'Johanna' Cruise in Champagne

Sunday, Welcome aboard

You will be met at a designated meeting point in Paris. From here, relax as you are chauffeured to the barge, moored in Château-Thierry. A champagne welcome and introduction to the crew awaits, including the barge cats, Babou and Coténoir. (The cats are friendly but prefer to spend most of their time in the crew area.) Time to settle in and enjoy your first lunch onboard. 
This afternoon, we will set off on our first tour which may include Belleau Wood memorial site, the American WW1 memorial and the medieval castle of Château-Thierry or the Castle of Conde-en-Brie. Back on Joahnna, Chef Patsie is busy creating a magical chocolate and Champagne dinner!
 

Monday, Start your adventure 

The adventure begins with a morning cruise, presenting the perfect opportunity to relax on deck with a cup of Chef Patsie’s special chocolate coffee. The afternoon, enjoy the first of many champagne tastings ashore, if time permits, we will also visit the local eco-museum, Chatillon-sur-Marne panorama, and the Dormans WW1 memorial. Back onboard, Chef Patsie’s is preparing tonight’s delicious dinner.
 

Tuesday, Explore the origins of Champagne 

During the morning cruise, those with a sweet tooth are invited to join Chef Patsie in her open kitchen to observe her techniques for cooking with chocolate. In the afternoon, your Tour Guide escorts you to the village of Hautvillers where Dom Perignon first invented the famous drink! Enjoy Champagne samplings at houses both emerging and established while admiring the area’s panoramic views of rolling hills, lush vineyards, and endless skies. The area’s culinary bounty is on further offer tonight, as dinner is taken ashore at a local bistro (included in the program).
 

Wednesday, Champagne capital 

This morning, your Tour Guide accompanies you to the small city of Epernay, home of the world-famous Champagne Avenue. Tour the cellars and taste the bubbles at one of the renowned champagne houses. Return to the Johanna for an early afternoon cruise. Upon mooring, Champagne’s extraordinary natural beauty is revealed during a mid-afternoon visit to the Reims Mountain National Park. Observe the Verzenay lighthouse and explore the world’s principal reserve of dwarf beech trees. Back onboard, dinner culminates with a decadent chocolate dessert.
 

Thursday, Going back into time 

As Johanna continues her lazy journey along the canal this morning, explore the towpath by bicycle or on foot. Afternoon excursions to the charming village of Chalons-en-Champagne include a visit to its collegiate church, Notre-Dame-en-Vaux, which boasts a 56-bell carillon. From there, perhaps sample the suds at a local beer brewery, stop at the preserved XVII century Sainte-Croix gate, or take a scenic stroll in the “Petit Jard” and “Grand Jard” gardens. Dinner tonight furthers the local immersion, as it is taken ashore at a small brasserie (included in the program).
 

Friday, The crowning of Kings

During this morning’s final cruise, hop off at a lock for a gentle pedal or leisurely stroll. This afternoon, your Tour Guide escorts you to Reims for a tour of the Cathedral with the famous stained glass windows of Marc Chagall. Here is where the Kings of France were crowned!  Then, tour the recently restored Art Nouveau “Villa Demoiselle”, which can be combined with a visit to the nearby Vranken champagne cellars for another private sampling. Return to the Johanna for the Captain’s Dinner, with chocolate and Champagne served at every course!
 

Saturday, A sad farewell 

Farewell after breakfast. Return to central drop-off point in Reims or Paris for your onward travel arrangements.