Cruise on La Demoiselle: A Modern Journey Through Cognac’s Timeless Waters

Nestled in the heart of France’s Cognac region, where rolling vineyards meet the gentle curves of the Charente River, a unique touring vessel named La Demoiselle offers visitors an enchanting way to explore this historic landscape. Launched in 2022 by the Grand Cognac community, La Demoiselle is more than just a boat—it’s a bridge between the region’s storied past and its sustainable future, blending the charm of traditional gabares with cutting-edge hybrid technology. For travelers seeking an authentic yet eco-conscious experience, this vessel provides a perfect two-hour escape into the soul of Cognac, revealing its architectural wonders, natural beauty, and deep connection to the world-famous spirit that bears its name.

A Nod to History, Reimagined
The name La Demoiselle—French for “damselfly”—evokes the delicate insects that dance along the Charente’s banks, a poetic tribute to the region’s natural splendor. Yet its design pays homage to a more rugged past. Historically, gabares were flat-bottomed wooden boats that plied the Charente, transporting cognac barrels, salt, and other goods downstream to the Atlantic coast. La Demoiselle reinterprets this legacy with a sleek, modern twist: a 22-meter aluminum hull clad in wooden paneling, powered by a hybrid engine that toggles between electric and thermal modes. Unlike its predecessor, La Gabare Dame Jeanne, which sank in 2016 after years of service, La Demoiselle was built for durability and accessibility, welcoming up to 69 passengers, including those with mobility challenges.

The vessel’s journey to Cognac was an adventure in itself. Constructed in Moana, Spain, by the Aister shipyard, it traveled over 1,000 kilometers by road in April 2022, arriving as a “convoi exceptionnel” to the delight of locals gathered at the Quai des Flamands. Its dramatic crane-assisted launch into the river marked a new chapter for Cognac’s tourism, reviving the river cruises that had been absent for five years. Today, La Demoiselle stands as a symbol of resilience, succeeding where Dame Jeanne left off, and inviting visitors to rediscover the fleuve that shaped the region’s identity.

The Cruise Experience
Embarking on La Demoiselle from Cognac’s Quai des Flamands, passengers are treated to a narrated two-hour journey that weaves through the verdant Charente Valley. The route stretches to Saint-Brice and back, passing limestone cliffs, sprawling vineyards, and landmarks like the Château de Saint-Brice, a 14th-century gem. The commentary—available in French—brings the landscape to life, recounting tales of cognac’s rise, the river’s role in trade, and the biodiversity thriving along its banks. With a flat-bottomed design echoing its gabare ancestors, the boat glides smoothly, offering unobstructed views from its open deck or shaded seating area.
What sets La Demoiselle apart is its serene ambiance. The hybrid engine, now fully approved for electric mode as of late 2023, ensures a whisper-quiet ride, minimizing disruption to wildlife and passengers alike. This silence amplifies the sounds of nature—rustling leaves, lapping water, and birdsong—creating a meditative escape from the bustle of modern life. Practical amenities enhance the experience: a removable roof shields against summer sun, restrooms cater to comfort, and cyclists can even bring their bikes aboard. Tickets, starting at €6-15, offer discounts for online bookings, with priority boarding as an added perk.

A Boost for Cognac Tourism
Since its debut, La Demoiselle has become a cornerstone of Cognac’s tourism revival. In its first full season, it carried 8,597 passengers, with ambitions to surpass 10,000 annually. Operating from spring through October (weather and river levels permitting), it runs daily except Thursdays, with departures typically at 2:30 PM and additional morning or evening cruises in peak summer. The boat’s success reflects a broader trend: visitors crave immersive, sustainable experiences that connect them to a destination’s heritage. Pairing a cruise with distillery tours—perhaps at nearby Hennessy or Hine in Jarnac—offers a full taste of Cognac’s spirit, both literal and figurative.

Challenges and Triumphs
La Demoiselle’s journey hasn’t been without hurdles. Initial regulatory delays forced it to rely solely on its thermal engine in 2022, pending approval for its lithium-battery electric mode—a precaution sparked by broader safety concerns in France. By October 2023, after meeting stringent standards, it earned its eco-friendly wings, aligning with Grand Cognac’s €771,000 investment in a greener future. Seasonal challenges like spring flooding occasionally delay its launch, but the team adapts, buoyed by community support and a dedicated volunteer crew.

Why Visit?
For anyone visiting Cognac—whether from the USA, Europe, Asia, or beyond—La Demoiselle offers a refreshing perspective. It’s a chance to slow down, savor the region’s beauty, and appreciate the ingenuity behind its namesake drink. Book ahead via destination-cognac.com, or take a chance at the quay 15 minutes before departure. Either way, this modern gabare promises a voyage that’s as timeless as the eaux-de-vie aging in Cognac’s cellars—a blend of tradition, innovation, and pure French charm.