France has something like 8,000km (5,000 miles) of navigable inland waterways – you can travel by boat across this large country from north to south; and east to west, using canals and rivers of great variety, size and scenic beauty. Whether you’re interested in a passage through the canals to the deep blue Mediterranean, or living aboard in one of the world’s most civilised countries, buying a boat, chartering a luxury hotel barge, or hiring a self-drive boat, for a holiday or a vacation, this is a big subject with almost limitless potential for fascination, safe exploration, huge enjoyment and warm friendship. That’s what this website is all about. We hope you’ll find it clear, comprehensive, informative and inspirational – it is based on years of our own boating experiences. Welcome!
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There is delight, fascination and relaxation around every twist and turn of the 8,000km (5,000 miles) network of canals and rivers in France. A spider’s web of waterways that reaches nearly every rich and unique French region. So which one to chose? Historic Lorraine or Mediterranean Midi? Brittany’s Celtic secrets or Burgundy’s vineyards? Use our guides to the charms and attractions of each of the eight boating holiday or vacation regions to help make that decision.
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We feature a comprehensive array of self-skippered (bareboat) hire boats from France’s leading fleets – Le Boat and Nicols. Find out about enjoying a perfect holiday or vacation aboard your own
‘floating home from home’.
Luxury cruising on the French waterways – beautiful landscapes, wonderful wining and dining, fascinating excursions, romantic evenings and good friends.
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Fifty pages of detailed navigation guidance for many French canals and rivers – based on our own direct experience since 2003. Here’s a link to just one example – the world heritage Canal du Midi.
Practical Cruising
Knowing The Ropes
- Routes to (or from) the Mediterranean – options and timings
- Dimensions – Depths, Widths and Headroom
- Boating Regulations and VNF Navigation Licences
- Mast Stepping (and un-stepping) and Protection
- Lock (ecluse) and Mooring techniques
- Connecting to Electricity, Fuelling and Filling Up
We have boats being sold by private owners and also ex-hire boats from France’s two major self-drive fleets – Nicols and Le Boat.
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Our comprehensive selection of the best 
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Will my boat get through? Details of 
The most informative and enjoyable 