Private day – Cruise through the Champagne vineyards

This experience made our article of Ay Champagne’s 5 Best Tours.

Experience the Unique Charm of a Private Champagne Vineyard Cruise

Imagine gliding silently through the heart of France’s most celebrated wine region aboard a sleek, eco-friendly houseboat called Ay-Champagne. For around $2,105 per group, up to four of you can enjoy a 10-hour private day exploring the prestigious Champagne vineyards—a blend of comfort, sustainability, and authentic scenery. Guided by experienced skippers, you’ll navigate the canals and the Marne River, offering a perspective on the UNESCO-listed villages and vineyards that most day-trippers only dream of.

What we love most about this experience is how intimate and luxurious it feels; you’re not just observing from a bus or a crowded tour group, but sailing at your own pace, taking in the picturesque landscapes with complete privacy. The other highlight: the boat itself, built in France in 2024, is solar-powered, making this trip a real eco-conscious choice—perfect if you’re looking to enjoy luxury without the environmental guilt.

A potential consideration is the price point—it’s definitely a premium experience, but one that justifies itself through exclusivity, comfort, and the chance to see some of France’s most famous vineyards from a new, refreshing angle. This tour suits couples, small groups, or friends who appreciate luxury, sustainability, and authentic regional beauty, and are ready for a leisurely, personalized exploration of Champagne’s scenic slopes.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Eco-friendly Travel: Solar-powered houseboat reduces environmental impact while offering a unique sailing experience.
• Flexible Itinerary: Multiple stops along the UNESCO-listed vineyards with detailed explanations and stunning views.
• Luxury and Comfort: Well-equipped boat with a lounge, sunbathing solarium, catering, and onboard facilities.
• Authentic Experience: Private tour with a knowledgeable skipper, offering a personal touch and insights into the region.
• Gourmet Touch: Includes French-made catering with cheese and charcuterie, plus a bottle of Champagne.
• Optimal for Small Groups: Designed for up to 4 (or 8 with extra charge), perfect for intimate gatherings or couples.

A Closer Look at the Champagne Vineyard Cruise

When considering a day spent exploring the Champagne vineyards, this private boat tour offers a compelling mix of elegance, eco-consciousness, and regional charm. Let’s walk through what makes this experience stand out, from the moment you step aboard to your return.

Starting Point and Overall Structure

Your journey begins at your private houseboat, where you’ll have access to the entire vessel, minus the beds and the Nordic bath (which you can reserve separately). The 10-hour itinerary is packed with stops and cruising segments, giving you a balanced mix of sailing, sightseeing, and regional tasting—though the real magic lies in how personalized and relaxed the experience feels.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The tour is designed to showcase key villages and sights in the Champagne region, with multiple sailing segments interspersed with stops in iconic villages like Aÿ-Champagne, Dizy, Hautvillers, and Epernay.

• Aÿ-Champagne (30 minutes): Your cruise begins here with a quick introduction, setting the tone for the day. This village is famed for its vineyards and historical champagne houses.
• Dizy and Hautvillers (45 and 15 minutes respectively): Cruising through these charming villages, you’ll see the slopes of the UNESCO-listed vineyards. Hautvillers is particularly notable for its connection to Dom Pérignon, adding a sense of historical importance.
• Epernay (1 hour): The highlight of the day—an hour-long sail through the bustling and scenic heart of Champagne’s wine capital, with panoramic views of vineyards and cellars.
• Lunch Break (1 hour): You’ll dock for a leisurely meal onboard, with French-made dishes like cheese and charcuterie, complemented by a bottle of Champagne included in the package.

Following lunch, the cruise continues with additional stops, returning you to your starting point in Aÿ-Champagne after approximately 6 hours of sailing. The itinerary also includes shorter cruises in other areas, giving you the chance to appreciate the region from multiple perspectives.

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What You’ll See and Experience

Nature and Landscape: We loved the way the boat allows you to see the vineyards from a different perspective—floating just above the waterline, you gain a panoramic view of the slopes and tiny villages. The tranquility of the waterways creates a calming atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and observing local flora and fauna.

Authentic Regional Insights: The skipper, who speaks both English and French, provides commentary that adds depth to your understanding of the region. As one review put it, “Our skipper was knowledgeable and friendly, making us appreciate the landscape and history of Champagne even more.”

Sustainability and Comfort: The boat’s solar-powered design, built in 2024 in France, is more than just a gimmick. It filters wastewater and limits water use, exemplifying a sustainable approach to luxury. The onboard amenities—leather lounge, sunbathing solarium, microwave, and toilets—make the experience comfortable even if you’re on the water all day.

The Food and Beverage Experience

Included is catering with French cheeses and charcuterie, served on board while you relax in the lounge or sunbathe on the deck. The bottle of Champagne that comes with the experience adds a celebratory touch, perfect for toasting while taking in the views. If you wish to have a more elaborate meal, catering must be reserved a day in advance, giving you a chance to customize your experience.

Comfort and Safety

The boat is operated by an experienced skipper who ensures a smooth, safe cruise. The vessel comfortably accommodates up to 4 people, but can accept up to 8 with an extra charge—making it ideal for small groups seeking exclusivity. Note that smoking is not permitted onboard, maintaining a clean and pleasant environment.

Practical Aspects and Price

While $2,105 might seem steep, it’s important to view this as an all-inclusive, personalized experience. The price includes private access, eco-friendly travel, guided commentary, and regional cuisine—elements that together create good value for those seeking a luxe, intimate exploration.

The tour is 10 hours long, providing enough time to relax, explore, and savor the region’s highlights without feeling rushed. It’s a full-day activity, so planning for transportation or nearby accommodations makes sense if you’re visiting from Reims or Epernay.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for small groups or couples who value luxury and sustainability, and want a personalized way to see Champagne. It’s ideal for those celebrating special occasions or simply wanting to avoid crowded, commercial tours. If you’re a champagne enthusiast eager to understand the region’s vineyards from a new angle, this cruise delivers.

Final Thoughts

This private, solar-powered cruise through Champagne’s vineyards offers a rare combination of luxury, eco-responsibility, and authentic regional beauty. It’s a thoughtfully curated experience that balances relaxation with insight, making it well worth the price tag for those who appreciate comfort, sustainability, and personalized service.

Travelers who prefer structured tours might find the flexibility and intimacy here too appealing to pass up. If you’re seeking a peaceful way to explore one of France’s most famous wine regions—away from the crowds and with an emphasis on genuine scenery and sustainability—this cruise stands out as a memorable choice.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While the boat is designed for comfort and safety, it’s best to check with the provider about specific accessibility needs, as the tour involves some boarding and disembarking.

Can I bring my own food or drinks onboard?
The tour includes catering, but bringing additional snacks or drinks is not specified. If you have special dietary needs, it’s best to contact the provider in advance.

What should I wear for the cruise?
Dress comfortably for the weather—don’t forget sunglasses, hats, and sunscreen as water reflection can intensify the sun’s rays. Layers are advisable if the weather is unpredictable.

Is there a minimum or maximum group size?
The boat can accommodate up to 4 people comfortably; with extra charge, it can accept up to 8. The experience is private, so it’s ideal for small groups.

Are there any age restrictions?
No specific age restrictions are listed, but the tour’s relaxed pace and comfort suggest it’s suitable for most adults and older children.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking early is recommended to secure your preferred date, especially since the tour is private. Cancellation is free if canceled up to 24 hours beforehand.

This private cruise combines the best of luxury, sustainability, and regional authenticity—a perfect choice for those eager to see Champagne from a new perspective while enjoying a peaceful, eco-conscious voyage.

You can check availability for your dates here: