Belmond is set to launch a new luxury river cruiser, Marguerite, on August 30, offering upscale week-long cruises through France’s Burgundy wine region. The vessel, formerly known as Amaryllis, has undergone a comprehensive refurbishment and will join Belmond’s existing fleet of seven French riverboats.

Marguerite features four suites accommodating up to eight guests, each equipped with private bathrooms and flexible bedding arrangements. The design incorporates floral motifs inspired by the region’s marguerite daisy, with decorative elements including stained glass from Chartres and custom woodwork from Saint Remy. Public spaces include an open-plan salon and a deck outfitted with herb gardens, flowers, dining areas, and a heated plunge pool.

Cruises will operate between April and October, on routes connecting towns such as Pontailler, St Leger, Lyon, Auxonne, and Saint-Jean. The itineraries can be tailored to guests’ preferences since the boat is privately chartered and staffed with a one-to-one crew-to-guest ratio. Each voyage includes a dedicated host and an onboard chef, with menus crafted by three Michelin-starred chef Dominique Crenn. The culinary focus emphasizes fresh local ingredients sourced along the journey. Guests may dine aboard or explore nearby Michelin-starred restaurants.

Activities highlight the region’s renowned gastronomy and viticulture. Options include making mustard in Dijon, wine tastings with master oenologists at both well-known and boutique wineries, and market-to-table cooking classes in Beaune. There is also an arranged private lunch in the historic salon of Chateau du Clos de Vougeot, a medieval estate dating to the 12th century. For those seeking physical activity, e-bikes are available to explore the Route des Grands Crus, a 60-kilometer trail passing through prestigious vineyards and villages.

Charters are all-inclusive and priced from approximately €85,100 (around $140,000), covering round-trip transfers from Geneva as well as daily breakfast, lunch, and fine dining. Marguerite’s launch expands Belmond’s presence in the luxury river cruising sector, emphasizing a slow-paced, richly immersive experience of France’s cultural and culinary heritage.