Camargue by boat without a licence: routes, prices and tips

What can you see during a boating holiday in the Camargue?

The Camargue is particularly well suited to exploring by boat. Between canals, wetlands, lagoons and historic towns, you can experience many different sides of this unique region.

Aigues-Mortes and its medieval walls

Aigues-Mortes is one of the Camargue’s must-see destinations and should be high on your list during a boating holiday.

This medieval fortified town is famous for its impressive ramparts. Walk through the historic streets, visit the Tour de Constance and enjoy the atmosphere of southern France from one of the town’s cafés and terraces.

Nearby, the Aigues-Mortes salt flats offer one of the region’s most distinctive landscapes, with vast salt pans and striking colours.

Aigues-Mortes is also one of the key stops on several Riverly routes in the Camargue.

Gallician and the Petite Camargue

In Gallician, you will find a particularly peaceful and natural atmosphere. The small port is a great base for exploring the landscapes of the Petite Camargue.

Nearby, the Scamandre nature reserve is home to wetlands and numerous bird species. Walking trails allow visitors to explore this remarkable natural environment.

Saint-Gilles and its heritage

Saint-Gilles is another interesting stop on routes departing from Bellegarde.

The town is particularly known for its Romanesque abbey church, which is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

It is an ideal place to leave the boat for a few hours and discover some of the region’s cultural heritage.

Franquevaux and Camargue traditions

At Franquevaux, you can discover another important part of Camargue culture.

The region’s traditional manades are cattle and horse farms that play an important role in the local identity. A visit can give you an insight into the work of the gardians and the traditions surrounding Camargue horses and bulls.

Flamingos, horses and wild landscapes

Nature is one of the biggest highlights of a boating holiday in the Camargue.

From the water, you will pass through wetlands and alongside lagoons where, if you’re lucky, you may spot greater flamingos, herons and many other bird species. The region’s famous white Camargue horses and black bulls are also part of the landscape.

This combination of boating and wildlife makes the Camargue a particularly special destination.

How much does it cost to hire a boat without a licence in the Camargue?

The price of a boating holiday in the Camargue depends on several factors, including the length of your stay, travel dates, number of passengers and boat model.

Availability can also affect the price. For example, Riverly currently offers some 3-night routes from Bellegarde from €271 for 2 to 4 people on selected dates in October 2026. Other dates, routes and boat models may have different prices.

To find the price for your trip, simply select your travel dates, number of passengers and preferred boat and check the current availability.

Good to know: Prices vary depending on the dates, route and boat. Always check the current price when booking.

Where can you start a boating holiday in the Camargue?

Two particularly interesting departure bases for exploring the Camargue are Lattes and Bellegarde.

Starting from Lattes

Located close to Montpellier, Lattes is a convenient starting point for heading along the Canal du Rhône à Sète towards the Camargue.

Depending on your route, you can visit Aigues-Mortes, Le Grau-du-Roi and the Étang de Thau. Some longer routes can also take you further towards the Canal du Midi.

Starting from Bellegarde

The Bellegarde base is another gateway to the Camargue.

From here, you can head towards Saint-Gilles, Franquevaux, Gallician and Aigues-Mortes.

Which base should you choose? It mainly depends on the route you want to follow and the length of your boating holiday.

Which boat is best for a boating holiday in the Camargue?

The right boat depends primarily on how many people are travelling with you and the level of comfort you are looking for.

For a couple, a more compact boat may be enough. Families and groups of friends may prefer a boat with more sleeping capacity and a larger living area.

Riverly’s boats are designed for multi-day holidays on board. Depending on the model, they include cabins, living areas, kitchens and outdoor spaces.

Before booking, compare:

• the number of berths;
• the cabin layout;
• the outdoor space;
• the facilities on board;
• the maximum capacity;
• the level of comfort you are looking for.

When is the best time for a boating holiday in the Camargue?

The Camargue can be enjoyed at different times of year, each offering a slightly different experience.

Spring is a great time to enjoy nature and discover the landscape when it is particularly green and vibrant.

In summer, long days allow you to combine boating, sightseeing and time by the water. The beaches and proximity to the Mediterranean also make this a popular season.

Early autumn can offer pleasant temperatures and a quieter atmosphere for exploring the Camargue by boat.

Whatever time of year you travel, pack sun protection, a hat and lightweight clothing. It can also feel cooler on the water in the morning and evening.

What should you pack for a boating holiday in the Camargue?

Storage space on board is limited, so pack light and choose practical clothing.

Your packing list should include:

• comfortable clothes;
• shoes suitable for walking and excursions;
• a sun hat or cap;
• sun cream;
• sunglasses;
• a lightweight jacket;
• a small backpack for days ashore.

And, of course, leave a little room for the local specialities you will discover along the way!

Why choose a boating holiday without a licence in the Camargue?

A self-drive boat holiday offers a different way to discover the Camargue: at your own pace and directly from the water.

Instead of driving from one destination to another every day, you travel slowly along the canals, stop in small ports and experience the landscape from a completely different perspective.

It is also a great way to combine several holiday experiences:

Nature + culture + local food + relaxation + freedom.

Whether you are planning a short break of a few nights or a full week, the Camargue offers plenty of opportunities for an unforgettable boating holiday.