Belmond to launch four-cabin French riverboat this summer

Belmond’s collection of intimate French vessels Les Bateaux Belmond is set to welcome its first riverboat in Burgundy with the launch of Marguerite, A Belmond Boat.

Debuting in late summer, the “floating villa” will host up to eight guests across four double suites.

The vessel will also feature an open-plan salon, large outdoor deck and private heated plunge pool, alongside dining curated by chef Dominique Crenn of three-Michelin-starred Atelier Crenn.

Design throughout will incorporate motifs of marguerite daisies in stained glass, bespoke rugs and mosaic-encrusted dining tables.

It will be “the only riverboat of its kind”, according to Les Bateaux Belmond.

The new itinerary offered on board will embody Belmond’s philosophy of “slow luxury”, with experiences including curated art tours, castle visits, e-bike excursions, wine tastings, Dijon mustard-making classes and private chateaux-style meals.

Maxime Brun, general manager of Les Bateaux Belmond, said: “We are immensely proud to unveil Marguerite – the result of true French collaboration. From the stained glass mastery of Atelier Loire in Chartres to the fine woodwork crafted in Saint Reny, Marguerite embodies a level of savoir-faire, deeply anchored in our national heritage.

“This is exactly what our guests seek with Les Bateaux Belmond: a genuine connection to our contemporary heritage, a sense of place and authenticity that embodies our values.”

Prices for Marguerite, A Belmond Boat will start at approximately £74,330.