TV star Rosa rejoins the European Waterways hotel barge fleet

February 1, 2010 in Cruise Industry European Waterways is very pleased to announce the re-launch of the hotel barge “Rosa” in southwest France. Rosa is an old friend, having been part of the European Waterways fleet for a number of years, including when she was enjoyed by Celebrity Chef Rick Stein during the filming of the BBC TV series “French Odyssey.” European Waterways’ MD, Derek Banks, said: “Rick’s televised journey a few years ago was a great success. The picturesque area of Gascony between Agen and Toulouse will form part of Rosa’s new cruise route, and we are delighted that she is underway again.” The new route from Agen to Montauban on the Canal des Deux Mers in Gascony features the best that Gascony has to offer, including private wine, Armagnac and foie gras tastings, delightful French countryside, and fascinating excursions. After undergoing a complete refit to a high standard, Rosa will start cruising again in August, a perfect time to enjoy this picturesque region of France. Rates for a cruise aboard Rosa are from €2,550 per person sharing a double cabin and €17,800 for an exclusive charter of the entire vessel for 8 passengers. This is all-inclusive (excl. travel). COMFORT, SERVICE, AND VALUE Barging along the waterways and canals of Europe has become increasingly popular among travelers who are seeking an alternative to the fast-paced chaos of the typical land tour, in which they can visit many popular attractions in as short a time as possible. A European Waterways cruise represents the ultimate in comfort, with guests drifting gently through the picturesque countryside, pampered along the way by a highly-attentive crew. Every vessel features a master chef, a multilingual crew, comfortable accommodation, gourmet meals, a wide selection of fine wines, an open bar, and excursions to some of the countryside’s most cultural and historical sites.

Rosa Expert Review

June 12, 2010 in Cruise Critic European Waterways’ eight-passenger Rosa is a former Dutch “clipper” barge completely refitted in 2010. The ship sails two routes. The first is a Gascony cruise that takes passengers through the vineyard-rich L’Occitanie region on the Canal des Deux Mers, the waterway that links the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. The second is a sailing along the 300-year-old Canal du Midi between Carcasonne and Toulouse. The 100-foot barge has four cabins, all of which have en-suite facilities. Two of the cabins have double beds and two have twin beds. The air conditioned interior includes a dining room and saloon. Outside, there’s a spacious sun deck with lounge furniture. The ship also carries eight touring bicycles. Like its fleetmates, Rosa is an all-inclusive offering; drinks and shore excursions are folded into the cost of the cruise. Excursions may include wine, Armagnac and foie gras tastings, a visit to a historic Montauban and the chance to traverse a 1000 foot aqueduct. (An air-conditioned eight-passenger VW mini-bus follows the barge’s route.) A four-person crew includes a captain, tour guide, housekeeper and chef.

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