Every year, the same question arises: where to go for unusual family holidays? You’ve tried camping, treehouses, or yurts, and you’re looking for an experience that will leave a lasting memory for your children (and you!).
What if, this year, the adventure happened on the water? At Riverly, we give you the keys to the boat to become the captain of your own floating home. Here’s why a river cruise is the perfect idea for an original family stay.
Why is a Pénichette the ideal accommodation for unusual family holidays?
Seeking unusual family holidays means wanting to break the routine. Renting a Pénichette® without a licence checks all the boxes for originality, with added comfort.
- A scenery that changes every morning: Unlike a fixed hotel, your terrace view changes every day. Wake up among water lilies, at the foot of a castle, or in the heart of a medieval city.
- You are in command: It’s a true micro-adventure. No boat licence is needed: after a short briefing by our experts, you are the captain.
- Natural “Digital Detox”: On the water, the rhythm slows down. Rediscover the joy of board games, wildlife watching, and cycling along the towpaths.
Are quirky family holidays on the water safe and comfortable?
When planning quirky family holidays, especially with young children, originality should never come at the expense of safety.
On board our boats, everything is designed for parents’ peace of mind: sturdy safety rails, non-slip decks, and correctly fitted life jackets are provided for every family member before you set sail. You will enjoy “home-from-home” comforts (a fully equipped galley, real beds, and hot water) while experiencing a truly exotic adventure, far away from the daily grind.
How to organise your unusual family holidays on the water?
A holiday on the water requires a slightly different approach than a standard hotel stay. To ensure your quirky family holiday is a total success, we’ve put together our best “Captain’s tips” for you:
What should you pack?
Space on board is cleverly optimised but remains intimate. We strongly recommend using soft duffel bags instead of hard suitcases, as they are much easier to store in the cabins. Don’t forget to pack:
- Soft-soled trainers: Essential for a good grip on the deck and during manoeuvres.
- Waterproofs & Sun protection: A raincoat (just in case!) and high-factor sunscreen for those sunny hours at the helm.
- Binoculars: A must-have for spotting local wildlife directly from the boat.
Food & Supplies: A culinary adventure for the whole family
One of the highlights of quirky family holidays on a houseboat is the “self-catering” freedom to discover local flavours. Your boat features a fully equipped galley (fridge, hob, oven), but the real joy lies in visiting local farmers’ markets.
Moor up in a charming village, hop on your bikes, and pick up fresh bread and regional delicacies directly from the producers. A leisurely lunch on the deck, surrounded by nature, turns your trip into a true gourmet journey.
Exciting activities for little sailors
While navigating the boat is an adventure in itself, the canals offer endless opportunities to keep the children entertained during your quirky family holidays:
- Operating the locks: The absolute highlight of the day! Children love helping with the ropes or having a quick chat with the lock-keepers. It’s a great way for them to feel like part of the crew.
- Cycling trips: You can hire bikes for the whole family at our bases. The towpaths along the riverbanks are flat, safe, and perfect for stretching your legs after a few hours of cruising.
- Fishing: A timeless classic to teach the younger generation patience and respect for nature in a fun, hands-on way.
Top 3 destinations for an original and quirky stay in France
- The Canal du Midi: A historic adventure under the sun.
- Brittany: For a green getaway on the Nantes-Brest canal.
- Alsace: A journey through time featuring the Arzviller boat lift.
FAQ: Everything you need to know about your unusual family holidays with Riverly
What budget should we plan for a quirky family holiday on a houseboat?
The cost of your quirky family holiday depends on the boat size, the season, and the duration of your trip. On average, a boating holiday is very cost-effective: it combines your transport, accommodation, and a fully equipped kitchen in one price. Since you can cook on board and some models sleep up to 12 people, the price per person is often much lower than a traditional hotel-and-restaurant holiday.
Can we bring pets on our quirky family boating holiday?
Absolutely! We believe quirky family holidays aren’t complete without our four-legged friends. At Riverly, pets are more than welcome on board. The gentle pace of canal life and the long walks along the towpaths make it a dream holiday for dogs as well as humans.
At what age can children join a boating holiday?
There is no minimum age! Babies are very welcome on our boats, and we provide specially fitted life jackets for all sizes. Children usually start to truly engage with the adventure from the age of 6 or 7, as they love helping with the locks, learning about navigation, and becoming “mini-crew members.” It’s an educational and bonding experience for the whole family.
What activities can we do on land during our quirky family holiday?
The beauty of a river cruise is the perfect balance between water and land. You can moor up whenever you like to explore medieval castles, visit hidden caves, or enjoy a picnic on the riverbank. Most families also take advantage of the flat towpaths for cycling, hiking, or visiting local villages for a taste of authentic French culture. Your quirky family holiday is entirely customisable to your own interests.
Is it difficult to drive a boat without a licence?
Not at all! You do not need any previous experience or a permit to hire our boats in France. Upon your arrival at the base, our experts will provide a full briefing and a practical demonstration. If you can drive a car or ride a bike, you can easily captain a Pénichette®. The boats move at a relaxed pace (around 4-5 mph), making navigation stress-free and enjoyable.
