Why go on a Luxury Canal Barging In France?
Combine the exclusive comforts of a boutique hotel with a tranquil inland cruise past lush vineyards and historic towns and villages and you’ll have one of the world’s most privileged and memorable pleasures – a luxury barge vacation in France.
Special and Different
Hotel barges vary uniquely in their style and character, each having their own personality. Some are individually owned, some are part of a small fleet. A few barges can be booked by cabin, like a hotel, but all are available as a whole-boat private charter. They cruise through different regions of France, on different canals and rivers, to bring you to fabulous destinations.
The Best
As you might expect, a luxury barge cruise is simply not the kind of vacation that is chosen just on price nor booked with a mouse-click. It’s exclusive and exceptional – and many elite barges are booked months or even years in advance. Based on over fifteen years of unique experience, insider knowledge and acute sensitivity, we select only the best and we’ll help you find the one that’s just right for you – at no extra cost.
We will use our unique
in-depth experience
to find you your
perfect barge cruise
+1 405 445 0350 
+61 3 9005 8569 
+44 7590 287 178 
Popular French Barge Cruises
Whether you’re a first-timer or a frequent visitor to France, our carefully curated selection of fifty barges covers the length and breadth of France. Between them they can take you to those most beautiful places not easily reached by other means – the hidden France. We’re standing ready to match your preferences and we’ll tell you about the best time of year, too.
Midi ~ Languedoc
Immerse yourself in the sun-drenched vineyards and sunflower fields of a world heritage site. The famous Canal du Midi winds past Carcassonne’s ancient citadel on its historic journey to the Mediterranean.
Burgundy – Nivernais – Loire
Discover the ‘garden and heart of France’ where French nobility chose to build their sumptuous châteaux. Burgundy, immersed in history and culture, is considered to be the wine and gastronomy centre of France.
Alsace – Ardennes
Perhaps you hanker after the most striking scenic backdrops you can find? The forests of the Ardennes, the Vosges mountains, the beautiful Doubs valley and the Alsace region of north-east France will not disappoint.
Provence – Camargue
Provence with perfumed fields of lavender and bright sunflowers, Van Gogh and the rich wines of Chateauneuf du Pape. In the Camargue, white horses, pink flamingos and the blue Mediterranean.
Burgundy South – Saône
Famous for its red and white wines and its Grand Cru route through the vineyards, the region bursts with culinary prowess too. The Dukes of Burgundy left an historic legacy, including medieval Beaune.
Aquitaine – Bordeaux
Aquitaine (once part of England) is an ancient wine-growing region, famed for its St Emilion label amongst others. See the beautiful city of Bordeaux at its best from the waterways.
To discover hidden France, take a look at our comprehensive ‘Where To‘ guide for inspiration,
or simply call us – we know every nook and cranny!
+1 405 445 0350 | +61 3 9005 8569 | +44 7590 287 178
Canal Barging in France: The Best Experiences
What is it that excites and satisfies? What is it that brings you pleasure? Whatever that might be, France has it in abundance and hotel barge cruising provides privileged, private experiences and excursions to savour and appreciate. We know how to help you realise your dreams and we also know to match the perfect barge, the perfect cruise, to your particular situation.
Vive la France!
France is the world’s most beloved home of fine wine, exceptional cuisine and perfect locally grown ingredients. France is also drenched in fascinating history, architectural heritage and civilisation.
Take it Easy
Barge cruising along the canals is quiet, slow and peaceful. The tow-path alongside is perfect for walking, and a cycle (pedal powered or electric) gets you into the surrounding countryside and the pretty villages.
Out and About
There are opportunities for more active pursuits – kayaking, climbing or horse-riding for example. Personal interests like wine appreciation or WW2 history can be incorporated into bespoke itineraries.
Solos and Couples
Single travellers and couples book cabins and meet like-minded, interesting fellow guests.
Happy Families
Families of all generations, with activities to satisfy each age group from the youngsters to the oldsters
Friendship Groups
Old friends enjoying life together, wine-lovers, golfers, artists and girl-friends needing serious pampering!
Discover more about our inspiring hotel barge options
– or just let’s talk about what would suit you best
+1 405 445 0350 | +61 3 9005 8569 | +44 7590 287 178
The Hotel Barge Fleet
Amongst the fifty hotel barges that we are proud to represent there is a rich variety of size, style, comfort and price point.
We know each one and the particular locality it cruises through.
Once we know your requirements, we’re expertly placed to secure the right barge for you.
6 Star and 5 Star Barges
6 Star ‘Supreme’ and 5 Star ‘Grande Luxe’ barges are the most prestigious with the highest luxury quality. The 8-guests Grand Cru (above) features the ‘best of Burgundy’s best’, with fine wines, gourmet cuisine and private châteaux visits.
4 Star Barges
4 Star ‘Excellence’ barges are a very high standard. The 12-guests Luciole (above) offers superb, sociable cruising on the picturesque Nivernais canal and was the original barge in France to be converted into a luxury hotel barge.
3 Star Barges
3 Star ‘Premier’ hotel barges offer perfect comfort and great value. The 8-guests Savoir Vivre (above) uniquely offers luxury cruising along the pretty Ouche Valley in Burgundy, with delicious off-board local restaurant dining every evening.
Discover your perfect barge from our portfolio of wonderful cruise options
Call us to discuss quality options and check out availability and pricing
+1 405 445 0350 | +61 3 9005 8569 | +44 7590 287 178
What Makes Us Special?
England – France – Worldwide
We’re English but since 2003 have spent most of our time living in France, returning to Oxford for the winter months. We talk to clients throughout the world daily, especially in America and Australia.
First-hand Knowledge
We know every part of France, almost every river and canal, because we cruise them ourselves on our own boat. Our 15+ years of knowledge of barging and the waterways of France is unrivalled and widely recognised.
Special Relationships
We work closely with our select group of hotel barges and their owners who entrust us to represent them. With frequent, close contact we know each barge intimately, their service and style, pricing and availability.
Just call us to make your dream cruise come true
+1 405 445 0350 
+61 3 9005 8569 
+44 7590 287 178
FAQs about Hotel Barge Cruises In France
What is luxury hotel barging?
Hotel barging in France is a very special travel experience. The barges are elegant and supremely comfortable, large and stable so you’ll experience the smoothest of relaxing week-long vacations in high style. The cruises are fully inclusive of captain and crew, a professional master chef and attentive English-speaking cabin staff. Besides cruising through the tranquil waterways, past pretty villages and towns, guests also enjoy private visits and exclusive excursions in air-conditioned comfort each day. Wines and cuisine are of the highest quality.
Will I need help with my booking?
A luxury barge cruise is simply not the kind of vacation that is chosen just on price nor booked with a mouse-click. It’s an exclusive top-quality experience and many barges are booked months or years in advance. Based on our extensive experience and inside knowledge, we select only the best and we will help you find the one that’s a perfect match, for singles, couples, families and friendship groups.
Where in France can I cruise on a hotel barge?
Luxury barges sail throughout the wonderfully diverse rivers and canals of France – they are found on all the best, most scenic routes. Most especially, they are found in the famous wine regions of Burgundy, Loire, Alsace, Bordeaux – and Languedoc, where they cruise along the historic Canal du Midi. These are all regions and waterways that the French Waterways team know intimately, from first-hand experience.
What can I do on a hotel barge cruise?
Simply relax in total comfort on deck, in the sunshine, looked after by the hostess, as the French countryside glides quietly by, passing pretty villages and historic towns. The slow pace means that strolling or cycling alongside, on the canal tow-path, is a popular, gentle activity. You will also enjoy fabulous gourmet cuisine accompanied by grand cru wines. Each afternoon you’ll be escorted to local points of interest, such as private vineyard visits and wine tastings. More active pursuits, like horse-riding, kayaking and golfing are also possible on some cruises – contact us for details.
Our Unique Expertise – France, Cruising the Waterways and Hotel Barging
We have explored the rivers and canals of France on our own boat since 2003, logging up over 10,000km along most waterways, in most regions, at all times of year.
Independent, impartial and enthusiastic, we have personally visited and know every hotel barge, every owner-operator and fleet, published here.
