Spotlight on Kir Royale: A Storied Barge, a Sparkling Journey

Cruise the lush, green landscapes of the Champagne region of France as you cruise in extraordinary luxury aboard hotel barge Kir Royale. With this boutique floating hotel guiding you gently along the waterways of the River Marne and the Canal latéral à la Marne, you can sit back and enjoy the service as you sip a glass of champagne, enjoy the spa pool, and polish off a plate of gourmet cuisine; all whilst watching the vineyards roll past at a tender pace.

A Short History of Kir Royale

Kir Royale has a colourful history that began with her construction in 1928. Starting life as a 36-metre freight barge named ’Maria’, she was built at the Praet et Verschuren de Boom shipyard in Belgium. Originally designed for the transport of goods, the vessel’s role took a dramatic turn during World War Two.

With changing times came a changing purpose. As World War Two dragged into the 1940s, Kir Royale was modified to facilitate navigation to enemy-occupied France. Her bow became a loading bank for direct transport to the Normandy beaches, where she carried troops and supplies during the D-Day landings.

Her wartime efforts took their toll and she suffered serious damage. However once hostilities finished, she was fitted with a new bow and lovingly refurbished to return to service as a transport vessel.

By the 1960s, the barge had been renamed the ‘Lemavi-X’ and was operating on the waterways of northern Europe in Wallonia, Belgium. When the time came for retirement, Lemavi-X narrowly escaped the scrapyard. Instead, she was taken to the Netherlands, and transformed into a trendy hotel barge, set to cruise the waterways of Europe.

Hotel barge Kir Royale was previously named Lemavi-X — Hotel barge Kir Royale was previously called Lemavi-X

Once again renamed as the ‘Wirramina’ in 1976, she became one of the pioneers of luxury European hotel-barging. For decades, she offered unforgettable experiences to guests on the rivers and canals of Holland and Belgium.

Kir Royale entered another chapter of her life in 1989 under the ownership of Australian entrepreneur, Peter Evans. She was given a star-studded new name, ‘Étoile de Champagne’, and put to work on the waterways of north-central France.

After more than 15 years of service delighting guests in Champagne and the Marne, Etoile de Champagne changed hands again. Purchased by experienced skipper Christopher Bennett in 2005, she was renamed ’Savoir Faire’. Bennet continued to cruise Savoir Faire as a luxury hotel barge on the picturesque waterways of France and Holland.

Another renaming followed in 2020, when she assumed the identity of ’Adagio’ and had a further refit reducing her passenger capacity from 12 to 8.

By the summer of 2023, Adagio had caught the attention of European Waterways, who made their move to purchase this Northern-European legend in 2023. Following an extensive modernisation in the Netherlands, she was christened as ’Kir Royale’ after the famed French cocktail. In 2024 she embarked on her first luxurious cruise through the Champagne region. This impressive barge blends her storied history with the offer of contemporary comforts for travellers who seek a unique and memorable journey.

Hotel Barge Kir Royale Today

If you’re thinking of a visit to the French vineyards of Champagne, then our Ultra Deluxe barge, Kir Royale, provides the best six-night stay for passengers seeking a life of ultimate luxury. Relax into the spa pool, experience the sights of rolling hills, and taste the sparkling wines of this spectacular region of Northern France.

With up to just eight passengers on your cruise, you’ll have plenty of room to spend your vacation time in the way you prefer. Simply call on one of the six dedicated crew members, and they’ll be there with a perhaps a delightful flute of Kir Royale, or an espresso, for your pleasure.

The modern saloon offers a cosy place to sit, with an extravagant open bar area giving way to luxe leather sofas that ooze comfort and sophistication. Sit atop the swanky deep blue bar stools and sip on a cocktail after a long day, watching as the country views pass by. Alternatively, make yourself comfortable at the dining table, where you can sit and watch through the galley kitchen hatches the meals are prepared. Perhaps in the evening, you and your fellow passengers will relax with a spirit whilst listening to a tune or two on the piano.

With European Waterways recent complete refit having updated Kir Royale with contemporary fixtures and fittings, the cabin suites offer a masterclass in modern design. With cabins averaging over 200 square foot of space, there’s room for your luggage in the wardrobe, dresser and cabinets, allowing you to make the most of floor for a morning stretch! The sleek, on-trend bathroom design provides matching his and hers sinks, a walk-in shower and comes equipped with bath robes for your comfort. Natural stone tiles are paired with black fittings and LED mirrors for the ultimate contemporary style.

If you’re hoping for a splash of sunshine then head to one of the three sundecks, where you can take your pick between reclining into the sun lounger or relaxing into a chair at the dining table.

For the most impressive panoramas of the waterways of Champagne, head to the rooftop viewing sun deck. Alternatively, slip into the spa pool on the forward sun deck with a refreshing glass of something sweet.

Kir Royale on the Map – River Marne & the Canal latéral à la Marne

The picturesque River Marne flows through northeastern France, passing through the picturesque Champagne region. The waterway serves as an artery to the region’s vineyards, playing a vital role in the area’s viticulture. Running parallel to the River Marne is the Canal latéral à la Marne, which provides a transport route for vessels navigating the area and connecting towns along the route.

With approximately 75 miles (120 kilometres) distance between our cruise’s first and final moorings at Châlons-en-Champagne and Château-Thierry, there’s plenty of opportunities to while away the time enjoying the views. As the river and canal wind through the picture-book countryside, this quaint French waterway passes the impossible beauty of vineyards, charming villages, and historic landmarks.

Kir Royale cruising in Champagne from above drone

Itinerary highlights

From Château-Thierry to Châlons-en-Champagne, cruise in ultra deluxe luxury with Kir Royale, as you experience the many colours of the landscapes and towns of Champagne. Sit back and relax as you’re chauffeured to some of the best hand-picked destinations along the Canal latéral à la Marne.

City adventurers can wander the streets of Reims at a scheduled visit, viewing the elegant arcades for a spot of shopping and exploring the grand squares. A cruise on Kir Royale also has opportunities to see UNESCO World Heritage Sites and cultural places like the Musée du Champagne. Dedicated to the history of champagne and champagne making, visitors can gorge themselves on facts to take home with them from their holiday.

At Château-Thierry, learn about the pivotal battle of Belleau Wood, which saw American Marines take on German soldiers in one of the bloodiest battles of World War One. Those with an interest in history and architecture will also enjoy a visit to the Gothic cathedral of Reims, which dates back 800 years. Witnessing the crowning’s of French kings all the way up until the French Revolution in 1789, it had one final standout crowning in 1825 before the tradition ended.

Chateau-Thierry American Monument, World War One memorial — Chateau-Thierry American Monument

A trip to the Champagne region wouldn’t be complete without a stop at the many vineyards and champagne houses. Wine lovers will revel in a visit to renowned champagne house, Maison Ayala, which is situated in one of only 17 villages specialising in grand cru in the Champagne region. We also visit the boutique winery of Frerejean Frères, which is in the Côtes des Blancs, and Masion Boizel, a prestigious champagne house on the iconic Avenue de Champagne. With private tours of the cellars, vineyards, wine tastings, and bottles of champagne dating back to 1834, you’ll be left with a lust for the finer luxuries in life!