The French Hotel Barge Renaissance accommodates up to eight passengers in ultimate luxury... even more so with her recent refit in 2008 which delights the most discerning passenger. Improvements included a new galley, a re-floored forward deck with roof extension for dining al fresco, an expanded, "guest-friendly" wheelhouse, upgraded staterooms and an additional silent generator.

The beautifully appointed lounge has comfortable seating. A cosy bar is stocked with your favourites, and bookshelves contain a Bose CD system, current books, up-to-date periodicals and magazines. The four guest staterooms, each with ensuite bathrooms, can be configured with either two twin or one double berth. Renaissance has a sundeck with Jacuzzi and bicycles for clients' use.

Renaissance cruises the Upper Loire and Western Burgundy region of France. Their route includes cruising on the River Seine, the Canal de Loing and the ancient Canal du Briare with stops in the beautiful towns of Samois-sur-Seine, St Mammes, Nemours, Nargis and Rogny les Sept Ecluses.

Renaissance has an outstanding, experienced crew that will continue to keep their guests cheering about the care and enthusiasm the crew bestow upon them during a fabulous cruise week in the Upper Loire and Western Burgundy regions.

Sample menu: Evening meals

• Fresh foie gras grilled with grapes in a red wine sauce
• Salad of wild forest mushrooms and bacon in a caramelised strawberry vinegar dressing
• Escargot in pastry with Cognac sauce, garlic and fresh tarragon

• Lamb medallions in a red wine sauce, potato gratin and young spring vegetables, Provencal style
• Sole filet in a white wine sauce, fennel caramelised with Pastis liquor and pasta tossed with pesto
• Roasted Duck with mini turnips, orange sauce, puree of artichokes and fresh garden peas

• Epoisse
• Crottin de Chavignol
• Bleu de St. Agur
• Livarot
• St. Marcelin
• Brie de Meaux

• Sancerre La Grande Cuvee - Domaine Jolivet
• Puligny Montrachet - Domaine Leflaive
• Meursault Charmes - Domaine Bouzereau
• Chablis Grand Cru "Lee Preuses"

• Delice aux 3 Chocolats sur un coulis de framboise (Three chocolate desserts in a raspberry coulis)
• Mouse givree aux fruits rouges (Iced mousse cake with warm red fruits)
• Tarte aux framboises (Home made strawberry pie with French custard)