The newest addition to the esteemed fleet of Les Bateaux Belmond is Coquelicot, A Belmond Boat, Champagne launching in May 2023. The luxury barge will take travellers on week-long private river cruises in France’s Champagne region. Up to six guests will be housed in the three ensuite double cabins, designed by French duo, Humbert & Poyet. There is a spacious indoor lounge and a Champagne bar that, before each trip, will be stocked with a selection of the travellers’ preferred Champagne. The crown jewel of the vessel is the main deck which features two elegant, alfresco lounges, an open kitchen and a shaded dining area, fringed by potted plants, local herbs and wildflowers.
Interiors will capture the essence of Champagne, with local fabrics in earthy tones and raw materials that will honour its agricultural heritage and a sensational skylight celebrating its water mapping legacy. Coquelicot’s namesake, the red poppy, will be found in subtle references across the boat. Coquelicot will partner with Maison Ruinart to offer guests a private tour of its vineyard in Taissy and a first-of-its-kind meal by Maison Ruinart’s chef Valérie Radou aboard the barge. Guest itineraries are completely customisable ranging from art-focused tours of Champagne to historic voyages through castles, active adventures on two wheels or a series of epicurean visits to Europe’s most celebrated and most secret wine producers.