Cruising canals and rivers in France and in the old Europe is a delightful, peaceful and unforgetable experience. Being a guest onboard a luxury barge or at the helm of one of our canal boats, you will always fall under the magic spell of the unique river cruising atmosphere. No matter the size of the boat, canal cruising is unique and is certainly the most relaxing holiday you can think of.

Canal boat or hotel barging? Self-drive canal boats and hotel barging are very different. Both may cruise on the same canals but life on board is not the same:

Canal cruising

Cruising canals and rivers in France is a delightful, peaceful and unforgetable. Being a guest onboard a luxury barge or at the helm of our Classic Penichette, you will always fall under the magic spell of the unique river cruising atmosphere. No matter the size of the boat, canal cruising is unique. Certainly the most relaxing holidays you can think of.

Driving your boat is straightforward and enjoyable once you've received some simple guidance at our Locaboat base. You'll soon get used to going through canal locks and will enjoy driving your penichette. Detailed navigation guides show where you can moor, shop, get fresh water or go sightseeing. Scenic countryside and charming villages along the canal are guaranteed.

Self-drive canal boats in France, Germany, Holland, Ireland, Italy and now Poland, come in different sizes. They are much smaller than a canal barge. Self-drive canal boats can be compared to floating self-contained apartments accommodating up to 12 persons and are perfect for families or groups of friends.

Your floating hotel cruises gently along, while you relax, enjoy the fine wines and excellent French cuisine. Indulge yourself !

At Paris Provence, we represent several privately-owned barges and we are agents for European Waterways (the leading barging company in France) also known as Go Barging.