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Welcome Aboard

Luxury barge holidays for 2 or 4 people

Make lasting memories with a cruise aboard the colourful and charming Saraphina.

Explore the wonders of the Languedoc-Roussillon and discover the 350 year old masterpiece that is the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO world heritage site. We endeavour to make your holiday one to remember.

From the moment you step onboard you will have only one thing to do, RELAX and let a crew of 4 take care of your every need. We invite you to cruise with us through tiny bridges, unique oval locks, and the French countryside enveloped by vines.

Saraphina is a Dutch barge built in 1924. During her early life she was used to transport freight throughout Holland.

She has now been lovingly converted into a hotel barge, carefully and tastefully designed to ensure all guests enjoy a relaxed and comfortable stay. Saraphina is a charismatic, old fashioned boat with a contemporary, bright and welcoming interior. During a stay on-board you'll not only enjoy full hotel services and a personal service from owners and hosts Finnegan and Emily, but the opportunity to wine, dine and relax whilst taking in some of the most beautiful and historic places along the Canal du Midi.

In addition to a lovely sun deck, there are two en-suite cabins to sleep four (One cabin 183 sq ft with twin beds or queen and one cabin 140 sq ft with double bed) both of which are equipped with everything you could need. Our unique dutch bikes are just another delightful way for you to discover the Canal du Midi.

Thank you Emily, our wonderful lady in waiting who served us and prepared our table each evening. For keeping our rooms in such order and being there with a smile whether breakfast, lunch or dinner. To our captain Finn, where would we be without your guidance throughout this fabulous cruise, allowing us to see everything along the way.

- Reena and Mike (13 October 2012)

Emily, thank you for making our stay so comfortable. The table was always set so beautifully. Our anniversary was very special with all of your touches. We always felt taken care of. We loved being in your company. Finn you are the "Captain Extraordinaire", you made us feel so welcome and always with a smile.

- Jack and Germaine (31 May 2013)

A fabulous trip due to the talents and personalities of the extraordinary crew.! Finn guides this craft though the canal with ease and skill. Emily is the perfect hostess and seems to be able to fill any part on the boat – at the wheel, cooking and describing our cheese selections each night.

- Pat and Jim (28 September 2013)

We are happier and stronger family thanks to this experience. Thanks to a spectacular crew and magical setting, we have a lifetime of memories.

- The Rokers (August 2014)

Dearest Emily and Finn WOW!!! I can't thank you enough for the most wonderful trip of a lifetime. Your hospitality was truly "out of this world amazing". With delicious incredible meals, beautifully presented on the unique, cosy, & classy wonderful Saraphina. Experiencing the lovely French countryside and drifting down the canal du midi was exciting, peaceful, fun and absolutely amazing in so many ways!

- Patty (2016)

Oh my heavens, what a wonderful adventure, along with over the top food and service. - Thank you! We travel extensively and truly this is top shelf. We will be back! Love you both! Can’t wait to see you again!

- Pam and Hayden (10 September 2016)

Emily who was always there when needed and had the most amazing knowledge of cheeses, and to our captain Finn, who looked after all of our interests in a private way and ensured a wonderful experience for all of us.

- David and Barbara (18 May 2013)

Finn steered the vessel masterfully though the locks and all those tiny bridges, full of cheer and very much a part of the community of the canal. Emily charmed us with flowers, cheese and wine and simultaneously kept everything ship shape onboard and our glasses filled.

- David and Barbara (18 May 2013)

Discover

Barge Saraphina owners Finn and Emily

Who are your Hosts?

Find out more about Finn and Emily who will be your hosts during your journey!

Barge Saraphina

The Saraphina

Find out more about Barge Saraphina and what it has to offer.

Barge Saraphina Dining

Dining

Being so close to the Mediterranean means we can offer a fantastic choice of fresh seafood.

Barge Saraphina on Canal du Midi

Itinerary

The Saraphina cruises between Portiragnes-Plage near the Mediterranean and the majestic medieval city of Carcassonne.