Family Boating Holidays in France

As every parent knows, choosing a family holiday to suit all tastes can be tricky!  So, for a holiday with a difference that really does have something for everyone, how about exploring France’s beautiful canals, lakes and rivers onboard your own stylish self-drive cruiser. Kids will love being part of the crew while mum and dad can take turns at being Captain and First Mate!

Offering freedom, fun and adventure both on and off the water, a boating holiday allows you to cruise at your own pace, stopping whenever and wherever you want. Have fun exploring the surrounding countryside on using the onboard bikes or simply relax and enjoy quality time together playing cards or traditional board games en famille. Shop at colourful village markets for fresh produce and dine alfresco on deck in the sunshine or take advantage of wonderful waterside bistros and enjoy regional specialities and local wines - the choice is yours!

No previous boating experience is required and helpful Le Boat staff ensure you are comfortable at the helm before setting off. Le Boat holidays are available throughout France, Belgium, Holland, Italy, Germany, Ireland, Scotland and England. For a copy of Le Boat’s 2010 cruising brochure, or to make a booking, please call 0844 463 3594.

Many thanks to Le Boat for providing the advice in this section.

Which Region

For younger families, a holiday cruising in the Canal du Midi combines day trips to the seaside with cultural trips to castle dungeons and medieval museums, while the beautiful River Lot offers older families a fantastic range of sporting activities including kayaking, sailing and horse-riding. If you would prefer lock-free cruising, then head to the sunny Etang du Thau in the Camargue. Wherever you choose to cruise we can guarantee you won’t be disappointed!

Which boat?

Boats are available to suit all budgets and party sizes from two to twelve people and flexible durations mean that itineraries are available for short-breaks, one-week holidays or longer stays. Cruisers have all the home-from-home comforts you’d expect including a spacious saloon, comfortable cabins, modern bathroom facilities and fully-equipped kitchen. Many have an upper sundeck too - perfect for sightseeing and eating alfresco.

Which boating company?  

Le Boat offers a number of family-friendly cruising routes throughout France - kids will love the adventure of visiting new places each day and helping to decide where to go and what to do is all part of the fun. With playgrounds, museums and outdoor swimming all along our routes, you can be sure of always having something up your sleeve to keep them amused.