French holiday boating and barge holidays

The French waterways travel through some of the most varied countryside in Europe, with each region steeped in its own particular culture, history and architecture.

The real France is found on a leisurely cruise along the French rivers and canals. See vineyards, chateaux and quaint villages far from the usual tourist haunts.

Sample gourmet delights in delightful country inns or feast on board in the open air with local produce washed down with some of the best wines in the world.

Our 50 boat bases in France give you access to hundreds of miles of navigable canals and rivers. Round trips or out-and-back cruises start and finish at one base, and one-way trips are available.

We have the biggest choice of boats in France - over 1000 cruiser boats or penichette boats - with a range of layouts and levels of luxury for your France boating holiday.

You will find that bicycles are very handy for countryside excursions or to go shopping in the villages. These can be hired from all bases subject to availability.

Locks on many routes are electrically operated and have lock-keepers to help you through. Stop at night near a village restaurant or in the countryside. Moorings are generally free.

On this website we provide guides to all the cruising areas of France, with separate and detailed route options for cruiser boat holidays and penichette boat holidays. Brochures are available.

Whatever French region you choose, there will be new pleasures, with quality food and wines and the wonderfully warm sunshine.