This Micro-Cruising Trend Is One You Don’t Want To Miss: Barge Cruises

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Beth Graham

There’s no doubt that cruises, and river cruises in particular, are quite popular these days. After all, this mode of travel is one of the most efficient and relaxing ways to see multiple destinations. However, the popularity of those cruises comes with a price, primarily the crowds. If you’d like to slowly meander down a river with a small group of friends or family where you’re (literally) in the driver’s seat, a barge cruise, or micro-cruising, is something you should check out.

What are Barge Cruises?

Imagine gliding along peaceful waterways, surrounded by picturesque countryside and charming villages. Barge cruises, also known as micro-cruising, offer an intimate and leisurely way to explore many of Europe’s hidden gems along the narrow canals. These former working barges, once used to transport goods through the canals of Europe to major ports, have been meticulously renovated into luxurious floating hotels, accommodating only a handful of passengers for a truly private experience. Most barge cruises accommodate from two to 20 passengers so every aspect of the experience is completely your own. You can rent out the entire barge for your own group, or you can be adventurous and become fast friends with another barge group. The barges typically travel short distances going only four miles per hour which makes for an exceptionally tranquil journey. Each barge is staffed with a team that includes a captain, private chef, tour guide, and hostess who offer a level of personal attention you’ll never find on larger cruises.

Daily Life on a Barge Cruise

You’ll sail for a few hours through some of Europe’s most beautiful, unspoiled countryside, and then dock for the afternoon where you can enjoy a local tour which can include anything from a wine tasting to a chateau tour to shopping at local markets. Afternoons are your time to relax; you can bike or stroll along the canal for some exercise, nap in the sun on the deck, or lose yourself in a book, or do nothing at all but enjoy the peace and serenity. Barges stay docked for the evening and in some cases, the crew will arrange for a stroll into the local town for an authentic dinner experience.

The slow pace of barge cruising and the stunning beauty of the countryside sets micro-cruising apart from traditional cruises, and for many, the culinary experience is the highlight. The chef selects and presents regional wines and cheeses, adding a delightful touch of authenticity to each meal. Often, there will be discussion about excursion options for your small group, again, making barge cruises more of a bespoke experience. Whether it’s a guided bike ride through scenic countryside, a walking tour of a historic town, or a leisurely visit to a local market, each excursion promises an immersive and personalized exploration of the region.

Again, this is not your typical style of cruising. It’s much better. One of the most enchanting aspects of barge cruises is the access to smaller, off-the-beaten-path villages that larger vessels cannot reach.

Micro-cruising Itineraries

The Barge Lady offers an array of micro-cruises in France, the UK, Ireland, Holland, Germany, and Italy, with options for golf, biking, and family-oriented experiences. The barge cruising season, running from April through October, ensures that each voyage captures the unique charm of the European countryside in different seasons, promising an unforgettable journey through some of the most beautiful and tranquil landscapes.

As overtourism begins to creep into some of the most popular destinations, these small group micro-cruises are disrupting the popular river cruise market. If you’re a traveler who loves some privacy and time on your own, you’ll enjoy barge cruising.