Your Private Floating Villa in the Heart of Burgundy Franche Comté

A Rare Human Experience: Meet Your Local Experts

We are Sandrine and Maxime, the owners and heart of Maïtena. Having grown up along these very canals, we welcome you not as passengers, but as our personal guests. Maxime, your Captain and Chef, prepares seasonal gourmet meals inspired by our regional heritage.

Sandrine, your hostess and pastry chef, ensures every detail of your comfort is met with a smile. We share our 'Art de Vivre' with you in an authentic, warm French atmosphere—where hospitality speaks louder than words.

To unlock the deep history of our region, Pascal, our private trilingual guide (English, German, French), joins you for every cultural visit. Also a local native, Pascal meets you directly at the boat to lead your private excursions. From the birthplace of Pasteur to the Hospices de Beaune, he provides the intellectual depth and linguistic fluidity that such a prestigious journey deserves, ensuring your discoveries are as rich as they are effortless

Three souls born and raised in Burgundy and Franche-Comté, dedicated to making your journey unforgettable.

Maxime & Sandrine: Your Private Hosts (On Board)

Pascal : your private tour guide

A Sanctuary of Space and Privacy

The Barge Maïtena

A Private Chef Experience: From Market to Table.

Savor the true flavors of Burgundy and Franche-Comté, prepared exclusively for you by your hosts.

Maxime, Your Private Chef : "Maxime sources the finest seasonal ingredients from local markets in Dole and Dijon. His cuisine is a modern tribute to our regional heritage—think Bresse poultry, Charolais beef, and artisanal cheeses, all paired with hand-selected Burgundy wines."

Sandrine’s Pastry Atelier : "Every afternoon and evening, Sandrine shares her passion for French pâtisserie. From delicate macarons to traditional tarts and gourmet desserts, her sweet creations are the poetic conclusion to every meal."

• Bespoke menus

• Farm-to-table

• Local sourcing

• Signature desserts

• Exquisite wine pairing

Pumpkin ravioli, roasted butternut balls with aged Comté cheese sauce

Gravlax trout, apple tartare, shallots, lemon cream sauce with roasted beetroot purée

Jura chicken ballotines, Comté cheese, spinach, yellow wine sauce and morels

Raspberry tartlet, aged vanilla ganache from Reunion Island infused with linden

Your Six-Day Odyssey through Burgundy’s Heart.

From the hidden gems of Franche-Comté to the prestigious estates of the Côte de Nuits, every mile tells a story

Sunday – The Art of Arrival (Choisey/Dole)

Your captain Maxime will meet you at the agreed meeting point and take you aboard Maïtena.

Your journey begins at 5:00 PM in the tranquil village of Choisey near Dole. As you step aboard MS Maïtena, the world slows down. Your hosts, Maxime and Sandrine, welcome you with a champagne reception, followed by a gourmet dinner on the deck. Tonight, you sleep in the quiet embrace of the canal, far from the reach of the modern world.

Monday – Of Science and Stone (Dole to Auxonne)

In the morning, Pascal, your private trilingual guide, joins you to explore Dole, the birthplace of Louis Pasteur. Wander through secret canals and the majestic Notre-Dame Collegiate Church. After a chef-prepared lunch on board, Maïtena glides onto the River Saône toward Auxonne. Discover the 17th-century fortifications of Vauban as the golden light hits the riverbanks.

Tuesday – The Soul of the Vines (Auxonne to St-Jean-de-Losne)

Awaken to the aroma of Sandrine’s fresh pastries as we cruise to Saint-Jean-de-Losne, the historic crossroads of French waterways. In the afternoon, a private chauffeured transfer takes you to Beaune. Pascal will lead you through the legendary Hospices de Beaune, a 15th-century masterpiece, followed by an intimate stroll through the town’s medieval cobblestone streets.

Wednesday – The Grand Cru Prestige (St-Jean-de-Losne to Longecourt)

The morning begins with a gentle cruise toward Brazey-en-Plaine, your gateway to the world’s most celebrated vineyards.

The Highlight: The "Grand Climat" Experience at Clos de Vougeot Today, you step into the history of Burgundy. We have arranged the prestigious Grand Climat private tour at the Château du Clos de Vougeot. This elite experience includes:

• A guided exploration of the medieval vats and Cistercian cellars.

• An exceptional private tasting of 6 fine wines, including two legendary Grands Crus.

• An elegant lunch served within the historic walls of the Château.

In the afternoon, we return to the Maïtena for a tranquil navigation toward Longecourt, where we moor for a peaceful night in the heart of the countryside.

Thursday – Ducal Splendor & Farewell Gala (Longecourt to Dijon)

Our final navigation takes us to Dijon, the majestic capital of the Dukes of Burgundy. After a chef-prepared lunch on board, join Pascal for a private tour of the city’s elegant streets, the Palais des Ducs, and the famous Halles Market.

The Evening: Farewell Gala Dinner To celebrate our final night together, Maxime and Sandrine prepare a spectacular Farewell Gala Dinner on board. A symphony of local flavors and fine wines, this evening is a tribute to the memories made throughout the week—a final taste of French elegance under the Burgundy stars.

Friday – Timeless Echoes (Dijon)

Enjoy one last breakfast on the water before disembarkation at 9:30 AM. As you depart via private transfer, you leave not as passengers, but as friends of the Maïtena, carrying the taste of authentic Burgundy with you.

Why this Itinerary is Unrivaled:

Total Privacy: The barge is yours alone. No crowds, no schedules but your own.

Local Mastery: Your crew and guide were born and raised here; they don't just show you the sights, they share their home.

Seamless Transitions: From the river’s majesty to the canal’s intimacy, every mile is a changing canvas.

Thank you Sandrine and Maxime for this wonderful discovery on board Maïtena, we've lived a beautiful escape "Gastronomy on the river"

Jean

Dear Sandrine, Maxime & Titom,

Our time with you both on Maïtena has been one of the most memorable of my life. You make an exceptional host and hostess, spoiling us with exceptional cuisine and service. You are both a joy and delight to be with; you have thought of everything down to the very last detail.

I felt totally cared for. Thank you!

Maxime, I'm sure you could dock Maïtena through the eye of a needle! Sandrine, your docking skills are outstanding.

It has been a privilege meeting and sailing with you both – Never to be forgotten – Christina (Melbourne)

Guest Stories

“A glimpse into the unforgettable moments shared aboard MS Maïtena.”

Sandrine, Maxime

Thank you, thank you, thank you for a most wonderful voyage.

Every single part of the experience is filled with love and consideration. Your beautiful outlooks on life are contagious!

Exceptional!

With much gratitude,

Wow! What an amazing trip. A truly magical, once in a lifetime experience.

Sandrine and Maxine are the most gracious hosts, thinking of every single possible detail to make us feel pampered and comfortable. The food was absolutely delicious, the cabin beautifully

appointed, and the excursions perfectly curated for my mum and me.

The river and canals are stunning and tranquil, and Maxine and Sandrine are like a well oiled machine navigating the locks- a joy to watch.

This trip brought us so much joy! Highly, highly recommended.

Sue (Denver)

Your Investment in Excellence

The MS Maïtena is exclusively yours. To guarantee absolute intimacy and a bespoke service, we only offer full charter bookings for your private group of 2 to 4 guests.

2026 Season Rates

• Private Charter for 2 Guests: €20,000

• Private Charter for 4 Guests: €23,500

• Rates are all-inclusive for the 6-day / 5-night journey.

What is Included in Your Journey?

Our promise is simple: once you step aboard, your only task is to relax. Everything is taken care of.

• Exclusive Use of MS Maïtena: 2 luxury en-suite cabins and all common areas privatized for your group.

• Dedicated Local Crew: Captain-Chef Maxime and Hostess-Pastry Chef Sandrine at your service 24/7.

• Private Trilingual Guide: Pascal, your dedicated expert, for all shore excursions and cultural visits.

• Gourmet Dining: All breakfasts, lunches, and dinners prepared on board with fresh, local market ingredients.

• Fine Wines & Open Bar: A curated selection of Burgundy Grands Crus, local wines, spirits, and soft drinks available at all times.

• VIP Excursions: All entry fees to historic sites (Hospices de Beaune, Clos de Vougeot, etc.) and private chauffeured transfers during visits.

• Luxury Transfers: Private transfer to and from Dijon or Dole train stations or airport CDG, Lyon, Geneve.

• Leisure Equipment: High-quality bicycles for towpath exploration and on-board amenities.

Ready to Secure Your 2026 Dates?

With only a few weeks available each season, we recommend inquiring early to secure your preferred dates.

Please note: As a family-owned barge, we personally handle every inquiry to ensure your journey is tailored perfectly to your desires.

Your Journey

Frequently Asked Questions

Essential Details for Your Comfort

Is there Wi-Fi and connectivity on board?

Yes, we provide complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the barge. While we encourage you to disconnect and enjoy the scenery, you can remain connected with the world whenever needed.

Is the MS Maïtena air-conditioned?

Absolutely. The entire barge, including all private cabins and common areas, is equipped with silent, individually controlled air conditioning and heating to ensure your comfort regardless of the season.

Can you accommodate specific dietary requirements?

Of course. As your private chef, Maxime tailors every menu to your needs. Whether you require gluten-free, vegetarian, or have specific allergies, we will consult with you prior to your arrival to ensure every meal is a delight.

How do we handle transfers and luggage?

We provide private, chauffeured transfers to and from the train stations in Dole or Dijon. Once you arrive, our crew handles all luggage, so your journey begins the moment you step off the train.

What is the dress code on board?

The atmosphere on the Maïtena is "Relaxed Elegance." Comfortable, casual attire is perfect for cruising and cycling. For the Farewell Gala Dinner, many guests enjoy dressing up slightly (Smart Casual), but your comfort is always our priority.