Saint Louis

The 127 ton cruising hotel barge, the Saint Louis, was originally built in Holland, in 1923, as a bulk cargo carrier. In 1994 she was refurbished into floating hotel haven of comfort and style, including the creation of three guest state rooms.

This high quality foundation has been maintained and cared-for since then. In 2007, she underwent a complete refresh and restyle programme to keep her facilities thoroughly up-to-date. Saint Louis cruises the beautiful calm waterways of South West France, including the historic lands of Aquitaine and Gascony.

She does so in ‘casual luxury’ – providing the perfect accommodation for up to six guests in three stateroom suites. The ‘casual luxury’ reflects the style of the interior fittings and furnishings; and the outside lounge deck and its furniture.

On the sun deck, there are cushioned solid teak chairs and sun-loungers to provide the perfect elevated canal-side view of the villages and the countryside, the locks and the bridges, as we cruise slowly past. Relax, chat, read a book – or do absolutely nothing except day-dream to the sound of bird-song. Or enjoy an alfresco meal of fresh local ingredients, with a glass of superb local wine.

In the centre of the boat is a generously sized saloon, dining area and bar. Aft (towards the back of the ship) lies the well-equipped kitchen, then the wheelhouse and finally the crew’s quarters.

To experience a river cruise aboard Saint Louis is to experience peace and tranquillity as one passes through the lush countryside, pretty villages and memorable towns.

It also means enjoying delicious French cuisine, prepared with fresh local produce – and savouring local wines and aperitifs.

Your hosts, Alasdair and Barbara, together with their friendly and expert crew, will ensure that your holiday or vacation is the ultimate in relaxed pleasure.