KR-LINE OFFERS RELAXING BARGE CRUISES IN FRANCE IN 2015

With the recently converted charming class hotel barge Johanna, KR-line offers new cruises from Bruges to Paris and the regions of Champagne or the Upper Loire around Sancerre.

(TRAVPR.COM) FRANCE/BELGIUM - January 23rd, 2015 - KR-line started in 2013 offering barge cruises in Belgium and is expanding its sailing area for 2015 into France with the owner operated hotel barge Johanna. New routes include a 14 day cruise from Bruges to Paris in early May and 7 day cruises in the Upper Loire and Sancerre region (May-June) and the Champagne area (July-August). In September, the ship will explore the Somme valley between Péronne, Amiens and Abbeville before returning to Bruges for some autumn cruises into Flanders Fields.

The barge Johanna was build in 1966 as a cargo ship, mainly transporting coal and minerals between Germany and France. She was one of a kind, being build on Frécinet size but with a sharp bow and a slow running engine. In 2012, the new owners transformed the ship into a comfortable hotel barge, keeping the nice shape and lines of the original build. There are 3 double or twin bedded cabins with ensuite bathroom, all with opening portholes and individual air conditioning. The inside decoration is in a contemporary and airy style with lots of light coming in trough the picture windows and skylight. Direct access from the living area with gallery kitchen to the spatious sundeck all add to the cosy and relaxing family atmosphere on board.

Johanna's new 2015 itineraries cover some of the most attractive and beautiful areas of France. Crossing the canal bridge of Briare, visiting Sancerre and Pouilly wineries or exloring the "Réserve Naturelle du Val de Loire" are just a few of the highlights of the Upper Loire cruise. The Champagne area offers the opportunity to taste and discover all there is to know about these deligtful bubbles, as well as a wonderful nature with the "Faux de Verzy" and even a lighthouse of Verzenay in the mountains of Reims. The 14 day cruise from Bruges to Paris explores the less known North of France with cities like Lille, Douai, Compiegne, Noyon, Pontoise and others. Arriving in Paris on the water is another unforgettable experience.

As an owner operated ship, KR-line offers 3/4 board cruises with self guided tours. Guests can experience the relaxing influence of slowly sailing in an ever changing surrounding while enjoying a fine glass of wine on the sundeck. As the ship arrives in the early afternoon at the next village, there is ample time to visit the area. The more daring guests can explore the region on bicycle while the barge cruises slowly to it’s destination of the day. 6 bikes are available to follow the ship on the towpath or discover the area further away from the canal.

Cabins on the Johanna are available for $3,275 per person, based on double occupancy for a 6 night, 3/4 board cruise (1 dinner and drinks from the minibar between meals not included). Full charter of the ship is also possible starting at $18,125. Free use of maps, tourist information, bike GPS, WiFi. Additional services on request (full board, transport, guided tours, etc.)

For more information, pricing, cruise shedules and brochure, visit KR-line.com, contact by e-mail or call +32-476-46.40.92