Cruises discount cruises

French Country Waterways is offering discounts of 25% and 50% on luxury hotel barge cruises in Burgundy for couples celebrating their 25th or 50th wedding anniversary in 2001. The discount applies to selected July and August departures regularly priced at $3,295 to $4,295 per person, double.

The 12-passenger Horizon II and 18-passenger Esprit offer leisurely 6-night cruises through rolling countryside dotted with medieval villages, stately chateaux, vineyards and pastures. They provide pampered comfort with French cuisine and fine wines; one dinner ashore at a 3-star Michelin restaurant (La Cote d'Or in Saulieu or Lameloise in Chagny); private wine tastings; daily sightseeing excursions, and service by an English-speaking crew. Public areas and deluxe staterooms are frilly air-conditioned. Hot-air ballooning is an option.

To obtain the discount, a couple must have been married in 1951 or 1976 and submit proof such as a copy of the wedding certificate. The cruise need not coincide with the wedding date. During the cruise, a dinner with champagne will mark the anniversary. Space is limited.