Les Bateaux Belmond Reveals New Seasonal Menus Curated By Chef Dominique Crenn

Chef Dominique Crenn, the first culinary curator for the seven floating villas of Les Bateaux Belmond, unveils new seasonal menus that reflect her profound passion for culinary excellence. Each dish draws inspiration from her French heritage and a lifelong appreciation for refined, regional gastronomy.

Crafted to highlight both seasonal ingredients and the distinct character of each region, the menus are tailored to the specific routes of each region. Guests aboard boats Pivoine, Alouette and Napoléon which cruise through Southern France, will enjoy dishes inspired by the flavours of the region. Meanwhile, those sailing on Lilas, Coquelicot, Amaryllis and Fleur de Lys, which navigate the northern waterways, will be served menus celebrating the culinary heritage of Northern France. Gary Franklin, Senior Vice President, Trains & Cruises at Belmond comments:

“In this new chapter of Les Bateaux Belmond, Chef Dominique Crenn will elevate the culinary vision with her deep-rooted connection to France. She was a natural choice to help shape the evolution of our onboard dining experience, bringing a new level of creativity and authenticity to our guests."

DINING AFLOAT, REDEFINED

Crenn has curated a range of dishes through that blend her traditional French background with her innovative cooking style. For boats departing from the North region of France, guests can enjoy vibrant spring peas, delicate trout roe, and the earthy depth of morels paired with green peppercorns, inspired by the region's agricultural landscape. The menus also feature braised leeks and poached chicken, alongside a classic Kugelhopf dessert with fruity cherry and orange flavours.

For boats departing from the South region of France, the focus shifts to Mediterranean-inspired flavours, reflecting Crenn's deep connection to the sea from her early years, with dishes like soupe au pistou, made with market vegetables and herbs, and whole roasted sea bream served with carrot chorizo and bitter lettuce. A true lesson in French art de vivre, the menu will also include the French regional specialty, Raviole du Dauphiné, served family-style, and will finish with a light, refreshing lemon and olive oil tart. Chef Crenn comments:

"It has been a true pleasure to craft these menus inspired by the beautiful regions of France. I look forward to guests experiencing my culinary creations as they immerse themselves in the rich culture and flavours of each destination along their journey."

All menus served on board will prioritise fresh, locally sourced ingredients, selected from nearby markets along the boats' routes, focusing on seasonal availability and quality. This includes the launch of Les Bateaux Belmond's latest Bordeaux itinerary aboard Alouette, which takes guests through the world-renowned winemaking waterways. The new journey invites guests to explore picturesque vineyards, indulge in wine-inspired wellness experiences, and visit iconic châteaux, all while cruising between Agen and Castets-en-Dorthe.

Les Bateaux Belmond fleet comprises seven boats, available for six night-seven day private charters departing on Sundays or Wednesdays, with prices starting at €9,385 per person. Three-night private charters are also available from €4750 per person. Both based on eight passengers. Prices include a week of sailing on full board basis, guided visits, bikes, table d'hôte meals, complimentary beverages, and transfers to and from the boat from anywhere in France and Geneva.