European Waterways Unveils New 2026/27 Brochure, Showcasing Expanded Fleet, Immersive Experiences, and the Timeless Luxury of Slow Travel

European Waterways has announced the launch of its brand-new brochure for the 2026/27 cruise seasons, offering an inspiring look at the company's fully inclusive luxury hotel barge experiences across Europe. Designed to help travellers plan their next unforgettable journey, the brochure highlights expert guidance on the best times to travel, curated off-the-beaten-path excursions, and a fleet of elegant vessels that showcase the rich character of each cruising region.

“In a world where travel increasingly feels like a race, the serenity of Europe's canals offers something wonderfully different,” said Derek Banks, Founder and Managing Director of European Waterways. “Hotel barging brings stillness, authenticity, and moments of genuine spontaneity - luxuries that are becoming all too rare.”

The new brochure also reflects a fresh, modern design. Larger, more immersive photography, simplified itineraries, and a cleaner layout allow guests to engage more deeply with each region and vessel.

European Waterways' 2026/27 brochure can be ordered or viewed online here: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/view-online-brochure/

Fleet Expansion in Champagne and Ireland

Following the successful introduction of Kir Royale in 2024, which brought an elevated level of luxury to France's Champagne region, European Waterways has further expanded its fleet with the acquisition of the Shannon Princess in 2025.

A long-standing favourite on the River Shannon, the Shannon Princess has been part of the European Waterways family for over 20 years but will now be fully owned and operated by the company. Newly repainted in European Waterways' fleet colours, the vessel features five en-suite cabins, a spa pool, and an upper observation deck ideal for soaking in Ireland's spectacular landscapes. Guests will enjoy highlights such as the 6th-century ruins of Clonmacnoise, an exclusive bird-of-prey demonstration at Adare Manor, visits to historic castles, and a tasting at the world's oldest licensed whiskey distillery.

A Slice of Pure Luxury: Christmas Market Cruises

Introduced in 2024, European Waterways' Christmas Markets Cruise has quickly become one of the company's most sought-after experiences. With the 2025 season already sold out and 2026 cabins filling fast, the 12-passenger Panache transports guests to Alsace's most enchanting festive markets, including Strasbourg, Colmar, and Riquewihr.

Exploring Europe's Iconic Regions—The Magic of Hotel Barging

Whether drifting past Holland's vibrant tulip fields, cruising through the storybook scenery of Scotland, or gliding beneath Burgundy's rolling vineyards, European Waterways continues to showcase regions where culture, history, and natural beauty intertwine. “As the morning mist lifts from the water and the barge hums softly forward, guests find themselves in a world far removed from crowds and timetables,” said Banks. “Sipping coffee on the deck as you pass beneath centuries-old stone bridges feels almost cinematic. This is the magic of hotel barging—unhurried, intimate, and deeply immersive.”

New Family-Run Wine Tasting Experience in Burgundy

Across Southern Burgundy, guests aboard the eight-passenger Finesse will enjoy an all-new excursion for 2026: a visit to the Jean Baptiste Jessiaume vineyard in Santenay. This sixth-generation, family-run estate blends traditional winemaking with forward-thinking practices. The experience includes an exclusive cellar tour and a curated tasting in one of Côte de Beaune's most celebrated villages. “These experiences reflect our commitment to creating unique, authentic encounters that bring our guests closer to the people, flavours, and traditions of each region,” added Banks.

Brochure Launch Specials

European Waterways is offering early booking savings for 2026, with 10–20% off whole-boat charters and cabin bookings. Guests can also secure 2027 cruises at 2026 prices when booked by May 31, 2026. More information is available here: https://www.europeanwaterways.com/special-offers/?y=2026

About European Waterways

Established in 1974, European Waterways is Europe's largest luxury hotel barging company, offering immersive, all-inclusive “gentle voyages of discovery” focused on regional culture, history, fine wine, and gourmet cuisine. With vessels accommodating 6 to 20 guests and a 1:2 crew ratio, the company provides an impeccable level of personalized service while navigating the intimate waterways inaccessible to larger vessels. Daily chauffeured excursions, opportunities for cycling and walking, and exclusive experiences form the heart of each journey. European Waterways' fleet cruises through nine countries across Europe.

For more information, visit www.europeanwaterways.com

Press Contact:

Paul Newman, European Waterways

paul@europeanwaterways.com | +44 (0)1753 598555