Since announcing the re-opening of the 2020 cruise season in France, England, Scotland and Ireland, luxury hotel barge operator European Waterways has now confirmed that two charter cruises will be setting sail this coming weekend. Both are exclusive whole barge charters booked by British guests – one in Scotland aboard the 12-passenger Spirit of Scotland, cruising the Caledonian Canal, Loch Ness and the Highlands; and the second in Southern Burgundy, aboard the 8-passenger Finesse.

Derek Banks, managing director of European Waterways said: “We are so looking forward to welcoming these guests aboard. At this particularly challenging time for the travel industry, we are experiencing considerable interest in the private chartering of our luxury barges, which accommodate from just 6 to 20 passengers – our clients are able to travel in the safety of small numbers. With these capacities, they are ideal for families and small groups of friends in search of a private escape on a whole barge charter; or those seeking a small-group experience with like-minded travellers when booking individual cabins. For 2021, we are expecting a normal operating season and we are currently offering 10% off charters and cabins on selected spring cruises.”

With ‘finding your own space’ being at the forefront of the ‘new normal’ for travel planners in the UK, the barges cruise through peaceful countryside where guests can savour clean, fresh air and unspoiled views. The daily shore excursions are often exclusive and away from crowds and tourist hotspots.

European Waterways is following appropriate additional measures to ensure that its already strict safety and hygiene procedures address the threat of COVID-19, whilst maintaining the relaxed ambience that a barge cruise represents.