We were greeted by Claire, a young Englishwoman, who enthusiastically guided us through the whole experience and was never far away if any help or advice was required (they live on board). Graham, her Kiwi husband was also on hand if anything else was needed, such as hauling your luggage up onto ship.
Okay, there are cats on board (and I'm no cat fan) but they're no trouble. You can't smell them and they leave you alone, so not a problem. And there are tricky steps to negotiate to climb on board... but then its a barge for goodness sake! Don't even consider it if you're elderly or dodgy on your feet, it's as simple as that... or if you don't like cats, obviously.
The barge is beautifully fitted out and very comfortable. Drinks are available on board at very reasonable prices although they do allow you to take your own too. There's no evening food though and only one restaurant within walking distance, but Reims isn't far away to drive, cycle or take a taxi. There is a supermarket very near by and a Pizza shop as a backup, just don't leave it too late as they shut around 7 I believe. Claire booked us a table at Le Jardin Brasserie though, which was superb.
The setting is most pleasant though and it's a pity we didn't have more time and better weather to enjoy sitting on deck or a dip in the hot tub.
Maybe next time...