Cruise Line

European Waterways

European Waterways offers intimate, luxurious barge cruises highlighting Europe’s scenery, culture, cuisine, and history.

A classic river barge named "L’Impressionniste" cruising through a calm canal in the French countryside. The boat has a navy blue hull with white and yellow trim, and passengers are seen relaxing on the open deck under a canopy. Rolling green hills and a historic stone castle sit in the background under a clear blue sky.

European Waterways

  • 51 years in business

European Waterways offers intimate, all-inclusive hotel barge cruises through some of Europe’s most scenic canals and rivers, providing a personalized and immersive travel experience. With a fleet of elegant barges accommodating just 6 to 12 guests, each journey combines luxurious accommodations, gourmet cuisine, and expertly guided excursions to historic sites, vineyards, and charming villages. Guests enjoy fine dining, regional wines, and exclusive cultural experiences, all while cruising at a leisurely pace through France, Italy, Scotland, and beyond. Carefully curated for travelers who appreciate slow travel and refined luxury, European Waterways delivers an unforgettable way to explore Europe’s hidden gems in comfort and style.

Why European Waterways

European Waterways

European Waterways logo

European Waterways stands as a premier provider of luxury hotel barge cruises, offering discerning travelers an intimate and immersive way to explore Europe's most picturesque inland waterways. With a fleet of meticulously maintained vessels, European Waterways navigates through diverse regions, from the sun-drenched vineyards of Southern France to the tranquil lochs of the Scottish Highlands. Each journey is crafted to showcase the rich tapestry of Europe's cultural heritage, history, and natural beauty.

Unparalleled Onboard Experience

Aboard European Waterways' hotel barges, guests are enveloped in an atmosphere of refined elegance and comfort. Accommodating between 6 to 12 passengers, each vessel ensures a personalized and exclusive experience. The dedicated crew, including a captain, gourmet chef, and knowledgeable tour guide, attends to every detail, providing exceptional service throughout the voyage. Spacious en-suite cabins, tastefully appointed lounges, and sun decks with panoramic views create a serene environment for relaxation and socializing.

Culinary Excellence and Authentic Excursions

Culinary delights are a cornerstone of the European Waterways experience. Onboard chefs prepare exquisite meals using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, paired with fine regional wines. Daily excursions offer guests the opportunity to delve into the local culture, with guided tours to historic castles, bustling markets, renowned vineyards, and charming villages. Whether it's a private wine tasting in Burgundy or exploring the ancient ruins of Scotland, each outing is designed to enrich and inspire.

A Curated Selection by Small Ship Travel

At Small Ship Travel, we are dedicated to providing our clients with exceptional small ship cruise experiences that epitomize luxury, authenticity, and personalized service. After a comprehensive evaluation, we are proud to feature European Waterways as a distinguished partner in our curated collection. Their unwavering commitment to excellence aligns seamlessly with our mission to offer unforgettable journeys that cater to the sophisticated traveler.

Book with Confidence

Partnering with Small Ship Travel ensures access to exclusive itineraries and bespoke services tailored to your preferences. Our team of experts collaborates closely with European Waterways to craft seamless travel experiences, from the initial consultation to your return home. Embark on a voyage that transcends traditional cruising, where every detail is thoughtfully curated to exceed your expectations.

Discover Europe's hidden gems with European Waterways and Small Ship Travel—where luxury meets exploration. Contact us today to begin planning your next extraordinary adventure.

European Waterways's Fleet

Elegant Hotel Barges for Intimate European Journeys

Step aboard spacious, luxurious hotel barges designed for intimate journeys through Europe’s most breathtaking waterways.

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