The Cognac Cruise

Jarnac > Rochefort > Jarnac

Cruise to Saint Brice and visit its castle, which has a unique Renaissance façade. Relax with a picnic in the pretty park or tee off at the town’s golf course on the banks of the river.

Catch the scent of cognac in the air at the elegant town of Cognac – the roofs on the houses are turned ambercoloured by the alcohol vapours in the air. Join a guided tour of the famous distilleries and enjoy free tasting sessions to help you decide to buy! Continue to Saintes and discover amazing archaeological finds including Roman columns, frescoes and statues. Visit the excellent maritime museums at Rochefort to learn about its historic sailing and rope-making past before dining on excellent seafood platters by the sea. The River Charente becomes tidal after St. Savinien.

Distance: 186 km
Cruising Time: 33 hrs
Locks: 12
Return Trip

Jarnac > Rochefort > Jarnac

Jarnac

Home to our base and an elegant town, worth visiting at the beginning or end of your cruise. This is an important cognac town and the headquarters of Courvoisier, one of the most famous brands of Cognac.

Cognac

Cognac is a historic riverside town, famous for its various Cognac Houses. It is a thriving place with a good selection of restaurants and hosts numerous festivals throughout the year. There are also many medieval stone and half-timbered buildings, most of which can be seen on rue Saulnier and rue de lisle-d'Or. Other highlights in the town include the remains of the Ch�teau des Valois and Saint-L�ger church.

Dompierre Sur Charente

Due to its position, Dompierre-sur-Charente was an important port for wine and eux de vie, the trade being carried out on large wooden barges called gabares. Today, it offers one of the last chain ferries in service in France - a curiosity not to be missed. There are many pretty lanes to explore in the village.

Chaniers

A pretty village with ancient watermill. There is also a landscaped area with picnic tables, a snack bar and pedaloes for hire.

Saintes

Saintes is a popular destination for visitors who come to enjoy its rich cultural heritage including an attractive centre with narrow streets and medieval houses. The colourful market which sets up twice a week alongside the cathedral is also a must.

Taillebourg

Visit Chateau de Taillebourg and its attractive grounds - good views over the river valley

Port D'envaux

In years gone by this was an important town along the salt route and there are many attractive houses from that period to see. There is a man made beach for river swimming and a park, together with a picnic area, making this a relaxing place to moor.

Saint Savinien

This picturesque town is located on the banks of the Charente river and is typically Charentaise in style with its stone houses and narrow streets. The town is overlooked by the church which is situated on a hill offering wonderful views over the river. This pretty town offers a good number of shops and facilities and is well worth exploring.