About Locaboat

Since 1977, Locaboat has been a key player in river cruising across Europe. As a specialist in license-free boat rentals, the company offers the freedom to explore canals, rivers, and lakes in the heart of the most beautiful regions of France and Europe. With a fleet of comfortable Pénichettes, ideally located bases, and expert support, Locaboat makes boating accessible to everyone—whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or in a group.

The Story of Locaboat: A River Tourism Pioneer Since 1977

For over 45 years, Locaboat has played a key role in shaping river tourism. The company set out with a clear mission: to make river cruising in France and Europe accessible to everyone, by creating a simple, user-friendly, license-free boating experience. With its in-house developed fleet and a steady expansion into the most beautiful river regions, Locaboat has become a leading name in river holidays.

The Beginnings of Locaboat and the Creation of the Pénichette®

It all began in 1977 with a vision to offer a new kind of holiday on the water, open to all. Locaboat designed and built a unique boat: the Pénichette®, specially created for river navigation. Easy to handle, comfortable, and license-free, it marked a true turning point in how people travel. This model quickly became iconic, laying the foundation for canal boat rentals for families, couples, and groups of friends seeking an authentic experience.

Careful Expansion Across France and Europe

Following its success in France, Locaboat gradually extended its network of river bases throughout Europe. Burgundy, the Canal du Midi, Alsace, and later Italy, Germany, and Ireland: each new destination was chosen for its scenic beauty and quality cruising. Today, Locaboat offers travelers the chance to enjoy river cruises both in France and abroad, always with the same spirit of freedom, comfort, and gentle exploration.

The Locaboat Fleet: Comfort, Authenticity, and Character

The Pénichette®: Locaboat’s Signature Boat

An icon of river cruising, the Pénichette® was originally designed by Locaboat to offer a friendly and accessible experience. With its unique silhouette, well-thought-out layout for life onboard, and ease of navigation, it perfectly captures the spirit of river holidays: freedom, relaxation, and disconnection. It’s the ideal boat for exploring canals at your own pace, whether you’re a couple, family, or group of friends.

A Range of Models for All Types of Travellers

Today, Locaboat offers several ranges of license-free boats to meet the needs of all kinds of holidaymakers. From classic Pénichettes with rustic charm to more modern models with spacious cabins and aft terraces, everyone can find a boat that suits them. Whether you’re renting a boat for two or for a group of eight, comfort is always a priority.

Locaboat Bases in the Heart of the Most Beautiful Regions

Whether you choose a river cruise in France on the Canal du Midi, in Burgundy, or elsewhere in Europe, you’re guaranteed exceptional surroundings. The bases are easily accessible and provide quick access to a variety of routes suited to all skill levels.

Why Choose Locaboat for Your Boating Holiday?

A Historic and Trusted Brand

Operating on Europe’s canals since 1977, Locaboat is one of the most established brands in the industry. Its expertise and commitment to quality make it a trusted name for those seeking a river cruise in France or Europe, with peace of mind and enjoyment.

Personalized Support Every Step of the Way

From booking to boarding, the Locaboat team is available and attentive to guide boaters through the experience. From technical briefings and itinerary advice to support during the cruise, everything is in place to ensure a smooth and memorable journey.

Excellent Value for Money

Cruising with Locaboat also means enjoying great value. With well-equipped boats, flexible trip durations, and a wide range of destinations, each traveller can tailor their river holiday to their budget—without compromising on comfort or experience.

What Our Clients Say About Their Locaboat Experience

Verified Reviews and Testimonials

Our clients share glowing feedback, highlighting the quality of our boats, the beauty of the routes, and the ease of navigation. These journeys often leave lasting memories, as reflected in the many verified reviews available online. For many, it’s an experience they’re eager to repeat.

Customer Satisfaction at the Heart of Our Priorities

At Locaboat, our relationship with customers is a top priority. Attentiveness, responsiveness, and high-quality service are the foundations that ensure every boater feels confident—whether it’s a weekend getaway for two or a high-season rental for a group of eight.

Respect des territoires traversés

Chaque itinéraire proposé est pensé pour valoriser les territoires traversés, sans les dénaturer. Le rythme lent de la navigation permet de découvrir autrement les paysages, les villages et les producteurs locaux. Cette approche s’inscrit pleinement dans une logique de vacances fluviales responsables, où l’on prend le temps de rencontrer, de goûter, de comprendre tout en laissant une empreinte légère.

Locaboat’s Commitments to More Responsible Tourism

Reducing Environmental Impact

For several years, Locaboat has been committed to minimizing its environmental footprint. This includes optimizing fuel consumption, raising awareness among boaters about eco-friendly navigation practices, and gradually integrating more sustainable solutions. Cruising slowly—as is the case with river boating in France—is already a gentle, environmentally respectful alternative to mass tourism.

Sustainable Fleet Maintenance

The longevity of our boats relies on responsible maintenance designed to reduce resource waste. Each rental boat is regularly serviced by trained technical teams, with repairs using recycled parts whenever possible and a strong focus on durable equipment. This approach combines onboard comfort with environmental responsibility.

Respecting Local Areas

Each itinerary is designed to showcase the regions traveled through—without compromising their integrity. The slow pace of navigation allows for a deeper discovery of landscapes, villages, and local producers. This philosophy aligns perfectly with a responsible river holiday mindset, where taking time to connect, taste, and learn leaves only a light footprint.

Locaboat in the Media and Travel Press

They’re Talking About Us

Over the years, Locaboat has caught the attention of a wide range of media—whether general-interest outlets, travel specialists, or sustainable tourism platforms. From TV features to print articles, our license-free boat rental concept and our approach to river tourism have often been praised for their originality, accessibility, and human touch. It’s a strong sign of the growing interest in river holidays in France and across Europe.

Awards and Media Coverage

Locaboat has also received several awards over the years, recognizing the quality of its services, the reliability of its fleet, and its commitment to more responsible tourism. These press features and accolades confirm our position as a leading name in river cruising in France and strengthen our resolve to keep innovating—while preserving what matters most: delivering a simple, enriching, and unforgettable boating experience for all.

In 2025: Locaboat Merges with Nicols to Become Riverly

In 2025, a major milestone reshaped the river tourism landscape: Locaboat and Nicols, two leading and complementary players, joined forces to create Riverly. This merger marked the beginning of a new chapter, driven by a shared ambition—to offer the best river holiday experience in Europe. Riverly builds on the expertise of two pioneering brands, more than 45 years of proven know-how, and a larger, more innovative fleet. The name has changed, but the spirit remains: to offer license-free, comfortable, and authentic cruises in the most beautiful regions of France and Europe.

Canal du Midi & Camargue

Bourgogne & Environs

Lacs du Mecklembourg

Lagune de Venise

Grande Lago

Shannon & Erne

Venice Lagoon

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