ELISABETH   

ELISABETH
NIVERNAIS CANAL

The Canal du Nivernais was built between 1784 and 1841. Built to connect the Loire and Seine rivers its
principal intended role was the transportation of firewood the Morvan forest to Paris, via Clamecy and
Auxerre – an event known as the “flottage”. Known as one of the most beautiful cruise routes in France,
your relaxing vacation begins in the beautiful riverside village of Gurgy.

Day 1 – Sunday  MAILLY-la-VILLE

After being met at a pre-arranged meeting point and transferred to Elisabeth, you will enjoy a champagne welcome with your captain and crew. After you have settled in to your guest rooms and perhaps explore the village, you will enjoy your first dinner onboard introducing you to the wonderful local cuisine and wines of Burgundy.

Day 2 – Monday  MAILLY-la-VILLE TO ACCOLAY

Your first day begins with a leisurely breakfast. We celebrate your arrival touring the town of Vezelay.
Vezelay is one of the must see UNESCO listed sites found in Burgundy. The town is crowned by its 12th century basilica from where St.Bernard of Clairvaux delivered his rousing speech before the 2nd crusade in 1147. On your return to Elisabeth, we enjoy a leisurely cruise to Accolay before dinner on board.

Day 3 – Tuesday  ACCOLAY TO VINCELLES

This morning, after a breakfast of still warm pastries and breads from the artisanal village baker, we tour the Grottes D’Arcy sur Cure. This is where pre-historic man lived and painted some 38,000 years ago! The paintings in the caves are still original and have remained untouched – truly awe-inspiring!

Following lunch on board, this afternoon we cruise past the hilltop vines of Irancy on our way to Vincelles for tonight’s mooring. A delicious dinner awaits you on board this evening.

Day 4 – Wednesday VINCELLES

Today, we start the day touring one of the most beautiful villages in France on their market day, Noyers-sur- Serein. After taking in the sights, sounds and smells of a typical market we make our way to Irancy for lunch
.
It’s a relaxed affair at one of our favourite local restaurants. After lunch we tour the vines of the Grand Cru in Chablis and visit one of the oldest wine makers in Chablis for a tasting of Chablis in Chablis!

You return to Elisabeth for cocktails and dinner on board in the pretty riverside village of Vincelles.

Day 5 – Thursday  VINCELLES TO AUXERRE

This morning, we introduce you to some of our local friends; you spend the morning immersing yourself in the region’s culture and traditions, meeting charming local characters and wonderful artisanal producers.

After lunch, we spend the afternoon relaxing during the cruise from Vincelles to Auxerre, arriving serenely in the centre of this majestic and ancient town with the best seats in the house on board Elisabeth.

Dinner on board.

Day 6 – Friday  AUXERRE TO GURGY

Today, you will discover the wonderful city of Auxerre. Situated on the banks of the Yonne, your tour guide will tell the story of the city through its array of impressive buildings. On your return, you will be served another delicious lunch and a relaxing and leisurely cruise to the charming riverside village of Gurgy.

This evening we toast your time aboard Elisabeth with the Captain's Gala Dinner.

Day 7 – Saturday  GURGY TO PARIS

After breakfast, sadly it's time to say goodbye - à la prochaine fois ! Your private transfer will drop you back to your prearranged departure point.

On alternate weeks the cruise will be in the reverse direction. This is a sample itinerary and is subject to change.

ELIZABETH
Year 2026 Rates in US Dollars