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French Waterways

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A closer look at French Waterways

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Ideas for matching the onboard experience with the people and occasion.

Cruise-line information: venues, amenities, and inclusions vary by ship and sailing. Check the individual ship before choosing.

Cruising in France for Families

Cruising in France for Families

Self-Drive Boating A self-drive boating holiday in France takes family fun to a new level, but with plenty of relaxation time too. Each new day brings a new adventure, whether…

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Self-Drive Boating

A self-drive boating holiday in France takes family fun to a new level, but with plenty of relaxation time too. Each new day brings a new adventure, whether it’s crewing the boat, bike riding, canoeing or exploring the attractions, towns and villages en route. Stock up in fabulous local markets, discover charming cafés and restaurants but, above all, relax and enjoy all the scenery. Then, at the end of the day, there’s a comfy bed and a gentle waterway to lull everyone to sleep.

Hotel Barging

Many hotel barges are available only as a whole boat charter, which makes them the perfect setting for the holiday of a lifetime. These beautifully converted or newly built barges offer boutique hotel luxury and gourmet food and drink, all while cruising through some of the world’s most beautiful scenery. You’ll be looked after by an experienced crew who will show you the sights on the way and can often provide a specially crafted family cruise with activities for children and adults built into the itinerary. Which all makes for a truly exclusive cruise your family will never forget.

Riverboat Cruises

There is an increasing number of family-friendly cruises offering a great alternative to the usual family holiday. With a new destination and one or two excursions every day, children will never be bored. Older children especially will be fascinated by the culture and history coming to life in front of them. On board, there are casual dining options for family suppers and the chance to try delicious local specialities (as well as child-friendly classics). And as most cruises are all-inclusive, budgeting for this family holiday is child’s play.

Cruising in France for Groups

Cruising in France for Groups

Self-Drive Boating Boating with friends is a fabulous way to spend time together, discovering new places every day and enjoying plenty of fun along the way. Browse the local markets…

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Self-Drive Boating

Boating with friends is a fabulous way to spend time together, discovering new places every day and enjoying plenty of fun along the way. Browse the local markets for your al fresco lunches, linger over dinner at a riverside restaurant, explore the countryside or simply watch the scenery glide by in the best company. Hiring a self-drive boat in France means you can plan the perfect group holiday or just cast off and take each day as it comes.

Hotel Barges

If you’re looking for a rather special venue for a group holiday, then look no further than a private cruise on a hotel barge in France. Whole boat chartering means that you’ll be able to enjoy boutique hotel luxury with gourmet standard food and drink in the sole company of your own friends. Tailor your trip to suit specific tastes, interests or activities, then let the experienced crew look after everything, while you relax and enjoy the finer things in life together.

Riverboat Cruises

France’s many rivers offer a range of excellent choices for luxury group holidays. Whatever your tastes or interests, you’ll find the perfect ship and the perfect route to suit. With bars, cafés, restaurants, sundecks and swimming pools, there’s plenty of opportunity to socialise in luxury, while enjoying all-inclusive gourmet food and drink. And with every day comes a new destination to explore together. Whatever connects you, your group is sure to thrive in the sociable atmosphere of a riverboat cruise.

Cruising in France for Couples and Singles

Cruising in France for Couples and Singles

Self-Drive Boating For couples especially, getting away from it all on a self-drive boating holiday is one of the most peaceful escapes. It’s a chance to leave everyday life behind…

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Self-Drive Boating

For couples especially, getting away from it all on a self-drive boating holiday is one of the most peaceful escapes. It’s a chance to leave everyday life behind and explore France’s beautiful waterways at your own pace, in comfort and seclusion. With the freedom to cruise as far as you like and stop wherever you fancy, you’ll enjoy authentic French life like never before, delving into village cafés and restaurants or loading up with local specialities to enjoy on board.

Hotel Barges

If you love gourmet food, fine wine and fascinating culture then, as a couple, you’ll be in good company. Hotel barging in France is all about enjoying the finer things in life with a handful of like-minded fellow passengers. Join a hotel barge for just 6 – 12 guests and with everything included, all you need to do is relax and share the experience of boutique luxury afloat.

For the ultimate secluded getaway or honeymoon, you could always book exclusive use of the whole barge for an unforgettable cruise in the most romantic country on earth.

Riverboat Cruises

River cruising in France is in many ways the perfect holiday for couples who enjoy travelling in luxury. The all-inclusive experience means you can sit back, relax and enjoy unlimited drinks, gourmet menus, exciting itineraries and, of course, each other’s company, all while exploring a fascinating, new destination every day. And with an average of only 160 passengers, river cruises give you the opportunity to enjoy your time together or to make new friends.

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