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.

What rules should I know before joining this trip?  

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.

What are the main highlights of this trip?  

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

What activities are optional on this trip?  

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)

What is the 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.

Who will be leading the group?  

CEO (Chief Experience Officer) throughout.

Is travel insurance required for my trip?  

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. 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.

How old must I be to join this trip?  

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.

What is the group leader like?  

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.

What kind of accommodation can I expect on this trip?  

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.

What happens if I experience problems when arriving?  

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.

Are there any additional packing suggestions I should consider?  

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.

How can I share feedback about my trip experience?  

Earn 5% off your next G Adventures Tour (up to $100 USD)*

After your travels, we want to hear from you! Your feedback information is so important to us and to thank you for your time, we are pleased to offer a 5% discount (up to a maximum of $100 USD) off your next G Adventures holiday. All you need to do is submit the form within 4 weeks of the completion of your tour, and you'll be able to join the thousands of travellers who have taken 2, 3, 4 or even 10 or more tours with us!

Discount cannot be combined with other offers or applied to 'Independent' style trips. Maximum discount value is $100 USD (or equivalent currency). Valid for new bookings only. G Adventures reserves the right to withdraw or modify this offer at any time without notice. Limited to one discount per person.

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.

Is there a disclaimer I should read before booking this trip?  

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 view a final copy of your Trip Details a couple of days prior to travel, in case there have been changes that affect your plans.

Is there an 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.

What transportation will we take on this trip?  

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.

Where will we stay during the trip?  

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

What important notes should I be aware of before the trip?  

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.

What meals are included in this trip?  

7 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 3 dinners

Is there an extra cost for travelling solo?  

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.

When can I do my laundry on this trip?  

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.

Are international flights included in this trip?  

No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.

However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your GCO or booking agent for further details.

In addition, 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.

What are the modes of transportation on my trip?  

Private vehicles, Danièle canal barge, bicycle, walking.

How much emergency money should I bring on this trip?  

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!

What should be on my 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)
• Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)
• Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)

Essentials:
• Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)
• 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
• Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)
• 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
• Swimwear
• Watch and alarm clock
• Waterproof backpack cover
• Windproof rain jacket

Health & Safety:
• Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)
• Hand sanitizer
• Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)

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

How large will the group be?  

Max 22

Are there 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.

How much spending money do I need for my trip?  

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.

What should I know about currency, credit cards, and exchanging money while on this tour?  

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

Should I be tipping on my trip?  

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