About Us

Through the eyes of Sonia Jones

My passion for destination France has inspired my interest for Barging. At the age of ten, I lived in Versailles for 2 years with my family. Thanks to this experience I developed my love of the French language and all that France has to offer. Now with 39 years of experience as a bespoke travel consultant, the demand for more sophisticated travel has led me to develop a speciality program for Barging.

Knowledge speaks

It has been 10 years since I have specialised in creating travel itineraries to France and offering a barge experience to my clients. In that time I have explored every nook and cranny of France and beyond, attended every barge show in France and participated in every ‘Rendez-Vous’ en France Travel Show (hosted by ATOUT France).

Firsthand experience

Being a part of the barge industry has allowed me to visit nearly all of the barges on offer, including the self-boating options and their hubs. Experiencing a canal barge week first hand establishes the ins and outs of each barge, its itinerary and region, and allows me to get to know the owners and their crew. This insight and understanding is imperative to insure that I am offering the most suitable option for my passengers. It is one thing to ‘sell’ a particular barge experience but it is another thing to be able to exude the understanding of each barge and the regions explored to my clients, as they are all so different.

Your own tailor-made itinerary

By us getting to know you, we take your barge experience to another level. We can adjust the menu to your tastes; we even rearrange the bar to your preference and can vary the wines to your liking. You want to see a special place nearby? We get your tour guide to include it.

Why you should plan with experts

Quite simply, we know what we are doing. Our relationships are with the Barge owners, we have seen their barges, cabins, en-suites, dining rooms, kitchens, deck chairs, etc. We know what they can offer and we know the differences between barges. The owners like us because we match you to the right barge and you are well briefed before your arrival. Our acquired knowledge with over 30 barge inspections is your assurance that you are working with experts.

Get in touch

Barging is not an ‘off the shelf’ product because we ask you the right questions. Your itinerary is tailor-made. Have the security of dealing with somebody in Australia, who has a real office (Hawthorn Travel,) and has been established since 1984. We encourage our clients to come and visit, take a seat, sip on a coffee and commence the preparation for your barging journey.  

Alternatively, we have a telephone line, we will take your call and assist with your enquiry first hand. All our clients have a 24/7 emergency help line. My personal number is +61 419136505.

Together, my dynamic team and I have the wealth of barging and French knowledge to share with our passengers.