Private day – Cruise through the Champagne vineyards

Unique Private Cruise in Champagne’s Vineyards for Up to 4 People

This private day cruise offers a luxurious and eco-friendly way to explore the Champagne vineyards of the Grand Est region in France. Priced at $2,105 per group—which accommodates up to 4 guests, with an option to extend to 8 for an extra charge—this 10-hour journey combines scenic sailing, gourmet dining, and Champagne tastings.

What makes this tour particularly special is the solar-powered House Boat, named Ay-Champagne, which sails seamlessly for 6 hours of electric navigation through the classified UNESCO-listed vineyards. It’s a refined experience designed for those who appreciate luxury, sustainability, and intimate exploration of Champagne’s beautiful landscapes.

While the tour promises a unique perspective on the vineyards from the canals and river, it also includes meals and a bottle of Champagne, making it a comprehensive, all-in-one tasting adventure. It’s suitable for small groups seeking a private, environmentally conscious experience with plenty of comfort and scenic beauty.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Private, eco-friendly experience aboard a solar-powered houseboat.
• Up to 4 guests included, with an option for 8 for an additional fee.
• Sailing for 6 hours through the Champagne vineyards on canals and the Marne River.
• Includes a meal and 1 bottle of Champagne to enhance the tasting journey.
• Stops at key Champagne villages like Aÿ-Champagne, Dizy, Hautvillers, and Epernay.
• Flexible timing, with options to start at different times and cancel up to 24 hours in advance.

The Solar-Powered House Boat: Ay-Champagne

The tour is led by the solar-powered House Boat called Ay-Champagne, built in France in Arcachon in 2024. Its solar design makes it stand out as a model of ecotourism, filtering wastewater and limiting drinking water usage. This boat offers a comfortable and safe environment for a full day of exploration, with amenities like a kitchen, toilets, and a sunbathing solarium.

This eco-responsible vessel is designed for luxury and sustainability, allowing passengers to enjoy the stunning scenery without compromising the environment. The boat’s French craftsmanship adds a touch of elegance to the experience, making it more than just a boat ride—it’s a statement of eco-conscious travel.

Navigating the Champagne Canals and Marne River

The itinerary involves 6 hours of electric navigation through the canals and the Marne River, offering a unique vantage point of the Champagne landscape. The itinerary includes visits to Aÿ-Champagne, Dizy, Hautvillers, and Epernay.

Each stop is an opportunity to admire the vineyards and villages that are UNESCO-listed, with explanations provided along the way. The slow pace allows for flora and fauna observation, giving passengers a chance to enjoy the tranquil waterways and local countryside.

The cruise includes multiple short stops—such as 30-minute visits to Dizy and Hautvillers, and a full hour at Epernay—which are perfect for taking photos and soaking in the scenery. These stops help balance the cruising with walkable exploration of the charming Champagne villages.

Detailed Stops in the Champagne Region

The itinerary begins at the House Boat and proceeds with a 30-minute cruise to Aÿ-Champagne. From there, the boat continues to Dizy, with a 45-minute cruise, then on to Hautvillers for a 15-minute visit.

A longer hour-long stop at Epernay provides time for sightseeing and enjoying local sights. After lunch at Epernay, the cruise resumes with a 1-hour cruise, followed by a 30-minute stop at Hautvillers, and a final 15-minute cruise back to Dizy. The journey wraps up with a 45-minute cruise returning to the starting point, completing a full day of picturesque sailing and sightseeing.

Each stop offers scenic views of the vineyards and opportunities to observe local flora and fauna, all while enjoying the luxury and comfort of the boat’s amenities.

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Gourmet Cuisine and Champagne Tasting Onboard

Included in the tour is catering that must be reserved 1 day in advance, featuring Made in France pots with cheese and charcuterie as starters. The onboard kitchen has a microwave and hand-washing sink, allowing for a comfortable dining experience.

As part of the experience, 1 bottle of Champagne is included, perfect for toasting and tasting during the cruise. Passengers can enjoy the luxury of having a gourmet meal paired with Champagne while cruising through vineyard scenery.

The lounge area with a leather sofa, table, and chairs provides a shaded retreat for relaxing, while the sunbathing solarium offers a spot to enjoy the sun on clear days. Remember to bring sunglasses, caps, or hats to handle the water’s reflection.

Practical Details and Booking Flexibility

This private tour is designed for small groups, with the option to extend up to 8 guests for an additional charge. The duration is 10 hours, allowing plenty of time for sightseeing, dining, and enjoying the scenery.

Potential participants should note that smoking is not permitted onboard. The tour includes pick-up options from Epernay, Champagne Ardenne TGV, and Reims railway stations for an extra charge. The tour offers free cancellation if cancelled up to 24 hours in advance and the chance to reserve & pay later, providing flexibility in planning.

The Experience Provider: my-House-Boat

The tour is operated by my-House-Boat, an experienced provider specializing in luxurious, eco-conscious waterways experiences. Their focus on sustainable design and private groups ensures an intimate and personalized journey through the Champagne vineyards.

Comparing Similar Experiences in Champagne

This cruise stands alongside other Champagne experiences like masterclasses, tastings, and winery tours available through providers like GetYourGuide. What sets this tour apart is its combination of sailing, eco-responsibility, and private luxury, offering a unique perspective that other experiences may not match.

Final Thoughts on the Champagne Vineyard Cruise

This private, solar-powered cruise delivers a relaxing, scenic, and luxurious exploration of the Champagne region. The 6 hours of electric navigation paired with stops in key villages make it an ideal choice for small groups seeking a private escape with a focus on sustainability and comfort.

While the cost is higher than some other tour options, the inclusive meal, Champagne bottle, and private setting provide excellent value for those wanting an upscale, eco-conscious adventure. The flexible booking options and customizable group size further enhance its appeal for discerning travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is included in the tour price?
Access to the entire boat except for the beds and Nordic bath, plus a meal reserved 1 day in advance and 1 bottle of Champagne.

Can I bring more than 4 guests?
Yes, for an extra charge, the boat can accommodate up to 8 guests.

How long is the cruise?
The total experience lasts 10 hours, with 6 hours of electric navigation and multiple stops along the itinerary.

Is the boat eco-friendly?
Yes, the Ay-Champagne is solar-powered, filters wastewater, and limits drinking water use, making it a sustainable choice.

Are there any physical restrictions?
The data does not specify physical requirements, but it’s suitable for those comfortable with boat travel and walking between stops.

What should I bring?
Bring sunglasses, caps, or hats for sun protection, especially on the sunbathing solarium.

Is food provided onboard?
Catering must be reserved 1 day in advance, with options including cheese, charcuterie, and other French specialties.

Can the tour be canceled?
Yes, full refund if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

Are drinks included?
One bottle of Champagne is included; additional drinks are not specified.

What are the start times?
The tour lasts 10 hours, with availability depending on the day. Check specific starting times when booking.

Is transportation available to the start point?
Yes, the provider can arrange pick-up from Epernay, Champagne Ardenne TGV, and Reims stations for an additional fee.

This private sailing experience through Champagne’s vineyards combines luxury, sustainability, and scenic beauty—perfect for those seeking a personalized, eco-conscious adventure in France’s famous wine country.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby