Classic Canal Du Midi Cruise

Day 1 - Marseillan

You will be met at the designated meeting point and escorted by minibus to Anjodi moored in the lakeside fishing village of Marseillan, enjoying a view over the oyster beds and home of Noilly Pratt Vermouth. Champagne welcome, followed by time for a relaxing stroll around this lovely fishing village before dinner is served on board. (D)

Day 2 - Marseillan/Portiragnes

This morning we visit Pezenas, a delightful village, mostly known for its associations with the French playwright Moliere, who is said to have written many plays while staying there. This afternoon we cruise from Marseillan to Portiragnes through the nature reserve of Bagnas with potential sightings of flamingoes and other birds. Dinner on board. (B,L,D)

Day 3 - Portiragnes/Beziers

This morning we cruise to the bottom of the Fonserannes 7 lock flight at Beziers, where we continue along the 300 year old tree lined Canal du Midi. After lunch enjoy an informative wine tasting in the 14th Century Chateau de Perdiguier, famed for its 15th Century frescoes and Cabernet Sauvignon and Chardonnay wines. Dinner in Beziers at a local auberge. (B,L,D)

Day 4 - Beziers/Poilhes

This morning we cross the aqueduct over the River Orb and then ascend the 7-lock flight of Fonserannes before reaching the world's oldest canal tunnel at Malpas. On arrival at the picturesque village of Poilhes, we take an excursion out to Minerve, the ancient capital of Minervois, which boasts a 12th Century Cathar fort surrounded by deep limestone gorges. Besieged by Simon de Montfort in 1215, its hilltop location affords spectacular views. A fascinating recreation in miniature of the bloodthirsty Cathar rebellion and small museum complete the intriguing picture. Dinner on board. (B,L,D)

Day 5 - Poilhes/Argeliers

A morning visit to Narbonne, a Roman Mediterranean capital where the Visigoth monarchs once lived. Enjoy the Archbishop's Palace and Horreum. Explore the indoor market at the hub of this bustling town, where you will have time to shop or simply absorb the relaxed atmosphere. Return to the barge for a cruise along the shaded canal to Argeliers, stopping off en route at Chateau de Guery, a 500 year old canal side vineyard, for a pre-dinner wine tasting of the full-bodied Corbieres. Dinner on board. (B,L,D)

Day 6 - Argeliers/Le Somail

Morning visit to Carcassonne. Dating back to the Gallo Roman era, this is the most complete Medieval fortified city in existence today. With its 52 watchtowers, portcullis and extraordinary repertoire of defenses, it resisted the many armies that tried to storm this Camelot setting. In the afternoon we cruise along the historic Midi Canal to the delightful village of Le Somail. Captain's Farewell Dinner on board. (B,L,D)