KEY POINTS
- The Marguerite will debut in late summer 2026 as a reimagined “floating villa” for up to eight guests.
- Michelin-starred chef Dominique Crenn has curated the onboard culinary program and seasonal menus.
- Bespoke itineraries include private vineyard tastings, e-bike tours, and traditional mustard-making in Dijon.
Belmond has announced the expansion of its French river fleet with the launch of its newest luxury boat hotel, Marguerite. Scheduled to begin sailing in late summer 2026, the vessel will navigate the historic canals and tranquil waterways of the Burgundy region. The boat is a complete transformation of the former Amaryllis, designed to function as an intimate private residence on the water.
The design of Marguerite draws direct inspiration from the golden marguerite fields found throughout the French countryside. The interiors feature a palette of soft yellows, floral motifs, and bespoke rugs designed to mimic daisy petals. Artisans from across France contributed to the renovation, including stained-glass mastery from Chartres and fine woodwork from Saint Rémy.
Accommodating just eight passengers, the floating villa offers four elegantly appointed double suites with private en-suite facilities. The boat also features a large open-plan salon designed for social relaxation and an expansive outdoor deck. A heated private plunge pool on the deck provides a unique vantage point for viewing the passing landscapes.
Gastronomy serves as a central pillar of the Marguerite experience through a partnership with chef Dominique Crenn. As the first woman in the United States to earn three Michelin stars, Crenn has designed menus that celebrate regional French heritage. An onboard private chef prepares these signature dishes using seasonal ingredients sourced from local markets along the route.
Guests can choose from highly personalized itineraries that focus on the philosophy of slow luxury. These journeys include exclusive access to family-run wine estates and private lunches at historic châteaux. Active excursions are also available, such as guided e-bike tours along the famed Route des Grands Crus.
Cultural immersion remains a priority with activities like private mustard-making workshops in the city of Dijon. The boat will operate several distinct routes, including passages between Pontailler-sur-Saône and St Léger. These paths are designed to unveil lesser-known landscapes and quiet village centers inaccessible to larger vessels.
Marguerite joins an existing collection of specialized riverboats within the Les Bateaux Belmond portfolio across France. This fleet includes vessels in other iconic regions such as Champagne, Provence, and Bordeaux. The launch reflects a growing traveler demand for small-scale, high-service river journeys that emphasize personal connection.
Booking options for the Marguerite are focused on private charters, making it an ideal choice for families or small groups. Each voyage includes a dedicated crew, host service, and private transfers to ensure a seamless travel experience. This new addition reinforces Burgundy’s status as a flagship destination for luxury inland waterway cruising.
