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France Boating Holidays and River Cruises

Use the Boat Availability Search to find the best boat for your French boating holiday. You can do separate searches for each style of boat - cruiser boats or penichette boats.

To help you choose, follow the links below for guides to boating holidays in France , luxury hotel barges on French canals and rivers, and river cruise ship holidays on River Seine and Rhone.

Cruiser Boat Holidays in France

We offer over 800 hire boats for French boating holidays. Choose your size of boat from 2-12 people, its level of luxury, and the steering position. Boat bases throughout France - cruise the famous Canal du Midi, the wine regions of Burgundy, the unique Camargue, rural Brittany and more. See the cruiser boat holiday map of France

Penichette Boat Holidays in France

Choose from over 400 French built Penichette self-drive boats in different styles and specifications. Penichette holiday bases on the major canals and rivers of France - the unique Canal du Midi, treasures of Burgundy, historic Anjou and Aquitaine, forested Alsace, the Camargue and more. See the Penichette boat holiday map of France

Hotel Boat Holidays in France

These typical working barges on the canals and rivers of France have been converted to luxury small floating hotels. With only 6 to 12 passengers, the hotel barges offer full service and gourmet catering on a choice of cruises including Burgundy wine routes and the Midi. More about French hotel boat holidays

River Cruise Holidays in France

The river cruise ship takes around 150 passengers, and offers dining and relaxation with full crew and service. These ships travel France's major rivers - cruise the River Rhone through Provence or cruise the River Seine to Paris and Normandy. We also offer a range of short city cruise breaks in Paris.

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Best self-drive boating holidays in France

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There’s nothing quite like a holiday by the water to help you relax from the stress of the daily routine.  So imagine what a holiday that is actually on the water could do to recharge the batteries. Pick one of the best self-drive boating holidays in France and you have the freedom to explore canals and rivers at your own gentle pace, surrounded by beautiful countryside and stopping wherever the mood takes you.

Enjoy a boating holiday in France and you can moor up beside villages and vineyards; stop at waterside restaurants and markets; and walk or cycle along shady towpaths.   Watch the wildlife from water level too and enjoy the camaraderie of fellow boat enthusiasts. Tempted? Then take a look at the wide range of self-drive options offered by Nicols Boats.

Self-drive boating holidays in France

Nicols operate 15 boat-hire bases spread throughout the country’s most popular waterways: four in Brittany and Anjou in the west; five in Northern France and Burgundy; and six in south-west France, including the legendary Canal du Midi.

Nicols has designed and built 27 models divided into four different ranges, so there’s a vessel to suit every customer, whether you are floating through France in a couple or a party of 12. Cruises are available between adjacent bases or for a round trip back to your starting base. And with boats available for hire between late-March and mid-November, you can enjoy the vibrant colours of spring, the sunny skies of summer, or the dramatic shades of autumn, whether for a weekend, a short break or longer stay.

If you have already taken a boating holiday in France, you are probably already hooked. But if this is your first time, you’ll obviously be wondering how much experience you need to pilot your own cruiser along French rivers and canals. The answer is easy. None at all. No licence is necessary, nor do you need any previous experience. Complete novices can learn how to control their boat safely in a very short time and English-speaking staff will provide all the instruction you need on departure day. Nicols’ website is packed with information to help you choose the right destination and cruise vessel for your perfect holiday, but if you still have questions, just call the expert advice line.

What’s it like to do a self-drive boating holiday?

Boating holidays with Nicols are suitable for all ages from families with young children to senior sailors. All boats are equipped with a double railing and a handrail, and most models also have a bathing ladder for those who can’t resist a spot of wild swimming. Nicols can even provide a floating fun pool annexe that can be towed behind smaller boats – the perfect accessory for families with children in tow, as well as for older travellers who can’t resist dangling their feet in the pool as they watch the riverbanks go by!

Guests who can travel outside peak holiday periods benefit from particularly attractive rates, with the added bonus of additional discounts for the over 65s. And with easy access on board, a terrace at the same level as the living room, and a safe staircase to the roof deck, Nicols boats are perfectly adapted to older crew members, whether travelling as a couple or with family and friends.

Choose your cruiser from the Sedan, Confort and Estivale and Fly ranges. Models vary from 8m to 15m in length and most have a large living area with a 360° panoramic view; a fitted kitchen with 200-litre fridge; a hob, mini oven and, on some boats also a microwave. With the exception of the Riviera range, all boats in Nicols fleet feature sliding French windows with access onto the aft terrace, whilst larger models are also equipped with a second steering position.

And whilst no French language skills are needed to enjoy yourself on a Nicols boat, you could well find you broaden your French vocabulary as you tune in to the rhythm of the river.  Not sure what the poupe is? Don’t worry, that’s the stern. Flummoxed by parre-battage ? No need to stress. Those are the fenders. And if somebody mentions the sassement , that’s simply the lock cycle, or the time that a boat remains in a lock – usually about 15 minutes. Just go to the Nicols website for a full glossary of nautical terms in French. A handy tool to enhance your floating holiday in France.

The best places for a boating holiday in France

So where to choose for your boating holiday in France? If you want to combine a special interest with your break on the water, consider the suggestions for themed cruises on the Nicols website. Bit of a foodie? How about the salt marshes of the Camargue or the oyster beds of Charente? History and heritage your thing? Sail to Strasbourg to see the UNESCO-listed Grande Ile or try the river Erdre in Brittany to cruise pas 17 castles in just 15km.

Maybe leave your floating home on the Canal du Midi for a few hours to enjoy a Mediterranean beach. Play a round of golf at Sarrebourg in the Moselle or the Sablé Solesmes course in Anjou. Or discover the vineyards of Chablis along the Burgundy Canal and the Yonne. From fishing to nature watching, cycling to swimming, a Nicols holiday in France will really float your boat!

Discover destinations for boating holidays and loads of helpful info: boat-renting-nicols.co.uk

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The Burgundy Canal, France

The Burgundy Canal is perfect for hotel barge cruises and boat rentals. Located in central eastern France, Burgundy has a varied and dramatic landscape and with hundreds of miles or waterways, a perfect adventure and pleasure to explore.

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Canal cruises on barges and boats in Burgundy, France

Hotel barge cruises

Discover Burgundy's finest hotel barge cruises, from 2 to 12 passengers. Short or 7 days and up to 15-day cruises for charters, individuals, and groups. An exclusive and luxurious experience in one of France's most interesting regions..

Self-drive boat rentals

The best choice for canal boat hire, from luxurious modern cruisers to traditional canal boats, fully equipped and ready to go. Enjoy a one-way or return trip on the canals and rivers. We provide impartial advice from our experienced team based near Dijon in Burgundy.

About the Burgundy Canal

Historical and monumental, the construction of the Burgundy Canal spanned more than 100 years and changed the surrounding landscape along a path of more than 250 kilometres. It includes over 150 locks, a 3-kilometre tunnel, aqueducts, and reservoirs holding millions of tonnes of water. The canals flow through the capital city of Dijon . Nearby the canal, you have the wines and the vineyards of "The Climats, terroirs of Burgundy" , a UNESCO World Heritage.

Discover the best hotel barge cruises and self-drive boat trips on France’s magnificent Burgundy Canal. The calm inland waterways climb from the rivers Saône and Yonne, heading high into rolling hills covered in dense oak and elm forests .

As you cruise along the canal, you’ll pass through villages and small towns with typical bistros to appreciate and markets and shops to delve into. Medieval castles, ancient abbeys and fortified walls remain standing and waiting. Noble vineyards with some of the world's greatest red and white crus, the wine cellars are close by and offer you fascinating opportunities for wine tasting.

There are miles of towpaths, lanes and country roads perfect for walking and cycling! Scenic villages and magnificent UNESCO sites to visit such as Fontenay Abbey , the Hospices de Beaune and much more. This peaceful and calm destination is perfect for family and friend holidays.

Rental Boat canal cruises in France

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FRANCE AT LEISURE is Australia's official distributor for Le Boat Rental Boat canal cruises. 2023 and 2024 reservations with great deals are available now! We guarantee the lowest prices.  

Start the conversation for your French canal cruise adventure. Call us on 1300 302 623.

SELF DRIVE CANAL BOAT IN FRANCE  

A rental boat canal cruise is the best way to see the french countryside at your own pace. , perfect for a family holiday and groups of friends .

Price vary depending on the boat selected and the season

The Leader in the Self Drive Cruising 

We're the No 1 provider of boating holidays on the beautiful rivers and canals of Europe and Canada. We have the world’s largest fleet of self-drive boats and the widest choice of boating destinations to choose from!

50 years of boating experience  We've been doing this for a long time, so you can rely on us to offer exceptional service and a wealth of helpful advice and knowledge to ensure you and your party have the best time on the water!

Introduction to Le Boat

How about taking your touring to the water on a private boating experience? You don’t need any previous boating experience or a boating license to book Le Boat, as they show customers how to captain their own boat at their own pace while on a flexible itinerary. Boats range from one to five cabins sleeping up to 12 guests for itineraries ranging from a short three to 6-night trip or a seven to 10-night holiday.

Le Boat has over 50 years of experience in the industry and 900 boats stationed at over 33 different departure bases across eight European countries— Belgium, England, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, Netherland, and Scotland

Discover French canal holidays in 9 stunning regions.

Fall in love with the French way of life with canal boat holidays in France from Le Boat, Europe's number one boating holiday company!

A boating holiday in France is a perfect way to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the French waterways. Discover the beauty of the countryside from the country's canals and romantic rivers, explore the sights, or stop at any time to relax and indulge in fine French wines and delicious food. Choose from nine regions with distinct scenery, gastronomy, culture, and charm, and explore them at your own pace aboard on your own private boat.

This is holidaying on your terms as you’re free to explore the places you want to see at your own leisure and pace. Whenever you’re ready for a stop, you can dock and explore the many waterside towns and villages along your itinerary. Le Boat can supply a sample itinerary as well as detailed region guide to each of the cruising routes that we operate.

Le Boat’s premier class Horizon Cruisers were designed with first-time boaters in mind and come equipped with bow and stern thrusters, plus it also has fully equipped kitchens and saloons, a top sun deck ideal for sunbathing or dining al fresco, BBQ hot plate (on Premier and Comfort Plus categories), linens and bedding, all required safety equipment, navigation aids, and more. Some guestrooms also feature en-suite bathrooms and AC.

For a little extra fun both onboard and off board, you can add bikes to take with you that can be used while touring the seaside towns; gas barbecues, which attach to the railings of the sundeck and will allow you to cook meals after shopping from local butchers and grocers for a true local experience; paddle boards for added adventure right from the boat; and gift baskets filled with local delicacies and regional specialties to help you celebrate special occasions while onboard. Explore the Canal du Midi, Burgundy, Alsace, Camargue ,Lot, Charente, Brittany, and Aquitaine all from the comfort of your own boat. Le Boat can be anything you want it to be, whether that is a relaxing boating getaway or an active river boat adventure. So why not choose a destination that best suits your passion, or the interests of your party, and make your boat rental a holiday to remember.

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The Charente with Locaboat

Base at Saintes: The Charente river

From Agouleme to the Atlantic Ocean, the Charente River's meandering path is navigable for 147 kilometres. The 21 manual locks leading to Saint Savinien have made the river extraordinarily tranquil and provide a beautiful environment for navigating the region's traditional white-stone villages and vineyards. The waterway was historically vital to the trade of salt, brandy, and paper via traditional barges called 'gabarres'. The vibrant city of Saintes has a well-preserved arena that is a remnant of its rich Gallo-Roman past.  Spend time exploring the historic Abbey, a superb specimen of Romanesque art.

Beautiful churches and charming villages with tiled roofs can be found along the Charente River.  Visits to Saint Savinien, Chaniers, Bourg Charente, and Saint Simon — once a busy Gabarre harbour — are highly recommended.

One-week cruises from Saintes

Saintes, Jarnac, Saint Simon, Cognac and return Cruise distance 122km (75.81 miles), 18 locks, 21 hours of cruising

Saintes, Saint-Savinien, Cognac, Saint Simon and return Cruise distance 167km (103.77 miles), 18 locks, 25:30 hours of cruising

10 or 11-day cruise

Saintes, Cognac, Angoulême, Jarnac and return Cruise distance 188km (116.82 miles), 40 locks, 32 hours of cruising

Two-week cruises14

Saintes, Saint Savinien, Cognac, Angoulême, Jarnac and return Cruise distance 230km (142.92 miles), 40 locks, 32 hours of cruising

Mini week cruise

Saintes, Cognac, Jarnac and return Cruise distance 92km (57.17 miles), 8 locks, 13 hours of cruising

The Charente waterways map

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Locaboat rental boats for the Charente

There are 8 self-drive boats for the Charente

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CANAL BOAT HOLIDAYS in France

If you’ve ever dreamt about taking the helm of your own canal boat and exploring France then you’ve come to the right place! Nicols offers self-drive boating holidays from over 20 different start bases right across France and what’s more no previous boating experience or a licence is needed. With almost 8000km of waterways, France has the largest network of rivers and canals in Europe waiting to be explored. Nicols have holiday itineraries for a weekend, a short break or longer holidays – all offering a different way to see the country as you slowly travel from village to village and lock to lock. Our team has identified the best boating holidays in France – highlighting routes that see you pass through beautiful countryside and into interesting towns and cities. What are you waiting for… It’s time to cast off! If you’ve not tried one before then what can you expect from a waterways holiday? Above all waterways holidays are fun and flexible – offering an array of different activities both on and around the waterways. In fact waterways holidays really have something for everyone no matter what your age or interests might be. You and your crew will see ever changing views as you navigate along France’s beautiful canals and rivers whilst your comfortable and roomy Nicols canal boat provides some of the very best accommodation available for waterways holidays.

HIRE A CANAL BOAT FROM 19 DIFFERENT NICOLS BASES ACROSS FRANCE

What our customers are saying.

“This was our first boating holiday in France but such an amazing family adventure. We loved it so much that we’re already looking at the map of waterways ready to choose the next region of France we want to explore by canal boat! "

Marie – 35 years old and with three children

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A waterways holiday Ideal whatever your age or interests!

To help you choose the perfect boating holiday Nicols has identified regions, routes and boats that are best suited to particular types of crews or areas of interest that people are looking for from their holiday. We hope our ideas inspire you. Look out for our icon illustrations flagging these themes across the website.

Self-Drive Barge Trips in France: The Complete Guide for Newbies

The most noteworthy journeys take you outside your comfort zone. But self-driving a barge in France ? Before my own boat trip this summer, I worried it would jettison me so far outside my comfort zone that I’d be in a different galaxy.

I get seasick at the merest ripple, and my driving even scares me. (Hey, I live in New York City, so I don’t need to get behind the wheel that often).

Since you’re reading this, you know I survived. So did the passengers, who included my two daughters, two of their friends, and a dear friend of mine from college. Though it seems wrong to categorize everyone in that way, since my kids’ friends are now my friends, too, in a deeper way than I could have imagined before this trip.

You see, to accomplish this type of journey, you need to become a team. Navigational challenges arise, meals need to be planned, ropes must be untangled and coordinated, and so much more. Every night, that teamwork was bolstered by playing games on deck, which also built bonds between the twenty-somethings and us oldsters.

Miraculously enough, I completed the whole boat trip without feeling nauseated. Turns out barges are stable enough, and canals are calm enough, for landlubbers like me. In fact, halfway through, I found myself planning my next barging vacation.

It was that much fun.

But it’s not a dummy-proof vacation. If you’ve ever considered this type of trip, here’s some advice gleaned from my personal experiences, and from talking with fellow boaters along the canal.

We chose to have our barge trip on France’s oldest man-made waterway, the Canal du Midi (pictured above), which was commissioned by King Louis XIV in the 1600s. We were intrigued by the history of the canal, the wines of the region, and the fact that we would be stopping at some of the country’s most impressive medieval fortified cities.

Other French canals are equally appealing for different reasons. Nature lovers often choose to float through the Camargue region, with its saltwater marshes, pink flamingoes, and wild horses. Those who want Renaissance castles, Roman ruins, and wine head to the Nivernais and Loire Valley . The waterways of Alsace-Lorraine offer a similar dollop of history spanning both German and French culture (the area has changed hands numerous times over the centuries), and includes forests and marshlands in protected reserves. There are even more French regions available to bargers to suit a variety of interests.

We rented from Le Boat , and were very pleased by the vessel itself—a three-bedroom, three-bathroom beauty with a full kitchen (pictured above)—as well as the service. Because we were boating at a time of record heat in France (on one day, it was 106 F/ 41 C) and the boat’s air conditioning was dependent on canal water which also was unusually warm because of the heat wave, we had some mechanical issues along the way. They were solved within 90 minutes after we called Le Boat's base, I’m pleased to say.

Le Boat is the largest of the firms operating in France, but there are rival companies that are worth checking out, along with peer-to-peer rentals , with various pricing schemes and types of vessels available. Be aware that peer-to-peer rentals may not provide technical support, or even any training, making owner-direct rentals a more difficult option for inexperienced bargers.

When you make a booking with a boating company, you’ll be given a menu of potential extras, some of which will make your vacation far better, others of which can be skipped.

On the “must have” front, I’d put insurance first. You’re driving an expensive boat on a canal that's filled with other pleasure boaters, many doing this for the first time. Accidents can happen, so it’s better to be covered.

Bike rentals are also a must. Often, the boat's dock will be a good mile or more from the sights you want to see. Having a set of wheels allows you to visit and do much more.

The bikes Le Boat rented us came with locks and fitted snugly on the back of our boat. Unfortunately, because one of my daughters had broken her ankle before the trip, we had to rely on taxis in some destinations, which was a huge expense since French taxis are ridiculously overpriced. When lots of people are traveling in France, such as during the summer, just getting a taxi can be quite difficult. We spent too much time sitting around waiting for a ride. So I’ll reiterate: Pay to rent bikes.

The extras that I’d consider maybes include a late checkout option and a cleaning option. With the former, you have more wiggle room to get back to base on the last day of your trip, which is important if you want to be able to tie up somewhere else on your last night. And with the cleaning option, on Le Boat at least, boaters only need to bag up their linens and remove trash. Without that pre-paid option, you to give your boat a thorough scrub yourself.

Many boat companies also offer a welcome pack of food so that you have eggs, butter, bread, and other essentials in your fridge when you first board. Since going to European markets is such a fun activity, I’d say skip this extra unless you’re pressed for time.  

(Pictured above: Cyclists biking the path that runs alongside the Canal du Midi)

Before booking your boat, you have to figure out your itinerary because you’ll have to tell the company which of their ports you’d like to start and end at, and when. Doing so will require creating a rough schedule; LeBoat's website has helpful maps with estimated travel times between stops. It’s handy to remember that going through a lock can take between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on whether there’s a line of other boats for it (which happens in high season). Locks are shown on most maps, and most boats travel between 4 and 7 miles per hour (2.5–4.5 km).

By limiting your boating time this way, you make sure that you have time to not only see the canal, but also the extraordinary sights near it. Research what’s nearby by picking up our terrific guidebook Frommer’s France  and by looking at the many blogs that recommend sights and activities by each canal. Do take the latter with a grain of salt, though, as sometimes the suggestions are paid ones (and therefore sometimes made to seem more exciting than they are).

(Pictured above: A lock-side sculpture garden on the Canal du Midi)

As I mentioned earlier, our trip happened to coincide with a ferocious heat wave. Next time I organize a canal barge trip, I’ll book a spring or fall jaunt instead. Because of the nature of barging, participants spend a lot of time outdoors driving the boat, handling ropes, and going through locks. We made that tolerable by leaving as early in the morning as possible (most locks didn't start operating before 8am), but having more comfortable weather would have given us more flexibility.

( Pictured above: A bridge on a canal in the Loire Valley)

Part of the joy of canal barging is the serendipity of it. You can dock your boat literally anywhere. The vessel will come equipped with a spike and a gavel so you can tie up the boat wherever there’s a dirt bank, or you can tie your anchor rope around something on shore. That being said, you will need to tie up your boat for at least some of the nights of your trip at ports that supply hookups for water and electricity. Those don’t usually need advance reservations.

Restaurants and attractions are a different matter. On the first night of our barge vacation, we tried to walk in to a highly recommended canal-side restaurant and were turned away. It actually had table space, but not enough food in the kitchen for walk-ins. Usually you can get away with making restaurant reservations earlier in the morning or on the day before, though not always. If there’s a place you really want to dine, secure a booking as early as possible.

For other types of activities, like wine tastings, tours, and some attraction visits, you will likely also need bookings. We did a terrific free wine tasting experience near the city of Carcassonne (pictured above), which we found through the helpful wine tour website ruedesvignerons.com . I made the reservations several weeks in advance, and it’s lucky I did, because all of the spots for that tasting subsequently sold out.

You don't need a special license to operate a boat on France's canals, nor is prior experience necessary. However, if you go with a boating company, your rental will include a 1- to 2-hour instruction session during which you’ll learn about driving the boat, common problems to look out for, and instructions on navigating the locks. For the Canal du Midi, that lesson included very pointed warnings about the low height of the bridges (see above), a weird quirk you can’t gauge accurately until you’re extremely close. We made a video of our session, and that turned out to be very helpful later, when we discovered that our boat was turning at moments when we didn’t want it to. It turned out our boat had two steering wheels, one on deck and one in the galley, and someone in our party who shall remain nameless kept leaning on the one below deck. Having that video set us straight—in more ways than one.

The biggest surprise about barging was how many other boaters we met along the way. Each day, by happenstance, we’d pair up with two, three, or four other boats. We’d see them at locks since all the boats on the canal move at roughly the same speed. We met groups from Spain, South Africa, Australia, France, the United Kingdom, Ireland, and Germany—though, interestingly, no other Americans. And we chatted across decks as the waters rose and fell in the locks (a 20-minute process, at least, each time), sharing tips and learning about each other's lives.

It was truly delightful—as was the entire weeklong journey, despite the heat. My college friend traveling with us, Kara Flannery, told me, “The time we spent on the boat was so meaningful. It was a real bonding trip because everyone had to be present, and not on their phones, since we were working together. It truly was a great, great vacation." Oui , I concur.

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#slowtourism Unique holidays on the water

Welcome to les canalous’ website – the specialists in french waterway and canal boat hire.

Les Canalous   began their adven­ture in the pic­turesque Bur­gundy region in the ear­ly 1980s. For almost four decades, we have been ded­i­cat­ed to mak­ing water­way tourism and boat­ing in France more pop­u­lar and mak­ing the enchant­i­ng expe­ri­ence of canal boat cruis­ing acces­si­ble to all. 

Our expan­sion over the years enables us to offer cruis­es in all the French regions, includ­ing the icon­ic Canal du Midi , on the scenic  Alsace region , and the unique land­scapes of the Camar­gue, as well as oth­er charm­ing Euro­pean des­ti­na­tions. From the serene  Ardennes   to the cap­ti­vat­ing water­ways of Scan­di­navia, Les Canalous makes barg­ing and boat­ing easy ! Our diverse fleet of self-dri­ve house­boats is tai­lored to meet every need and pref­er­ence, ensur­ing that your canal boat rental expe­ri­ence is noth­ing short of pleasurable.

Explore our range of  license-free boats, from lux­u­ri­ous to bud­get-friend­ly options . Les Canalous also offers com­pre­hen­sive train­ing in dri­ving your rental boat for com­plete peace of mind. Start mak­ing plans for your per­fect French water­way hol­i­day now !

Waterway Cruising : A Unique and Alternative Holiday Experience in France

Expe­ri­ence a nov­el way of hol­i­day­ing with riv­er and canal tourism, a unique way of cre­at­ing unfor­get­table French hol­i­days. Rel­ish the calm of relax­ing on the deck of your boat, and the thrill of manoeu­vring through locks and tun­nels. France’s region­al her­itage makes life on board even bet­ter, offer­ing the chance for spon­ta­neous excur­sions to suit all tastes. Cycle along tow­paths, wan­der through charm­ing vil­lages, and dis­cov­er tra­di­tion­al mar­ket stalls. Pause for a lake­side fish­ing ses­sion or a refresh­ing swim. A canal boat hol­i­day in France, espe­cial­ly along the leg­endary Canal du Midi or the pic­turesque Alsace and Camar­gue regions, promis­es an array of delight­ful activities.

Tailored Offers to Satisfy All Your Boating Desires – and More !

A canal boat hire not only pro­vides an alter­na­tive to main­stream tourism but also a way to explore some of France’s most pres­ti­gious and pic­turesque sites. Our house­boat bases are sit­u­at­ed in prime tourist regions, allow­ing you to choose your des­ti­na­tion based on your indi­vid­ual tastes and interests.

Whether it’s the his­toric charm of the Canal du Midi, the cul­tur­al rich­ness of Alsace, the wild beau­ty of the  Camar­gue , the mys­te­ri­ous allure of  Brit­tany , or the  gas­tro­nom­ic delights of the Lot , each des­ti­na­tion offers a unique experience. 

Dis­cov­er our diverse range of canal and riv­er cruis­es and begin plan­ning your ide­al French self-dri­ve boat­ing adventure.

Canalous customer reviews Your feedback counts, we pay attention to it!

Top team, extremely responsive and friendly! We'll be back

Merci a toute l'équipe pour leur accueil et leur bienveillance, particulièrement Lucas ! Nous reviendrons avec...

Merci a toute l'équipe pour leur accueil et leur bienveillance, particulièrement Lucas ! Nous reviendrons avec grand plaisir !

Un grand bravo à Cédric, Ahmed et Jean Claude pour leur sympathie et leur efficacité !

Great. Unfortunately on the second day, we had trouble managing the boat. We called...

Great. Unfortunately on the second day, we had trouble managing the boat. We called the support and soon a good technician arrived to solve the problem. Mr Lupato said we probably hit something underwater, damaging our rudder. Then, the navigation continued in a really relaxing and satisfying.

Nous avons été ravis de notre croisière sur le Canal Rhône - Sète le personnel...

Nous avons été ravis de notre croisière sur le Canal Rhône - Sète le personnel Canalous a été très accueillant très professionnel....Le bateau nous a plu ....Il manque un peu de vaisselle tel qu'une cocote et un grand faitout .... nous recommandons les Canalous aux personnes qui veulent découvrir la Camargue ses étendues d'eaux sa faune, les oiseaux chevaux toros sont magnifiques dans leur éléments qui sont les rizières, les marais Nous avons rencontré des personnes faisant parti de VNF ils ont été très charmant.

Le personnel aux écluses est super. Excellent accueil, bon conseil et super informations. Merci

Nous avons passé un week-end de 3 jours sur 2 bateaux avec nos enfants et...

Nous avons passé un week-end de 3 jours sur 2 bateaux avec nos enfants et 7 petits enfants et ce fut un grand moment de bonheur, découverte et détente. C'était génial, tout ce petit monde (petits et grands) ont tellement adoré qu'ils veulent tous recommencer. Bravo les Canalous

Coisière très réussie. Tarpon 37 très agréable à vivre et a piloter. Merci à...

Coisière très réussie. Tarpon 37 très agréable à vivre et a piloter. Merci à Jonathan et toute son équipe. Restaurant "Chez Michèle" à Languimberg délicieux. Parcours vers Saverne très sympa, jolis paysages, calme et nature, agréable mouillage à Lutzelbourg.

We spent a 3-day weekend on 2 boats with our children and 7 grandchildren and...

We spent a 3-day weekend on 2 boats with our children and 7 grandchildren and it was a great time of happiness, discovery and relaxation. It was great, everyone (young and old) loved it so much that they all want to do it again. Well done, Canalous!

Nous avons eu un incident technique avec notre 1er bateau mais l'équipe a été réactive...

Nous avons eu un incident technique avec notre 1er bateau mais l'équipe a été réactive et efficace sans compter le geste commercial. Tout s'est passé dans la bonne humeur et nous avons gardé un très bon souvenir de notre séjour ainsi que de toute l'équipe.

Un grand merci à toute l'équipe de Chenillé Changé. Bravo pour l'instruction. Séjour très agréable....

Un grand merci à toute l'équipe de Chenillé Changé. Bravo pour l'instruction. Séjour très agréable. Encore MERCI.

6 jours de rêve à bord d'un Tarpon 42TP sur le canal latéral à la...

6 jours de rêve à bord d'un Tarpon 42TP sur le canal latéral à la Loire. Nous avons dormis dans des endroits sauvage et magnifique, réveil tous les matins au chants des oiseaux dans de nouveaux jardins tous les jours différents... Nous espérons réitérer cette aventure un jour.

Mention particulière à la personne qui nettoie l'intérieur. Merci, propreté irréprochable

Excellent parcours de Colombiers à Homps avec petit "crochet" par les écluses de Fonseranes et...

Excellent parcours de Colombiers à Homps avec petit "crochet" par les écluses de Fonseranes et le pont-canal sur l'Orb . La variété du parcours (paysages , restos , éclusiers ...) nous a fait oublier une météo plutôt défavorable !

A good impression for a first cruise.

Bonne impression pour une première croisière

Notre navigation à été modifiée en dernière minute suite aux problèmes météo, nous avons...

Notre navigation à été modifiée en dernière minute suite aux problèmes météo, nous avons apprécié notre nouvelle destination, briare au lieu du canal du nivernais avec un bateau surclassé.. merci à vous et à dimitry de nous avoir permis de naviguer sans supplément .. dimitry est très professionnel et s est montré disponible pour toutes la préparation à la navigation, c était notre 5eme navigation avec votre compagnie avec un bateau largement supérieur aux précédentes locations .. merci encore

Nous avons passé une agréable navigation avec beaucoup de tramontane. Philippe Martine et Arnaud

Tout s'est bien passé, le temps était beau mais un peu frais. La charente était...

Tout s'est bien passé, le temps était beau mais un peu frais. La charente était haute avec un fort débit mais navigable, pas toujours facile sur certaines écluses avec des courants en aval plutôt trompeurs.

Well done to Jean-Pierre and his team for the clear information and instruction on the...

Well done to Jean-Pierre and his team for the clear information and instruction on the manoeuvres. The atmosphere was friendly but very professional. We'll be sure to tell our friends and family about it!

Bravo à Jean-Pierre et son équipe pour la clarté des informations et de l'instruction aux...

Bravo à Jean-Pierre et son équipe pour la clarté des informations et de l'instruction aux manœuvre. Dans une ambiance conviviale mais très professionnelle On ne manquera pas d'en parler à notre entourage !

L'accueil du responsable de base exceptionnel. Le travail des "techniciens" pour préparer le bateau au...

L'accueil du responsable de base exceptionnel. Le travail des "techniciens" pour préparer le bateau au top. Merci encore à eux tous.

We had a pleasant sail with lots of tramontana.

Le plus beau canal pour nous ça a été le canal de Digoin à Rouane....le...

Le plus beau canal pour nous ça a été le canal de Digoin à Rouane....le plus sauvage , il est magnifique et les endroits pour s'arrêter sont top._x000D_ Tous les éclusiers et éclusières ont été d'une extrême gentillesse et d'une grande aide_x000D_ Merci à vous pour votre rapidité et efficacité d'intervention en ce qui concerne notre chauffage._x000D_ A refaire avec plaisir

A total change of scenery. A great moment of relaxation.

Dépaysement total. Un très bon moment de détente

Our stay on the barge was brightened up by daily visits from swans that we'd...

Our stay on the barge was brightened up by daily visits from swans that we'd never had the chance to look into each other's eyes before... Another wonderful time shared between us, which could well lead to another river trip next spring!

Thanks again for this stay, we'll be back.

A stay full of calm and discovery, our first experience, a real delight. An experience to...

A stay full of calm and discovery, our first experience, a real delight. An experience to be repeated without hesitation.

Wonderful stay in Mayenne.

We've just finished our week-long cruise from Cognac to Angoulême, during which we had a...

We've just finished our week-long cruise from Cognac to Angoulême, during which we had a lot of fun sailing the Charente!

Stay on the Martin Pécheur Triton 860 fly departing from Digoin and returning to Nevers...

Stay on the Martin Pécheur Triton 860 fly departing from Digoin and returning to Nevers on the Canal Latéral à la Loire. Romantic landscapes, inspiring meditation.

Once again, it was a successful holiday with a very good boat. Thank you very much!...

Once again, it was a successful holiday with a very good boat. Thank you very much!

We treated ourselves to this boat trip for our girls' 10th birthday weekend. We were...

We treated ourselves to this boat trip for our girls' 10th birthday weekend. We were able to give up music completely because the peace and quiet on the canals was so great! There was no need for anything. 4 great days, quite simply. Thank you for this experience too!

A great week with the canalous

We went to Burgundy from Pontalier-sur-saone to Louhans. It was a great 10 days. The weather was...

We went to Burgundy from Pontalier-sur-saone to Louhans. It was a great 10 days. The weather was great, the atmosphere always great and the route a dream.

A relaxing 5-day break on the Canal du Midi from Homps to Colombiers and back...

A relaxing 5-day break on the Canal du Midi from Homps to Colombiers and back aboard the Triton 1050 "Sumatra". Calm, a change of scenery, a change of pace, birdsong, discovery stops - a beneficial break!

We had a wonderful stay on the Caligula boat (very comfortable!) from Digoin. Sailing all...

We had a wonderful stay on the Caligula boat (very comfortable!) from Digoin. Sailing all the way to Dompierre-sur-Besbre, we were amazed by the scenery, fascinated by the locks and touched by the kindness of the locals. We were lucky enough to be accompanied on part of our journey by several animals, including a beautiful heron. Thanks to the stops along the way, we discovered some typical villages. Last but not least, our little captain even had fun on the playgrounds we found along the way! We look forward to sailing with Les Canalous again.

Magnificent cruise, magical moments!

Mini cruise very enjoyable to repeat!

Nice physical cruise on the Charente Well maintained boat and mechanical and comfort equipment in...

Nice physical cruise on the Charente Well maintained boat and mechanical and comfort equipment in good condition For this third year in May on the Charente there was water and we were able to go as far as Angoulême but the wind was cold and unpleasant, you can't have everything?

The whole PARENT family was delighted with this experience, and sailing on the canals was...

The whole PARENT family was delighted with this experience, and sailing on the canals was a great first which delighted young and old alike. The region is magnificent, the people are generally very kind and all the Canalous staff are SUPER, attentive and very caring. Many thanks to the whole team

Very professional team

I really appreciated the kindness, the professionalism and the human side of the person in...

I really appreciated the kindness, the professionalism and the human side of the person in charge of the Pontailler base. I have been using the canalous for several times for barge trips and I am fully satisfied and ready to go back and advertise with you.

We were able to spend a wonderful mini-week in Alsace on "our" Marion. A special...

We were able to spend a wonderful mini-week in Alsace on "our" Marion. A special part of this was the sympathetic and professional-competent care by the team of Les Canalous. Certainly, the Marion is a boat that has already a lot on the hump, but for our demands on a sea voyage completely sufficient. Many thanks and greetings to the team of Les Canalous in the base Port du Houillon.

I really enjoyed the week's stay, but the training time on the handling of the...

I really enjoyed the week's stay, but the training time on the handling of the barge seems fair. This one was very comfortable, something to improve: The maintenance of the bikes. But it is in progress. I also need telescopic handles for the moorings. Otherwise, whether at the commercial headquarters or the team at the base in Carcassonne, employees at the top THANKS to you do not change anything !

You are at the BEST the CANALOUS TEAM !!! We spent a very pleasant week,...

You are at the BEST the CANALOUS TEAM !!! We spent a very pleasant week, we will recommend you without problem, see you soon

Better experience at the departure of Pontailler sur Saône this year, compared to last year,...

Better experience at the departure of Pontailler sur Saône this year, compared to last year, from Colombiers. You have reconciled us with Les Canalous ! Very good stay with friends !

We had a great stay and a change of scenery, we had an excellent trip!...

We had a great stay and a change of scenery, we had an excellent trip! And we will recommend you with great pleasure!

[…] We loved Paquerette, in spite of her poor old engine, she was a great...

[…] We loved Paquerette, in spite of her poor old engine, she was a great home for our holiday! Our choice in coming on holiday with Les Canalous for around the 5th time was absolutely the right one!!

Do it again!

Very good stay, pleasant, magnificent course, for a first time I do not regret and...

Very good stay, pleasant, magnificent course, for a first time I do not regret and recommend this adventure to people who seek peace and quiet, the beauty of the landscape and silence.

We will recommend you to others! :)

Very good level of service. Service provider to be recommended.

The ship could have been a little cleaner inside, but otherwise everything was wonderful. Benedicte...

The ship could have been a little cleaner inside, but otherwise everything was wonderful. Benedicte from the departure base is a soul of a person - she is sooo great! Very high praise!

The service is very good and I am very pleased with the quality of the...

The service is very good and I am very pleased with the quality of the product. Thank you !

Incredible change of scenery! It is really the best way to recharge your batteries. A...

Incredible change of scenery! It is really the best way to recharge your batteries. A very nice welcome from the Canalous de Pontailler sur Saône team. I recommend you

Great welcome !

we had a great cruise, very good welcome, clean and comfortable boat. one small downside,...

we had a great cruise, very good welcome, clean and comfortable boat. one small downside, the missing mileage signs on the shoreline?

Very good reception and care of the Colombiers base crew. Quick reaction to embarging technical...

Very good reception and care of the Colombiers base crew. Quick reaction to embarging technical problems. Special thanks to Enzo!

Superb experience I will be able to recommend to friends and family it was TOP

We left 2 years ago with the canalous and recommended to friends currently on the...

We left 2 years ago with the canalous and recommended to friends currently on the Canal du Midi.

We opted for a simply boat for a first experience for two, and it was...

We opted for a simply boat for a first experience for two, and it was already very good. We'll be back with several of you on a higher-category boat.

Pleasant, competent and available staff. Nice cruise, we recommend the canalous

Great experience. We'll be going back to Alsace next year. Thanks to all the staff.

We had an unforgettable cruise in the Chablis, the teams are top notch, the lock...

We had an unforgettable cruise in the Chablis, the teams are top notch, the lock keepers too, everything was great! One small improvement: put a window that opens in the toilets. Thanks again for everything, we hope to be back soon!

Hello, I'll be cruising with CANALOUS again. Sincerely

Good welcome, friendly and attentive staff, we'll be back in September. Thank you for everything

Perfect as usual. Long live the Canalous.

Thank you to the "Les Canalous" team, we had a lovely family holiday aboard one...

Thank you to the "Les Canalous" team, we had a lovely family holiday aboard one of your boats. Both young and old enjoyed themselves.

Respect de la vie privée

Unsure where to go? Share your preferences with our team and we'll tailor your custom cruise.

• Plus : Easy to maneuver
• 3 boat models available
• Crew : from 2 to 7 people
• Plus : Single-level layout
• Crew : from 2 to 12 people
• Plus : Generous outdoor spaces
• 6 boat models available
• Plus : Next generation
• 1 boat model available
• Crew : from 2 to 4 people
• Plus : Nouvelle génération
• Plus : Very spacious
• 5 boat models available
• Crew : from 2 to 8 people
• Plus : Luxury in discreet elegance
• Crew : from 2 to 6 people

Complete the filters and discover the ideal boat for your crew.

In addition to our permanent offers, we regularly provide special deals with limited-time validity. Stay tuned to take advantage of them.

• About Locaboat Who are we? Our commitments for responsible cruising Why choose Locaboat? The Locaboat Experience Easy Departure in 4 Steps Customer Reviews Frequently Asked Questions Blog : The Logbook Brochure 2024

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• Boating Holidays

Boating holidays across Europe

Locaboat boating holidays take you right to the heart of a region, giving you a real flavour of the place and allowing you explore it up-close, in your own time, in your own way. Rent a boat from one of our bases and take charge of your holidays!

Take a cruise in a self-drive boat with Locaboat

Locaboat’s selection of over 200 river cruises lets you choose between some of Europe’s most beautiful waterways, rivers and lakes. With a fleet of 330 self-drive boats, Locaboat Holidays has 24 departure bases in 5 European countries. Wherever you decide to go, our priority is to make sure you have an unforgettable holiday.

Cruising along a waterway is a unique way to travel. Aboard a  self-drive boat , with no licence required, you’re in complete control of your holiday and are free to discover the most beautiful corners of France and Europe. On your journey you’ll take in local cuisine, cathedrals, castles and all the other highlights of European culture!

How do I select a cruise?

We are experts in European self-drive boat hire. First, choose your destination, then the boat of your dreams, and we’ll train you to skipper it. When you rent a boat with us, you have so many options: in our boating holidays in France , you can explore the Burgundy wine trail, discover the magical landscapes around the Canal du Midi , or choose one of our other bases to discover this magnificent country by boat.

Outside France, we offer boating holidays in Ireland, Netherlands, Italy and Germany. Enjoy a romantic cruise around Venice, choose Ireland to reconnect with nature, or enjoy a peaceful and relaxing holiday exploring the lakes of Germany.

You’ll find all the information about our cruises, activities and unmissable sites on our website’s destination pages. If you’d like some advice about choosing where to go, don’t hesitate to contact our teams – they’ll be able to find just the place to make your holiday special.

Destinations for your Boating Holidays

Welcome to the home of waterways tourism. If you’re looking for a canal cruise, France is the obvious destination.

In Ireland, boat hire holidays are not just a good idea – they’re the obvious way to see the country.

Netherlands

The Dutch are just as passionate about boats as they are about cycling – and there’s no wonder.

When it comes to boat hire holidays, Italy offers some spectacular waterways for exploring this fascinating, surprising country that you’re bound to fall in love with.

In Germany, boating holidays mean watching the lakes slowly unfold from the deck of your boat.

Help me Discover our collections

We’ve created collections to help anyone who’s undecided or who hasn’t been on a waterways cruise before. Collections provide suggestions for boating holidays based on themes. Browse our website to find inspiration – and if you still can’t make up your mind, don’t hesitate to contact our travel advisers who will be delighted to help you complete your holiday planning.

Legendary routes

Symbols and mystery, history and culture, art and tradition… Boating holidays on one of our legendary routes mean a cruise through history, discovering local stories on the way.

Unexperience welcome!

Your first waterways cruise will be an unforgettable experience. No licence is needed to hire a self-drive boat – just take the helm and fulfill your dream of cruising in freedom on your Pénichette ® .

Disconnect & take a break

For a real holiday in the wilderness, hire a self-drive boat and cruise into the most beautiful unspoilt areas. Boating holidays let you unwind to the rhythm of the waterways.

Cruise & Dive

A cruise along the waterways is an adventure in itself – but the excitement doesn’t stop there. Boating holidays also give you the chance to dive into the water and enjoy a memorable swim.

Is exploring iconic cities and great cultural sites your idea of a great holiday? A waterways cruise on a cultural route promises the perfect city break.

Two on a boat

A romantic holiday on the waterways: enjoy a well-deserved couples cruise, going with the flow aboard your Pénichette® equipped with all mod cons.

Boating for foodies

Discover France’s finest vineyards and sample the wines they produce: enjoy a holiday on a self-drive boat following a trail through some of France’s most famous and picturesque wine regions.

Choosing a destination for your European boat cruise

Picturesque canal barge holidays through france.

Arguably one of Europe’s most popular destinations, France is a nation of contrasts and variation. From culture soaked cities to idyllic villages in small French communes, France has something for all tastes. One of the best ways to see the best of France is from its many waterways. Combining natural river routes with the country’s former industrial canals, there are not many areas that can’t be travelled via a boat. There are a number of routes that shine above all else, and it is these that are best for canal boat vacations .

In France, there is no waterway more famous than the Canal du Midi. This man-made canal system was constructed during the late 17th century and has long since been a source of pride for French civil engineering and modern tourism.

Starting in the city of Toulouse, the Canal du Midi snakes its way through southern France and finally flows in the Mediterranean lagoon coastal region of Étang de Thau. Canal boat holidays in France mainly cover this area of the country. This is mainly because the Canal du Midi route combines everything that is great about barge holidays in Europe . From the fantastic canalside views of the French countryside, warming southern French weather, endless sights of historic and cultural intrigue to some of the best cuisine found in France. All of this can be seen easily with a Canal du Midi boat hire .

It is not only the sun-soaked waters of southern France that have appeal. The northerly French provinces of Brittany, Burgundy and the Loire Valley all offer their own experiences and create their own unique waterways boating holidays .

Canal boat holidays through the Emerald Isle

Ireland is a country so defined by its rolling green hills and rural expanses, that there are few better ways to travel and see the nation than by canal boat. Canal boat cruises can be made throughout Ireland and along one of its main waterways, the River Shannon. As the River Shannon is intersected by canals and other river tributaries, River Shannon cruises can take you to every corner of Ireland and even into the UK’s Northern Ireland. As the isle of Ireland is relatively small compared to many other European destinations, creating a route across is an easy undertaking. Following the River Shannon’s course, from source to sea, means you can travel in a number of different directions and makes Ireland the perfect destination for canal boat holidays for a beginner .

Boating holidays in Ireland can start from a number of different destinations, and finding the right one for you depends on what you want out of your canal cruise . Many may wish to start their boating holiday from Ireland’s capital, Dublin. This is perfect for those flying into the country and renting their boat in the city, as the rental can be acquired and returned in the city. Another reason for starting your Irish riverboat adventure here is the fact that Dublin is connected to the national waterways via the Royal Canal.

Taking the Royal Canal and the River Shannon routes will allow you to see all that Ireland has to offer. The River Shannon interlocks with a series of loughs and lakes, adding to the appeal of Irish barge boat holidays .

Dutch waterway holidays; Holland and beyond

Known as one of the low countries, the Netherlands’ topography lends itself perfectly to waterway exploration. The country is crisscrossed by a network of canals, rivers and estuaries, creating a perfect landscape in which to travel via barge or boat. With many of the Dutch towns and cities being built intertwined with the country’s canals, canal holidays throughout the Netherlands can be some of the most rewarding.

Take Holland’s capital; for instance, Amsterdam is a city that is constructed seamlessly with an interlocking network of canals and waterways.

Boat hire in Amsterdam will allow you to tour the city with ease and see its many sights from the comfort of your boat. Boating holidays in Holland can cover the country in many directions, enabling you to see all corners of the country.

Starting in Amsterdam, canal boat trips make their way south and into the Dutch countryside. Heading south-east, holidaymakers can boat all the way to the city of Utrecht, winding through the countryside as you go. Opting to take the south-west route will take you all the way to the city of The Hague, which can also be done in one loop. As well as boating into Holland’s interior, trips can be made northerly to North Holland and the surrounding North Sea coastline.

Memorable riverboat holidays across Germany

Alongside your traditional European destinations such as France and Holland is slightly obscure, yet none the less rewarding destination of Germany. This vast European nation has its own fair share of history, culture and diversity. With such a variation in landscapes and regions, canal boat hire in Germany gives visitors the chance to see the cities of Hamburg and Dresden along the Elbe, Dusseldorf and Cologne along the Rhine and the idyllic countryside of Bavaria along the Danube. Similar to Amsterdam, the city waterways of Germany’s capital Berlin allow visitors to travel throughout the city via its rivers and canals; this provides a whole new way of seeing and experiencing the city.

Barge holidays in Germany can start from a variety of different locations, all depending on which part of the country you are in. Starting your holiday in Berlin will provide you with a number of canal boat routes , and deciding on the route for you can be a difficult one. Taking an easterly route will allow you to travel from Berlin via the River Spree, opening up into the idyllic Brandenburg countryside. This river route winds on for miles and will eventually take boaters to the German-Polish border.

Taking the western route from the capital will open up the state of Saxony-Anhalt before you. A journey this way will incorporate iconic stops such as Potsdam and Brandenburg. Taking your barge boat rental north from the German capital means you can boat your way as far north as Schwerin and even on to the North Sea beyond.

Rent a barge in Europe and explore its Italian peninsula

It is not only the northern European countries that offer waterway holidays. In fact, Italy is one of the best destinations for European canal boat cruises . With destinations such as Venice available, one of the most famous canal-strewn cities in the world, choosing Italy for your boating holidays abroad is a fantastic choice. Starting from Venice, canals run throughout the city and Veneto region as a whole. With canals and rivers running westwardly from the coast and into Italy’s interior, there are several routes which to take.

With the numerous inlets and waterways linking the sea to the country’s interior, there is almost a limitless number of routes you can take when travelling along Italy’s eastern coast. Visiting the city of Venice alone is amplified by seeing it from the water. This unique perspective of seeing the city from this view makes an Italian trip up there with some of the best canal holidays in Europe.

City highlights during your canal barge cruises in Europe

Soak up the dutch capital from its many waterways.

Amsterdam, the capital of The Netherlands, is one of the most perfectly placed cities to be explored via its waterways. As the whole of the country is on a flatter plane, the building of canals was easier, and the routes of its rivers flow easily through the country. The city itself is a collection of crisscrossing canals and streets, providing the ideal waterway road to explore the city and what a city it is. As the capital of The Netherlands and as a European city of culture for centuries, Amsterdam has pleasantly to see and do.

One of Amsterdam’s more famous landmarks is the former home of the Frank family, an unassuming Jewish family that the world learns from from the wartime diaries of the family’s youngest daughter, Anne Frank.

Anne and her family hid in the attic of this home for two years, during the Nazi occupation of the country. Visitors can view this preserved home and attic and see it as it was during those harrowing years.

Amsterdam is also a city renowned for its impact on the pages of European art history. One of the best places to see this impact is at the Van Gogh Museum, home to the largest collection of work by the Dutch painter anywhere in the world. As well as this, there is also the former home of one of the greatest Dutch masters, Rembrandt van Rijn, to explore. This also houses works by the famous artist and is a step back into the Dutch Golden Age of the 17th century.

Boat through France’s iconic citadel city of Carcassonne

When you embark on one of the best canal boat holidays in Europe , boating down the Canal du Midi, there are many fantastic landmarks and settlements to see. Constructed in the late 17th century, the canal was and is an impressive feat of engineering and one that opens up the south of France for exploration. While navigating the Canal du Midi, the waters will pass through the town of Carcassonne, and no holiday along this canal would be complete without stopping off at this jaw-dropping settlement.

The city of Carcassonne is a citadel fortress and one of the best-preserved examples in all of Europe.

The citadel walls and turrets expand royally around the city, with huge castle walls and towers looming large all around you; Carcassonne is truly an awe-inspiring destination. Contained within the city are some of the best-preserved Medieval buildings, creating a look found nowhere else. This dual UNESCO site attracts millions of visitors every year, and it is easy to see why. You can make your way freely around the citadel city, yet you will need to book a tour to explore the walled ramparts. As well as the impressive walled city citadel, Carcassonne is also home to the Basilica of Saint-Nazaire. The Basilica of Saint-Nazaire is a 13th-century church that was constructed in the Romanesque and Gothic architectural styles. With so much to see, it is important to allow yourself enough time.

See the Irish capital from its river and canal

One of the highlights of travelling throughout the Emerald Isle by boat is seeing its capital city Dublin from the waterways. On entering the city via its Royal Canal, boaters can moor in the city and be in its very heart in no time at all. As the capital of Ireland, Dublin has its fair share of history, culture and activities in which to enjoy and sometimes even one day are not enough to see all the city has to offer. Let us take a look at some of the best things to do in Dublin when visiting via boat.

One of Dublin’s most iconic locations in the city’s Temple Bar. This cobbled street is the epicentre of the city’s thriving nightlife scene, with bars booming with traditional Irish folk music seven days a week; this is where you are likely to discover your new favourite Irish live act. Another of the city’s must-see sights is its Guinness factory; home to the iconic Irish stout. Taking a tour of this factory has become a right of passage when visiting the Irish capital.

See Venice with some of the best barge holidays in Europe

A city that lends itself perfectly to exploration by boat is the Italian city of Venice. Travelling along the eastern coast’s many canals and the huge Venice Lagoon opens up the 118 small Islands of Venice for exploration. Side by side with the city’s famous gondolas, luxury canal holidays don’t come any more stylish than this. As the city is constructed from a network of waterways and islands, exploring from a boat is both easy and practical, making boat hire abroad a simple task.

Venice is a city steep in history and culture and has stood at the crossroads of Europe for centuries. This iconic city is a playground for history buffs and has an endless stream of landmarks and sights to see.

For a birdseye view of the city, why not take the escalator to the top of the Campanile, Venice’s bell tower. Originally constructed during the early 10th century, the Campanile is both the oldest and tallest building in all of Venice. Making your way to the top will provide breathtaking views of the city’s canals and streets below.

Alongside the city’s towers and canals, no visit to Venice would be complete without sampling some of its famous cuisines. Known all over Italy for its special Vancian dishes, Venice is particularly known for its exceptional seafood, with the Baccalà Mantecato, famous above all the rest. This salted cod mouse dish is Venice’s signature dish and can be found all over the city. The wider Veneto region is also renowned for its great white wine, something that a real foodie can not overlook when visiting this North Italian city.

Canal boat hire in Europe choosing the right size

A smaller boat for two.

If you are planning to travel around Europe’s waterways on a romantic break with just the two of you or a small family group, then opting for a smaller boat is best. Choosing a boat such as the Penichette Classiques is a great option for navigating the narrower canals and rivers of Europe. The boats are capable of holding two to four passengers and make a great home for a week or two. No matter what your budget is Penichette Classiques come in a variety of different types and are for the economical boater and the luxury ones.

The only drawback to boats such as the Penichette Classiques is their lack of storage space. This lack of storage space for food and supplies is ok if you are simply using the boat as a mode of transport on your holiday.

Larger boats for the whole family

Those who are looking for a boat rental in Europe for the entire family or a large group of friends should hire a much larger boat such as the Pénichette Aft Deck. These types of boats are capable of playing host to up to twelve people and contain a double bed, basin, lots of hanging space and storage. Although these larger boats are much bigger, they’re just as manoeuvrable and agile as the smaller boats. You will have no problems navigating even the narrowest of European canals and rivers.

The biggest advantage of having a larger boat such as the Pénichette Aft Deck is the overall space for supplies. If you are travelling for an extended period of time, having this extra space is a God-send and will keep you in comfort as you travel throughout the many waterways.

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• River Cruising

Self drive canal cruise France

By art4u , August 5, 2021 in River Cruising

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My husband and I are considering a self drive boat rental in the Brittany region Sept 2022 for about 10 days - we hope that there might be a few of you that have done this in the last few years that could share your key learnings/experience 🙂  and company's to consider - right now we are looking at booking via Le Boat or Nicols - has anyone used either of these companies and your thoughts/recommendations and the type of boat you might have booked for a couple (and was it roomy enough for the 2 of you so you didn't consider a divorce at the end of your adventure 🙂  )  ? Thanks in advance - April and Rob

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Gourmet Gal

Sounds fun. I’ve never done it but have considered it.  I have a friend who owned a boat and lived on it several months a year touring the canals of France and she loved it.  Be prepared to operate the smaller locks yourself.

Would love to hear how it goes!

Canal archive

We should be on the Canal du Nivernais as I write this is the second year we have postponed it until next year. There are four of us going our friends have been before and still own a narrow boat in the U.K. and we owned one for over twenty years. There are several companies who hire out boats ours is from Vermenton. One of the best things is that on French canals the locks are worked for you. It’s good fun don’t get the smallest boat you can definitely get bots with separate bedroom cabins. Do an internet search.

• 4 weeks later...

We have done a few canals on our own with Nicols. We did the Charente, the Sable sur Sarthe and canal de Bourgogne. Those were quite a few years back though (1999, 2000 and 2001).

We loved it.

I would guess Nicols have plenty of new boats since our time but anyhow we rented the Duo. It was fine for us. If you prefer more room the was the Quatro and a lot more I do not remember the names.

Its a very different kind of trip and not for everyone, but we found it very enjoyable. 

As you can see we come from Quebec so it was very easy for us to get around and talk to people even in the smallest of villages. 

But still if you like visiting small places, buying your own food at markets, sipping wine and eating cheese at sundown on your deck, you will enjoy this kind of vacation.

On 8/5/2021 at 3:23 PM, art4u said: My husband and I are considering a self drive boat rental in the Brittany region Sept 2022 for about 10 days - we hope that there might be a few of you that have done this in the last few years that could share your key learnings/experience 🙂  and company's to consider - right now we are looking at booking via Le Boat or Nicols - has anyone used either of these companies and your thoughts/recommendations and the type of boat you might have booked for a couple (and was it roomy enough for the 2 of you so you didn't consider a divorce at the end of your adventure 🙂  )  ? Thanks in advance - April and Rob

See my post further down, we have done 3 canals with Nicols.

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