Introducing Coquelicot, a unique luxurious Belmond boat in collaboration with the world’s oldest champagne – Maison Ruinart. The world’s oldest champagne house was founded in Reims. The luxury barge cruise Coquelicot is set to sail in May 2023 and ready to take travellers into a new discovery of Champagne while travelling.
As the boat glides along the region’s canals, it will take guests on a cinematic and highly personalized journey with Champagne. While unveiling exquisite views from a unique vantage point. Featuring three charming cabins with ensuite facilities, the luxury cruise Coquelicot will set a new standard of sophistication for slow-paced sailing in France.
Step Into The World Of Maison Ruinart
To elevate the whole journey, Coquelicot will have a private tasting lunch by Maison Ruinart’s Chef in Residence Valérie Radou, and Coquelicot’s Head Chef aboard the new barge.
In addition, Coquelicot’s guests will enjoy access to Taissy vineyard. Enjoy the hilly nature, while learning about Maison Ruinart’s pioneering viti-forestry project. Take the time to admire the pioneering work of landscape artists. Experience a tasting session of iconic Maison Ruinart cuvées, led by a Maison Ambassador.
Following the tour, guests will head back to Coquelicot where an exceptional five-course lunch on the boat’s cinematic top deck awaits. A true lesson in French art de Vivre, this dining experience includes five seasonal dishes inspired by regional cuisine and paired with prestigious cuvées such as Dom Ruinart Blanc de Blancs and Dom Ruinart Rosé. Framed by the idyllic landscape and in the comfort and privacy of the luxury boat. Guests will delve deep into the world of Maison Ruinart.
The Treasures
Designed by French duo Humbert & Poyet they created an intimate sanctuary on the water. Coquelicot will boast an impressive outdoor deck, three double cabins with marble ensuite bathrooms, and an indoor lounge for dining. The vessel’s top deck will be the jewel in the crown: two seating lounges, an open kitchen and a shaded dining area will offer a choice of spaces for guests to unwind and laze around as they enjoy the calm waterways.
The barge’s interiors and exteriors will capture the essence of Champagne. With nods to the region’s hues and character. Local fabrics in earthy tones and raw materials will honour Champagne’s agricultural heritage. While fluted walls, decadent interiors, and pieces of art will pay homage to the land’s glorious presence. Coquelicot’s namesake, the red poppy, will be found in subtle references such as the hand-cut red marble side tables and the tone-on-tone hand-painted petals that line the hallway. While the lounge’s sensational skylight is a celebration of Champagne’s water mapping legacy.
A Fresh Presence for Champagne
Guests of Coquelicot will craft their own itinerary by selecting unique activities from a host of experiences suggested specifically for them. From an art-focused tour of Champagne to a historic voyage through the mighty castles and a series of epicurean visits to Europe’s most celebrated and most secret wine producers, guests will have the liberty to design their own journey and marvel at the region’s treasures at their own pace.
Days of discovery are followed by memorable nights aboard the new luxury barge cruise Coquelicot. After a refreshing aperitivo by the boat’s Champagne bar – stocked by Coquelicot’s crewmembers with a curated selection of the guests’ preferred labels – the private Chef will serve a menu of sophisticated dishes, prepared using the finest seasonal ingredients from trusted local suppliers.
Prices for Coquelicot, A Belmond Boat start from €82,000 (approximately MYR380,620). Helicopter transfers from Paris are also available upon request. To book or for further information, visit Belmond.com or call +44 (0)20 7921 4000.