ATHOS Luxury Barge Cruises are run with 5 crew members including her Captain of  20-ish years, Julian Farrant, a full-time onboard Chef, Tour Guide, and 2 Hosts/Hostesses. This French hotel barge is managed by Julian's wife, Dannielle, who was the tour guide on ATHOS for many years. The ATHOS Crew has a well-earned reputation for hosting their guests with charm and competence.

Combined with the scenic and historical Canal du Midi, ATHOS is a perfect choice for vacationers who enjoy comfortable accommodations with air conditioning/heating, the sunny Mediterranean climate, and gourmet French Cuisine and wine amongst good company.

Traditionally built in 1964 as a commercial sand, grain and wine barge, the ATHOS was designed especially for the Canal du Midi. ATHOS was converted into a luxury holiday vessel in 1982, and now holds 5 cabins (max. 10 passengers), each cabin with ensuite bathroom and a choice of twin or double beds; a main saloon with a large dining area, lounge and bar; and a spacious upper deck. Since her 1982 conversion, ATHOS has undergone a number of redecorations and renovations, keeping her in her well-reputed classy condition.

Nestled in the shade of giant Plain trees and surrounded by endless vineyards, Athos cruises through low 16th century bridges, past rustic stable houses, and into the slow-moving Southern French Villages. This historical setting makes for spectacular landscapes and scenery, not to mention the smooth and relaxing pace that is unrivaled from the deck of the luxury hotel barge, ATHOS. 

Read on for cruise highlights and details of the cuisine and fine wines, or use the side menu to explore the various cruise itineraries on offer, check cruise rates and view our barge photo gallery.

Cruise highlights:

• All-inclusive open bar, free wines, gourmet cuisine, entry fees to excursions
• Visit the medieval city of Carcassonne
• Wine tasting at Domaine de Guery
• Visit Pezenas, an architectural gem
• Passage through Fonserannes locks
• Visit Roman Narbonne
• Cross the 18th century Orb canal bridge
• Good towpath for walking or cycling
• Optional Hot Air Ballooning

Cuisine aboard:

Gourmet Onboard Dining As part of the inclusive cruise, your personal Chef will invite you to all meals onboard while you are with Athos. He carefully selects fresh produce from the local markets, and will delight you with regional flavours and traditional dishes served with flare and style. Here are some samples of what you might taste while onboard the Athos: Entrée: Warm Goats’ Cheese Croutons drizzled with Honey and Walnuts, served on a bed of Lambs’ Lettuce in Dijon Mustard Vinaigrette. Plat Principal: Fresh Mediterranean Sole in Clarified Butter & Lime Sauce, served with Citron & Lime-Infused Couscous and crispy Mange-touts. Cheeses: Chaource Rochebaron Camembert Dessert: Fondant au Chocolat with Grand Marnier and Crème Anglaise  Wines: Château de la Colombette 2005 Sauvignon Blanc Domaine de Gaujal 2005 AOC Picpoul de Pinet Château Etang de Colombes Gris Rosé Domaine de la Fraisse AOC Minervois Rosé Borie du Maurel, Esprit d’Automne 2004 AOC Minervois Rouge Château de la Liquiere 2002 Tradition AOC Faugeres