French Waterways is pleased to announce an exclusive voyage along the historic Canal du Midi in 2026 that combines luxury barge cruising with excursions through and above the Mediterranean countryside by vintage Citroën 2CV and helicopter. Visit medieval villages and a 17th-century château, enjoy private wine tastings at Minervois vineyards, shop local markets, and, aboard the hotel barge Savannah, savor gourmet meals prepared by a private chef and time to relax in loungers or the spa pool on the sun deck. All-inclusive six-night charters are available from May through October.
“A Canal du Midi voyage on the Savannah truly is a once-in-a-lifetime experience,” said Rosie Mansfield, CEO of French Waterways. “From serene cruising amid stunning nature and engineering marvels to private wine tastings and thrilling excursions like a fun-filled drive in a vintage car and a breathtaking helicopter flight, it’s the ultimate immersive escape. And the itinerary can be tailored to suit your family or group of friends, making it one of the most flexible in France.”
After a welcoming champagne reception aboard the Savannah, guests will spend a week cruising the UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi’s distinctive oval-shaped locks, aqueducts and stone bridges from La Redorte to Bram, taking in the landscape of exquisite villages, vineyards, wheat fields and sunflowers.
Highlights of the itinerary are opportunities to see the countryside from an iconic French auto and the air.
Guests can take to the roads of the Languedoc-Roussillon region at the wheel of a vintage Citroën 2CV that’s kept in top condition and fly over the spectacular Château de Quéribus and Château de Peyrepertuse ruins, the Carcassonne citadel, the Canal du Midi, Étang de Leucate lagoon and Salses fortress by helicopter.
The itinerary also includes privately guided excursions by chauffeured Mercedes Viano to:
- Minerve, one of the prettiest villages in France, and a local vineyard for a private tasting with the winemaker. Perched on a rocky spur at the meeting of two valleys, the village is in the heart of the Minervois, where wines have been prized since Roman times.
- Narbonne, a Roman capital founded in 118 B.C. Explore the Via Domitia, Saint Just Cathedral and Episcopal Palace, and join the Savannah’s chef to select fresh ingredients from the town’s vibrant market for meals back on the barge.
- Carcassonne, with its origins in the Neolithic era. Ascend ramparts dating to Gallo-Roman times to the UNESCO-listed medieval citadel, then roam the 19th century bastide.
- The 17th century Château de Pennautier, set in formal gardens among vineyards where 10 generations of the Lorgeril family have lived. Discover the estate and enjoy a private wine tasting.
- Mirepoix, a beautiful medieval town in the foothills of the Pyrenees known for its lively market, arcades and half-timbered houses; or the Canal du Midi’s origins at the Saint-Ferréol reservoir near Revel, viewing the Cathar castle at Saissac on the way.
Throughout the voyage, the Savannah provides elegant accommodations, with a brightly colored exterior suited to its Mediterranean setting, three double cabins and a single cabin with ensuite bathrooms and air conditioning, and a spacious sun deck with shaded dining area, loungers and a spa pool.
Departures are available from either La Redorte or Bram, with transfers from Narbonne or Carcassonne included.
For couples, the Savannah’s smaller sister ship, Amour, is also available for Canal du Midi cruises with the vintage Citroën 2CV drive and helicopter flight.
For more information, visit https://www.french-waterways.com/
