Canal boat hire France

France offers a dreamlike cruise, where world-famous wine regions, medieval villages and stunning coastlines alternate. Cruise along the Canal du Midi under the shade of centuries-old plane trees and visit fortified towns like Carcassonne, or cruise along the Loire River past fairytale castles and vineyards. Rent a yacht on the French Riviera enchants with its sparkling ports (Saint-Tropez, Monaco, Cannes) and the hidden coves of Cassis, while the rugged coastline of Brittany hides tidal islands and oyster farms. In Burgundy, you can sample first-class wines by the ports in Beaune, or follow the Seine River from Paris to the D-Day beaches of Normandy. The Camargue marshlands are full of pink flamingos and white horses, a stark contrast to the lavender fields of Provence.

With over 8,500 km of navigable waterways, France has something for every boater – whether it’s gastronomy, cultural treasures or Mediterranean beaches. Don’t miss the summer Les Voiles de Saint-Tropez festival or the autumn harvest along the Saône!

Canal cruising regions in France

French canal cruising is one of the most popular forms of water tourism in Europe, as the country’s extensive network of waterways takes you through beautiful landscapes, historic cities and picturesque villages. Here are the main canal cruising areas in France:

Burgundy

The Canal de Bourgogne and the Canal du Nivernais are famous for their beautiful countryside, vineyards and wines. The small villages and towns in the region, such as Auxerre or Dijon, offer a rich historical and gastronomic experience.

Canal du Midi

The Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is located in the south of France. This canal runs from Toulouse to the Mediterranean Sea and takes in such stunning sights as the medieval city of Carcassonne and the wine regions around Narbonne.

Alsace-Lorraine (Alsace-Lorraine)

The canal network of the Alsace-Lorraine region, such as the Canal de la Marne au Rhin, winds through mountainous terrain, vineyards and historic villages. The cities of Strasbourg and Nancy offer outstanding cultural and architectural experiences for boaters.

Brittany

The canals and canals of Brittany, such as the Canal de Nantes, Brest River, offer a wonderful natural setting and a coastal atmosphere. The region is famous for its Celtic heritage, historic castles and seafood cuisine.

Loire Valley

The canals and rivers of the Loire region, such as the Canal Latéral à la Loire, meander through the Loire Valley, known for its famous chateaux. Boaters can discover breathtaking chateaux, vineyards and charming villages here.

Camargue

The Camargue region, located in the Rhône Delta, offers a unique experience for nature and wildlife lovers. You can admire flamingos, wild horses and unique coastal landscapes while sailing along the canals and lagoons.

Champagne

The canals of the Champagne region, such as the Canal de la Marne à la Saône, lead through the famous Champagne vineyards. The region offers wine tastings, hilly landscapes and historic cities such as Épernay or Reims.

The canals of France provide great opportunities for both beginners and experienced boaters, as the waterways are easy to navigate and there are many marinas and boats for rent.

What to do on a canal boating holiday in France?

In the green embrace of the Canal du Midi

A cruise on the Canal du Midi is a journey where history meets nature. As you glide along the canal, you will be enchanted by the charm of the French countryside and the scent of the wine regions. The small villages such as Castelnaudary and Béziers, and the tree-lined canal roads all contribute to a truly peaceful and authentic French experience.

The Seine, the heart and charm of Paris

Paris is not only the capital of the world, but together with the Seine River, it offers a truly romantic experience. Sailing along the river, you can admire the city’s famous landmarks from a new perspective, such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame and the Louvre. A river cruise also gives you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the French capital’s outdoor cafés and stunning historical sites, while soaking up the city’s buzz under the gentle waves.

Secrets and Castles of the Loire Valley

A cruise on the Loire River is not just about picturesque castles, it’s also an adventure into the heart of rural France. Sailing through beautiful wine regions and fabulous vineyards, you’ll find castles along the Loire, such as the famous Château de Chambord and the stunning Château de Chenonceau. As you cruise at a leisurely pace, you’ll discover the simple beauty of rural life and soak up the region’s rich history.

The wild, unspoiled coast of Brittany

Not only is Brittany located on the western tip of France, it’s also a treasure trove for boaters seeking the thrills of the Atlantic Ocean. With its rocky coastline, secluded coves and the charm of its famous fishing villages, Brittany offers a true adventure for those who want to explore the local megalithic stone structures and other historical wonders. The wild coastline, fresh seafood and unique local culture ensure that every minute is a new experience.

Canal du Midi boating vacation

Alsace boating vacation

Boating vacation Burgundy