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"The Meanderer"

Cruising in Luxury

E“Top to bottom, stern to stem, absolutely wonderful. Thank you for a week we will never forget. We loved the food, the wine, the scenery, but most of all we loved the warmth and hospitality we experienced from the moment we stepped aboard. You are all master mariners and master hosts. Thanks!”
EA, Mequon, WI

The finest things in life are best savored slowly, and there is no better way to experience the lovely countryside of France’s Upper Loire region than a cruise aboard Meanderer. Originally built in 1948 to serve as a commercial barge, she was converted to a luxury hotel barge in 1992. Since then, she has undergone further upgrades—including new teak decks—and now offers one of the most luxurious barge vacations available in Europe.

From stem to stern,Meanderer stretches 123 feet, a delightful mix of old-world style and modern convenience. The décor is beautiful, light, and exquisitely comfortable—perfect for guests who want to relax, slow down, and experience life at a slower, more elegant pace. The ship’s attractive, full-width saloon and dining area has large picture windows on each side that are perfect for taking in the passing scenery.

For those who love modern conveniences, Meanderer also offers air conditioning, satellite TV, and free broadband internet access. There’s even a heated Jacuzzi on the sundeck. Below decks, passengers stay in airy Twin/Queen cabins, each with its own private bath, flat-screen TV, and DVD/CD player.

New barge owners George and Susan Kovalick speak fluent French and know France well. They also understand the difference between a great vacation and a truly exceptional one. That’s why they make every effort to ensure that all of their guests fully enjoy their stays aboard Meanderer—whether they want to tour local vineyards, bike the French countryside, or simply relax.

AIt’s also why they offer an array of themed cruises, each focused on a particular interest, such as Antiques, Art, Biking, or Chocolate and Wine. For golf enthusiasts, Meanderer offers a weeklong cruise that brings guests to some of France’s most spectacular courses, including “Les Bourdes,” one of Europe’s Top 5.

No matter what the theme, a cruise on Meanderer provides guests with a chance to enjoy fabulous cuisine—served al fresco under a canopy or below decks in the elegant salon—while navigating some of France’s finest waterways, including the Pont Canal de Briare, designed by the famed Gustave Eiffel. Other popular destinations include the lovely town of Montargis, Fontainebleau, and the wine regions of Chablis, Irancy, St Bris, and the Caves de Bailly.

“At voyage’s end, our guests are invariably relaxed and happy—albeit a little heavier from all of the good food and wines,” says owner Susan Kovalick. “They really seem to appreciate a chance to see France off the well traveled tourist paths.”