River or canal navigation

Many waterways, rivers, or canals are accessible for license-free boat rentals in several regions of France, Europe, and even in Canada. Navigation is mostly the same regardless of the waterway. However, there are a few differences.

Civilization has developed along the banks of waterways, allowing for beautiful visits.

Rivers (Lot, Charente, Saône Valley, Mayenne, and Sarthe, for example) predate canals, and they traverse very old towns and villages rich in architecture and history. Do not hesitate to moor to explore the surroundings; many sites will be accessible nearby.

Canals (Burgundy Canals, Canal du Midi, ...) are artificial waterways that make navigation easy in all seasons. They are less prone to flooding and will reassure the more fearful.

Canals have more locks than rivers. Some canals may have more than one lock per kilometer, while rivers have much fewer. Very relaxing! As locks have crossing schedules, navigation hours on canals may be slightly more limited than on rivers.

Many locks are electrified and automatic, but on the Lot, Charente, and in Anjou, for example, they are still manual.

Mooring in the countryside is much easier on a canal, but on a river, you can easily fish or even sometimes swim. Our license-free boats or barges can navigate both rivers and canals.

There's no need to choose which is better. They are different. Don't limit yourself, enjoy the charms of both.

Photos: Nicols, Le Boat, Locaboat