A journey through nature, heritage, and fine gastronomy along the Doubs River.

Itinerary Highlights

Sunday – Arrival in Dole (Choisey)

Guests are welcomed aboard MS Maïtena in Choisey, near the historic town of Dole, at 5 p.m.

After settling in, enjoy a gourmet welcome dinner on board — a first taste of Burgundy’s refined flavors.

Monday – Dole → Audelange

This morning, explore Dole, the birthplace of Louis Pasteur, with its picturesque old quarter, canals, and the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame.

After lunch, Maïtena begins her peaceful cruise along the tree-lined Doubs River.

Lock passages and tranquil villages mark the route toward Audelange, where the barge moors for the night.

Dinner on board prepared by your private chef.

Tuesday – Audelange→ Ranchot

Morning excursion to the UNESCO-listed Royal Saltworks of Arc-et-Senans.

Return for lunch on board, then a gentle afternoon cruise through verdant countryside to Ranchot

Dinner on board under the stars.

Wednesday – Ranchot → Thoraise

After breakfast, navigation continues through the serene Doubs valley toward Thoraise.

In the late afternoon, discover Arbois, the capital of Jura wines, and enjoy a private wine and local charcuterie tasting in a historic cellar in the heart of the old town.

Evening mooring in Thoraise and dinner on board.

Thursday – Thoraise → Besançon

A spectacular final cruise through the Thoraise tunnel and aqueduct leads to Besançon, nestled beneath its UNESCO-listed Citadel.

Afternoon guided tour of the old town followed by a farewell gala dinner on board.

Friday – Besançon

After breakfast, guests are transferred to the station or their hotel in Besançon, carrying lasting memories of French refinement on the water.

Why Choose This Cruise?

Luxury & Comfort: A Barge hotel experience aboard the elegant Maïtena.

Exclusive Excursions: Private guided tours and access to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Culinary Excellence: Savor fine French cuisine, including a Michelin-starred dinner.

Relaxation & Scenery: Enjoy peaceful cruising through the beautiful waterways of eastern France.

We will navigate between canal and river with breathtaking landscapes

Your Private Floating Sanctuary in France

Choose one of our 2 itineraries for an unforgettable 5-night journey aboard the Maitena, where culture, gastronomy and breathtaking landscapes combine for the ultimate river cruise experience.

A journey through nature, heritage, and fine gastronomy along the River Saone & the Burgundy canal.

Itinerary Highlights

Sunday – Arrival in Dole (Choisey)

Guests are welcomed aboard MS Maïtena in Choisey, near the historic town of Dole, at 5 p.m.

After settling in, enjoy a gourmet welcome dinner on board — a first taste of Burgundy’s refined flavors.

Monday – Dole → Auxonne

This morning, explore Dole, the birthplace of Louis Pasteur, with its picturesque old quarter, canals, and the Collegiate Church of Notre-Dame.

Lunch is served on board before Maïtena begins her gentle cruise toward Auxonne, a charming riverside town once fortified by Vauban.

In the late afternoon, enjoy a stroll through Auxonne’s old harbor, Notre-Dame Church, and the Louis XIV arsenal.

Dinner on board.

Tuesday – Auxonne → Saint-Jean-de-Losne

After breakfast, a short morning cruise brings us to Saint-Jean-de-Losne, the historic heart of French river navigation.

After lunch, an excursion to Beaune reveals the world-renowned Hospices de Beaune, followed by a guided walk through the medieval city center.

Dinner on board upon return to Maïtena.

Wednesday – Saint-Jean-de-Losne → Longecourt via Brazey-en-Plaine

In the morning, navigation toward Brazey-en-Plaine, gateway to Burgundy’s Grand Crus.

The day’s highlight: a private visit to the Clos de Vougeot Château, with a guided tasting and lunch in the château’s historic dining room.

Return to Maïtena in the afternoon for a tranquil cruise to Longecourt, where we moor for the night.

Dinner on board.

Thursday – Longecourt → Dijon

Our final navigation leads to Dijon, capital of the Dukes of Burgundy.

After lunch, explore its elegant streets, Palais des Ducs, Halles Market, and charming shops with a private guide.

Farewell dinner on board, celebrating a week of flavors and discovery.

Friday – Dijon

After breakfast, disembarkation and private transfer to the station or your hotel.

Your journey through Burgundy’s heart leaves you with the taste of timeless French elegance.

Why Choose This Cruise?

Luxury & Comfort: A Barge hotel experience aboard the elegant Maïtena.

Exclusive Excursions: Private guided tours and access to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Culinary Excellence: Savor fine French cuisine, including a Michelin-starred dinner.

Relaxation & Scenery: Enjoy peaceful cruising through the beautiful waterways of eastern France.

We will navigate between canal and river with breathtaking landscapes

Burgundy Discovery6-Day -5 Nights Cruise Dole to Dijon

Franche Comté Cruise 6-Day -5 Nights Cruise Dole to Besançon