L'Impressionniste

"Thank you from the bottom of our "new French hearts" for a truly remarkable and memorable vacation"

The 12 passenger L'Impressionniste, sister ship to La Belle Epoque, began life as a cargo barge in Holland before undergoing a complete transformation into the powerful canal and river cruiser she is today

Her light and airy interior features picture windows and selections of prints, fabrics and wall colorings reminiscent of the turn of the century era after which she has been named. She is crewed by a knowledgeable Captain, Master Chef and crew of three.

L'Impressionniste's classic route covers some fine rural cruising, with plenty of opportunity to cycle and stroll along the tow-path and wander into nearby villages. She cruises the Rhône river and Camargue, France.

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Cruise Highlights

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The Barge

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Golf Cruise: AVIGNON TO AGDE

Sunday

Avignon: You will be met at 16.00 at a pre-arranged hotel in Avignon and escorted by minibus to the L'Impressionniste for a Champagne Welcome. Spend the night onboard in Avignon.

Monday

Avignon to Arles: This morning we transfer to GOLF DU GRAN AVIGNON (6037m, Par 72). This 18 hole golf course, 15 miles from Avignon was built 10 years ago and was designed by M Roumeas. Return to the barge for lunch. In the afternoon we cruise down the mighty Rhone River to Arles, passing the immense citadel of King René at Tarascon, and the foothills of the Alpilles

www.golfgrandavignon.com

Tuesday

Arles to Aigues Mortes: This morning we transfer to GOLF DE LA GRANDE MOTTE (6161m, Par 72) 18 hole golf course on the edge of Lank Ponant. The seaside resort of Grande-Motte is famous for its pyramids, offers you two courses, one 18 hole and one 6 fole, both designed in the pure traditional Florida style by landscape designer Robert Trent Jones Senior. Return to the barge for lunch before a cruise down the Petit Rhone and on to the Canal de Rhone a Sete, passing several herds of wild Black bulls. We moor at Aigues Mortes.

'Pink Flamingos' (Les Flamants Roses) and 'Seagulls' (Les Goélands) are the 18-hole championship courses at Golf de La Grande-Motte, designed by Robert Trent Jones Senior in the late '80s. At the same time, he laid out a 6-hole compact course - a great place to hone your game up before tackling the more demanding courses. Trent Jones used this lakeside location to best effect; the overall impression is reminiscent of Florida golf clubs. A wonderful variety of foliage predominates. 'Lush' is the best visual descriptor of this outstanding course and it is internationally known as a training base for serious players. La Grande-Motte is part of the Volvo annual tour in October. Playing your round with pro Alain Schneider will be a pleasure, as he is greatly and rightfully proud of this club

www.ot-lagrandemotte.fr/anglais/sommaire.html

Wednesday

Aigues Mortes to Frontignan: This morning we transfer to GOLF DE FONTCAUDE (6250m Par 72) 18 hole course designed by Chris Pittman and laid out in 1991. This international course is very varied, being laid out in the fragrant garrigue and along the banks of the wooded river. Then in the afternoon we cruise the Canal du Rhone à Sete through the Camargue National Park with its wild horses, black bulls and pink flamingoes, to the hamlet of Les Aresquiers where we are 200 yards from the Mediterranean

www.golfhotelmontpellier.com

An early start to pass under the lifting Bridge at Frontignan, then we sail out onto the Etang de Thau, a large, inland, salt water lake. Mid-morning we stop briefly at Bouzigues to visit the Museum of the lake with its exhibition on oyster culture, which is the main activity of the many local fishermen. After lunch on board, we transfer to GOLF DE SAINT THOMAS (6130m, Par 72) This 18 hole golf course was designed by Patrice Lambert and laid out in 1993. It is set in typically Mediterranean scenery in the still wild garrigue. It has its own particular personality to interest all levels of players, from the beginner to the very experienced. Woods and hills, with stretches of water and other more classical fairways. We stay the night in the port of Marseillan, where we stroll into the marketplace for dinner ashore. This gives you a chance to taste many of the local seafood delicacies.

www.golfsaintthomas.com

Marseillan to Agde: Morning golf at GOLF DU CAP D'AGDE (6279m Par 72) 18 hole golf course in colorful landscape, Ronald Fream, one of the world's greatest designers, has created a particularly inventive course. You will never forget the greens, jealously guarded by the bunkers. Then an afternoon cruise on the Canal du Midi, through the renowned round lock and finishing our voyage on the River Herault. We will be moored in the shadow of the Cathedral of the fishing town of Agde, built of lava blocks from the nearby volcano. Captain's dinner on board.

www.ville-agde.fr/mairie/sport_activites/golf/golf_parcours.php  (in French)

Agde: After a final breakfast, return transfer by minibus to Agde TGV train Station or other location to be advised prior to booking.

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NEED MORE INFORMATION ?

Please feel free to call us on 1-877-3YACHTS (392-2487) or (202) 882-2127, if you have any questions about chartering this vessel or if you would like to receive complimentary brochures and more information about the itinerary and activities available.

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