Why choose a river cruise?
Absolute freedom: You decide the pace of your vacation! Choose your sailing itinerary and stop wherever you like, whenever you like, for a vacation without constraints.
Accessible to all: Take the helm and become the captain of your own river adventure! River boats are very easy to maneuver and require no previous sailing experience. To become a captain, you will receive a briefing before departure to ensure safe navigation.
Total immersion: River cruises are a unique way to explore magnificent landscapes and charming little villages at the leisurely pace of the water. What a great way to admire the beauty of the regions you pass through from a different perspective!
Comfort like at home: Enjoy the unparalleled comfort of river boats! They have a large living space and are equipped with everything you need for a pleasant stay.
Peace and relaxation: Far from the tourist hustle and bustle, treat yourself to a moment of tranquillity in the heart of nature, perfect for a relaxing vacation during your river journey.
What are the characteristics and facilities of the river boats available for charter?
Filovent offers a wide range of license-free boats and river boats for charter. These types of boats are specially designed for canals, with a shallow draft and a width that allows them to pass through locks easily.
Our selection can be adapted to all types of projects since the river boats come in several sizes and models. In addition, most of them are accessible to people with disabilities for pleasant and inclusive navigation. The river boats are between 8 and 15 meters long and have 1 to 6 cabins with beds. The largest boats have up to 6 cabins, sleeping 12 in total, and a lounge, which is a reasonable amount of space for a large family. On the sides of the boat, there is every comfort: fully equipped kitchen and bathrooms, running water, air conditioning, refrigerator, Wi-Fi... you will want for nothing! As for the exterior, many models are equipped with terraces and flybridges. Panoramic views and golden tans guaranteed!
When you charter a river boat, there are many extras available to enhance and personalize your river experience. The most popular extras are bike rental, barbecue rental, the option to bring pets and paddleboard rental, so you'll never be bored!
What are the average rates for a river cruise?
In the table below, we have made a dead reckoning of the average weekly river cruise prices for a river boat without a license, according to the season and the size of the boat. Please note that these prices are for information purposes only and may vary according to different criteria, including destination, length of stay, number of beds, demand, and included or optional services.
| Size of the river boat | High season July and August | Mid-season June and September | Low season April, May and October |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 cabins | 2,000 USD | 1,500 USD | 1,200 USD |
| 3 cabins | 3,000 USD | 2,000 USD | 1,800 USD |
| 4 cabins | 3,500 USD | 3,000 USD | 1,900 USD |
The price includes: the yacht charter without a license and the main equipment on the side of the boat (crockery, Wi-Fi, bedding).
The price does not include: insurance, mooring fees, cleaning, extras and provisions taken on board.
Some advice to avoid unpleasant surprises on vacation:
- Take out our cancellation insurance for your river cruise. It will cover all members of the crew, whereas individual cancellation insurance or insurance via your bank card will only cover the policyholder.
- Take outdamage waiver insurance. This insurance allows you to recover most of your deposit in the event of damage related to river navigation.
What are the main destinations where I can rent a river boat without a license?
The Filovent team works with renowned manufacturers such as Le Boat, Locaboat, Nicols and Canalous, to offer you a wide range of river cruises in many destinations such as France, Europe and Canada.
Here are some of our most beautiful destinations to discover during a river cruise:
- Canal du Midi: Let yourself be seduced by the beauty of the south of France with this flagship destination for river navigation. This canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, immerses you in varied landscapes and impressive engineering structures, and guides you through charming towns and villages in the south of France.
- Burgundy: Sail through the famous vineyards and green hills of Burgundy. Discover its castles, wine estates and medieval villages from a new angle, while enjoying the serenity of the waters.
- Aquitaine: Embark on a cruise on the Lot, which will guide you through the rolling landscapes of Aquitaine. Admire the hilltop villages and majestic cliffs, and let yourself be tempted by the rich gastronomy of the Southwest.
- Netherlands: Explore the dense network of canals in the Netherlands, punctuated by picturesque locks and windmills. Cities such as Amsterdam and Utrecht will offer you a rich cultural break in your navigation, you'll tell us all about it!
- Canada: For a truly unique experience, discover Canada's vast expanses of water by river boat. The Rideau Canal, passing through charming towns and wild nature, is a jewel not to be missed during your Canadian stay.
When to go on a river cruise?
River boats can be sailed all year round, offering a varied first experience throughout the seasons. Summer is ideal for heading towards the sun and warm temperatures, while spring and autumn offer a colorful panorama and fewer people on the leaks. Note that most waterways may be closed or have a reduced flow during the winter, usually between November and March, for maintenance or water level reasons. It is therefore essential to inquire before planning your trip during this period.
Activities for families, couples and friends
Heritage stopover
- Castles: A family outing to the Château de Tanlay in Burgundy is a good cultural and fun stopover.
Monuments: You can admire the listed locks of the Canal du Midi in France or the mills of the Netherlands as a couple during these romantic stopovers.
- Villages: What could be better than strolling with friends through the narrow streets of picturesque villages to buy souvenirs and enjoy an aperitif!
Gastronomic and wine-tasting stopover
- Wine cellar or vineyard: Visiting an estate in Aquitaine or tasting a grand cru in a cellar in Chablis with friends is the ideal program for this stopover.
- Local flavors: Tasting local specialties on the terrace or on the boat after a trip to the market promises a pleasant and convivial moment, whether as a couple or with the family.
Sports stopover
- Cycling: Set off to explore the towpaths of the Canal du Midi or the Rideau Canal in Canada, which will delight young and old alike.
- Golf: Enjoy some time with friends over a game of golf in Aquitaine with a view of the vineyards.
- Hiking & horse riding: Escape with your partner during a pleasant horse ride or along the wine trails of Burgundy.
Nautical stopover
- Fishing: Cast your line with friends in the Canadian Rideau Canal, a great catch and tarpon for dinner guaranteed!
- Paddleboarding: An ideal family activity to enjoy after a day of sailing.
- Swimming: Cool off in the calm waters of the canals.
What are the main safety measures to adopt at the side of the boat?
Sailing on a river boat is a pleasant and peaceful experience, and with a few simple precautions, it will remain so. When approaching the locks, you will need to be a little more vigilant and slow down your sailing trim. Also remember to equip children with life jackets when sailing. We also advise you to check the weather forecast before setting off and to avoid sailing in stormy weather or strong winds. Don't worry, before you set off, our partners will remind you of these few safety measures when you pick up your river boat!
Useful information to know before your river cruise:
Charter conditions
In France, anyone over the age of 18 can go on a river cruise. Our partners will give you a 30-minute training session at the departure base to enable you to quickly get to grips with the boat. However, for some European destinations, a one-day training course is compulsory if you have no experience of river navigation.
Can I take a pet on board a river boat?
You can take your faithful companion with you on your vacation since riverboat rental companies allow pets on board. Whether it's a dog, cat or rodent, just make sure it can swim. The cost depends on the rental company. Some charge around 50 USD, while others don't. Our team will be able to give you information about the conditions specific to your cruise.
How do the locks work and how do you pass through them?
A yacht charter without a license involves passing through numerous locks, these mechanisms allowing for the management of the unevenness of the canals. When approaching a lock, reduce your speed and follow the lock keeper's instructions, if he is present. Otherwise, follow the instructions on the signs. Moor your boat inside the lock and let it rise or fall with the water level.
There may be charges associated with the use of locks, especially if they are managed by lock keepers. Remember to check the opening hours of the locks to avoid getting stuck.
What should I bring on a river boat?
Here are a few essentials to put in your suitcase when preparing to set off on your river cruise:
- Warm clothing: Remember to bring something to cover up with for cool evenings, as well as waterproof clothing because a shower is always possible!
- Sun protection and cap: Make sure you cover up with a cap and use sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun's rays.
- Mosquito repellent: You will often be outdoors, in sometimes damp places, so a mosquito repellent is essential.
- Games and activities: Whether you are with family, friends or your partner, board games are always welcome to keep you entertained.
How do I go about booking a river boat?
Once we have received your charter request, an advisor will contact you by telephone to discuss your sailing plans. They will then send you a list of river boats by email. Once you have found a license-free boat, you can pay a deposit in your customer area to confirm the charter and secure the boat. It's as simple as that, so don't wait any longer, book now!
Our different styles of river boats
- River boat that does not require a license
- Luxury river boat
Good to know
| Number of boats available | 1 312 |
|---|---|
| Average price per week | $2,451 |
| Minimum weekly price | $794 |
| Maximum price per week | $7,506 |