Embarking on a unique nocturnal adventure, the Nocturnal Eclipse evening private boat cruise in Champagne offers a captivating six-hour journey for up to eight guests. Departing from Quai du Moulin in Ay, the experience begins with a one-hour sightseeing tour before a scenic boat ride to Hautvillers, where visitors can explore historic landmarks. Complemented by a complimentary glass of Champagne, the eco-friendly cruise also features a luxurious Nordic bath experience and breathtaking views of UNESCO-listed vineyards. With its curated amenities and emphasis on sustainability, this enchanting excursion promises to transport guests into a world of unparalleled beauty and tranquility.
This experience made our list of the 7 Best Wine Tours In Ay.
Key Points
- Nocturnal Eclipse offers a 6-hour private boat cruise in Champagne, France, priced at $787.66 for groups of up to 8 people.
- The cruise features a live tour guide, sightseeing in Ay and Hautvillers, and a Nordic bath experience.
- The solar-powered houseboat is eco-responsible, utilizing photovoltaic panels and a wastewater treatment system.
- Onboard amenities include a complimentary glass of Champagne, catering services, and opportunities for wildlife observation.
- The cruise provides panoramic views of UNESCO-listed Champagne vineyards and includes a Champagne tasting experience.
Experience Overview
The Nocturnal Eclipse – Evening Private Boat Cruise in Champagne offers an immersive six-hour experience, inviting guests aboard a solar-powered houseboat for an enchanting journey along the region’s UNESCO-listed vineyards.
Priced at $787.66 per group of up to 8 people, the cruise features a live tour guide who provides insights in both English and French.
With the option to reserve now and pay later, the experience also offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
Combining sightseeing in the charming towns of Ay and Hautvillers with a relaxing Nordic bath, the cruise promises an unforgettable evening on the waterways of Champagne.
Ready to swirl and sip more? More wine adventures we love in Ay
Itinerary Highlights
Commencing from the Quai du Moulin in Ay, the experience whisks guests on a captivating one-hour sightseeing tour of the charming town before embarking on a boat cruise to the picturesque village of Hautvillers, another hour’s journey.
Once arrived, visitors will have the chance to explore Hautvillers for an additional hour, taking in its historic landmarks and breathtaking vistas of the UNESCO-listed Champagne vineyards.
After the guided explorations, guests can enjoy four hours of free time, during which they’ll have the opportunity to indulge in a luxurious Nordic Bath experience.
When the night draws to a close, an electric car transfer will whisk them back to the starting point between 11 pm and 1 am.
Eco-Responsible Design
As the only solar-powered houseboat in the Grand Est region, this eco-friendly vessel boasts a responsible design that filters wastewater and limits drinking water usage, minimizing its environmental impact.
Three key features of its eco-conscious design include:
-
Solar power generation: The houseboat relies entirely on solar energy, using photovoltaic panels to produce electricity and reduce its carbon footprint.
-
Wastewater treatment: The boat’s onboard filtration system ensures that all wastewater is properly treated before being discharged, protecting the surrounding waterways.
-
Water conservation: Integrated water-saving features, such as low-flow fixtures, help to significantly reduce the overall water consumption during the cruise.
This commitment to sustainability sets the Nocturnal Eclipse apart, offering guests an environmentally-conscious experience on the Champagne waterways.
Onboard Amenities
One complimentary glass of Champagne welcomes guests aboard the Nocturnal Eclipse, setting the stage for an evening of indulgence and relaxation on the tranquil waterways.
Catering services are available with advance reservations, allowing visitors to savor local delicacies and gourmet fare during the cruise. An array of prepackaged ‘Made in France‘ fast food jars provides convenient snack options for those seeking a quick bite.
Sunbathing areas on the solarium and shaded living room furnishings invite passengers to recline and soak in the picturesque views of the UNESCO-listed Champagne vineyards that line the riverbanks.
With ample opportunities for wildlife observation, the Nocturnal Eclipse offers a truly immersive and eco-conscious experience.
More Great Thing To Do NearbyScenic Champagne Views
The picturesque UNESCO-listed Champagne vineyards lining the riverbanks provide a breathtaking backdrop as the Nocturnal Eclipse glides through the serene waterways, offering passengers a unique vantage point to enjoy the region’s natural beauty.
As the sun sets, the boat’s solar-powered design allows for a tranquil and eco-responsible journey, ensuring the passengers can fully appreciate the stunning scenery without disruption.
Some of the highlights of the scenic cruise include:
-
Panoramic views of the rolling hills and lush vineyards stretching out in the distance.
-
Glimpses of historic villages and charming châteaux dotting the landscape.
-
Opportunities to spot local wildlife, such as birds and other aquatic creatures, in their natural habitat.
Ready to set sail again? More boat adventures we've reviewed in Ay
Champagne Tasting Included
A complimentary glass of the region’s renowned sparkling wine is included as part of the Nocturnal Eclipse’s evening cruise experience, allowing passengers to savor the distinctive flavors of Champagne as they glide through the serene waterways. The onboard catering can also be pre-ordered, offering a selection of locally-sourced delicacies to pair perfectly with the bubbly. For those seeking a more casual option, fast food jars made in France are available for purchase on board.
| Champagne Tasting | |
|---|---|
| Included | 1 Glass |
| Additional Bottles | Available |
| Catering | Pre-Order |
| Fast Food Jars | Available |
| Pairing Pairings | Recommended |
Catering and Dining
Beyond the complimentary glass of Champagne, the Nocturnal Eclipse cruise also offers an array of catering options to satisfy guests’ culinary desires during the evening excursion.
Guests can choose from the following:
-
Catering options that must be reserved 24 hours in advance, featuring a selection of gourmet dishes made with locally-sourced ingredients.
-
Fast food jars made in France, available for purchase on board and perfect for a quick and convenient snack.
-
The opportunity to bring your own food and beverages, allowing you to customize your dining experience to your liking.
With these diverse dining choices, the Nocturnal Eclipse cruise ensures that every guest can indulge in a memorable culinary journey while enjoying the breathtaking views of the Champagne region.
Important Considerations
Prior to booking, guests should be aware that the Nocturnal Eclipse cruise isn’t suitable for wheelchair users due to the design of the solar-powered houseboat.
Plus, the meeting point is located between Rue du Port and Quai du Moulin, requiring some mobility to access the vessel.
Participants are advised to check availability for their preferred starting times and group size, as the itinerary may be subject to change for reference only.
It’s important to note that while the cruise includes a live tour guide available in English and French, the boat’s capacity is limited to up to 8 people.
Guests should also keep in mind the free cancellation policy, which allows for a full refund up to 24 hours in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is There a Dress Code for the Evening Cruise?
There is no specific dress code for the evening cruise. Guests are encouraged to dress comfortably and appropriately for the boat experience. Casual and smart-casual attire is generally suitable for this type of activity.
Are Children Allowed on the Boat Cruise?
Children are allowed on the boat cruise, though the experience may be more suitable for adults. The boat has a capacity of up to 8 people, and there are no specific age restrictions mentioned.
Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on Board?
Passengers are generally allowed to bring their own food and drinks on board, though some operators may have restrictions or offer catering services. It’s best to check with the tour provider ahead of time to understand their policies.
How Accessible Is the Boat for Individuals With Mobility Issues?
The boat is not highly accessible for individuals with mobility issues. It has no stairs except for solarium access, but the overall design does not cater well to wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.
Can I Disembark and Explore the Towns During the Cruise?
Yes, guests can disembark and explore the towns during the cruise. The itinerary allows for 1-hour sightseeing stops in both Ay and Hautvillers, giving visitors time to wander the streets and take in the local sights.
Recap
The Nocturnal Eclipse evening private boat cruise in Champagne offers a truly enchanting and eco-friendly experience.
Guests can enjoy a one-hour sightseeing tour, explore historic landmarks in Hautvillers, and indulge in a luxurious Nordic bath while taking in breathtaking views of UNESCO-listed vineyards.
With a complimentary glass of Champagne and catering options available, this six-hour journey is a unique and unforgettable way to explore the Champagne region.
You can check if your dates are available here: