+44 333 057 0739

Do you have a question?

Our team of advisors is here to listen to you.
+44 333 057 0739
Monday to Friday: 9am - 6pm
Open on Saturdays: 9am - 6pm

Do you have a question?

Our team of advisors is here to listen to you.
+44 333 057 0739
Monday to Friday: 9am - 6pm
Open on Saturdays: 9am - 6pm

Canal boat hire for the weekend

Riverly offers a variety of license-free boat excursions for your weekends. Enjoy a refreshing experience on some of the most beautiful waterways in France as you explore the local heritage of your chosen destination…

Pricing and Availability

Pricing and Availability

Departure on Saturday: minimum 7 days. For short stays: departure on Monday or Friday Remember to provide details of your crew to benefit from additional discounts. Please note: 1 May is a public holiday in France and, exceptionally, all locks will be closed on that day.
Adults 18 to 64 years
4
Adults +65 years
0
Children 0 to 17 years
0
Total (max. 12) 4
Routes Boats

Matt

A real break. In just 48 hours, it felt like we’d been away for two weeks.

Pascal et ses fils

“Nous avons passé une semaine de rêve en Camargue. Le temps pour flaner, arpenter les canaux, observer, prendre le temps. Merci Riverly.”

Canal Boat Rental for a Weekend

Treat yourself to a weekend boat rental and embark on an unforgettable river cruise. Whether you’re traveling with family, as a couple, or with friends, these waterway getaways let you discover beautiful landscapes while enjoying special moments together. Picture yourself cruising gently along canals, setting off from iconic destinations like Nantes, the Canal du Midi, or the stunning scenery of the Camargue. With family, it’s a chance to relax while exploring the natural treasures of southern France.
For couples, opt for a romantic cruise on the Canal du Nivernais, where each stop is an opportunity to discover picturesque villages and savour delicious local cuisine. With friends, a river cruise on routes like the Canal du Rhône à Sète or the Lot Valley is perfect for enjoying friendly vibes and fun activities on board. A weekend boat rental offers a unique, accessible experience for creating memories that last a lifetime.

Weekend: Dream Destinations and Custom Itineraries

The Lot Valley is rich in history and culture, ideal for a canal boat excursion. In addition to its scenic beauty, towering cliffs and vast vineyards, the region is full of treasures. Explore charming riverside villages by canal boat hire and be enchanted by the medieval alleys and historical landmarks of Puy-l’Évêque or the town of Figeac, where history meets modern life.
As you travel by boat, take in the serene natural beauty of the Lot, its calm waters and green banks, perfect for a peaceful cruise. If you choose a boat for two, you’ll have all the time in the world to explore at your own pace. Along the way, stop at local inns and enjoy regional specialties: Cahors wine, valley-grown walnuts, and the famed fouace, a traditional brioche.

Board a canal boat for a weekend on the Canal latéral à la Loire and explore a landscape where nature and heritage blend beautifully. Discover vine-covered banks and visit Nevers, known for its faience pottery and rich history. Enjoy peaceful navigation and the comfort of your boat as you admire the region’s varied scenery: fields, authentic villages, and castles.
A cruise on the Canal Latéral à la Loire is the perfect way to recharge and explore the French countryside at a gentle pace.

A boat trip in Alsace-Lorraine is also a journey through the region’s culinary delights. Try the famous sauerkraut paired with Alsace wine, and indulge in local favorites like pretzels and tarte flambée. In winter, Alsace’s Christmas markets are a must-see, with festive aromas of spices and mulled wine blending with regional traditions. A weekend on a boat in Alsace-Lorraine offers a chance to discover a living heritage and a culture rich in history, cuisine, and warmth, all in an authentic, peaceful atmosphere.
Cruise toward Colmar, known as “Little Venice” thanks to its scenic canals and timber-framed houses. Every street feels like a living painting, with architectural details that tell the story of this historic city. With a canal boat rental, you can navigate these rivers and be captivated by the surrounding landscapes: green hills and vineyards in every direction.

The Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an ideal location for a weekend boat trip. This engineering marvel invites you to discover southern France, with plane trees, charming villages, and historic towns. Cruise from Carcassonne, with its medieval citadel, to Castelnaudary, home of the famous cassoulet. Marvel at remarkable constructions like the Fonsérannes locks and savour local wines and Languedoc cuisine.
A journey on the Canal du Midi is more than a cruise, it’s a deep dive into Mediterranean lifestyle and stunning scenery, including Narbonne’s historic charm.

Stops along the way offer tastings of bold wines and regional dishes, with vineyards and markets that awaken your senses. Each bend reveals Mediterranean culture, from friendly village life to golden-hued reflections on the canal’s tranquil waters. A weekend here is a journey through time and culture.

A weekend in a canal boat in the Camargue, a protected and untamed region in southern France, offers a truly memorable adventure. Explore the Canal du Rhône à Sète and admire the iconic pink flamingos in the marshes. Stop at Aigues-Mortes to see its impressive ramparts and panoramic views over the salt flats, and enjoy traditional dishes like gardianne de taureau at a local restaurant.
Renting a boat for four is perfect for small groups, offering the space and comfort needed for a special trip. Cruising through the Camargue lets you experience a region full of nature, rice fields, wild horses, and expansive waters. Enjoy the comfort of your canal boat while exploring this unique mix of adventure and relaxation.

Explore Bourgogne-Franche-Comté with a license-free boat for a weekend and be charmed by a region where history and nature meet. Cruise along the Burgundy canals and visit iconic spots like Dijon, known for its mustard and colourful roofs, or Besançon, with its citadel overlooking the river. Tour renowned vineyards like those of Chablis and enjoy local specialties like coq au vin and Époisses cheese.
A barge cruise in Bourgogne-Franche-Comté is ideal for discovering its many treasures, from medieval abbeys to lively markets. Enjoy a relaxed weekend filled with cultural and culinary delights.

Brittany is a land of legends and diverse landscapes, perfect for a weekend getaway by boat. Navigate winding rivers surrounded by deep forests and fairytale-like castles. Every stop brings you closer to Breton magic: visit Josselin and its towering medieval castle, Pontivy with its historical architecture, and local markets offering crêpes, cider, and kouign-amann.
The area is also home to wild, preserved nature, steep cliffs and quiet beaches. A boating trip through Brittany immerses you in a world of legend, gastronomy, and coastal beauty.

Southwest France is known for its traditions and rich flavors. A licence-free weekend boat trip lets you experience the warm atmosphere along its rivers and canals. Journey through mountainous landscapes and picturesque villages where hospitality is a way of life.
Toulouse, the “Pink City,” is a must-visit, as is Moissac with its historic abbey. Sample local dishes like duck breast and the famous chocolatine, and learn about the history of the Garonne and Canal de Garonne. A river cruise in the Southwest blends culture, cuisine, and peaceful scenery for a truly satisfying experience.

Riverly, une expérience à vivre ensemble

Frequently asked questions

How much does a weekend boat trip cost?

Prices for a weekend boat rental vary depending on the season and type of boat, but they typically start at around €250 for a weekend. However, prices may fluctuate based on promotions and the time of year.

When is the best time to plan a weekend boat trip?

The high season runs from May to September, but spring (March–April) and autumn (October) are also great times to avoid the crowds and benefit from more affordable rates.

Can I cancel or modify my booking?

Riverly offers a cancellation policy, but the exact conditions depend on the season and the option selected at the time of booking. It is usually possible to modify your reservation under certain conditions and fees. For more details, please refer to the cancellation policy or contact an advisor directly.

How do I rent a licence-free boat for a weekend?

Renting a licence-free boat for the weekend is simple. Just choose a model that suits your needs from the available options, such as licence-free canal boats. You can book online for a weekend on one of our rental boats in popular destinations like the Canal du Midi or the Charente.

Is boat rental available all year round?

Licence-free boat rentals are generally available from March to October. This may vary depending on the departure base and weather conditions.

Do I need prior boating experience?

No previous experience is required. Riverly provides training before departure, and the boats are easy to handle, allowing beginners to navigate with confidence.

What documents are needed to rent a licence-free boat?

To rent a licence-free boat with Riverly, you must be at least 18 years old. No boating licence is needed, but you will need to complete a brief theoretical and practical training session before taking control of the boat. After this, you’ll receive a temporary navigation permit valid for the duration of your trip.

What if the boat has a mechanical issue during the trip?

If your boat encounters a mechanical issue during the trip, Riverly offers a support and repair service. You can contact the assistance team, who will intervene to resolve the problem. The boats are well-maintained to minimize the risk of breakdowns, but help is available for the entire duration of your rental.