haven to explore the Burgundy countryside.

Your adventure takes you through the stunning Burgundy region at a relaxed pace.
As you step aboard the fully air-conditioned/centrally heated Magnolia, you will be pleasantly surprised by the exceptional presentation and the spaciousness of the barge.
Stairs lead down into the huge, light saloon.
At one end is the dining table, set close to the galley; at the other end, the large corner sofa invites you to relax over a drink from the guest-accessible bar, tea or coffee machines.
A writing desk is available, complete with a Wi-Fi connection.
You could enjoy a DVD, watch TV, listen to some music on the iPod deck or simply watch the world drift by.
A beneficial luggage space has been built into the barge, and this is accessible from the saloon.

Along the beautifully curved corridor, which ensures privacy by placing the cabins on either side of the barge, you will find three tastefully decorated cabins with king-size beds convertible to twins, according to your preference.
Each bed has a 5-zone mattress and superior linens.
All cabins benefit from opening portholes.

The 17m2 suite has a writing desk/dressing table and ample storage, including a wardrobe, adding to the home-from-home feeling.
There are separate, en-suite toilet and shower rooms with one-way glass for privacy.

The two, 12 m2 cabins have king-size beds with 5-zone memory foam mattresses and superior linens.
Again, there is ample storage and one-way glass in the en-suite bathrooms.

The staircase adjacent to the cabins allows direct access to the spa pool deck, which is the perfect place to relax in the hot tub with a glass of wine after a day exploring this stunning region with your hosts.

If the sun is shining, you could also relax on the 40 m2 aft sun deck, complete with traditional furniture and an automated sunshade measuring 4m x 4m.
This deck has an outdoor kitchen featuring a plancha barbecue.

All meals served are made with fresh, locally sourced produce, the vast majority from Dijon market, to ensure delicious, seasonal meals each day. While at the market on Tuesday, guests will be invited to choose fish or meat, to be cooked once back on board by our chef, 'a la plancha'.
As well as fine wines and an open bar, bottled water is always available throughout the cruise.

During your cruise, you will be invited to join a French family for a traditional meal in their typically French home!
This is a unique opportunity to try out your French in a relaxed atmosphere with Magali or Nicolas nearby to translate if necessary.
This option is bookable in advance and replaces one of the on-board lunches or dinners.

Magali and Nicolas have many years of experience in hotel barging and as natives of Burgundy, make excellent companions for your adventure.

Five permanent crew members are on board to ensure quality and a pleasant ambiance throughout your cruise.
Six bikes on board
Hot tub

Volkswagen minibus for private tours

Magnolia deck and cabin plans

Magnolia photo gallery

Click any photo to zoom

Lounge and dining area on the Magnolia barge

Lounge and staircase on the Magnolia barge

Magnolia barge cruising on the Burguny canal

Nicolas and Magali Rancelot, Magnolia barge owners

Magnolia cruise routes & itineraries

From Chalon-sur-Saône to Saint Julien-sur-Dheune, 2026

Saône Valley

Rates

Paris/Geneva/Lyon to Burgundy

Saturday
We will meet you in Paris, Geneva or Lyon at about 2 pm and then transfer you to the barge moored in Chalon-sur-Saône.
Enjoy a welcome drink on the deck before settling in.
Dinner aboard.

Chalon-sur-Saône to Fragnes (1 lock)

Sunday
This morning, we will visit a local truffle farm, "La Maison de miles Truffes," to discover this art and try it! We will enjoy lunch at the truffle farm before we return to Magnolia.
In the afternoon, we will cruise gently along the Saône and then enter the Canal du Centre through a 30-foot difference-level lock!
Dinner aboard.

Fragnes to Rully (8 locks)

Monday
We will continue our cruise along the canal, arriving at Rully in time for lunch on board.
Today's excursion takes us to discover the ancient art of the cooper (barrel maker) close to Beaune.
This evening, we enjoy a home-hosted dinner as guests of a local family in Rully with your guide.

Rully to Chagny (3 locks)

Tuesday
We will begin our day with a private wine tasting in the prestigious Château de Meursault,
After lunch on board, we continue our cruise to Chagny, where we will dine in a local restaurant this evening.

Chagny to Saint Léger-sur-Dheune (4 locks)

Wednesday
After breakfast, our morning cruise takes us to Saint Léger-sur-Dheune, from where we will set off on the bus to Beaune for lunch. This town is the wine capital Burgundy; we can wander through the beautiful streets and visit its world-famous 15th-century Hospice.
Cameras at the ready!
This is a beautiful town, and the Hospice itself is stunning. There will be some free time for shopping.
After a busy day, we enjoy dinner on board.

Saint Léger-sur-Dheune to Saint Julien-sur-Dheune (4 locks)

Thursday
This morning, we step back in time to visit the 14th-century private château of Germolles.
After lunch on board, why not take a dip in the hot tub as we cruise towards our evening destination, Saint Léger-sur-Dheune?
As our week draws to a close, it's time to enjoy a Farewell Captain's Dinner on board as we reminisce.

Saint Julien-sur-Dheune

Friday
After a hearty breakfast, depart to Paris, Geneva or Lyon for your onward journey.

This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. On alternate weeks, the cruise is in the reverse direction.

From Chalon-sur-Saône to Saint Julien-sur-Dheune, 2026 rates

The rates shown are standard, before any applicable discounts or promotions.

2026 rates
Charter for 6	39, 600 €
Charter for 4	35, 500 €
Charter for 2	30, 400 €

Prices include pick up from Paris at 2.00 pm ( CDG airport or hôtel in Paris, Geneva or Lyon) and transfer to the barge, return to Paris centre or CDG airport, Geneva or Lyon; full continental breakfast on board, lunches and dinners on board and ashore, open bar, bicycles, guided tours with a mini-van.

Not included: Airfare, crew gratuities.

2026 Departure dates
May 23 - October 17

From Fleurey-sur-Ouche to Escommes, Spring 2026

Burgundy Canal

Rates

Paris

Saturday
We will meet you in Paris at about 2 pm and then transfer you to the barge moored in Fleurey-sur-Ouche.
Enjoy a welcome drink on the deck before settling in.
Dinner aboard.

Fleurey-sur-Ouche to Lock 34

Sunday
This morning, we will visit a local truffle farm, l'Or des Valois, to discover this art and try it! We will enjoy lunch at the truffle farm before we return to Magnolia.
In the afternoon, we will cruise gently to lock 34 (8 locks). There is plenty of time to cycle or walk alongside.
Dinner aboard.

Lock 34 to La Bussière

Monday
We will continue our cruise along the canal through the Ouche Valley (8 locks) to La Bussière-sur-Ouche, before lunch on board.
Today's excursion takes us to a local cooper to discover and have a try at the ancient art of Barrel making. Enjoy a walking tour of Beaune, including free time for shopping.
This evening we dine in the stunning Abbaye de la Bussière, nestled in beautiful grounds.

La Bussière to Pont d'Ouche

Tuesday
We will begin our day with a visit to the wonderful town of Dijon, and discover its colourful market with our chef.
Explore this historic city, the capital of the Dukes of Burgundy, and its myriad of quaint streets in the old quarters.
We'll return to Magnolia and spend the afternoon cruising to Pont d'Ouche (6 locks)
Dinner aboard.

Pont d'Ouche to Vandenesse

Wednesday
This morning's cruise takes us through 11 locks to the beautiful village of Vandenesse-en-Auxois. After lunch aboard, we set off to the Chateau de Meursault for a private, prestigious wine tasting.
After a busy day, we enjoy a Home-hosted dinner in a Burgundian family house.

Vandenesse - Escommes

Thursday
Our cruise today will enable us to visit Chateauneuf-en-Auxois, one of the most beautiful medieval villages in France.
Perched high above the canal, enjoy the superb views of the valley and tour the magnificent chateau dating from the 12th century.
We will enjoy lunch at L'Orée du Bois before returning to the barge for our final cruise to Escommes, passing through 8 locks.
Back on board, why not take a dip in the hot tub before preparing to dine on board?
This evening we will have ample time to look back on a glorious week.

Escommes to Dijon

Friday
After a hearty breakfast, depart to Paris, Lyon or Geneva by private coach.

This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. On alternate weeks, the cruise is in the reverse direction.

Magnolia From Fleurey-sur-Ouche to Escommes, Spring 2026 cruise route

From Fleurey-sur-Ouche to Escommes, Spring 2026 rates

The rates shown are standard, before any applicable discounts or promotions.

2025 Euro rates
Charter for 6	36, 000 €
Charter for 5	32, 300 €
Charter for 4	26, 800 €

Prices include pickup from Paris at 2:00 pm (CDG airport or hotel in Paris, Geneva or Lyon) and transfer to the barge, return to Paris centre or CDG airport; full continental breakfast on board, lunches and dinners on board and ashore, open bar, bicycles, and guided tours with a mini-van.

This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. On alternate weeks the cruise is in the reverse direction

Not included: Airfare, crew gratuities.

2026 Departure dates
April 4 - May 15

From Dijon to Escommes 2027

Rates

Dijon

Saturday
We will meet you in Dijon at 3 pm, and then transfer you to the barge moored in Plombieres-les-Dijon.
Enjoy a welcome drink on the deck before settling in.
Dinner aboard.

Plombières - Fleurey sur Ouche
Sunday
This morning we will visit a local truffle farm, l'Or des Valois, to discover this art and have a go!
In the afternoon, we will cruise gently along the Canal to Fleurey sur Ouche. There is plenty of time to cycle or walk alongside.
Dinner aboard.

Fleurey sur Ouche - To Lock 34
Monday
We will continue our cruise along the canal through the Ouche Valley before lunch on board.
Today's excursion takes us to Vosne Romanée for an excellent wine tasting at the Domaine Rion.
Dinner on board.

Lock 3 - La Bussiere
Tuesday
We will begin our day with a visit to the wonderful town of Dijon, and its colourful market. Our chef will come with us and choose an array of fresh produce ready to cook 'a la plancha' for lunch.
Explore this historic city, the capital of the Dukes of Burgundy, and its myriad of quaint streets in the old quarters.
After lunch, our afternoon cruise brings us to La Bussiere.

La Bussiere - Pont d'Ouche
Wednesday
The cruise today takes up to Pont d'Ouche, a beautiful village.
This afternoon we visit Beaune and its world-famous 15th-century Hospice.
Cameras at the ready!
This is a beautiful town, and the Hospice itself is stunning.
After a busy day, we enjoy a Home Hosted dinner in a Burgundian family house.

Pont d'Ouche - Escommes
Thursday
Our cruise today will enable us to visit Chateauneuf en Auxois, one of the most beautiful villages in France.
Perched high above the canal, enjoy the superb views of the valley and take a tour of the magnificent chateau.
Back on board, why not take a dip in the hot tub before preparing to dine on board.
This evening we will have ample time to look back on a glorious week.

Escommes to Dijon
Friday
After a hearty breakfast, depart to Dijon for your onward journey.

This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change. On alternate weeks, the cruise is in the reverse direction.

From Dijon to Escommes 2027 rates

The rates shown are standard, before any applicable discounts or promotions.

2027
Charter for 6 guests	40, 800 €
Charter for 5 guests	36, 500 €
Charter for up to 4 guests	31, 200 €

All prices include:
Prices include: pick up from Paris at 2.00 pm - Only one meeting point for the entire group ( CDG airport or hôtel in Paris, Geneva, Lyon) to the barge, same drop off from the barge for the entire group to central Paris centre or CDG airport, Geneva or Lyon.
Full continental breakfast on board, lunches and dinners on board and on shore, open bar, bicycles,, guided tours with a mini-van.

Not included: Airfare, transfers to the meeting point, crew gratuities.

2027 Departure dates
April 3 - October 16

These are sample itineraries, on alternate weeks the cruise will be in the reverse direction.

Availability for Magnolia

The dates indicated as "Available" are open for private charter bookings.

2026
2027

Start date	End date	Status
04 April 2026	10 April 2026	Available
11 April 2026	17 April 2026	Available
18 April 2026	24 April 2026	Available
25 April 2026	01 May 2026	Available
02 May 2026	08 May 2026	Available
09 May 2026	15 May 2026	Available
16 May 2026	22 May 2026	Available
30 May 2026	05 June 2026	Available
06 June 2026	12 June 2026	Available
13 June 2026	19 June 2026	Available
27 June 2026	03 July 2026	Available
04 July 2026	10 July 2026	Available
01 August 2026	07 August 2026	Available
08 August 2026	14 August 2026	Available
15 August 2026	21 August 2026	Available
22 August 2026	28 August 2026	Available
17 October 2026	23 October 2026	Available

Start date	End date	Status
03 April 2027	09 April 2027	Available
10 April 2027	16 April 2027	Available
17 April 2027	23 April 2027	Available
24 April 2027	30 April 2027	Available
01 May 2027	07 May 2027	Available
08 May 2027	14 May 2027	Available
15 May 2027	21 May 2027	Available
22 May 2027	28 May 2027	Available
29 May 2027	04 June 2027	Available
05 June 2027	11 June 2027	On hold
12 June 2027	18 June 2027	Available
19 June 2027	25 June 2027	Available
26 June 2027	02 July 2027	Available
03 July 2027	09 July 2027	Available
10 July 2027	16 July 2027	Available
17 July 2027	23 July 2027	Available
24 July 2027	30 July 2027	Available
31 July 2027	06 August 2027	Available
07 August 2027	13 August 2027	Available
14 August 2027	20 August 2027	Available
21 August 2027	27 August 2027	Available
28 August 2027	03 September 2027	Available
04 September 2027	10 September 2027	Available
11 September 2027	17 September 2027	Available
18 September 2027	24 September 2027	Available
25 September 2027	01 October 2027	Available
02 October 2027	08 October 2027	Available
09 October 2027	15 October 2027	Available
16 October 2027	22 October 2027	Available

Magnolia enquiries and reservations

Please complete this form for a prompt reply.

A member of our team will call you at no charge using
the following number from France 0033 614 250 200

Cabin bookings

Private charter

A cruise expert will contact you soon by email or telephone using the following number 0033 614 250 200

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google
Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.