Burgundy River Cruise Adventure Adventure Tour

Blessed with some of the most gorgeous countryside in Europe, if not the world (not to mention perhaps the best wine around), Burgundy is a place everyone should explore at least once. And the best way to do it is from the deck of an ambling river barge. Visit small villages and first-rate wineries, bike through forests and vineyards on a provided bicycle, and soak up the glorious sunshine, all with the help of a charming little hotel that goes where you go. You won't get a better glimpse of Burgundy's pastoral pleasures than this.

Accommodation  

Aboard the Danièle canal barge (6 nts), hotel (1 nt).

Money Exchange  

Credit cards and debit cards are very useful for cash advances. Visa cards are the most widely accepted. While ATMs are commonly available, there are no guarantees that your credit or debit cards will actually work in Western Europe. Check with your bank before departure. You should be aware when making purchases or withdrawing cash on a credit card that a fee usually applies. Do not rely on credit or debit cards as your only source of money. A combination of Euros, travellers' cheques and cards is best. Always take more rather than less, as you don't want to spoil the trip by constantly feeling short of funds.

As currency exchange rates can fluctuate often we ask that you refer to the following website for daily exchange rates: www.xe.com

Tipping  

While conventions can vary from country to country, tipping is customary in Europe. A general rule is 10% of the bill for wait staff, and a smaller amount (€1 or €2) for other service providers.

Tipping is an expected - though not compulsory - component of your tour program, and an expression of satisfaction with the persons who have assisted you on your tour. Although it may not be customary to you, it is of considerable significance to the people who will take care of you during your travels. There are several times during the trip where there is opportunity to tip the local guides. You may do this individually, or your CEO will offer to collect the money and tip as a group. Recommendations for tipping local guides would range from €3-5 per day, depending on the quality and length of the service; ask your CEO for specific recommendations based on the circumstances and culture.

At the end of each trip, if you felt your G Adventures CEO did an outstanding job, tipping is expected and appreciated. The precise amount is a personal preference, however €30-€40 per person, per week can be used as a guideline.


CEO: €30-40 per person, per week

Barge staff: €60 per person can be left in the room at the end of your stay, this will be split up between the barge staff

Local guide hire: €5-10 per person per day

Feedback  

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us that we'll give you 5% off the price of your next G Adventures trip if your feedback is completed on-line within 30 days of finishing your trip. Your tour evaluation will be e-mailed to you 24 hours after the conclusion of your trip. If you do not receive the tour evaluation link in the days after your tour has finished, please drop us a line at customerservice@gadventures.com and we will send it on to you.

Minimum Age  

You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a G Adventures tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.

Group Leader  

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Solo Travellers  

We believe solo travellers should not have to pay more to travel so our group trips are designed for shared accommodation and do not involve a single supplement. Single travellers joining group trips are paired in twin or multi-share accommodation with someone of the same sex for the duration of the trip. Some of our Independent trips are designed differently and solo travellers on these itineraries must pay the single trip price.

My Own Room  

Please note that if you have booked the "My Own Room" option for this tour, you will receive your own single room for all night stops

International Flights  

Check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.

Laundry  

Laundry facilities are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times when you may want to or have to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

Joining Hotel  

For details of your joining hotel please refer to your tour voucher, G Account, the G Adventures App or contact your travel agent.

Optional Activities  

Dijon
- Ducal Palace (Palais des Ducs) (Free)

Chateau de Santenay
- Tour of Chateau de Santenay (9EUR per person)

Chagny
- Local Winery Visit and Tasting

Saint-Jean-de-Losne
- Tour of Saint-Jean-de-Losne (10EUR per person)
- La Musée de la Bataillerie (3EUR per person)

Vougeot
- Château du Clos de Vougeot (7.50-10.00EUR per person)

Arrival Complications  

We don't expect any problems, and nor should you, but if for any reason you are unable to commence your trip as scheduled, please refer to the emergency contact details provided in this dossier and contact us as soon as possible. If you have a pre-booked transfer, and you have not made contact with our representative within 30 minutes of clearing customs and immigration, we recommend that you make your own way to the Starting Point hotel, following the Joining Instructions. Please apply to your travel agent on your return for a refund of the transfer cost if this occurs.

Packing List  

Documents:
• Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)
• Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)
• Passport (required) (With photocopies)
• Required visas or vaccination certificates (required) (With photocopies)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)

Essentials:
• Binoculars (optional)
• Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)
• Cash, credit and debit cards
• Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)
• Ear plugs
• First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)
• Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)
• Fleece top/sweater
• Footwear
• Hat
• Locks for bags
• Long pants/jeans
• Moneybelt
• Outlet adapter
• Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)
• Reusable water bottle
• Shirts/t-shirts
• Sleepwear
• Small travel towel
• Sunglasses
• Toiletries (Preferably biodegradable)
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (required)
• Hand sanitizer (required)
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)
• Quick Covid Test/Antigen Test
• Rubber gloves

Warm Weather:
• Sandals/flip-flops
• Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)
• Sun hat/bandana
• Swimwear

Emergency Fund  

Please also make sure you have access to at least an additional USD $200 (or equivalent) as an 'emergency' fund, to be used when circumstances outside our control (ex. a natural disaster) require a change to our planned route. This is a rare occurrence!

Travel Insurance  

Travel insurance is compulsory in order to participate on any of our trips. When travelling on a group trip, you will not be permitted to join the group until evidence of travel insurance has been sighted by your leader, who will take note of your insurance details. When selecting a travel insurance policy we require that at a minimum you are covered for medical expenses including emergency evacuation and repatriation. A minimum coverage of USD200,000 is required. G Adventures can provide you with the appropriate coverage. We strongly recommend that the policy also covers personal liability, cancellation, curtailment and loss of luggage and personal effects. Some tours include adventure activities that require extra coverage (e.g. crampon use); please review your itinerary and make sure that you are covered for all included activities. If you have credit card insurance we require proof of purchase of the trip (a receipt of credit card statement) with a credit card in your name. Contact your bank for details of their participating insurer, the level of coverage and emergency contact telephone number.

What to Take  

We recommend using a backpack for your convenience, or a medium-sized suitcase if you prefer. A daypack is also essential for carrying everyday items. Space is limited on transportation, so there is a limit of one main piece of luggage per person. You will be responsible for carrying your own luggage. You must be prepared to carry your luggage up and down stairs, as well as on and off transportation.

Dress on board is informal. Plan to bring comfortable, casual clothing for all activities. When packing, we suggest that you do not weigh yourself down with too many clothes or too much gear. Select informal, practical attire that can be worn in layers.

Spending Money  

Every traveller is different and therefore spending money requirements will vary. Some travellers may drink more than others while other travellers like to purchase more souvenirs than most. Please consider your own spending habits when it comes to allowing for drinks, shopping and tipping. Please also remember the following specific recommendations when planning your trip.

A Couple of Rules  

Illegal drugs will not be tolerated on any trips. Possessing or using drugs not only contravenes the laws of the land but also puts the rest of the group at risk. Smoking marijuana and opium is a part of local culture in some parts of the world but is not acceptable for our travellers. Our philosophy of travel is one of respect towards everyone we encounter and in particular the local people who make the world the special place it is. The exploitation of people in the sex trade is completely contrary to this philosophy. Our CEOs have the right to expel any member of the group if drugs are found in their possession or if they utilize the services of paid sex workers, in any capacity.

About our Transportation  

Passengers will be required to walk during land excursions, and cycle for the duration of cycling excursions. Please see the full itinerary for information on distance and durations per excursion.

The cycling routes on this tour are moderately challenging, with a few inclined paths (approx 40k, 25mi per route). E-bikes are available to rent to be used for both excursions. Please note that the number of e-bikes is limited, and to secure an e-bike for your tour we recommend pre-booking in advance.

About Accommodation  

12 spacious cabins.
Amenities: each cabin has a window and is equipped with private en-suite facilities (shower and WC with hair dryer), TV, radio, telephone (for internal calls only), safe and independent air-conditioning.

Number of cabins: 12
Maximum passenger capacity: 22
Number of crew members: 5
Amenities on board: spacious lounge with bar - restaurant - sun deck with loungers and parasols - barbecue deck - Jacuzzi at the prow of the barge - bicycles on board available for use by passengers - wifi on board.

Itinerary Notes  

This itinerary runs in both northbound and southbound directions. Please refer to the Tour Details page for a complete list of departure dates and day by day itinerary.

While it is our intention to follow the itinerary as advertised, some modifications to the itinerary may be needed if water levels become very low. Please note that some excursions and activities may change if it is necessary to modify the vessel route.

For departures that fall over public holidays in France (such as International Workers' Day on May 1, or Bastille Day on July 14), parts of your itinerary may be modified.

Safety and Security  

Many national governments provide a regularly updated advice service on safety issues involved with international travel. We recommend that you check your government's advice for their latest travel information before departure. We strongly recommend the use of a neck wallet or money belt while travelling, for the safe keeping of your passport, air tickets, travellers' cheques, cash and other valuable items. Leave your valuable jewelery at home - you won't need it while travelling. Many of the hotels we use have safety deposit boxes, which is the most secure way of storing your valuables. A lock is recommended for securing your luggage. When travelling on a group trip, please note that your group leader has the authority to amend or cancel any part of the trip itinerary if it deemed necessary, due to safety concerns. Your Chief Experience Officer (CEO) will accompany you on all included activities. During your trip you will have some free time to pursue your own interests, relax and take it easy and explore at your leisure. While your CEO will assist you with options available in a given location, please note that any optional activities you undertake are not part of your itinerary, and we offer no representations about the safety of the activity or the standard of the operators running them. Please use your own good judgement when selecting an activity in your free time. Although the cities visited on tour are generally safe during the day, there can be risks to wandering throughout any major city at night. It is our recommendation to stay in small groups and to take taxis to and from restaurants, or during night time excursions.

Water based activities have an element of danger and excitement built into them. We recommend only participating in water based activities when accompanied by a guide(s). We make every reasonable effort to ensure the fun and adventurous element of any water based activities (in countries with varying degrees of operating standards), have a balanced approach to safety. It is our policy not to allow our CEOs to make arrangements on your behalf for water based activities that are not accompanied by guide(s).

Swimming, including snorkeling, is always at your own risk. Read more about travel safety for ways to further enhance your personal safety while traveling.

Highlights  

Cruise up the canals of Burgundy aboard the Danièle, sip local wines and sample regional dishes, cycle through villages and vineyards, relax in the onboard Jacuzzi as the scenery glides by

Itinerary Disclaimer  

While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to our style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable. The Trip Details document is a general guide to the tour and region and any mention of specific destinations or wildlife is by no means a guarantee that they will be visited or encountered. Aboard expedition trips visits to research stations depend on final permission.

Additionally, any travel times listed are approximations only and subject to vary due to local circumstances.

Important Notes  

1. While it is our intention to follow the itinerary as advertised, some modifications to the itinerary may be needed if water levels become very low. This is rare, but please note that some excursions and activities may change if it is necessary to modify the vessel route.

2. There are 8 fixed gear bikes and helmets onboard that can be used at your leisure to cycle while navigating in the canals. Please speak to your CEO about arranging a bicycle share schedule at the beginning of your tour. Please note these are not the same bikes that are used for the cycle excursions. 

3. All travellers are strongly encouraged to pack a reusable water bottle that can be filled from the water fountain on board the barge.

4. For departures that fall over public holidays in France (such as International Workers' Day on May 1, or Bastille Day on July 14), parts of your itinerary may be modified.

5. Please note this itinerary operates both Northbound and Southbound in direction. Please refer below for the exact departure dates:

NORTHBOUND

2020
April 10, 24: May 08, 22: June 05, 19: July 03, 17, 31; August 14, 28; September 11, 25; October 9, 23

2021
April 09, 23; May 07, 21; June 04, 18; July 02, 16, 30; August 13, 27; September 10, 24; October 08, 22


SOUTHBOUND

2020
April 03, 17; May 01, 15, 29; June 12, 26; July 10, 24; August 07, 21; September 04, 18; October 02, 16

2021
April 02, 16, 30; May 14, 28; June 11, 25; July 09, 23; August 06, 20; September 03, 17; October 01, 15

SOUTHBOUND ITINERARY (2020)

DAY 1: DIJON
Arrive at any time.

DAY 2: DIJON
Enjoy a free morning to explore Dijon. Opt to visit the Ducal Palace, the local market or go for a mustard tasting. In the afternoon, embark the Daniele. Raise a glass to the beginning of your river adventure. Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner.

DAY 3: DIJON/LONGECOURT-EN-PLAINE
Depart Dijon for a full day cycling tour through the Côte de Nuits region along the Route des Grands Crus, lined with lovely vineyards and some of the most picturesque villages in the region. Enjoy a wine tasting in the quaint village of Vougeot before meeting our barge in Longecourt-en-Plaine. Meals included: Breakfast | Dinner.

DAY 4: LONGECOURT-EN-PLAINE/SAINT-JEAN-DE-LOSNE
Cruise along the canal during the morning before taking a walk along the Burgundy Canal. After lunch, relax as the barge makes its way to Saint Jean De Losne. Opt to cycle or walk along the canal as the barge makes its way to port, or relax on the terrace while watching the riverside life unfold. Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch.

DAY 5: SAINT-JEAN-DE-LOSNE/CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE
Cruise along the Saône River before arriving to Chalon-sur-Saône. Opt for a walking through the old part of town, or take free time to explore this town's quaint shops and cathedral square. Opt to enjoy dinner ashore. Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch.

DAY 6: CHALON-SUR-SAÔNE/CHAGNY
Cycle along the Côte de Beaune, stopping at villages and vineyards along the way. Explore the vineyards of Chateau de Chassigny-Montrachet while stopping to sample some wines. This mostly flat ride is an ideal way to experience quintessential Burgundy. Meals included: Breakfast.

DAY 7: CHAGNY/SAINT-LÉGER-SUR-DHEUNE
Night spent on board the Daniele. Meals included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner.

DAY 8 DIJON
After breakfast, catch the group transfer to the train station in Dijon. Tour ends on arrival. Please note: Trains departing from Dijon can be booked after 10am and flights from Paris can be booked from 7pm. Meals included: Breakfast.

Dossier Disclaimer  

The information in this trip details document has been compiled with care and is provided in good faith. However it is subject to change, and does not form part of the contract between the client and the operator. The itinerary featured is correct at time of printing. It may differ slightly to the one in the brochure. Occasionally our itineraries change as we make improvements that stem from past travellers, comments and our own research. Sometimes it can be a small change like adding an extra meal along the itinerary. Sometimes the change may result in us altering the tour for the coming year. Ultimately, our goal is to provide you with the most rewarding experience. Please note that our brochure is usually released in November each year. If you have booked from the previous brochure you may find there have been some changes to the itinerary.

VERY IMPORTANT: Please ensure that you print a final copy of your Trip Details to review a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Group Leader Description  

This G Adventures group trip is accompanied by one of our Chief Experience Officers (CEOs). The aim of the CEO is to take the hassle out of your travels and to help you have the best trip possible. They will provide information on the places you are travelling through, offer suggestions for things to do and see, recommend great local eating venues and introduce you to our local friends. While not being guides in the traditional sense you can expect them to have a broad general knowledge of the countries visited on the trip, including historical, cultural, religious and social aspects.

Group Size Notes  

Max 22

What's Included  

Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your CEO and Group
Your Foodie Moment: Cremant de Bourgogne Wine Tour, Rully
Your Foodie Moment: Vougeot Wine Tasting and Cellar Tour, Vougeot. Wine, beer and non-alcoholic drinks included on board. 6 nts aboard the Danièle canal barge. Cycling in the vineyards of Côte de Beaune and Côte de Nuits. Wine tours/tastings and cellar visits for Cremant de Bourgogne and Vougeot. Visits to Saint-Jean-de-Losne and Petit-Ouges. All transport to/from included activities and between destinations. Use of bicycles during shore excursions.

Meals Included  

7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Transport  

Private vehicles, Danièle canal barge, bicycle, walking.