Les Bateaux Belmond is Belmond’s collection of ultra-luxury river barges offering exclusive journeys through the scenic waterways of France. Unlike traditional cruises, these intimate floating villas provide a slow-travel experience with exceptional hospitality, gourmet dining, and immersive cultural discoveries. With only 4–12 guests onboard, each voyage offers a private and personalized atmosphere.
The fleet explores France’s most iconic regions, including Burgundy, Champagne, Provence, and Bordeaux, sailing through charming villages, vineyards, historic towns, and beautiful countryside. Each barge features elegant suites, en-suite bathrooms, stylish lounges, and unique amenities such as heated pools, antique décor, and spacious sun decks.
Combining fine French cuisine, curated excursions, and dedicated service from a private chef and expert crew, Les Bateaux Belmond creates a refined luxury experience designed for travelers seeking authentic culture, relaxation, and unforgettable moments on the water.
Onboard Features
While every barge has its own distinct personality, guests can expect:
Spacious luxury cabins with en-suite bathrooms
Elegant lounges and dining areas
Individually designed interiors with antiques and bespoke décor
State-of-the-art technology
Outdoor sun decks
Heated swimming pools on selected vessels
Dedicated crew, including a private chef and host
Gourmet French cuisine paired with regional wines
Personalized excursions and exclusive local experiences
Complimentary bicycles for exploring the surrounding countryside
The Les Bateaux Belmond fleet is designed for slow, immersive travel, offering an exclusive boutique cruising experience through France’s most celebrated wine regions and historic waterways.
Fleet Overview
Les Bateaux Belmond features a collection of luxurious river barges that sail through some of France’s most picturesque waterways. Each vessel offers a unique design and character while maintaining Belmond’s signature standards of elegance, comfort, and personalized service. Most boats are available exclusively as private charters, creating an intimate experience for families, couples, or small groups.
Fleet Highlights
Marguerite (New for 2026)
Launching in Summer 2026, Marguerite is the newest addition to the Les Bateaux Belmond fleet. Cruising through the picturesque waterways of Burgundy, this elegant barge features four spacious cabins accommodating up to eight guests. Guests will enjoy a dedicated host, private chef, professional crew, gourmet dining, and private transfers between France and Geneva, Switzerland.
Coquelicot
Coquelicot is an elegant Champagne river barge designed for an intimate luxury experience. With three beautifully appointed cabins accommodating up to six guests, it offers the perfect setting for exploring Champagne vineyards, historic villages, and the region’s renowned wine heritage.
Pivoine
Pivoine offers a refined Provence cruising experience with four stylish cabins for up to eight guests. Sailing between Avignon and Aigues-Mortes, the barge provides access to the beauty of southern France, including lavender fields, vineyards, and charming Provençal towns.
Lilas
Lilas is a spacious Burgundy barge featuring four luxury cabins and welcoming up to eight guests. Its scenic itinerary between St-Jean-de-Losne and Lyon showcases the region’s peaceful waterways, vineyards, and cultural treasures.
Alouette
Alouette is the most intimate vessel in the fleet, offering an exclusive experience for just four guests across two beautifully furnished cabins. Cruising through the Bordeaux region, it explores tranquil canals, picturesque landscapes, and some of France’s most celebrated wine country.
Fleur de Lys
Fleur de Lys combines classic elegance with a relaxed cruising style, featuring three generous cabins for up to six guests. Sailing through Burgundy from Dijon to Saint-Léger-sur-Dheune, it offers guests the chance to discover charming villages, vineyards, and historic landmarks.
Napoléon
Napoléon is the largest vessel in the Les Bateaux Belmond fleet, offering six elegant cabins for up to twelve guests. Cruising along the Rhône through Provence, it provides a spacious and luxurious setting with the flexibility of private charter or individual cabin bookings.
| Vessel | Region | Itinerary | Cabins | Guest Capacity | Charter Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Marguerite | Burgundy | St-Léger-sur-Dheune – Pontailler-sur-Saône, Auxonne – Lyon | 4 | 8 | Private Charter Only |
| Coquelicot | Champagne | Châlons-en-Champagne – Jaulgonne | 3 | 6 | Private Charter Only |
| Pivoine | Provence | Avignon – Aigues-Mortes | 4 | 8 | Private Charter Only |
| Lilas | Burgundy | St-Jean-de-Losne – Lyon | 4 | 8 | Private Charter Only |
| Alouette | Bordeaux Region | Castets-en-Dorthe – Sérignac | 2 | 4 | Private Charter Only |
| Fleur de Lys | Burgundy | Dijon – Saint-Léger-sur-Dheune | 3 | 6 | Private Charter Only |
| Napoléon | Provence | La Voulte-sur-Rhône – Avignon | 6 | 12 | Private Charter or Individual Cabin Booking |
Image credit: Belmond
