About Luxury Canal Cruising France
Long-established high end tourism professionals Leigh and Kristie Kaighin have been successfully combining their passion for unique and interactive holiday destinations with first class, personalised service since 2001. The result has been a rewarding business journey that has seen them channel their energy into successful industry-related ventures, including the launch and growth of Australia’s leading booking agency for luxury Hamilton Island and Whitsunday holiday accommodation and yacht charters.
Fifteen years on The Kaighin’s have extended their reach internationally; directing their knowledge, expertise, and talent for identifying niche opportunities into their Australian-based agency, Luxury Canal Cruising France. Specialising in boutique, all inclusive cruises through France’s regional waterways, the couple are proud to bring this one-of-a-kind holiday experience to their fellow Australians.
Seasoned European explorers with extensive travel experience throughout France and the continent, Leigh and Kristie were drawn to the relaxed pace and scenic beauty of France’s canal barge lifestyle over a decade ago. Beguiled by the attractive mix of culture, climate and cuisine, and recognising its potential as an evergreen holiday destination, the couple purchased their own vessel a decade ago, and have cruised the peaceful waters of the Canal du Midi every year since.
Combining a keen understanding of luxury accommodation and personalised booking services with indepth local knowledge and well-established relationships with deluxe barge operators, Luxury Canal Cruising France offers discerning guests the cruise experience of a lifetime.
Perfectly suited to couples or small groups and families, the peaceful Canal du Midi aboard a luxury barge is the perfect way to explore and discover France’s scenery, history and culture in an intimate, yet laid back environment. Luxury Canal Cruising France has assembled a collection of beautifully appointed vessels, handpicked for their individual character, quality and features, staffed by an experienced captain and attentive crew.
In keeping with the luxury benchmark established by Whitsunday Holidays, Luxury Canal Cruising France is committed to upholding the same standard across every aspect of their cruises. Guests are assured of five star service from the moment they step on board, including gourmet meals showcasing the best in local produce matched with regional wines, an itinerary of chauffeured day trips and excursions to historical sites, local villages and wineries, and total pampering from staff with complete attention to detail.
Passionate about their product, The Kaighin’s are thrilled to be able to share one of the world’s best kept cruising secrets with their Australian clients. “There’s nothing quite like a canal barge holiday for total relaxation and pampering,” says Kristie. “From the leisurely pace, to the gourmet food and wine, and magnificent French scenery, everything works in perfect synchronicity to leave you with memories of a lifetime. Our cruises deliver the best of regional France from a completely unique perspective.”
The seven or ten night cruises are the perfect way to begin or end a European tour, or as a welcome change of pace from a busy, continental sightseeing schedule. With the Canal du Midi selected as their flagship cruise for its natural beauty and historical merit, Luxury Canal Cruising France are looking to the future, with upcoming expansion to France’s other regional waterways and canals.
Committed to superior client service from initial enquiry through to booking confirmation and beyond, Luxury Canal Cruising France guarantee prompt, personalised responses to all enquiries backed by indepth knowledge of the Canal de Midi, local tours and highlights, and cruise and canal barge specifics.
