The Saraphina cruises between Portiragnes-Plage near the Mediterranean and the majestic medieval city of Carcassonne. To ensure that you make the most of your stay on-board, the days are split between exploring the surrounding area and cruising. While cruising you are free to unwind as you wish; watch the lovely landscape float by from the deck, relax in the lounge with its views of the passing canal and its inhabitants. Walk, jog or cycle (on our traditional Dutch bicycles) along the tow path. Should you wish, you can even try your hand at steering the barge from the covered wheelhouse, which has panoramic windows and comfortable seating.

Following a delicious breakfast your personal tour guide will pick you up to explore the local area and to enjoy lunch in a local restaurant. All itineraries can be tailored to accommodate specific sites of interest -- such as wineries and museums -- and include visits to: the historic streets of Pezenas and the Cistercian Abbey of Fontroide; the towns of Beziers and Narbonne; the medieval Cathar village of Minerve as well as the medieval city of Carcassonne.

The Saraphina is perfect for romantic honeymoon couples, a group of four friends or a family of four. We welcome children and ensure they will be entertained. In addition we can offer a beach day, horse riding, water and adventure parks and canoeing.

Sample itinerary Portiragnes to Homps - Full board:

Sunday - We pick you up from your hotel, train station, or local airport and bring you safely aboard Saraphina. After a short cruise through the "mini Camargue" and Champagne welcome, your first dinner will be served aboard. A beautiful mooring in the country side close to the village of Portiragnes.

Monday - After breakfast you will be taken to the historic streets of renaissance Pezenas with its arts, crafts and antique shops. After a typical bistro lunch in Beziers we cruise over the aquaduct and up the majestic flight of locks at fonserannes. This evenings mooring a stones through away from Beziers.

Tuesday - The morning visit brings you to the cistercien abbey of Fontfroide. After lunch at a quaint restaurant, with a stunning view over the "pond of Montady" we cruise along the windiest part of the canal to our mooring in Capestang, a small village with a charming square where you can enjoy an aperitif with a view on the enormous 12th century collegial church.

Wednesday - Our tour guide takes you to Narbonne. known for the arch bishops palace, the gothic cathedral, shopping, and the famous covered food market, where you will choose a selection of sea food or charcuterie to enjoy back onboard. We then cruise to another stunning mooring next to the sleepy village of Le Somail. Take the opportunity to visit the world famous antique book shop and the ateliers. In the evening you can walk to a restaurant in the village to wine and dine.

Thursday - Thursday's visit brings you to the medieval cathar village Minerve and the olive oil factory Oulibo. You will then enjoy your lunch ashore returning to the barge for an afternoon cruise to Roubia. A wine tasting before dinner could be organised if you wish.

Friday - The medieval city of Carcassonne is a highlight of the week. After a guided tour around europe's largest medieval fortified town and lunch there we set off for the final cruise to the village of Homps and farewell dinner aboard.

Saturday - After breakfast you will be transferred to train station, hotel or local airport for your onward journey.