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PUT YOUR RV ON A BARGE AND CRUISE THE MIGHTY MISSISSIPPI RIVER

By deseret news , reed branson, scripps howard news service.

Robert and Ruth Hallisy of Dayton, Ohio, backed their RV into its campground slot here, hooked up to the water and electricity, sat back and floated away.

Literally.The Hallisys were in one of 59 recreational vehicles built for the road but now floating the waterways of middle America aboard one of the newest trends in tourism - river cruises on converted barges.

"It sounded like a Tom Sawyer adventure to me," said Ruth Hallisy, eagerly waiting for the barges to depart one recently day.

"I want to be Huck Finn," added her husband, Robert, to the amusement of fellow retirees waiting to board.

This tour, the largest to date for the New Orleans companies that started them two years ago, is breaking new ground in the travel industry.

Starting here on the Tennessee River, the 15-day cruise pushed north to the Ohio River, west to the Mississippi and then to New Orleans.

Periodically, those aboard stop for off-shore tours, such as a barbecue at Loretta Lynn's ranch in Bucksnort, Tenn., a swing through Graceland and Beale Street in Memphis, trips to Vicksburg and Natchez and ultimately a party in the French Quarter.

"It's kind of like sitting in a theater and watching the shoreline go by," says Bud Trembull of Little Torch Key, Fla., who was making a repeat trip. "There's no traffic. It's so peaceful."

Indeed, the travelers, their cats and dogs can relax in their lawn chairs, chatting while watching the autumn leaves pass by on a wooded bank.

The shore and river, ever changing, make each tour different. On occasion, says Trembull, they can glimpse deer, fowl and an abundance of other wildlife. When they're stopped, many set out fishing lines.

Moreover, travelers are witness to the workings of the powerful river, its pilots and vessels, as well as the intricate locks that lift and lower boats.

In part, the river cruises are modeled after similar cruises in Mexico in which RVs are loaded onto trains. This idea, though, came from the marriage of two companies.

Eddie Conrad has an established boat-towing company in New Orleans, Compass Marine. When an avid RV enthusiast approached Conrad and suggested parking RVs on top of barges, Conrad thought it sounded feasible, though odd.

Today, Creative World Travel - a New Orleans travel company that specializes in RV caravan tours - supplies the tour-seekers and Conrad's R.V. River Charters provides equipment and crew for the tour.

"It's a full hook-up campground and exceptionally clean," says Wagon Master Ralph Sanders, a longtime RV caravan leader. Sanders and five other tour leaders tend to the campers' needs and provide games and entertainment.

Conrad converted single-skinned oil barges (that now have largely been replaced by double-skinned barges) into floating campgrounds, 50 feet wide and 245 to 260 feet long.

The barges used to carry their petroleum cargo inside. Now, their cargo is alive and on top, so the company reinforced supports beneath the decks, poured a foot-thick bed of concrete on deck to create a level parking lot, and built into each hull a 10,000-gallon freshwater container and another 10,000-gallon sewage water container.

Then, for comfort, they installed electric and water hookups, a full kitchen, washers and dryers and safety precautions - such as a fence around the perimeter, life jackets and rafts and firefighting equipment.

For the relief of dogs and cats aboard, each barge has about a 4-foot-square patch of sod.

With about 16 feet between vehicles, campers have plenty of room to pull out awnings, hang colorful wind socks and lay out welcome mats.

Two towboats power the trip to New Orleans by the Hallisys.

Tour prices range from $945 to $4,490 and include the space for an RV, some meals and all the side-trips for two.

The two companies offer eight cruises, including a three-day trip from Port Isabel to Corpus Christi, a nine-day cruise along the Tennessee River between Florence, Ala., and Chattanooga, and a popular 10-day cruise into the Cajun country bayous of south Louisiana.

For information about RV barge cruises on the Mississippi, call Conrad's R.V. River Chaters at 800-256-6100. Each barge has full hookups and each RV has a 16 by 40 foot slot. Prices range from $945 to $4,600.

TOUR OVERVIEW

The Mighty Mississippi. You may have crossed it many times in your RV travels, its 2,552-mile route dissecting this great nation we call home.

Fantasy RV Tours provides you the opportunity to really explore the River and learn about her history, diverse cultures and ecosystems as you spend 34 days traveling from the headwaters in the north to her entrance at the Gulf of Mexico.

We’ll celebrate historic significance and astonishing people by visiting Twain’s childhood home, exploring an Amana Colony and even taking a seaplane flight over the Delta. You’ll experience locks & river cruises and explore the many attractions in New Orleans, including the French Quarter and Southern Plantations.

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Video of the Day

Barge Cruises in Mississippi

Barge ships are popular throughout the Mississippi River, the fourth largest river in the world. Barge cruise ships are small, usually having capacity for no more than 200 people. Some barge cruise ships have cabins on board but most do not. In the river cities along the Mississippi, many inns are available for lodging. The river cities are also known for their shopping, crafts and antiques.

Niagara Prince

The Niagara Prince is a small ship operated by the Blount Small Ship Adventures. The Niagara Prince has an 84-passenger capacity. The barge ship has 14-day cruises from Chicago, Ill., to New Orleans, La. on the Mississippi River.

Blount Small Ship Adventures 461 Water St. P.O. Box 368 Warren, RI 02885 800-556-7450 accl-smallships.com

Julia Belle Swain Steamboat

The Julia Belle Swain Steamboat is operated by the Great River Steamboat Co. and has a 150-passenger capacity. The Julia Belle Swain travels from La Crosse, Wis., to either Winona, Minn., or Prairie du Chien, Wis. The trips take between two and three days; cabins are not available on board.

Great River Steamboat Co. 608-784-4882 juliabelle.com

Spirit of Peoria

The Spirit of Peoria has a passenger capacity of 150. The small ship has three-day overnight cruises from Peoria, Ill., to St. Louis, Mo. From May to October the ship also has two-day cruises from Peoria, Ill., to Starved Rock State Park. No cabins are available, but passengers can stay in lodges at state park stops.

The Spirit of Peoria 100 Water St. Peoria, IL 61602 800-676-8988 spiritofpeoria.com

• Small ship cruises: Mississippi River Cruises
• Mississippi River Maps: The Official River Travel Guide

About the Author

Abigail O'Connell is a freelance writer based in Louisville, Ky., and has been writing since 2009. She has been published in a local alternative weekly and has also been featured on Altweeklies.com. O'Connell is a recent graduate of Indiana University, and holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism.

Photo Credits

• barge image by Svetlana Romanova from Fotolia.com

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Journey With Confidence

The Silver Gypsy: Ye Olde Muddy Campground

This story about very unique camping on the Mississippi River was published in 1995.  It was an amazing trip and I was blessed to experience it.

“Gentlemen (and ladies), start your engines.”  

Like the pros they were, twenty-seven RVers scaled the levee on the Intercoastal Waterway at New Orleans, LA, crossed the ramp, parked on custom-built barges, and plugged into full hookups.  Excited Becky Thatchers and Huck Finns were on their way to a 450-mile modern version of a Mark Twain adventure on the Mississippi River.

Captain Ray Gaines of RV River Charters, Inc. of New Orleans, greeted us,  “Welcome to the most unique campground in the whole world.  Put your rig on true ‘cruise control.’  Sit back, relax, and let the world go by.'”

Life jackets waved from outside mirrors.  Preservers, fire-fighting equipment and alarms were appropriately spaced along the rail.  If necessary, a black button on the fire alarm would immediately kill the electricity to all barges.

A “bow thrust” was guided via remote control from the tugboat, LaGonda, our guardian angel.  Capt. Gaines assured us, “The water is never more than one-quarter-mile wide.  The depth is approximately twelve feet and the barge is nine feet high.  If we sink, we’ll be up to our necks in about three feet of water.”

We nested into our own RV spaces.  Flowers and plants held carpeting in place beneath awnings unrolled for shade.  No matter where we were, how many miles we traveled, what time of day it was, or what the weather did, we retreated into our own RV homes to sleep, eat, rest, entertain, or hide from the world.

Passing us as we progressed eastward along the Intercoastal Waterway, hard-working “I know I can” tugs pushed as many as thirty-six barges at a time.  Shrimp boats glided by with their arms folded.  Oil drilling equipment reached for the sky.  Swamped relics of bygone days grew rust and flowers.

Workers put tools down in surprise and shouted, “Where y’all goin’?”

At dusk we touched shore at Houma to pick up catered mufalettas, giant Cajun sandwiches filled with spicy seafood. 

Only the hum of the engines, the 80 kW generator, and the night sounds disturbed the quiet of the wee hours.  A pale moon disappeared as the mist crawled over the railing along with the ghost of Jean Lafitte, renowned pirate from the days of yore.  Was he returning for the treasure legend says is buried in the bayou?  Only the shadows knew.

The Cajun Man, “Black” Guidry, appeared in the morning mist to take us through the purple hyacinth plants and the Spanish moss-covered trees to see the land where he was born and watch the herons, cranes, and egrets fish in the swamp.

He called up the alligators.  “They can’t see very well.  They come to the sound of my voice and the engine.”  As though on cue, an alligator startled everyone by leaping out of the water to snatch the offered chicken fat from a pole. 

“Drop anchor at Whiskey Bay and wait for the golden limousines.”  School buses found their way through the bayous of Acadiana where Cajuns are descendants of the Acadians exiled from Nova Scotia in l755 and immortalized by Longfellow in his poem, “Evangeline.”

A traditional Cajun band played the “Cajun Two-step” for the young at heart.  Outside, watching a glowing sunset beyond the bayou, others danced to the tune of lively mosquitoes.

The tug guided us through the fifteen-foot raise in the New River Locks and on into the great muddy Mississippi.  On-board activities included skits, an authentic Cajun storyteller; a juggling clown, and original songs.

On a land tour near St. Francisville, Richard Barnes, the owner of the Antebellum mansion, Greenwood, was our host.  “This is my home, please sit on the furniture and walk on the rugs.”  The house burned in l960.  Mr. Barnes’ family bought the charred remains and built an exact duplicate. 

The Myrtles, an l850s plantation home built on sacred Indian burial ground, is authenticated by the Smithsonian Institution to be the most haunted house in America.  The voice of our hostess became highpitched and excited as she related ghostly activities she herself witnessed.  She made believers of us. 

Touring the USS Kidd and Nautical Center at Baton Rouge prompted wartime stories.  Known as “The Pirate of the Pacific,” the USS Kidd still flies the skull and crossbones. 

At New Orleans, we docked beside the Riverwalk amid a party atmosphere with tugs whistling and The Natchez Paddlewheeler playing our song, “King of the Road,” on their calliope.  Charlie’s Jazz Band played us ashore with, “The Saints Go Marching in.”  A Strutter in gold shoes, red pants, black tails and a fancy umbrella, led a second line dance to catered bowls of seafood gumbo and bread pudding with hot sauce.

Our bus-tour hostess explained wrap-around balconies, row houses, shotgun houses with camelbacks, and great family tombs built above ground in the cemeteries.  New Orleans receives sixty-six inches of rain per year and sits three to ten feet below sea level.  This causes grave problems in the “Cities of the Dead.” 

With three-day passes for buses and trolley rides, we descended on the French Quarter.  Cafe du Monde was the place to people watch and sin outrageously with Cafe au lait and beignets (bin-YAY), a square, hot pastry excessive with powdered sugar. 

Jazz players with practiced hands beckoned tips.  Horses clopped proudly ahead of decorated carriages.  Drivers shouted historical data.  Sidewalk artists painted local scenes and created portraits with magic fingers.  General Jackson’s statue guarded St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest active cathedral in the US.

And then Bourbon Street…honky tonk and traditional Dixieland jazz…no matter the time of day or night.  New Orleans was the Court of Two Sisters, Pete Fountain, Pat O’Brien’s, the skyline at night and more..so much more..but it was time to go. 

We gathered at eight a.m. on the tenth morning to a whispered prayer, “Please, Lord, don’t let it rain on the cinnamon rolls.”   

Capt. Gaines said his goodbyes with, “Thanks for letting us ‘barge’ into your lives.”      

Addresses, invitations, and hugs were exchanged.  We were strangers no more.  We departed, California to Maine, Washington to Florida, “til we meet again.”

Hope you enjoyed this fuel-free RV trip on the Great Mississippi River.   I could find no evidence that anything like it has been offered in several years.   God Bless and have a safe and Happy Fourth of July.

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12 Departure Date for 34 Day Mississippi River Road

2024 aug 30.

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2024 Sep 06

2024 sep 13, 2024 sep 20, 2025 aug 29, 2025 sep 05, 2025 sep 12, 2025 sep 24, 2026 aug 28, 2026 sep 04, 2026 sep 11, 2026 sep 25.

Starts: Bemidji, MN Ends: New Orleans, LA

Rally Point: Bemidji, MN

• 33 Camping Nights
• 0 Hotel Nights
• 66 Events & Meals

DEPARTURE DATES

Trip extensions, tour map for 34 day mississippi river road.

• 1637 Driving Miles
• 149 Avg Miles Per Travel Day

34 Day Mississippi River Road Highlights

Change dates for 34 day mississippi river road, 34 day mississippi river road, traveler reviews, featured video, highlights & map, daily itinerary, price & what's included.

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• Orientation & Get Acquainted Social – meet your Ambassadors and fellow guests
• Welcome Dinner
• Guided Bemidji Area Private Motorcoach Tour
• Paul Bunyan Statues
• Bemidji Woolen Factory Tour
• Itasca State Park - Cross the Headwaters of the Mississippi River
• Cruise Lake Itasca
• Twin Cities Guided Private Motorcoach Tour
• Minnehaha Falls
• St Paul Cathedral
• Wabasha Street Sandstone Caves
• Crooks Tour of St Paul
• Private Motorcoach Transportation
• Mississippi Port Lunch Cruise
• Old MN Post Office/Court House
• ENROUTE - National Eagle Center
• Campground Cookout – food, fun and friends!
• ENROUTE - National Mississippi River Museum
• River Dinner Cruise
• Herbert Hoover Presidential Library
• Iowa 80 Trucking Museum
• Iowa 80 Truck Stop
• Circa 21 Dinner Playhouse
• Amana Colonies Lunch and Tour
• John Deere Pavilion & Historic Site
• Mark Twain Cave Guided Tour
• Mark Twain Boyhood Home Museum
• Mark Twain Himself - Reenactment
• Gateway to the West Arch Tour & Ride
• National Great Rivers Museum
• Guided Area Private Motorcoach Tour - 1904 World's Fair Site, Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis
• Brewery Tour
• Optional Activities: Bollinger Mill State Historic Site, Mississippi River Tales Mural, Crisp Museum
• Sun Studio Tour - Elvis 1st Recording
• Beale Street Experience & Lunch at BB Kings
• Rock n Soul Museum
• Guided Memphis Private Motorcoach Tour
• National Civil Rights Museum - Lorraine Motel
• Bass Pro Observation Deck
• Vicksburg Private Motorcoach Tour
• Vicksburg National Military Park
• Antebellum Mansion Tour & Lunch
• Lower Mississippi River Museum
• Riverfront Murals
• EN-ROUTE - Old Country Store Lunch
• Stanton Hall Tour
• Guided Carriage Tour
• Bluff Park Mississippi River Vista
• River Road Plantation Private Motorcoach Tour
• Laura "a Creole Plantation" Tour
• Oak Alley Plantation Tour
• Oak Alley Cajun Lunch Buffet
• Seaplane Flight over Mississippi River Delta
• Lunch at the Marina
• Swamp Boat Tour
• Explore the French Quarter
• New Orleans School of Cooking Lunch
• Farewell Dinner Cruise
• Goodbye Continental Breakfast – grab some food and coffee before we part ways

Price Includes

• All Items Listed in Itinerary
• 33 Nights of Camping Fees
• 0 Deluxe Hotel Night(s)
• Professionally Planned Route &  Itinerary
• Guaranteed Campground Reservations
• Expert Guides – WagonMasters & TailGunners*
• Printed Trip Log with Turn-by-Turn Directions
• Transportation to/from Most Included Activities
• Ferry Fees for Rigs up to feet
• $100 in Future Travel Credits
• Travel Briefings & Tips from WagonMasters
• Pre-Trip Information Packet & Vehicle Checklist
• Gratuities for Included Meals & Excursions

Pricing & Payment Options

Pay by check and receive a deep discount, or choose our 0% interest, affordable monthly payment plan!

FULL PAYMENT is required for 34 Day Mississippi River Road - Sep 08, 2023 due to the departure date being 90 days or less away. Your payment is $9,684.00 USD* to secure your reservation.

Making Tours Affordable

PAY BY CHECK DISCOUNT

If your original tour price is more than $2,000 and choose to pay your final balance by e-check, you will receive a discount according to the schedule below:

Original Tour Price

• $2,000 - $5,000
• $5,001 - $7,500
• $7,501 - $10,000
• $10,001 - $15,000
• $15,001 - $20,000
• $20,001 - $25,000
• $25,001 and up

Ways to Save

Take advantage of these special offers to maximize the value of your next RV adventure!

Activity Level - MODERATE

• This trip has a group size up to 22 rigs plus WagonMasters & TailGunners* exclusive to 34 Day Mississippi River Road
• 149 Average Daily Miles
• 34 days, with 33 camping nights including 66 events & meals

Physical Requirements

Moderate walking distance (30 to 45 minutes); some excursions may include gradually graded ramps, hills and/or stairs.

Tours require that you are responsible for yourself and your ability to get on and off all Transportation Services.

Activity Ratings are intended to provide information for those who do not use mobility devices.

If you require a mobility device, please be aware that guests must travel with a companion that is responsible for loading, unloading and securing their device on all excursions.

Guests with mobility challenges and walking limitations may not be able to participate in all activities.

*TailGunners only on Caravans with 14 or more guest rigs

Freedom to Personalize Your Experience

More than ever, our guests are spending more time on the road and are excited to make the most out of their vacation. By choosing from the 144 pre- and post-trip extensions that we offer, or adding on optional activities to the itinerary, there are many ways you can personalize your experience to make it the vacation of your dreams.

Many Guests Choose Pre- or Post-Trip Extensions

Chances are, you’re traveling quite far to join us on one of our tours. Why not make the most of it with pre- and post-trip extensions? By adding on another tour, it will give you the opportunity to extend your vacation and maximize your time in the geographical region. On this 34 Day Mississippi River Road trip, you will have no pre- or post trip extensions; however, we have 144 trips we offer that do. 1 extension to choose from: Branson Christmas Rally , , .

Maximize Your Time in the Area

Consider building in extra time for yourself in Bemidji, MN (Rally Point) or New Orleans, LA (End Place) to relax and get adjusted or give yourself time to explore on your own before or after your 34 Day Mississippi River Road trip. Extending the length of your stay can truly make your trip everything you’ve ever dreamed about and give you the opportunity to enjoy more of what each destination has to offer.

Experience the ultimate celebration of music, comedy, and theater during the opening week of the Branson Christmas season. Join us for a guided RV Rally that will take you on a magical journey, showcasing top stars and unforgettable moments. With over nine live shows, festive activities, and a lively atmosphere, this Rally is the perfect way to immerse yourself in the joyful spirit of Christmas.

Optional Activities on Tour

Even though there’s an itinerary and planned route, we want you to enjoy your vacation to the greatest extent. With their unmatched understanding of the area and commitment to enriching your travel experiences, your WagonMasters will be there to help you choose and schedule the best optional activities that aren’t included in the itinerary. Here’s a sampling of the optional activities offered on the 34 Day Mississippi River Road trip:

• On Day 19 Activities: Bollinger Mill State Historic Site, Mississippi River Tales Mural, Crisp Museum

Flight Information

There’s no better way to learn what a trip is like than from the firsthand experiences of your fellow travelers. Our Traveler Reviews are the real deal—unbiased and unedited—giving you an honest appraisal of the experiences that await you on this trip.

Protect Your Travel Investment with Trip Cancellation Insurance

RV travel is fun and exciting, but the unexpected can happen. Losing the cost of a trip due to cancellation or an unexpected medical emergency during your trip can add the expense of physicians, hospitalization, or a medical evacuation, all of which can be overwhelming.

Travelers want to move about with confidence and peace of mind that comes from protecting both their health and finances. There are NO infectious disease exclusions - meaning that COVID-19 is covered as any other illness.

TME Travel Insurance provides a suite of insurance options for all styles of travel. Additional benefits are available when you purchase COMPREHENSIVE TRIP CANCELLATION , such as optional Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) coverage on the TME Elite Plan when purchased within 14 days of booking your tour. Plans cover both domestic and international travel.

Learn more >>

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Traveling to mexico, can we bring my pet on a mexico tour.

Yes! We are a pet-friendly company. However, an up-to-date vaccination record is required to cross the border.

Do I need vehicle insurance for my RV in Mexico?

All vehicles, both your RV and your tow vehicle, are required to have a valid liability insurance policy when traveling in Mexico.

Where can I get vehicle insurance for Mexico?

First, check with your current policy provider to see if they provide coverage. If not, there are many online sources to obtain insurance. For our Baja Whale Watching tours, we partner with Vagabundos, who can also provide information regarding liability insurance for your vehicles.

Do I need travel insurance for Mexico tours?

Yes, we highly recommend obtaining travel insurance for our Mexico tours. To view our recommended travel insurance, click here .

Is it safe to travel to Mexico?

Yes. Traveling to Mexico can be a rewarding experience, and our tours are designed to enhance your safety and peace of mind throughout your journey. We understand that visa and border crossing procedures can be complex, so we take care of all the necessary paperwork to ensure you have a smooth entry into Mexico.

Our expert guides are with you every step of the way, including the border crossing, providing valuable insights and assistance as you navigate the various aspects of your trip. Whether it's understanding local customs or ensuring you have access to essential resources, our team is dedicated to making your travel experience as comfortable as possible.

In addition to handling documentation, we also provide convenient transportation to the activities and destinations on your itinerary. This means you can fully immerse yourself in the cultural and natural wonders of Mexico without the stress of driving in unfamiliar surroundings.

Traveling in a group, or caravan style as we do, offers not only safety but also the opportunity to forge connections with fellow travelers. You'll have the chance to share experiences, create lasting memories, and enjoy the camaraderie of exploring Mexico together.

When you choose to travel with us, you can expect a well-rounded and secure experience, with our services tailored to ensure your journey to Mexico is not just safe but also enriching and enjoyable.

What are Caravans and Rallies?

Fantasy RV Tours offers two different types of RV vacations: Caravans and Rallies. An RV Caravan is a professionally-guided tour that travels from destination to destination on a pre-planned route. A Rally is also pre-planned and led by professional Travel Ambassadors, but explores one area or event, e.g. Rose Parade or Washington DC. To learn more, click here .

What is a Travel Ambassador?

On each of our RV Tours, you’ll be led by professional leaders – WagonMasters and TailGunners – who are collectively known as Travel Ambassadors. To learn more and to meet our ambassadors, click here .

Will we travel caravan/convoy style or independent travel?

We often suggest scattered travel during a caravan with groups of 2 to 4 RVs traveling at a safe distance apart who may enjoy similar points of interest. Of course, you may travel independently at your own pace – enjoying sites and side trips. Your Travel Ambassadors are there to ensure safety for the entire group. It’s your vacation, so we offer options – we want you to enjoy safety, comfort and freedom. Typically, in Mexico, guests prefer to travel convoy style.

Do you limit the number of RVs?

Yes. You’ll want to make reservations early to reserve your space. Reservations are prioritized in the order received. Most of our caravans are limited to 22 RVs, while rallies are determined individually.

Do you offer an interest-free monthly payment plan?

Yes! Budget your vacation with our interest-free monthly payment program and reserve your spot with the first month’s payment. You can also secure your spot with just a 15% deposit and, no matter which payment option you choose, if you pay by check, you’ll receive a discount. For more details,  click here  or contact our Customer Support Team at 800-952-8496.

Do you have a frequent traveler program?

Yes. With every tour you take, it pays in savings! For each Rally, you’ll earn $50 in future travel credits. For each Caravan, you’ll earn $100 in future travel credits. You can also build your way up to different status levels that earn you additional benefits. For full program details, click here .

Do you have a referral program?

Yes. When a new customer is referred by you and completes their tour, you’ll receive $50 in future travel credits for a Rally and $100 in future travel credits for a Caravan. For full program details, click here .

Do I need to own an RV?

Yes and no. Caravans require an RV; whether owned or rented. Some of our rallies have an option to stay in a cabin or hotel, which is indicated in the tour information. If traveling in an Overseas caravan, an RV rental will be provided.

Tour Reservations

What does the price of a tour generally include.

Our tour prices include all RV site accommodations, meals, events and activities as listed on the itineraries. To see a full list of what’s included in all tours, click here .

Are prices per person?

No. The price listed (2 Person Price/Rig) is the total price for 2 people in 1 rig. The 1 person price/rig is the total price for 1 person in 1 rig. The Add’l Person Price/Rig is the price of each additional person beyond the 2 Person Price/Rig.

What are your payment options?

We have various payment options, some of which offer deep discounts. For more details,  click here  or contact our Customer Support Team at 800-952-8496.

Do you have a price guarantee?

Once you make your deposit, we guarantee the price! If our suppliers increase their prices, you will not be stuck with an additional cost for your trip. Beware of other tour companies that add a surcharge for tours purchased with a credit card or who reserve the right to raise their price after you make your initial reservation. We reserve the right to substitute accommodations, transportation and/or itineraries when we deem it necessary or advisable.

Can I transfer a reservation from one tour to another?

If you need to switch your tour up to 150 days prior to departure, your tour monies will be transferred less a switch fee. To view the full details, click here .

What is your cancellation policy?

If you need to cancel your reservation, please call us at 800-952-8496. To view the full details of our cancellation policy, click here .

Do you sell cancellation/interruption insurance?

We facilitate trip cancellation insurance on our website via  TME Travel Insurance . To learn more,  click here .

Do you offer discounts?

Our partnerships with Family Motor Coach Association (FMCA) , Good Sam Club, AIM Club & Winnebago allow us to offer exclusive discounts not available to the general public or any other tour company. Occasionally we offer additional discounts. Call 800-952-8496 for the latest offers.

Getting Ready for Your Tour

When will i receive the detailed itinerary.

You will receive a pre-rally information packet approximately 90 days before the tour begins, which includes the detailed itinerary, a vehicle preparation checklist, travel tips, medical forms and the contact information for your WagonMasters.

How should I prepare my RV before the tour starts?

Make sure your vehicle(s) is in top condition before you leave home. Have in your possession the warranty packet and information that came with your motorhome, fifth-wheel, or travel trailer. Know the name of the dealer and location of the original purchase, factory telephone numbers, warranty numbers, as well as year, make, and model in order to get parts delivered quickly, if necessary. Use the Vehicle Preparation Checklist (provided in the pre-rally information packet) to assure your equipment is ready for the tour. Most people travel without ever having a breakdown. In fact, you will probably complete your tour and never have any kind of mechanical problem. Your Travel Ambassadors will do a basic vehicle inspection before the tour begins and advise you of any potential problems or recommended things to do to help preclude any damage to your vehicle.

Should I bring a tow vehicle?

On traveling caravans, we recommend a tow vehicle to maximize your freedom. Most caravans have free days to explore but ultimately, it is an individual preference to tow.

Do I need a passport?

Passports are required for Canada, Mexico and Overseas tours. Please note: Some USA tours require passports if they travel into Canada.

What documents do I need for Mexico and Overseas tours?

You are required to have a Travelers Visa, but we’ll take care of obtaining and paying for the visa once we receive a copy of your passport. We’ll send this information to you a few months before the tour begins.

Is extra vehicle insurance needed in Mexico?

Yes. You must have a Mexico Liability policy for each motorized vehicle and we’ll provide you with information regarding purchasing the liability policy.

Are pets welcome?

YES! We are a pet friendly company. However, it is your responsibility to care for your pet. During Polar Bear tours – you will be away from your pet 3 nights. Canadian Atlantic Province tours with an overnight ferry crossing – you will be away from your pet 1 night. There are pet accommodations available for those tours. Pet care fees are your responsibility. Canada and Mexico require proof of rabies vaccination.

Will I get to speak with my WagonMaster before we depart?

On caravans with less than 25 rigs, your WagonMaster will make an introductory call to each guest on the tour after you receive your customer packet. On all other caravans and rallies, you will be contacted by email which will include direct contact information for your WagonMaster. 

Are flights included on Overseas tours?

No. Many of our guests enjoy arriving early or extending their trip once the Caravan is over, so we want to give you the freedom to do so. We’ve also found that guests prefer traveling on specific airlines, flying at certain times of the day or booking their flights with frequent traveler miles. We want to give you the ultimate freedom to fully maximize your vacation. Any in-country flights that are listed on the itinerary are included in the price of the tour.

While on Tour

Do you provide driving directions.

Before the tour begins, we’ll provide you with a comprehensive, up-to-date, field-researched Trip Log with turn-by-turn directions and popular landmarks.

Are gratuities included?

Tips for meals, bus drivers and special guides are included in the tour price. Customers should feel free to tip any service providers they feel go ‘the extra mile’. Gratuities are certainly welcome, but not required for your WagonMaster and TailGunner – they strive to provide exemplary service, above and beyond the call of duty during your entire tour.

Are ferry fees included?

Typically, ferry fees are included unless stated otherwise on the itinerary.

Can I get special meals for my dietary restrictions?

If you have special dietary needs, notify your WagonMaster before the tour begins. Some of the vendors we use will be able to accommodate and some do not have the ability to do so. Be prepared with your own food substitution for situations in which your special food need cannot be accommodated.

What are the physical demands of your tours?

To ensure you have a safe and enjoyable vacation, each tour has an Activity Rating, which is indicated in the tour information. Most tours include walking tours and guided excursions aboard buses, boats, trains, subways and planes. This scale will help you decide if you can participate in all activities included with each tour. Guests with mobility challenges and walking limitations may not be able to participate in all activities. Activity Ratings are intended to provide information for those who do not use mobility devices. If you require a mobility device, please be aware that guests are responsible for loading, unloading and securing their device on all excursions. Some of our tours prohibit the use of Scooters, which is indicated in the tour information.

Can I bring my mobility device?

Certain tours are not scooter or wheelchair accessible, which is indicated in the tour information. On tours where all mobility devices are allowed, guests relying on the aid of walkers, crutches or other mobility devices must travel with a companion capable of assisting. Guests with mobility challenges may not be able to actively participate in all activities included in the tour itinerary.

What amp service will be available at campgrounds?

We always strive to reserve as many 50 amp spaces as possible. However, some campgrounds will not have enough 50 amp spaces for everyone. At most campgrounds, 30/50 amp power is standard. Please note that some campgrounds in Alaska, Canada and Mexico may be more primitive than in the Lower 48. Be prepared to use limited power or dry camp on a few occasions.

How will I know where and when to meet for activities?

On most days, WagonMasters hold nightly travel meetings to brief you on the next day’s activity schedule. In addition, the WagonMasters will have a whiteboard in the front window of their RV that has the daily schedule and any changes that may have occurred.

How do I keep in touch with the WagonMasters and TailGunners?

We use family radios and cell phones. Your WagonMaster will explain the best means of communication for the next day’s travel at the nightly travel meeting.

Can I book optional activities on tour?

There may be opportunities in which you may want to enjoy side trips and optional tours that are not included in the price of the Caravan. Our WagonMasters & Tailgunners are available to assist you with suggestions of popular activities in the area to make the most of your vacation.

What if I have medical emergency or mechanical breakdown?

Our Travel Ambassadors are ready to help when a mechanical problem or medical emergency arises. However, if this prevents you from continuing the tour, you may receive a credit toward a future tour less any non-refundable expenses incurred by Fantasy RV Tours on your behalf.

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European Barge Cruises: Everything You Need To Know

Luxury European barge cruises are one of the most bespoke, intimate, leisurely, and convenient ways to travel. 

They offer a slow and up-close way to explore small villages and historic cities while traveling along Europe’s canals, inland waterways, and rivers.

Whether you love or loathe riverboat or ocean cruises, you’ll discover that luxury barge cruises offer a distinctly different experience.

A barge cruise couples the best of two worlds: the feel of a river cruise that touches the shores of small towns and villages with the gourmet cuisine and personal service of an ultra-luxury ocean cruise.

Here are some common questions people ask about barging:

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How many passengers and crew are on a European barge cruise?

Hotel barges are quite small, even compared to riverboats. They usually carry no more than 20 passengers (and often less). Riverboats can carry as many as 200 guests.

Crew sizes on barges average 4-6 persons—a captain, chef, driver/guide, deckhands, and housekeepers/waitstaff—a team that works together seamlessly.   

Because of its diminutive size, a barge offers an ambiance more akin to sailing a skippered yacht (with crew) than a commercial vessel. 

How fast and how far do hotel barges travel?

Barges only travel short distances—at very slow rates of speed—usually in one region.

They generally travel less than four miles an hour, making numerous stops at locks along canals. 

For example, on a six-night barge trip, passengers might only travel 30-50 miles from the time they embark on the trip until the end of their journey.

What are some popular European barge itineraries?

Some of the most popular barge itineraries include routes in France (Canal du Midi, northern and southern Burgundy, Champagne, Upper Loire, Gascony, Alsace Lorraine, Canal du Centre, and Provence), Italy (Po River), Germany (Mosel River), England (Thames River), Netherlands, Ireland and Scotland.

When is the best time to take a barge cruise?

Barge season usually starts in late March and runs through the end of October. The most popular times to take a barge cruise are spring or fall.

Barges don’t operate in winter, and summer isn’t ideal because of the surge in tourism.

What is included and not included in the cost of a barge trip?

You always have to read the fine print, but luxury barge cruises are one of the most cost-inclusive ways to travel. Guests know the cost of their accommodations upfront, which includes three meals a day (some may be in a fine restaurant off the boat) and a well-stocked open bar. 

Most barge trips include daily excursions to nearby points of interest— such as short minivan drives to nearby chateaux and vineyards, museums, historical sites, and visits with local artisans or food producers. 

Passengers generally pay their own airfare to get to the barge’s departure point and are responsible for gratuities.

Because departures are generally from small towns along the waterways, barge operators provide complimentary van transportation from a central meeting point to the barge.

What are accommodations like on a luxury barge?

Although very comfortable, barge cabins tend to be much smaller and less posh than those on cruise ships and riverboats. 

Most are below deck, generally have no balconies, and may or may not have portholes instead of opening windows. Bathrooms are private and offer modern amenities.

Why do people consider barges a hassle-free way to travel?

Like ocean and river cruising, guests only need to pack and unpack once. In essence, it feels like you are traveling in a home that travels with you.

Passengers don’t have to deal with the logistics of getting from place to place, booking accommodations, or making reservations for meals and activities.

What are meals like on a barge cruise?

Food plays an integral role on any cruise, but barge travel takes gastronomy to another level. Cuisine on luxury barges is likely to please the palates of even the fussiest food and wine enthusiasts.

Each vessel has a chef who tailors menus based on the destination and season.

With the limited number of guests, onboard chefs are able to cater to food aversions, allergies and preferences. If a guest has a passion for foie gras or a certain type of Creman t, they can simply tell the chef or captain.

Although menus are tailored to gourmet tastes, mealtimes are easy and quite informal. Most meals are served in the dining area of the main cabin. If weather permits, some

lunches may be organized on the outside deck. 

Most foods are locally sourced (e.g., warm bread or croissants may come from a local baker each morning or cheeses from a nearby farm).

After-dinner cheese courses are common, offering an opportunity to learn about different local cheeses.

Passengers can taste regional foods and recipes and learn their history and how to prepare them from the chef and other crew.

Since many barge trips operate in celebrated wine regions, oenophiles can enjoy visiting vineyards, chatting with winemakers, and tasting different wines paired with lunch and dinner courses.

Do barge cruises offer entertainment?

There is little to no onboard entertainment other than music and conversation with fellow passengers.

If someone is interested in gambling or theater productions, barging isn’t the way to go. Entertainment on a barge is more low-key.

Ex-sailors, yachtsmen and other nautical types who love operating and exploring boats will enjoy watching the Captain and crew navigate the vessel, negotiate the canals, and tie up overnight. Interested passengers are often invited to the wheelhouse. Many guests enjoy watching other vessels, mostly smaller ones, sail beside them. 

Photo enthusiasts will be dazzled by the changing landscape along the canals. Church steeples and castles dot the countryside. Cattle can be seen grazing. There’s also an abundance of birds and sea life around the barge. 

Locals may pass by on the towpath, walking a dog or taking their kids for a stroll.

Because canals tend to be narrow (in places, just wide enough to fit the barge), the views are close-up and personal, and slow speeds afford many chances to capture that perfect photo.

Will I have opportunities to exercise and work off the calories of the great cuisine?

Taking a relaxing barge trip isn’t synonymous with being sedentary. True, barges don’t have the space for gyms or fancy workout equipment.

But most barges have complimentary bicycles on board; guests can borrow them to explore a small village on their own and meet up with the barge at an agreed-upon point later in the day. 

Similarly, passengers can walk, run or jog at their own pace along the towpaths (roads or trails beside the canal) while the vessel is moving and meet it at one of the next locks.

There are also opportunities to walk during tours to larger villages and cities along the route. Some barge cruises depart from cities worth staying at longer (either before or after your trip), like Strasbourg , France. 

Is it easy to make new friends on a barge cruise?

Because of the vessel’s small size and relaxed ambiance, passengers tend to make “fast friends.” 

Everyone eats meals together, usually around one big table. The availability of unlimited complimentary wines, liquors, and cocktails helps act as a social lubricant.

Can there be “too much” togetherness with such a limited number of passengers?

Introverts, who prefer to socialize in smaller groups or one-on-one, usually prefer this more intimate type of cruising to sailing on mega ships or even riverboats that can carry hundreds.

If someone is shy or introverted and needs to recharge after too much social contact, there are opportunities and spaces to be alone, too. Passengers can retreat to the deck or to their cabins to read a book or walk along a towpath.

Families (including multigenerational groups) or groups of friends have the option of chartering an entire vessel for themselves.

Are there risks in traveling in close quarters with strangers?

Although unlikely, you could wind up on a barge with a fellow passenger who is personally grating. (Controversial political discussions aren’t recommended.) 

Is it comfortable to take a barge cruise as a single person?

Unlike Noah’s Ark, where the animals were boarded two by two, barges tend to be a comfortable choice for solo travelers.

Almost immediately, passengers (and the small crew) feel like a family, ensuring no one feels alone or left out.

Compared to other types of solo travel, there is a sense of safety and security in traveling with a small group of kindred spirits. 

Is someone likely to get seasick on a barge cruise?

Many people don’t want to cruise because they are prone to motion sickness or are fearful they would feel claustrophobic on a ship. 

The odds of getting seasick on a barge are slim because the barge doesn’t have the sway of larger ships, hardly ever listing or making waves at all.

Because the barge moves so slowly, passengers can hop on and off for a period of time and catch up to the barge at the next lock. Also, barges don’t cruise at night like bigger vessels. 

What is the history of barging? 

In the mid-1800s, before the advent of rail transport, it was common for flat-bottomed barges to transport heavy goods, like coal, iron ore, and wine, along canals. These vessels fell into disuse because rail freight was so much more efficient.

During the 1960s, many of these old workhorses were repurposed, renovated, and found second lives as floating hotels. 

The same picturesque lockhouses constructed long ago are still along the banks of canals, inhabited by lockkeepers (and, sometimes, their families) who manually open and close nearby locks as barges pass.

Lockkeepers often arrive via a bicycle or moped when a barge is approaching a lock.

How does someone book a barge cruise?

Barge cruises can be booked directly with companies—like European Waterways , French Waterways , Les Bateaux Belmond , Abercrombie & Kent , and CroisiEurope —or through luxury travel advisors or specialized travel agencies like The Barge Lady .

The compelling lures of a luxury barge cruise

If you like the idea of slow, immersive travel, taking a barge cruise is a great alternative to cruising on oceans or rivers.

These bespoke cruises offer intimacy and personalized service at a truly relaxing pace.

• What To Pack for A Barge Cruise
• A Barge Cruise Through Alsace Lorraine
• Pampered Luxury: What Is It Like To Take A Barge Cruise
• A Girlfriends Getaway On A Hotel Barge
• Touring Burgundy by Barge
• 6 Types of Travelers Who Will Love Barge Cruises

All photo credits: Jerome Levine

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Introducing Escapees Flotillas!

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Ahoy mates, have you always wanted to travel to Hawaii, but don’t want to leave your motorhome behind?

Perhaps you have pets that you don’t want to leave behind while you head off to a tropical paradise, rving to hawaii hasn’t been a possiblity until now, i am pleased to announce escapees flotillas, living full-time in an rv allows you to travel all over the country and now you can visit the 50th state by rv, too, finally, we have the means for you to take your rv with you., on the open water, you’ll see sunsets and stars like you’ve never seen before. , once you reach the islands, you can live in the comfort of your own home and avoid expensive hotel stays., life on the high seas will bring a new dimension to your travels., sign up today for the first escapees flotilla, travel to hawaii by rv.

How do we get there?

We’ve purchased 50 brand new barges that you can drive your RV right onto and use your RV’s engine power to drive yourself to Hawaii. At a blistering top speed of 10 mph, we can make the 2400 mile crossing to Hawaii in just 10 days! Travel in the comfort of your own home with your friends by your side and nothing but open ocean for as far as the eye can see.

This won't be a Three Hour Tour

Typical Itinerary

• Arrive at the Port of Los Angeles Cruise Ship Terminal to board Flotilla Barges
• Travel the open sea to reach Maui - 10 to 14 Days depending on weather
• Tour the big Island by Motorhome with optional trips to the smaller islands - 5 Days
• Return to LA by sea - 10 to 14 Days depending on weather

Just $100 to use our Barge for the trip!

Plus fuel costs – typically $4000-$5000 each way., things to be aware of.

• There aren’t a lot of RVs in Hawaii so be prepared for some funny looks.
• Roads can be narrow and steep.
• There aren’t many campgrounds that can facilitate large RVs, but you can always stay on your barge.

Who’s ready to be the first to take part in the Escapees Flotilla! 

We’re ready to go if you are. .

Happy April 1st everyone. 

Maybe one day they’ll work out a fast and fun way to take your rv to hawaii, 8 responses.

We actually considered buying one of the Rollerboat barges to tow our bus behind us when we moved into a boat two years ago. I shared my research on these – they are actually a real thing: https://www.technomadia.com/2017/04/moving-to-water-so-what-about-the-bus/

BTW – a company used to do Mississippi River tours by barge for RVers too!

– Chris

Herman and Helen’s in the California Delta used to offer this barge service. For real. We used to dream about doing that when we had a 24 foot fifth wheel.

April Fools! Love it

The trip from Hawaii to LA with a westerly wind could be called the Pineapple Express. ???

Love it. I used to drive my Vw bug onto a plane in England and drive it off again in Switzerland. I sometimes wonder how much “progress ” we are losing. Patricia Smith

When it was still allowed, we boarded (drove our RV) onto a barge with 2 other Escapee couples, in Alabama. Went through locks, up the Tombigbee, into the Ohio and then down the Mississippi! Cannot remember the entire routes, sometimes we tied up along the river, sometimes in a city. What a marvelous adventure. Shortly after, the Coast Guard shut down the company, saying it was not safe as a passenger line. We ended up in New Orleans for a few more days of fun and partying. Anyone else remember this trip??

Ha Ha. I imagined everyone in the desert partying with a bunch of blow up palm trees and pools. Pineapples and drinks on the side.

LOL you had me going there for a min. I thought how awesome till I seen the April fools at the end…………Too funny

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Article X: Relationship

A. The relationship between the Licensor and the Licensee is that of licensor and licensee, and it is not the purpose or intention of this agreement or of the parties to create a partnership, joint venture, principal-agent, or other relationship for any purpose whatsoever. Neither the Licensor nor the Licensee is authorized to or has the power to obligate or bind the other party in any manner whatsoever except as may be expressly provided in this Agreement.

Article XI: Binding Effect

A. The provisions of this Agreement will be binding on and inure to the benefit of the heirs, personal representatives, successors, and assigns (where applicable) of the parties.

Article XII: Notice

A. All notices and other communications between the parties must be in writing. B. Notices must be given by (i) personal delivery, (ii) a nationally-recognized, next-day courier service, (iii) first-class registered or certified mail, postage prepaid to the party’s address specified in this agreement, or to the address that a party has notified to be that party’s address for the purposes of this section, (iv) or via email. C. A Notice given in accordance with this Agreement will be effective upon receipt by the party to which it is given or, if mailed, upon the earlier of receipt and the fifth Business Day following mailing.

Licensor: Teresa Moore, COO Escapees, Inc. 100 Rainbow Drive Livingston, Texas 77351

______ ______ ______, ______ ______

Article XIII: Attorney’s Fees

In the event of any controversies, disputes, and/or claims arising out of or relating to this Agreement, whether sounding in contract, tort, or otherwise, each party shall bear its own costs and expenses, including reasonable attorneys’ fees, incurred in connection with such action. Article XIV: Confidentiality

Licensee shall maintain the confidentiality of all trade and proprietary secrets that may be disclosed in the course of providing the services under this agreement. Licensor shall identify to Licensee in advance and in writing any information or data deemed a trade or proprietary secret. ARTICLE XV: CHOICE OF LAW The parties agree that the laws of Texas shall govern this Agreement and all controversies, disputes and claims relating to, in connection with or arising out of this Agreement or breach of this Agreement, whether sounding in contract, tort, or otherwise, and whether settled by binding arbitration or by a court of competent jurisdiction. Article XVI: Waiver A party’s failure or neglect to enforce any of its rights under this agreement will not be deemed to be a waiver of that rights or any other of its rights. Article XVII: Headings and Construction The section headings contained in this Agreement are for reference purposes only and shall not affect the meaning or interpretation of this Agreement. Article XVIII: Counterparts The parties to this Agreement may sign this Agreement in any number of counterparts, each of which is an original and all of which taken together form one single document. Moreover, this Agreement shall become effective when each of the parties to this Agreement sign one or more counterparts and delivered the signed counterpart to each of the other parties to this Agreement, in accordance with ARTICLE II: NOTICE of this Agreement. Article XIX: Severability If any term or provision of this Agreement shall be deemed to be invalid, illegal, or unenforceable, the remainder of this Agreement shall remain in full force and effect, and, that illegal, invalid, or unenforceable term or provision shall be modified to the extent necessary to render such term or provision enforceable. The rights and obligations of the parties shall be construed and enforced accordingly, preserving to the fullest permissible extent the intent and agreements of the parties, without frustrating the purpose of the Agreement. Article XX: Entire Agreement, Modification and Integration A. This Agreement constitutes the entire agreement between the parties. Each party acknowledges that in entering into this Agreement it does not rely on, and shall have no remedies in respect of, any representation or warranty (whether made expressly or impliedly) that is not set out in this agreement. B. This Agreement may not be modified other than in a writing, dated, executed by an authorized representative of both parties, stating its intent to modify or supersede this Agreement and delivered in accordance with the Notice clause of this Agreement. IN WITNESS WHEREOF, Licensor has caused this Agreement to be executed by offering the Intellectual Property for download on escapees.com; and, Licensee has caused this Agreement to be executed personally or, as appropriate, by its duly authorized officers by downloading the Intellectual Property.

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We are no longer accepting new reservations for the Winter Home Base Hangouts, as this program ends on February 28, 2021.

42 Years of Escapees - Share Your Story

Escapees is celebrating 42 years of fun, friends, and RVing in 2020! Whether you’re a new member or have been celebrating with us the whole time, we know you have many good memories of Escapees gatherings, friends, and good times. We want you to share those memories with us and the whole community through stories, photos, or both! Let's make the next 42 years as fun as the last 42 years.

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The New & Improved Way to Barge Cruise

A few British people had the idea to buy old WWII-era cargo boats and transform them into luxury floating hotels. Now, the barge owners have created their own niche market, with a global rating system and fantastic crews to guide you. The owners of the barges are often the operators – possibly your Captain or Chef. And they take care when hiring the rest of their crew, because their crew becomes like a family during the season. The rating system for barges refers to the cabin size and luxury expectations for each barge.

• Boutique: This cruise is about the experiences, not the amenities. Cabin sizes are smaller, but that won’t matter to you because you’re more interested in the authentic onshore participation in French life. We do not have any boutique level barge cruises on our website. Please call our agents if this experience interests you: 800-578-1479.
• First Class: The cabins get a little bigger in this category, and the experiences get more eclectic. You’ll enjoy delicious meals onboard, paired with fantastic wines. To see First Class barges, check out the Luciole and L’Art de Vivre .
• Deluxe: Deluxe cabins are spacious, usually with your choice between queen or twin beds. Onboard amenities could include a hot tub. Deluxe barges on our website include the Rendez-vous , L’Impressioniste and the Shannon Princess .
• Ultra-Deluxe: The premier level of luxury, service and accommodations. Onboard amenities could include an open kitchen or grand piano. The highest quality of cuisine and wine will be served with every meal. Our Ultra-Deluxe barge is the Prosperite , which is an 8-passenger barge available for charter only.

Where Do Barge Cruises Go?

Parts of Continental Europe have very elaborate canal systems, originally built in the 1600’s to transport produce, wine, and other products between villages. Alongside the canals are towpaths, intended to help pull boats of grain but now are perfect for morning strolls. During your 6-night cruise, your barge will only travel 30-50 miles. Instead of hitting as many sites as possible like a river cruise would do, barges allow you a more intimate look at a small region.

There are barges that travel in the UK, Ireland, France, Holland, Italy and Germany. On our website, we feature three cruises that travel in Southern Burgundy, two in Northern Burgundy, and one in central Ireland. Even though these barges are covering the same region, they’re itineraries are each distinct. For the most part, the itinerary consists of morning cruising down the canal, then getting off after lunch and exploring a nearby village or town. Your barge will not be moving while you are sleeping.

How Do I Choose a Barge?

The rating system is a good place to start. Consider your travel preferences: what level of luxury do you expect from a hotel stay? If you don’t care about the room because you’re all about getting out there and seeing the destination, a Boutique or First-Class barge would fit your style. If you would be content to spend the entire week lounging while someone pours you continual glasses of wine, and demanded the highest quality cabin with space comparable to a hotel suite… you’re definitely Ultra-Deluxe, but could probably survive the Deluxe barges, if you had to. (I’m only teasing. The Deluxe barges are amazing!)

Another item to consider: how many people are traveling? Is it just you? (The Luciole has two single cabins, with no single supplements!) Is it a romantic getaway just for two? Do you have a few couples with whom you like to travel? Could this be the vacation where you take many family members, to celebrate your retirement, a special birthday or your 50th wedding anniversary? Two of our barges are charter only, meaning you can’t just book one cabin (unless you really want the 8-passenger Ultra-Deluxe Prosperite all to yourselves!). The charter-only barges are 6 or 8 passengers. You can charter the larger barges as well, or, if you don’t mind other passengers being on board, only book the number of cabins you need.

Your interests should always play a part in deciding which cruise is right for you. Do you properly ‘geek out’ over Irish history and culture? The Shannon Princess will take you to ancient villages and castles (some haunted), and an authentic Guinness pub. Are you a modern ‘foodie’? Take the Rendezvous . Are you a more continental ‘foodie’? Try L’Art de Vivre ! Do you like to bike? The crew on L’Impressionniste will escort you on or provide biking plans for you to explore the French countryside. Interested in European history or a solo traveler? We’d recommend the Luciole .

What Are the Accommodations on a Barge Cruise? 

Double Cabin aboard L’Art de Vivre (First-Class)

Cabin aboard L’Impressionniste (Deluxe)

Ensuite bathrooms (showers not shown) aboard L’Impressionniste (Deluxe)

Cabin aboard the Prosperite (Ultra-Deluxe)

Ensuite for each cabin on Prosperite (Ultra-Deluxe)

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A New Way To Cruise: Floating Along America's Rivers In Your Rv

ON THE TENNESSEE RIVER - We started getting the stares in Chattanooga.

People drove their cars toward the river to gawk. A police officer cruised up and sat open-mouthed. Boys waved at us from a prep school, and motorists stopped on bridges for a better look.

It's amazing how much attention you draw by placing 29 recreational vehicles on barges and floating them down a river.

Welcome to the latest wave in the cruise industry: RV river cruises.

The ingenious idea takes advantage of two of the greatest passions among many American travelers, the gypsy life of the RV crowd and the leisurely appeal of cruising.

Here's how it works: You drive your RV onto the deck of a converted river barge and connect it to the kinds of facilities you might find in a campground (water, sewage, electricity and special tie-downs). Then you leave the driving to the barge crew, as you cruise from one river town to another, stopping for bus tours and evenings ashore.

At night, you sleep in your RV. During the day, there are some communal meals and lots of games and scenery. "In effect," Ray N. Gaines said, "it's a floating campground."

Gaines, 65, is a partner in the company offering the cruises, RV River Charters of New Orleans, and the fellow who came up with the idea.

Gaines and his wife, Laura, are "365ers" - RV talk for people who live year-round in their motor homes. A retired Army captain, Gaines served for years as a caravan master, leading convoys of RVers through Mexico.

But all the while he had in mind combining RVs with cruises. The idea took shape in 1988 when Gaines met Eddie Conrad, owner of a tugboat company in New Orleans. Conrad agreed to try a test run in 1989. He hauled 88 RVs up the Mississippi River from New Orleans to St. Charles, Mo., then hauled back 90 more.

When Conrad told the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, which certifies river carriers, about his plans "they had a fit," he said. "When I said we were going into it as a full-time business, they had a quadruple fit."

But patience paid off. The corps now certifies RV River Cruises, and the specially modified barges include safety features from chain-link fences along the sides to keep anyone from straying overboard to fire-fighting equipment at strategic locations. During cruises, the crew keeps a 24-hour watch. "It's inherently very, very safe," Gaines said.

There's another feature: pet relief boxes. Roughly 4 by 8 feet in size and planted with grass, they are to accommodate the dogs and cats RVers bring aboard.

Among the itineraries are the Tennessee River cruise, from Pigeon Forge, Tenn., to Guntersville, Ala.; the Tennessee-Mississippi cruise, from Guntersville to New Orleans (by way of Paducah, Ky.); the Mississippi River cruise, from New Orleans to Baton Rouge and back; and the Mississippi-Atchafalaya cruise, through the bayous of south Louisiana.

Eight-day cruises are around $2,200 for two people, including tours and dinners, 17-day runs are about $4,400 for two.

I joined the Tennessee River cruise in Chattanooga early one Tuesday morning. The cruise had begun Saturday at Pigeon Forge and arrived Monday in Chattanooga, which passengers toured by bus. By 7 the next morning, the barges were out in the channel again.

The RVs were parked diagonally on three barges. A towboat in front is used mainly for steering, and a pushboat behind provides the power. The pilot in the pushboat controls the towboat by remote control.

If that's more about boats than you wanted to know, blame it on the river cruise. One of the benefits of a leisurely trip like this is the chance to talk to the crew and learn about their way of life.

First impressions can be misleading. These guys look like a rough lot: big, bearded fellows with tattoos and snaggle-toothed grins. And there's admittedly a rough side to what they do. If you ask, they will tell you the towns to avoid along the Mississippi, bars where fights start like clockwork, and what it's like to discover a body floating in the river.

But there's a gentler side to them, too. They are polite, attentive to the passengers and eager to explain how barges and river boats work. I got invited into the pushboat for coffee and biscuits and later went upstairs to chat with the pilot.

Out on the deck, there were a limited number of things to do as the north Alabama hills rolled past. The crew pointed out a few sites as we cruised along. Tour organizer Bill LaGrange kept things lively with non-stop chatter and games.

But the nicest part was the scenery. Everyone who goes to the ocean beaches knows about the calming effect of water. Combine that with beautiful pine and hardwood forests rising on hillsides straight out of the cool, clear Tennessee River, and you get the idea.

Next to the scenery, the nicest part was the conversation. RVers, I discovered, are a neighborly lot. Most are retired, and many have traveled widely, although I didn't run into any 365ers other than Gaines. Their motor homes ranged from converted vans to plush, 35-foot models, complete with televisions and satellite dishes. One RVer, T.E. Sikes from Oceanside, Calif., told me he had once seen a 40-foot motor home that featured a baby grand piano.

And, finally, the cruise provides an education in river lore and nature. Laura Gaines said she was surprised to learn how many different vessels use America's rivers: "You see all sorts of things go by."

Same with wildlife. On the Tennessee cruise, we saw muskrats patrolling the shore and hawks cruising the air. The Atchafalaya tour takes RVers through one of the largest and most remote swamps in America.

At nightfall, when they are between towns, the crew ties up to trees along the shore, deep in the woods. Far from city lights, Ray Gaines says, the stars cover the sky with brilliance.

MORE INFORMATION

-- Contact RV River Charters, 1-504-364-1608 or 1-800-256-6100.

RV DA VINCI

The RV Da Vinci proudly sails on the Nile, a symbolic and sacred river, witness to forty centuries of history and the cradle of one of its most brilliant civilizations. A superb Premium ship, the RV Da Vinci is the ideal setting for a dream trip.

The RV Da Vinci is a magnificent premium ship, measuring 72 meters long and 13,60 meters wide. It can accommodate 108 passengers, in 54 cabins spread over 3 decks. Each cabin has a size of 16 m2(plus 2 suites of 32 m2 each), offers amenities and provides guests with all the comforts they need during their stay. The decoration is stylish and its atmosphere, both elegant and friendly, is in perfect harmony with its surroundings. The restaurant offers a delicate cuisine in a refined setting. The large bay windows in the lounge / bar and the library allow guests to fully enjoy the panorama. The sun deck, the ideal place to relax and admire the scenery, provides comfortable sun loungers as well as a swimming pool.

Photo gallery

• 220V Electricity (European plug)
• Individual air-conditioning
• Bathroom with shower and bathroom amenities
• Wi-Fi throughout the ship (at a charge)

Cairo & cruise on the Nile: The Land of the Pharaohs (port-to-port)

Cairo - LUXOR - EDFOU - KOM OMBO - ASWAN - ESNA - LUXOR

Discover the hidden treasures of the Egyptian capital. From the Cairo Citadel to the bazaar district, learn all about the intellectual and cultural capital of the Arab world and its must-see Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. Then, discover ancient Egypt, the cradle of all civilizations, which has fascinated humankind forever. Since the dawn of time, explorers, diplomats, writers, and painters have used the fertile banks of the Nile as inspiration for their work. Even today, we still seek the answers to the mysteries found within the pharaohs' tombs. Over two thousand years of history are waiting for you on a cruise that promises exciting, spectacular, and unforgettable discoveries. Majestic temples, tombs, pyramids, and lively villages dot the Nile Valley landscapes from Luxor to Aswan. Wind down from your everyday grind and step way back in time on a cruise through Upper Egypt.

Cruise on the Nile: The Land of the Pharaohs (port-to-port cruise)

LUXOR - EDFOU - KOM OMBO - ASWAN - ESNA - LUXOR

The cradle of all civilizations'ancient Egypt'has fascinated humankind forever. Since the dawn of time, explorers, diplomats, writers, and painters have used the fertile banks of the Nile as inspiration for their work. Even today, we still seek the answers to the mysteries found within the pharaohs' tombs. Over two thousand years of history are waiting for you on a cruise that promises exciting, spectacular, and unforgettable discoveries. Majestic temples, tombs, pyramids, and lively villages dot the Nile Valley landscapes from Luxor to Aswan. Wind down from your everyday grind and step way back in time on a cruise through Upper Egypt.

RVs On the Ferry

Traveling with a rv or other large recreational vehicle.

Planning an RV trip takes special planning and we make every effort to make certain that your needs are met. Below you will find the information needed to make ferry reservations, regulations you should know, as well as some additional useful resources.

Ferry Reservations

To make your ferry reservation we will need the length and width of your RV, including any trailers, overhangs or towed vehicles. RV's that are unable to fold mirrors to under 8' 6" wide will be charged a 25% premium. RV's 9' wide and over will be charged a 50% premium.

Drivers of vehicles with long overhangs are advised that, due to the large tidal range of Alaskan waters (up to 40 feet in some places), the angle of the transfer ramp may cause damage to undercarriage units such as holding tanks or plumbing. Vehicles longer than 25 feet may have trouble clearing the top of the car deck door at low tide. AMHS is not responsible for damage caused by the angle of the transfer ramp.

Electrical hookups for vehicle refrigeration units are not available and there is no refrigerated storage on board for passengers' commodities. Bottled gas containers must be turned off and sealed by an Alaska Marine Highway employee at the time of boarding.

The Alaska Marine Highway does not provide for loading or off-loading of vehicles. It is the shipper's responsibility to provide for the loading and off loading of vehicles.

The car deck is closed off when the ferry is underway, thus you cannot sleep in your vehicle. For more information on sleeping on the ferry see our FAQ’s and General Sailing Information. You will have access to your vehicles whenever the ferry is in port and during car deck call times, which occur up to five times a day, usually when pet owners can attend to their animals.

On the Road

Driving through Canada and Alaska is the adventure of a lifetime, but to ensure it isn’t the disaster of a lifetime you need to plan ahead. Refreshments, services, and amenities can be found at towns and small communities along your route, but with the closure of some roadhouses and seasonal closures you can find yourself traveling 100-150 miles between services on a couple of stretches of the highway. It is important to pay attention to your fuel level and fill up when you can. In addition, there are long stretches where you will be without cell phone service.

The Alaska Highway is driven year-round, but expect the most traffic from May to September. During June and July you will find the most daylight and the best chance for sunshine. In August summer fades into fall and by September the temperatures can dip below freezing at night. As always in Alaska and the in the mountain passes weather can be unpredictable.

The road conditions range from poor to excellent, the highway is paved but you will still encounter gravel breaks that vary from a few feet long to several miles. Upkeep of the highway occurs every summer creating brief delays. A variety of vehicles tackle the highway each year, as long as your vehicle is in good working condition with good tires and you carry a spare you should have no cause for concern.

Border Information

For border information please see FAQ page .

Useful Resources

Weather and Road Conditions: http://511.alaska.gov/alaska511

RV Parks and General Planning: http://dnr.alaska.gov/parks http://www.travelalaska.com http://www.blm.gov http://www.nps.gov/akso/index.cfm http://milepost.com

Emergency Equipment for your Vehicle

• Flares and reflectors
• First aid kit with knife and pocket mask
• Multi-purpose dry chemical fire extinguisher
• Tow cable (at least 20 feet)
• Spare tire - inflated to proper pressure
• Tool kit (pliers, screwdriver, wrenches)
• Flashlight and spare batteries
• Maps, pencil and paper
• Jumper cables
• Matches and candles
• Containers for liquids
• Facial and toilet tissue; Paper towels
• Supply of non-perishable foods
• Transistor radio and extra battery
• Full tank of gasoline - always drive on upper half
• Nylon rope (at least 20 feet)
• Insect repellent

Additional Equipment for Winter Driving

• Ice Scraper
• Sack of sand
• Blanket; sleeping bag
• Extra warm clothing

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Memorial Day road trip? Some of the best RV, glamping destinations are close to Brevard

An estimated 43.8 million travelers are expected to hit the road this Memorial Day weekend traveling 50 miles or more, according to AAA.

Lucky for Space Coast residents, two of the top luxury RV and glamping destinations in the country are within easy driving distance from Brevard County.

USA Today 10Best released its list of the best luxury RV resorts in the country and the top spot went to a central Florida destination. Also published was the 10 best glamping spots in the US, where a central Florida location also got a mention.

Best luxury RV resort in the US is right here in central Florida

Camp Margaritaville RV Resort & Cabana Cabins in Auburndale earned the top spot on the USA Today 10Best list for luxury RV resorts.

“Their oversized sites have plenty of room to accommodate all RV sizes and include full hookups, free Wi-Fi and cable access, a charcoal grill, and a picnic table,” according to USA Today 10Best. “Each week, the resort features live music and entertainment with delicious food trucks and fun activities for all family members.”

What other luxury RV resorts made the USA Today 10Best list?

• No. 2: Motorcoach Country Club – Indio, California
• No. 3: Firefly Resort – Fredericksburg, Texas
• No. 4: Las Vegas Motorcoach Resort – Las Vegas
• No. 5: Normandy Farms – Foxboro, Massachusetts
• No. 6: Camp Fimfo Texas Hill Country – New  Braunfels, Texas
• No. 7: Dark Sky RV Campground – Kanab, Utah
• No. 8: The Waves RV Resort – Naples, Florida
• No. 9: Bluewater Key RV Resort – Key West
• No. 10: Little Arrow Outdoor Resort – Townsend, Tennessee

Best glamping locations in the country include a spot close to Brevard

Glamping, also known as glamorous camping, has gained popularity in recent years. It allows campers to experience the beauty of the outdoors with some of the comforts of home, like indoor plumbing and air conditioning.

USA Today 10Best awarded Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo the No. 5 spot. Located south of Kissimmee, this dude ranch gives guests the option of glamping in luxury tents complete with bathrooms, beds and air conditioning. The property offers a live rodeo, horseback riding and other camping activities.

What other glamping locations made the USA Today 10Best list?

• No. 1: Sky Ridge Yurts – Bryson City, North Carolina
• No. 2: Beaver Island Retreat – Beaver Island, Michigan
• No. 3: Piney River Ranch – Vail, Colorado
• No. 4: Treebones Resort – Big Sur, California
• No. 5: Westgate River Ranch Resort & Rodeo – River Ranch, Florida
• No. 6: Nomad Ridge at The Wilds – Cumberland, Ohio
• No. 7: Little Arrow Outdoor Resort – Townsend, Tennessee
• No. 8: The Destination – Dadeville, Alabama
• No. 9: The Resort at Paws Up – Greenough, Montana
• No. 10: Borealis Basecamp – Fairbanks, Alaska

Spitzer is a Trending Reporter. She can be reached at [email protected].

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Rusmania • Deep into Russia

Transport in Zvenigorod

Zvenigorod is located in 50km from Moscow and has very good transport connection with Moscow. 

   Zvenigorod Railway Station

Zvenigorod Railway Station is located far from the city centre. To get to the centre from the railway station, take bus No. 23 or No. 51. Or take a taxi - it cannot cost more that RUB250. 

  Zvenigorod Bus Station

There is no bus station in Zvenigorod and buses from Moscow terminate in the city centre at what is known as the Mayakovsky Quarter bus stop, stopping at Ulitsa Proletarskaya on the way there.

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