Itinerary Highlights

Day 1 (Sunday): Welcome Aboard in Besançon

Time: Embarkation at 5:00 PM.

Details: Meet your crew, settle into your luxury cabin, and enjoy a welcome aperitif as you soak in the views of this historic city.

Day 2: Besançon Citadel & Scenic Cruise to Thoraise

Morning: Guided tour of the UNESCO-listed Citadel of Besançon. Discover its rich history and panoramic views.

Afternoon: Cruise towards Thoraise, passing through the stunning Percée de Thoraise, a unique canal tunnel carved into rock.

Day 3: Ranchot & the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans

Morning: Relax as we navigate to Ranchot, a picturesque village along the canal.

Afternoon: Visit the Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans, a UNESCO World Heritage Site showcasing 18th-century industrial architecture.

Day 4: Discover Dole & Michelin-Starred Dining

Morning: Cruise to Dole, the birthplace of Louis Pasteur.

Afternoon: Private guided tour of Dole, including:

The Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame.

Pasteur’s birthplace.

The charming historic center.

Evening: Savor an exquisite dinner at La Chaumière, a Michelin-starred restaurant.

Day 5: Saint-Jean-de-Losne & the River Navigation Museum

Morning: Cruise to Saint-Jean-de-Losne, a hub of French inland waterways.

Afternoon: Explore the Museum of River Navigation, offering a fascinating insight into the region’s boating heritage.

Day 6 (Friday): Farewell in Saint-Jean-de-Losne

Time: Disembarkation at 10:00 AM.

Details: Say goodbye to the crew and take home unforgettable memories of your French adventure.

the cruise itinerary can be done in the direction Saint Jean de Losne - Besançon following our general schedule

Why Choose This Cruise?

Luxury & Comfort: A Barge hotel experience aboard the elegant Maïtena.

Exclusive Excursions: Private guided tours and access to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Culinary Excellence: Savor fine French cuisine, including a Michelin-starred dinner.

Relaxation & Scenery: Enjoy peaceful cruising through the beautiful waterways of eastern France.

We will navigate between canal and river with breathtaking landscapes

Bourgogne-Franche Comté Cruise 2025

Rhin-Rhône canal (Doubs Valley) - River Saône.

The Ultimate 5-Night French Canal Cruise

Join us for an unforgettable 5 or 6-night journey, aboard Maitena, where culture, gastronomy, and breathtaking landscapes come together for the ultimate barge cruise experience.

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*The circuits described on this page correspond to our regular circuits, however, they may be modified for reasons cited in our general conditions of sale.