6 Passenger Johanna Barge cruising Belgium and France

6 passenger Johanna

Casual Barge Biking Cruises in Flanders, Belgium

The concept with the Johanna barge is an unescorted barge and cycling experience. We offer official maps of the bike-route-network and all possible information on sites to visit. We can prepare a route, but bikers can select their own route the evening before based on the information we can provide. A prepared list of routes and points of interest will be made available for bikers to take with them.

In some regions of Belgium particularly the northern Flemish speaking provinces they have now installed a system of cycle network routes known as the 'Fietsroutesnetwerk'. This is a system of marking each intersection of the cycle network with a unique number or 'Knoopunt. Signs are then placed along the route giving you directions to the next number intersection of the cycle routes that radiate from the last intersection. At each intersection there is a map showing you all the numbered intersections, once you get the hang of it, it is quite easy to navigate, you just look at the map, decide your route, note down the numbers and then follow the well marked signs. It's basically like cycling by numbers!

EXCURSIONS:

On certain routes, optional guided tours are possible. These are indicated by destination. Please make your selection when booking the cruise, so we can reserve the guides. Example: We offer a unique day trip during our Flanders Fields Route, visiting the most interesting places in the front area around Ypres. On request, the guide also take into account specific requests of our guests (visit tomb of family, ...). A helicopter flight above the World War I battlefield area is another possibility.

Of each place we visit we provide you with all interesting information while still on board: leaflets of museums, sightseeings, opening hours, maps, attractions, etc. .. so you can plan your visit in advance.

BIKES:

There is a lightweight comfortable bike with 7 gears available for every guest. They can be used in each port to explore the city or region.

The sporty types can even cycle the whole daily traject. We give you a packed lunch for the road. Maps with clear directions are available, but a trip along the numbered bicycle network is also possible. Trips can be prepared the day before and uploaded to the GPS we provide. It's as simple as biking by numbers. A cell phone is included in case of problems. Given the average speed of the vessel is less than 10 km/hour, you can take your time and get off for a visit along the road or enjoy the beautiful panorama.

The use of our bicycles, helmets and GPS is free. Please inform us if you bring your own bike. For electric bikes, don't forget to bring the charger (220 Volt on board).

CABINS
3 double standard cabins either twin or queen bedded

Cabins 1 and 3 have 2 twin beds of 80x200cm. They can be combined to a queen size bed of 160x200cm. The middle cabin (nr2) has a queen size double bed.
Cabins are 3 x 3.5m (approx 10 x 12 ft), including bathroom of 1x2m (3x6ft) with shower, wash basin and toilet. All double rooms have 2 portholes that can be opened with view on the water, and 1 larger window (closed) a bit higher in the wall. There is a central air circulation system, so there is a constant slow change of all air to prevent condensation, bad smell, etc. Each cabin (and living room) has individual Airco to keep cool in summer or warm in winter. Additionally, there is a central heating with radiator in every cabin and one in the bathroom to dry towels.
Ceiling is in white wood structure, walls panels in white acacia and floor is a french oak parquet. Bathrooms are in grey-white Polyester.

Each cabin boasts large windows, comfortable low beds, en-suite facilities and air conditioning.

We love a neat environment and hope you appreciate this. The common areas are vacuumed daily. Guest rooms are cleaned and changed every voyage. Halfway through the week fresh towels are provided.

In the central minibar soft drinks and beers are offered at reasonable prices. Coffee and tea are always available for free.

Are there any questions or problems while on board? Just inform us and we will try to find a suitable solution.

THE LIVING ROOM

The living room with sitting area has ample large windows overlooking the water and the surrounding landscape. A glass dome brings a maximum of light inside.

MEALS:

Patsie prepares daily fresh meals in the open kitchen. In a country where every region has its specialties, supply is inexhaustible. Each meal is a surprise as Patsie is adding her own delicate touch to the recepy.

For breakfast there is a wide selection of fresh breads and cereals, savory and sweet fillings, fruit juice, yoghurt, coffee, tea and milk, and bacon and eggs on request.

At the lunch buffet there is a choice of some hot dishes such as soup or quiche, fresh salads, Belgian and French cheeses and local delicatessen. Drinks are either a selection from the many Belgian beers or a glass of wine. Coffee and tea are available all day.

Dinner is always a feast. Patsie serves a surprising balance of a starter, a main dish from regional products and a dessert that titillates your tongue and palate.

Please inform us timely if you are vegetarian or have any food allergies, so we can adjust the menu.

Depending on the route, some meals are taken at a restaurant of your choice, so you can enjoy the local cuisine. These are not included in the booked price.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

NOTE THERE IS A CAT ON THE BARGE
›The spacious sundeck of 34m sq m is ideal to sit in a relaxing deckchair and enjoy the sun and the surrounding landscape. For shadow lovers, part of the deck is covered with a canopy. Table and chairs invite you to an al fresco dining. With the flowers and plants, it is a pleasant place to spend the day.
› 6 bikes
› internet point with two computers
› mobile Internet connectivity when in range.
› TV and radio in the lounge


Green Cabin	Green Cabin	Green Cabin

Red Cabin set as Twin Bedded	Red Bathroom	Single cabin

Bathroom Single	Yellow Cabin set as Double Bedded	Yellow Bathroom

Dining Area	Dining on the Sundeck	Sundeck


Biking Maps in Belgium		Steak and Mushroom Dinner

Mooring place at Sint Martens		Barging in Flanders

Strepy	Narrow Canal	Mechelen

Canal in Bruges	Lock	Doornik

Flanders Fields		Bikes