Boating Holidays across the canals and rivers of Europe from Le Boat

New to Cruising

Is it hard to drive a boat?

No, in fact it’s surprisingly easy – it steers with a wheel just like a car, and a single level controls speed both forward and backwards. Our boats are specifically designed for easy, relaxed cruising, so are very manoeuvrable, very steady and comfortable.

Cruising always happens at slow speeds, at around 3-4 knots (a brisk walking pace) so there is plenty of time to manoeuvre, whilst watching the world slip by. Boats don’t have brakes so you simply allow time for the boat to glide to a halt, or use reverse gear if needed.

We have created an exclusive DVD specifically to help newcomers understand how easy it is to enjoy a cruising holiday. Clips from the DVD will be coming soon to the website.

How much instruction will I be given?

As much as you need. If you are an experienced cruiser, our base teams will quickly familiarise you with your chosen boats features and controls and away you go. If you are a newcomer or slightly nervous we will stay with you until you are confidently manoeuvring the boat, steering, controlling your speed and able to approach locks or moorings with confidence. It really is very easy.

What is it like living on board?

Very comfortable. Our range of boats can cater for small groups of 2 right up to 10 or more. All of the creature comforts you would expect of a holiday home are provided, fully equipped galleys (that’s nautical for kitchen!) hot and cold running water, TV’s, lounges, en-suite showers and WC’s – we even have air conditioning on some of our more modern boats. There are a few specifics you need to be aware of, for example running your engine charges your batteries (the batteries power the lights, TV stereo etc) and heats the water for you, but it is really very straightforward

Will the boat be rocking on the water?

No. We only cruise on canals and sheltered waters. Even on the windiest days on the larger lakes of Ireland, our boats are so big and stable, you won’t feel uncomfortable.

I’ve done some sailing before, is it like living on a yacht?

Yes and no. You get the excitement of exploring a new region, at your own time and agenda, with complete freedom and flexibility, but you don’t have the stress of worrying about the wind, waves, navigation, sails and tides. You will also be amazed at how much space is available both above and below decks

Do I need a license to cruise

Generally speaking no. The induction you receive on arrival at our base, is sufficient for most of our cruising areas, but a few areas do require a formal license. These areas are clearly marked in our brochures, websites or our sales team will help you choose.

When to go?

Make the most of the long March - October cruising season and see more of Europe at times that suit you best. Whether you’re looking for an early Spring break to the tulip fields of Holland, a two week holiday cruising the Canal du Midi or an end of season jaunt to Venice for the last of the summer sunshine - we can help you cruise whenever you choose!

One-way cruising or return-to-base?

The beauty of our holidays is that you tailor-make your own holiday. We provide suggested cruising itineraries for each region but you have the freedom to set your own pace of life. A one-way cruise is perfect if you want to cover a lot of ground and see as much as possible, or choose a return-to-base if you prefer to linger and explore the towns and villages en route - that way you won’t miss a thing!

One week or two? Long weekends or long stays?

Short breaks are increasingly popular as more and more people take advantage of cheap airfares to get away for long weekends. Or why not use your boat as a longer-term alternative to hotels and villas and get to see more of the area you are in. Many people hire our boats for a month or more, especially if they are propertyhunting in an area, so call the sales team early to secure the boat and dates of your choice.

Choosing the right boat...

• Great choice & style. With the largest fleet on the waterways at your disposal, you can be sure that whichever boat you choose, you will enjoy a comfortable homefrom-home for your holiday. Light and spacious interiors, roomy cabins and plenty of headroom are common features and you will find the cabins and saloon/living area are tastefully furnished and decorated.
  

• How many cabins? If you don’t want people to sleep in the saloon choose a boat that has enough cabins to sleep everyone. An extra cabin is ideal for storing luggage. Our fleet has a new rating system to help you decide which boat best suits your party size and budget. Our boats are now classified according to the number of people they can comfortably sleep – see pages 62-81 in our brochure for more details.

• Bow thrusters. Bow thrusters make manoeuvring your boat very easy – simply press a button and watch the boat glide in!

• Cruising with children? Boats with sliding roofs are great for smaller children as they can stay within the confines of the boat. Our ‘Dancing Range’ of boats – the Salsa, Calypso and Tango models also have patio doors opening off the saloon area which make them ideal for family cruising.

• Heating & Cooling. Choose boats with fans and cabin-cooling systems if you are travelling in the warm summer months. All our boats have heating if you are travelling early or late in the season.

• Sundecks. Sundecks make for perfect alfresco dining, while sliding roofs allow you to cruise in the sunshine from the comfort of your saloon area. Dual steering positions allow you to cruise from either the saloon or the upper deck – useful in case it rains.