Float into a fresh vision of Champagne excellence. Board Coquelicot to discover a buoyant villa, rich in design details that honour the history and heritage of the locality.

INCLUDES

Table d’hôte meals and complimentary beverages
All excursions including exclusive use of the onboard bicycles alongside the river
Private guide
We provide a return transfer service to and from our luxury boat within France and Geneva

Days 1 & 2 - Jaulgonne to Vandières

In Jaulgonne, prepare to see the Champagne region from a fresh perspective. Your effervescent cruise begins with a champagne reception, a chance to meet your dedicated captain and crew. As you unpack and explore Coquelicot, your elegant sanctuary, the chef onboard prepares your first gourmet dinner of the week.

Your first morning begins with a leisurely cruise towards Vandières in the heart of the beautiful Marne Valley. After a delicious lunch, it’s time for a delightful visit to Hautvillers Abbey, where Dom Pérignon accidentally discovered how to make champagne through the process of secondary fermentation. Enjoy a private tasting at a small local producer on the way back to the barge. Unwind over an aperitif before a delicious dinner on board.

Days 3 & 4 - Damery to Mareuil-sur-Äy

Today, we cruise towards Damery, our evening mooring. After lunch, visit Taissy, the home of Ruinart champagne. Here, enjoy a one-off experience curated by Belmond and the oldest established champagne house, dating from 1729. Enjoy an exclusive tour of the vineyard and sample some exquisite champagnes before returning to the barge for a spectacular five-course dinner created by Valérie Radou, Ruinart’s private chef, and paired with specially selected vintages.

The day starts with a tranquil visit of Vertus' colourful market. Choose some ingredients that catch your eye and your private chef will transform them into a feast back on board. Continue meandering along the River Marne before alighting to exploring Épernay, the jewel of Champagne. Before returning to the boat, enjoy a private tasting at Leclerc Briant, a local winery renowned for its pioneering biodynamic champagnes. Return to Coquelicot for dinner – and perhaps a digestif beneath the stars before you retire for the night.

Day 5 - Vraux

Linger over breakfast as Coquelicot heads for Vraux, a quiet mooring at the junction between the Marne’s Lateral Canal and the Marne-to-Aisne Canal. Relax into the rhythm of the water and perhaps alight to walk or cycle along the towpath. In the afternoon, head to Reims, a famous centre of champagne production and renowned for its spectacular Gothic cathedral. Dinner tonight is served at a beautiful local restaurant.

Day 6 - Châlons-en-Champagne

Enjoy a relaxed morning cruise, with ample time to absorb the tranquil scenery from on deck. After lunch, alight for a thrilling visit to Veuve Clicquot, one of the most celebrated champagne houses in the world. It was named after the widow (“veuve”) who took over her husband’s wine business at the tender age of 27 and rescued it from the brink of failure. Plunge into the atmospheric underground cellars that stretch deep into the crayères, or chalk pits, for over 24km and glean fascinating facts about one of the world's most recognisable labels. Explore Châlons-en-Champagne and its rich heritage while the chef prepares a fantastic farewell dinner onboard.

A New Perspective on Champagne MasteryExperience a journey unlike any other with Coquelicot – a serene haven on the water and your gateway to the Champagne region. Enjoy elegant dining on the top deck, where you can enjoy exquisite meals against a stunning, shifting scenery. Delight in unforgettable experiences and a unique collaboration with Ruinart, the oldest champagne house in the world, allowing you to dive deeper into the sparkling essence of the region. Onboard Les Bateaux Belmond’s Signature Villa, Champagne awaits your exploration.

Delight in an exquisite combination of fine French wines and champagnes with every relaxed lunch or evening meal. Alternatively, take a step away from Coquelicot to explore a variety of regional specialties and ingredients, transformed into unique dishes by the dedicated chef.

Experience the next level of excellence. Belmond’s Signature Suites & Villas collection promises an exceptional level of elevated service—so step inside and discover an indulgent space that is exclusively yours.After a day of adventure, close the door on your own private sanctuary surrounded by the exquisite embroidered fabrics and fine antique furniture of Coquelicot. Wake to birdsong and the gentle sounds of the river. Open curtains to tree-speckled vistas, calm waters and the blue skies of Champagne. Coquelicot, designed by Humbert and Poyet, embodies the essence of Champagne with contemporary furnishings, antique elements, and local touches. Spacious bedrooms feature local fabrics in cream and earthy tones, reflecting the region's agricultural heritage. The master bedroom showcases Art Nouveau grandeur with fluted details and rose gold finishes.

Head to the top deck at dawn to witness a breathtaking golden sunrise while enjoying your morning coffee and pastries. Connect with your chef and crew during a delightful alfresco lunch, taking in the beautiful views of passing vineyards and picturesque chateaux. In the evening, gather your loved ones for a sparkling night under a stunning canopy of stars.When it comes to celebrating special occasions, Coquelicot truly shines. Their unique partnership with Ruinart, the oldest champagne house in the world, offers an enriched experience of the region's exquisite champagne. By chartering a journey on Coquelicot, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the Ruinart vineyards with an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour, filled with indulgent moments and artistic delights.After your vineyard adventure, return to the boat for a special lunch crafted by Ruinart’s chef, paired with a premier selection of labels curated by their sommelier.