First boating holiday?
No licence or previous boating experience needed. Anyone can do it!
Step aboard and enjoy the freedom of wherever the day takes you. Our boating holidays are beginner-friendly, so you’re the captain of your adventure even if you’ve never boated before. We’ll show you the ropes, give you a full briefing, and provide all the support you need along the way. And for extra peace of mind, you can now rent a skipper for a day on the Canal du Midi. The majority of our clients are first-timers, and they enjoyed the experience so much they have rated their holiday and us ‘Excellent’ on Trustpilot!
What’s special about boating holidays?
Whether with family, friends, or as a couple, you’re on the water for more than just a holiday; you’re creating lasting memories on a journey where everyone gets a waterside view and can join in. From steering and mooring to navigating locks as a team, holiday at your own pace while enjoying the complimentary scenery. Cruise, stop, explore: uncover hidden gems along the way or relax on deck as you discover a different side to every destination.
“We had an amazing time with Emerald Star on the Caledonian Canal! Everything was so easy from start to finish – the boat was comfortable and simple to operate, even for beginners.”
Christopher Bannerman, 29 May 2025.
Before you cast off
We’ll show you the ropes and brief you on all the boat’s features and how to handle the controls, including a short test drive. At bases with nearby locks, the team will guide you through your first lock, too. We will also answer any questions, so you feel confident before setting off.
Operating locks
From manual to electric, automatic to lock keeper-operated, locks vary by region. They might sound tricky, but they’re simple and fun to go through, adding charm to your boating holiday. We’ll show you how they work and how your crew can join in. Anyone can do it!
Never on your own: 24/7 support
You’re the captain of your own holiday, but never on your own. From your first enquiry to stepping on board, our base teams are just a call away to assist you with friendly support and insider tips.
Ready to book your boating holiday?
Discover our 18 destinations across 9 countries in Europe and Canada. Select your canal boat from our fleet and choose plenty of extras to personalise your trip and create the perfect experience on the water. Remember, you can book and manage everything in your account! Need inspiration? Explore our holiday recommendations.
Pricing your boating holiday
We’ll help you plan an extraordinary adventure on the water that suits your style, pace, and budget. With plenty of choices and expert guidance, you can create the perfect journey and get your waterside view.
How to price your boating holidayHoliday extras
Enhance your boating trip with our selection of holiday extras. From pre-paid unlimited fuel and bike hire to E-bikes or a day with a skipper, these extras make your journey on the water even easier, more comfortable, and more fun.
Choose your holiday extrasFAQs
No. Emerald Star does not require any previous boating experience. You’ll get a full briefing and demo at the base before departure. This helps you feel confident driving and handling the boat, even if you’ve never done it before.
No, Le Boat generally does not require a licence or permit in most cruising regions. After your pre-departure lesson, you’ll receive a temporary permit to drive the boat for the duration of your holiday.
Emerald Star provides an in-depth briefing and boat handling demonstration on your first day to show you how everything works. A staff member will take you out and go through controls, knots and manoeuvres until you’re comfortable
Yes, all Emerald Star boats are designed to be easy to handle, and most new customers quickly become confident navigating waterways after their briefing. You’ll also have support from the local base team if questions arise.
Le Boat’s destinations across Europe and Canada are generally suitable for beginners, with calm, inland cruising conditions. However, some regions with stronger currents may be better for more experienced boaters.
With Emerald Star, you should download region guides and maps, browse suggested itineraries, review pre-departure resources, and complete online forms ahead of time. Planning helps you decide daily cruising distances and stops before you arrive.
Yes, with Le Boat, you choose your own pace and daily stops, giving you freedom to explore towns or countryside as you wish. Navigation maps and itineraries provided help you plan where and when to cruise.
Emerald Star base staff will welcome you, complete check-in and give safety and driving instructions before you depart. If you arrive late, you can stay on board overnight and receive your briefing the next morning.
