The "Nocturnal Eclipse" evening private boat cruise in the Champagne region offers a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of this renowned wine-growing area from a new perspective. Guests can unwind aboard a solar-powered houseboat as they explore the scenic waterways, indulge in a relaxing Nordic bath, and take in the breathtaking views of UNESCO-listed vineyards. With flexible catering options and a cancellation policy that provides peace of mind, this 6-hour journey is the perfect way to take in the tranquility and charm of the Champagne region. But the true allure of this experience lies in the promise of discoveries yet to unfold.
Key Points
- A 6-hour evening cruise in the Champagne region, priced from €949 for up to 8 people, with a full refund for cancellations up to 24 hours in advance.
- Includes 1 hour of sightseeing in Ay, 1-hour boat ride to Hautvillers, 1-hour exploration in Hautvillers, and 4 hours of free time for Nordic bath relaxation.
- The unique solar-powered houseboat offers eco-responsible features, onboard amenities, and stunning views of UNESCO-listed Champagne vineyards and landscapes.
- Key highlights include navigation through tranquil waterways, wildlife observation, and the opportunity to immerse in the heart of the Champagne wine region.
- The cruise offers a "book now, pay later" option with no upfront payment, and electric car transfer back to the starting point between 11 pm and 1 am.
Overview and Pricing
What does the "Nocturnal Eclipse – Evening Private Boat Cruise in Champagne" experience entail?
This immersive 6-hour evening cruise offers a unique way to explore the Champagne region. Priced from €949 for up to 8 people, it’s available daily at 5 pm.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and there’s no upfront payment required to reserve your spot.
The cruise includes 1 hour of sightseeing in Ay, a 1-hour boat ride to Hautvillers, 1 hour of exploration in Hautvillers, and 4 hours of free time with a relaxing Nordic bath.
An electric car transfer back to the starting point in Quai du Moulin completes the experience.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in Ay.
Itinerary and Experience
The evening private boat cruise kicks off at the Quai du Moulin in Ay, where guests will spend 1 hour exploring the charming town.
Next, the boat will cruise for 1 hour to Hautvillers, where guests can enjoy 1 hour of sightseeing.
The remaining 4 hours are free time, which can be spent relaxing in the Nordic bath or simply taking in the scenic views.
The experience concludes with an electric car transfer back to the starting point, which takes approximately 20 minutes.
Key highlights of the itinerary include:
- Navigation through UNESCO-listed Champagne vineyards
- Wildlife observation along tranquil waterways
- Scenic views of Champagne hillsides and surrounding nature
- Onboard catering available (must be reserved 1 day in advance)
Boat Features and Comfort
Unique among boats in the Grand Est region, the Nocturnal Eclipse is the only solar-powered house boat available for private cruises.
Built in France in 2024, this eco-responsible vessel features wastewater filtration and can accommodate up to 8 people on a single level.
Onboard amenities include a solarium, sofa, toilets, and an equipped kitchen with a microwave.
Guests can enjoy the boat’s relaxing features, such as a heated Nordic bath, sunbathing areas, and a living room with a leather sofa.
With its thoughtful design and sustainable approach, the Nocturnal Eclipse offers a comfortable and environmentally-conscious experience on the Champagne waterways.
Scenic Highlights and Activities
During the evening private boat cruise, guests can navigate through the UNESCO-listed Champagne vineyards and observe the region’s tranquil waterways and wildlife.
The scenic highlights of the experience include:
- Stunning views of the Champagne hillsides and surrounding natural landscapes
- Opportunities to spot local birds and other wildlife along the peaceful waterways
- Floating gently through the heart of the world-renowned Champagne wine region
- Appreciating the unique character and heritage of the Champagne landscape
Onboard catering is available for those who wish to elevate their experience, but must be reserved at least one day in advance.
More Great Tours NearbyStarting Location and Pick-up
The evening private boat cruise departs from the Quai du Moulin in Ay. This is the main starting point for the journey, where guests will board the unique solar-powered houseboat.
The boat will then cruise for an hour to the village of Hautvillers, allowing passengers to take in the stunning UNESCO-listed Champagne vineyards along the way.
After an hour of sightseeing in Hautvillers, guests will have four hours of free time, which includes the opportunity to relax in the onboard Nordic bath.
At the end of the evening, an electric car transfer will take them back to the original starting point, with pick-up times ranging between 11 pm and 1 am.
Cancellation and Booking Policy
Customers can cancel their evening private boat cruise in Champagne up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. This flexible cancellation policy allows guests to book with confidence, knowing they can adjust their plans if needed.
Alternatively, customers can reserve their spot without any upfront payment, taking advantage of the "book now, pay later" option. The boat cruise can accommodate up to 8 people, making it an ideal choice for groups looking to experience the UNESCO-listed Champagne vineyards at night.
Key details to note:
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance
- Reserve now & pay later
- Accommodates up to 8 people
- Daily availability at 5 pm
Prohibited Items and Accessibility
Certain items are prohibited on the evening private boat cruise in Champagne.
Pets, except for assistance dogs, aren’t allowed on board. Plus, the consumption of alcohol and drugs is strictly prohibited.
This private cruise is designed to provide a peaceful and relaxing experience, and the boat’s operators aim to ensure the safety and comfort of all guests.
The boat isn’t wheelchair accessible, so guests with mobility issues may want to consider alternative options.
Onboard Catering and Reservations
Onboard catering is available for guests who wish to enjoy a meal during their evening private boat cruise in Champagne. However, this must be reserved at least 1 day in advance.
The catering options include:
- Champagne-inspired picnic baskets
- Charcuterie and cheese platters
- Hot gourmet meals
- Vegetarian and vegan options
Guests are encouraged to take advantage of this convenient service to fully enjoy the tranquil and picturesque setting of the Champagne vineyards.
Advance reservations are required to ensure a seamless dining experience on board the solar-powered houseboat.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Types of Weather Conditions Are Suitable for the Cruise?
The cruise is suitable for a variety of weather conditions, including clear skies, light winds, and mild temperatures. Rainy or stormy weather wouldn’t be ideal, as it could impact the enjoyment of the outdoor amenities.
Are There Any Age Restrictions for Participants?
The cruise accepts participants of all ages, as long as they are accompanied by an adult if under 18. There are no specific age restrictions for this activity.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Boat?
Guests are allowed to bring their own food and drinks on the boat, however, onboard catering must be reserved in advance. The boat has an equipped kitchen and passengers can enjoy their own provisions during the cruise.
Is There Any Live Entertainment or Guided Commentary During the Cruise?
The boat cruise does not provide any live entertainment or guided commentary. It’s a more relaxed, self-guided experience allowing passengers to enjoy the scenic views and amenities onboard at their own pace.
Can I Customize the Itinerary or Activities During the Experience?
Yes, the itinerary and activities can be customized during the experience. Guests can speak with the boat operator to modify the sightseeing, free time, or amenities to suit their preferences and needs.
Sum Up
The "Nocturnal Eclipse" evening private boat cruise offers a unique opportunity to experience the serene beauty of Champagne’s UNESCO-listed vineyards. With a solar-powered houseboat, Nordic bath, and flexible catering options, this 6-hour journey provides a peaceful and immersive way to unwind and explore the region. Whether you’re seeking a romantic getaway or a relaxing group outing, this cruise is the perfect way to discover the enchanting Champagne countryside.
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