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French Country Waterways offers $1,000 savings in Burgundy

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The 18-passenger luxury barge Esprit
The food and wine of Burgundy’s fabled Côte d'Or wine-growing region is the focus of French Country Waterways’ six-night cruise aboard the 18-passenger luxury barge Esprit.

Passengers who book the Aug. 27 or Oct. 1 departures can save $1,000 per person. The fare for these dates is $3,995 per person, double occupancy.

The Esprit’s route follows the narrow 18th-century Canal du Centre overlooking vineyards of the Côte de Beaune, the meandering River Saône and the Canal de Bourgogne between St. Léger-sur-Dheune and Dijon.

Daily sightseeing excursions include an owner’s tour of the Château de Rully, family-owned and occupied since the 12th century; a tasting of fine wines hosted by a local vintner in Chassagne-Montrachet; tours of Beaune, the wine capital of Burgundy; the medieval abbey of Clos de Vougeot, headquarters of Chevaliers du Tastevin with vineyards dating back to the 12th century; and Dijon, capital of the Dukes of Burgundy.

With ample free time, travelers can relax on the sun deck or explore on foot or by bicycle. Hot air ballooning is also an option.

In the family's 15th-century home in Chagny, Jacques Lameloise, owner and chef of the Michelin three-star Lameloise, prepares a special menu gourmand of seasonal Burgundian specialties served with the finest vintages of the Côte de Beaune and Chalonnais regions. Aboard the barge, sumptuous four-course dinners are served with a selection of top wines including many from Grand Cru and Premier Cru vineyards.

The Esprit has a partially canopied sun deck, lounge and dining room with picture windows, bar, library and nine staterooms. Prices cover accommodations, all meals, all wines, open bar, sightseeing, bicycles and escorted transfers between Paris and the barge.