
Base at Joigny
Linking the Yonne to the Saone, construction on the Canal de Bourgogne, started in 1775 and finished in 1834. It takes you by ways sometimes secret, sometimes spectacular to the heart of the Renaissance.
During this period the Duchy of Burgundy vied in magnificence with the Kingdom of France.
Here, with ancient poplar trees, their leaves shimmering and atremble, and buildings ranging from abbeys to fortified farmhouses, the works of man and of nature celebrate their triumphant union.
Tie up close to the superb aqueduct at Saint Florentin and climb up to its church to admire the superb stained glass.
At Tonnerre, the Fosse Dionne pool, surrounded by ancient houses, still provides a water supply to the town.
Magnificent and splendidly furnished Renaissance chateaux such as Tanlay and Ancy-le-Franc punctuate your cruise.
The marvellous high-vaulted Abbey of Fontenay (UNESCO World Heritage) is tucked away in a secluded valley and is a short bike ride away.
Near Venarey Les Laumes at the village of Alise-Sainte-Reine, you'll want to visit the site of the Gaulish fortress of Alesia where Velcingetorix surrendered to Caesar after a two-month siege.
One-week cruises from Joigny
- Joigny, Tonnerre, Tanlay, Ancy-le- Franc, Joigny
166 km, 68 locks, 5h30 cruising per day
10/11 day cruises from Joigny
- Joigny, Tanlay, Ancy-le-Franc, Montbard, Joigny
222 km; 98 locks; 5hr15 cruising per day
Two-week cruises from Joigny
- Joigny, St Florentin, Ancy-le-Franc, Montbard, Venarey les Laumes, Joigny
246 km; 134 locks; 5hr cruising per day
Locaboat rental boats for the Burgundy Canal
There are 13 self-drive boats for the the Burgundy Canal