Your Private Floating Villa in the Heart of Burgundy Franche Comté

A Rare Human Experience: Meet Your Local Experts

We are Sandrine and Maxime, the owners and heart of Maïtena. Having grown up along these very canals, we welcome you not as passengers, but as our personal guests. Maxime, your Captain and Chef, prepares seasonal gourmet meals inspired by our regional heritage.

Sandrine, your hostess and pastry chef, ensures every detail of your comfort is met with a smile. We share our 'Art de Vivre' with you in an authentic, warm French atmosphere—where hospitality speaks louder than words.

To unlock the deep history of our region, Pascal, our private trilingual guide (English, German, French), joins you for every cultural visit. Also a local native, Pascal meets you directly at the boat to lead your private excursions. From the birthplace of Pasteur to the Hospices de Beaune, he provides the intellectual depth and linguistic fluidity that such a prestigious journey deserves, ensuring your discoveries are as rich as they are effortless

Three souls born and raised in Burgundy and Franche-Comté, dedicated to making your journey unforgettable.

Maxime & Sandrine: Your Private Hosts (On Board)

Pascal : your private tour guide

A Sanctuary of Space and Privacy

The Barge Maïtena

A Private Chef Experience: From Market to Table

Savor the true flavors of Burgundy and Franche-Comté, prepared exclusively for you by your hosts.

Maxime, Your Private Chef : "Maxime sources the finest seasonal ingredients from local markets in Dole and Dijon. His cuisine is a modern tribute to our regional heritage—think Bresse poultry, Charolais beef, and artisanal cheeses, all paired with hand-selected Burgundy wines."

Maxime surrounds himself with the best wine merchants and winemakers in the region to enhance each meal aboard Maïtena with exceptional food and wine pairings.

Sandrine’s Pastry Atelier : "Every afternoon and evening, Sandrine shares her passion for French pâtisserie. From delicate macarons to traditional tarts and gourmet desserts, her sweet creations are the poetic conclusion to every meal."

• Bespoke menus

• Farm-to-table

• Local sourcing

• Signature desserts

• Exquisite wine pairing

Pumpkin ravioli, roasted butternut balls with aged Comté cheese sauce

Gravlax trout, apple tartare, shallots, lemon cream sauce with roasted beetroot purée

Jura chicken ballotines, Comté cheese, spinach, yellow wine sauce and morels

Raspberry tartlet, aged vanilla ganache from Reunion Island infused with linden

Your Seven-Day Odyssey through Burgundy’s Heart.

From the hidden gems of Franche-Comté to the prestigious estates of the Côte de Nuits, every mile tells a story

Sunday – The Art of Arrival (Dole)

Sunday: Welcome Aboard

Travel: Arrival in Dole Meals: Dinner onboard .

In the afternoon, you will be met by your private chauffeur at the designated meeting point and driven to the barge moored in the historic town of Dole. A traditional Champagne (or local Jura Crémant) welcome and introduction to the crew awaits you. Savor your first gourmet dinner onboard, followed by a nightcap on deck as you soak in the peaceful atmosphere of the canal.

Monday: History and the Tanner’s District Travel:

Dole to L'Abergement-la-Ronce

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner onboard

This morning, your private guide, Pascal, leads you through the winding streets of Dole.

You will visit the majestic Notre-Dame Collegiate Church, the picturesque tanner’s district with its narrow waterways, and the birthplace of Louis Pasteur.

After lunch, relax on deck during an afternoon cruise toward L'Abergement-la-Ronce. It is the perfect time to enjoy the scenery or follow the barge on a leisurely bike ride along the towpath.

Tuesday: The Imperial City and the Hospices de Beaune

Travel: L'Abergement-la-Ronce to Auxonne

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner onboard

The morning is spent cruising toward the Saône River to reach Auxonne.

Known as the "Imperial City," this former stronghold fortified by Vauban famously hosted a young Napoleon Bonaparte at its artillery school.

In the afternoon, your guide escorts you to the world-renowned Hospices de Beaune. Admire the iconic multicolored glazed-tile roofs and the fascinating history of this 15th-century "palace for the poor." Return to the barge for a refined dinner moored in Auxonne.

Wednesday: Market Flavors and Hands-on Cooking

Travel: Auxonne to Saint-Jean-de-Losne

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner onboard

For the early birds, the day begins with a stroll to the local bakery to select the morning’s fresh bread and pastries.

We will also visit the local market together to hand-pick fresh ingredients for our evening meal. During the afternoon, we cruise toward Saint-Jean-deLosne, the historic heart of French river boating.

Later, enjoy a convivial cooking lesson with Maxime and Sandrine or a lovely stroll through the streets of Saint Jean. Tonight’s dinner will be a special celebration of the dishes you helped create.

Thursday: "La Table de Léonce" and Grand Cru Wines

Travel: Saint-Jean-de-Losne to Longecourt

Meals: Breakfast and dinner onboard Gastronomic lunch at the Château

Enjoy a free morning for a stroll or a bike ride at your own pace. At 10:30 AM, we depart for the legendary Clos de Vougeot.

After touring this Cistercian landmark—the headquarters of the Knights of the Tastevin—you will be seated at "La Table de Léonce."

Here, you will enjoy an exceptional lunch paired with a tasting of seven wines, including two Grand Crus.

In the afternoon, we resume our peaceful cruise toward the bucolic surroundings of Longecourt.

Friday: Splendors of the Ducal Palace

Travel: Longecourt to Dijon

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner onboard

Enjoy a final morning of navigation as we approach the capital of Burgundy. Experience the quiet beauty of the canal before mooring at the Port of Dijon.

The afternoon is dedicated to exploring the city: the Palace of the Dukes and Estates of Burgundy, the Place de la Libération, and the medieval shopping streets. Back onboard, the crew prepares a festive cocktail hour and the Captain’s Farewell Dinner to culminate your journey.

Why this Itinerary is Unrivaled:

Total Privacy: The barge is yours alone. No crowds, no schedules but your own.

Local Mastery: Your crew and guide were born and raised here; they don't just show you the sights, they share their home.

Seamless Transitions: From the river’s majesty to the canal’s intimacy, every mile is a changing canvas.

Saturday: A Fond Farewell

Travel: Transfer from Dijon

Meals: Breakfast onboard

After a final gourmet breakfast, it is time to say goodbye to the crew. Your private chauffeur will transfer you to your designated drop-off point, taking with you the lasting flavors and memories of Burgundy.

Thank you Sandrine and Maxime for this wonderful discovery on board Maïtena, we've lived a beautiful escape "Gastronomy on the river"

Jean

Dear Sandrine, Maxime & Titom,

Our time with you both on Maïtena has been one of the most memorable of my life. You make an exceptional host and hostess, spoiling us with exceptional cuisine and service. You are both a joy and delight to be with; you have thought of everything down to the very last detail.

I felt totally cared for. Thank you!

Maxime, I'm sure you could dock Maïtena through the eye of a needle! Sandrine, your docking skills are outstanding.

It has been a privilege meeting and sailing with you both – Never to be forgotten – Christina (Melbourne)

Guest Stories

“A glimpse into the unforgettable moments shared aboard MS Maïtena.”

Wow! What an amazing trip. A truly magical, once in a lifetime experience.

Sandrine and Maxine are the most gracious hosts, thinking of every single possible detail to make us feel pampered and comfortable. The food was absolutely delicious, the cabin beautifully

appointed, and the excursions perfectly curated for my mum and me.

The river and canals are stunning and tranquil, and Maxine and Sandrine are like a well oiled machine navigating the locks- a joy to watch.

This trip brought us so much joy! Highly, highly recommended.

Sue (Denver)

Sandrine, Maxime

Thank you, thank you, thank you for a most wonderful voyage.

Every single part of the experience is filled with love and consideration. Your beautiful outlooks on life are contagious!

Exceptional!

With much Gratitude,

Your Investment in Excellence

The MS Maïtena is exclusively yours. To guarantee absolute intimacy and a bespoke service, we only offer full charter bookings for your private group of 2 to 4 guests.

2026 - 2027 Season Rates

• Private Charter for 2 Guests: €20,000

• Private Charter for 3 Guests: €21,500

• Private Charter for 4 Guests: €23,500

• Rates are all-inclusive for the 7-day / 6-night journey.

What is Included in Your Journey?

Our promise is simple: once you step aboard, your only task is to relax. Everything is taken care of.

• Exclusive Use of MS Maïtena: 2 luxury en-suite cabins and all common areas privatized for your group.

• Dedicated Local Crew: Captain-Chef Maxime and Hostess-Pastry Chef Sandrine at your service 24/7.

• Private Trilingual Guide: Pascal, your dedicated expert, for all shore excursions and cultural visits.

• Gourmet Dining: All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners prepared on board with fresh, local market ingredients.

• Fine Wines & Open Bar: A curated selection of Burgundy Grands Crus, local wines, spirits, and soft drinks available at all times.

• VIP Excursions: All entry fees to historic sites (Hospices de Beaune, Clos de Vougeot, etc.) and private chauffeured transfers during visits.

• Luxury Transfers: Private transfer to and from Dijon or Dole train stations.

• Leisure Equipment: High-quality bicycles for towpath exploration and on-board amenities.

Ready to Secure Your 2026 Dates?

With only a few weeks available each season, we recommend inquiring early to secure your preferred dates.

Please note: As a family-owned barge, we personally handle every inquiry to ensure your journey is tailored perfectly to your desires.

Your Journey

Frequently Asked Questions

Essential Details for Your Comfort

Is there Wi-Fi and connectivity on board?

Yes, we provide complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the barge. While we encourage you to disconnect and enjoy the scenery, you can remain connected with the world whenever needed.

Is the MS Maïtena air-conditioned?

Absolutely. The entire barge, including all private cabins and common areas, is equipped with silent, individually controlled air conditioning and heating to ensure your comfort regardless of the season.

Can you accommodate specific dietary requirements?

Of course. As your private chef, Maxime tailors every menu to your needs. Whether you require gluten-free, vegetarian, or have specific allergies, we will consult with you prior to your arrival to ensure every meal is a delight.

How do we handle transfers and luggage?

We provide private, chauffeured transfers to and from the train stations in Dole or Dijon. Once you arrive, our crew handles all luggage, so your journey begins the moment you step off the train.

What is the dress code on board?

The atmosphere on the Maïtena is "Relaxed Elegance." Comfortable, casual attire is perfect for cruising and cycling. For the Farewell Gala Dinner, many guests enjoy dressing up slightly (Smart Casual), but your comfort is always our priority.