Imagine stepping onto a luxury riverboat where the gentle rhythm of the water beneath your feet whispers tales of France’s romantic countryside, and every detail—from the handcrafted woodwork to the scent of blooming daisies—feels like a warm embrace from the heart of Burgundy. This summer, Belmond is unveiling Marguerite, A Belmond Boat, a revamped gem that once sailed as Amaryllis, now reborn with a name drawn from the region’s iconic golden marguerite fields. Picture yourself gliding along the Saône River on itineraries tailored just for you, starting in charming towns like Pontailler-sur-Saône and winding through scenic routes to St Léger, or venturing from Lyon to Auxonne, and even from St-Jean-de-Losne back to Lyon. It’s not just a boat; it’s a floating sanctuary that invites you to rediscover the slow, luxurious pace of life, where time unfolds like a leisurely picnic under the Burgundy sun.
As you board Marguerite, the essence of Burgundy’s heritage envelops you like a hug from an old friend. This intimate vessel, designed for up to eight discerning travelers, boasts four elegant double suites that blend comfort with charm—think plush beds, soft linens, and views framed by arched windows that let the river’s magic pour in. The open-plan salon is a cozy haven for lazy afternoons, with armchairs that beckon for deep conversations over a glass of local wine. But the real gem is the private plunge pool on the outdoor deck, where you can dip into cool waters, gazing at vineyards stretching like endless green ribbons. It’s all about that personal touch, where every element tells a story of craftsmanship. As Maxime Brun, the general manager of Les Bateaux Belmond, puts it, “From the stained-glass mastery of Atelier Loire in Chartres to the fine woodwork crafted in Saint Rémy, Marguerite embodies a level of savoir-faire, deeply anchored in our national heritage.” Here, luxury isn’t about excess; it’s about connecting deeply with the soul of France, embracing authenticity and a sense of place that makes you feel truly at home on the water.
Diving into what happens onboard feels like embarking on a gentle adventure crafted for your whims. Belmond understands that no two journeys are alike, so itineraries are fully customizable—tailor them to your dreams. Fancy learning the secrets of Dijon mustard-making from a local artisan, watching as creamy mixtures transform in a sunlit kitchen? Or how about indulging in private tastings at legendary wine estates, swirling reds and whites under expert guidance, feeling the terroir dance on your palate? For the active spirits, pedal along the iconic Route des Grands Crus on bicycles, chasing horizons through picturesque villages, or join curated art tours that unveil hidden galleries and historic spots. Each day ends with a sigh of satisfaction as you return to Marguerite, where the onboard private chef awaits with a meal that’s nothing short of poetic. Crafted by celebrated chef Dominique Crenn, whose Atelier Crenn boasts three Michelin stars, the menu is a symphony of flavors—think delicate seafood preparations echoing the river’s bounty, paired with Burgundy’s finest wines. It’s dining as an experience, not an event, where every bite connects you to the region’s culinary soul.
The boat’s interior is a visual feast that stirs the senses, far from the impersonal elegance of generic luxury. Floral motifs bloom across every surface, inspired by those golden marguerite fields, while soft yellow hues bathe the spaces in a golden glow, like the first light of dawn over the vines. Stained-glass windows, painstakingly created, cast kaleidoscopic patterns that play on the walls—reminding you of the playful act of plucking daisy petals as a child, whispering “he loves me, he loves me not.” Bespoke rugs add texture underfoot, their designs woven with threads of local tradition, making every step feel deliberate and meaningful. It’s as if Marguerite herself is alive with the region’s spirit, blending art, nature, and human creativity into a harmonious whole. Beyond the boat, you realize Marguerite is part of a broader Belmond fleet under Les Bateaux Belmond—a family of river treasures that dot France’s waterways. In Bordeaux, Alouette invites exploration of the Gironde; in Provence, Pivoine and Napoléon offer lavender-scented escapes; and right here in Burgundy, Fleur De Lys and Lilas promise neighboring adventures. Each one is a portal to unforgettable moments, where the journey becomes as precious as the destination.
Pricing starts from €85,100 for a private charter accommodating up to eight guests, an investment in memories that linger long after the cruise ends. But it’s not just about the cost; it’s about the value of reclaiming time in an era of rush. Imagine the joy of sharing this experience with loved ones—perhaps a couple celebrating decades together, or friends chasing lifelong bucket-list dreams on the water. The slow luxury here isn’t passive; it’s active, transformative, urging you to savor the present in ways that corporate suites or high-rise vacations can’t. As Brun notes, “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. It is a testament to our ongoing commitment to slow luxury, where time is not simply spent, but invested.” In a world where days blur into screens and schedules, Marguerite offers respite, reminding you of the simple pleasures—like the ripple of water or the laughter of companions—that truly enrich life. It’s more than a boat; it’s a reminder that true luxury is found in the depths of human connection and the beauty of the natural world.
Envisioning your time on Marguerite fills you with anticipation, as if planning a storybook getaway crafted from the pages of a favorite novel. The relaunch this summer isn’t merely a reopening; it’s a celebration of recovery and renewal, much like the boat’s own transformation. Here, you step away from the ordinary, into a realm where the Saône’s currents carry not just passengers, but dreams. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler yearning for quiet introspection or a group eager for shared discoveries, Marguerite adapts, offering a canvas for your own masterpiece. The hospitality feels personal, genuine—like hosting dear friends rather than mere guests. As you explore Navarion’s landscapes and sip espresso at sunrise, you might reflect on how these moments stitch together the fabric of a richer life. Belmond’s vision shines through, proving that luxury can be intimate, sustainable, and profoundly human. It’s an invitation to float into summer with Marguerite, not as tourists, but as participants in Burgundy’s eternal story of beauty, heritage, and heartfelt indulgence. In hundreds of cruises past, Marguerite has woven memories for countless souls; now, she beckons you to add your chapter, one petal at a time.
