River cruises and license-free boats in Angers

Last updated on October 4, 2023

Why choose a river cruise in Angers?

Located on the side of the Maine, in the west of France, Angers is a city where river tourism has developed considerably in recent years. Indeed, considered as a land bathed in water, this medieval city located on the outskirts of the Loire Valley benefits from numerous cultural and historical attractions. And while the town enjoys a landscape conducive to many fun activities, it also benefits from a prime location for exploring western France by water, on board a yacht charter from Angers.

What type of boat to rent in Angers?

We offer a wide range of river boats for charter from several bases along the Maine in Angers. The river boats are specially designed for river navigation, with a shallow draft and a size suitable for easy passage through the region's locks. They come in a variety of sizes and capacities, from boats ideal for a couple to boats designed to accommodate groups or several families. We work with many renowned manufacturers for river cruises in Angers such as Le Boat, Locaboat, Nicols and Canalous.

What are the rates for a river cruise in Angers?

In the table below, we have made a dead reckoning of the average river cruise prices according to the season and the size of the boat. Please note that these prices are for information purposes only and may vary depending on the size and style of the boat, the duration and period of the stay, the services included or optional, and demand.

• The price includes: the yacht charter and the main equipment on board (crockery, Wi-Fi, bedding).
• The price does not include: insurance, mooring fees, cleaning, extras (bicycles, etc.) and provisions taken on board.

We recommend that you 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. We also encourage our customers to take out damage waiver insurance. On a boat, damage can happen to even the best sailors. This insurance will allow you to recover a significant portion of your deposit in the event of damage related to navigation.

Where can you sail during a yacht charter in Angers?

Take a yacht charter on the 300 km of waterways in the Maine basin from Angers and let yourself be seduced by the beauty of the Anjou region. Here are a few must-sees during your river cruise from Angers: 

• The Loire: You can rent a river boat in Angers and discover the wonders of the Loire Valley, admire historic cities such as Orléans, Tours, Saumur and Nantes. But also discover renowned vineyards such as Sancerre and Chinon, or natural sites such as the Loire-Anjou-Touraine Regional Nature Park or the island of Béhuard.
• Mayenne: This offers a peaceful and green setting, ideal for a river cruise with family or friends. You can sail along the Mayenne canal, which links Laval to Angers. You can enjoy the locks, decks and nautical stops along the route. You can also visit picturesque villages such as Chenillé-Changé, Grez-Neuville or Daon, or enjoy activities such as fishing, cycling or hiking.
• The Sarthe: This offers a varied panorama, from the Normandy hedged farmland to the Loir valley and the Angevin plain. You can admire towns such as Le Mans, famous for the 24 Hours of Le Mans, or Sablé-sur-Sarthe, known for its biscuits. You can also visit castles such as those of Le Lude or Malicorne, or abbeys such as Solesmes or Saint-Pierre-sur-Erve.

When to sail during a license-free yacht charter in Angers?

The Angers region, located in the Pays de la Loire, enjoys a temperate climate, making river navigation pleasant for much of the year. From May to September, the conditions are optimal for exploring the waterways of Anjou. July and August are the most popular months, with a higher influx of tourists, but opting for May, June or September ensures a more peaceful experience. These months are ideal for exploring the region and discovering the surroundings at temperatures of around 26°C.

Here is an average of the temperatures experienced in Anjou in recent years: 

Useful information to know before your yacht charter in Angers

Where can you rent a river boat in Angers?

You can rent a river boat in Angers in one of the ports on the Maine or on the Mayenne canal. The main departure bases near Angers are Chenillé-Cangé and Grez Neuville. These ports offer easy access to the center of Angers, where you can visit the Château d'Angers, the Saint-Maurice cathedral and the Museum of Fine Arts. You can also enjoy the entertainment and cultural events organized in the city throughout the year.

Do I need a license to take a river cruise in Angers?

No, you don't need a license to rent a river boat in Angers. You can rent a river boat without a license and navigate the waterways in complete safety. You will receive an introduction to boat handling and navigation rules before you set off. You can then fully enjoy your river cruise.

Can I take a pet on board a river boat?

Riverboat rental companies allow pets (dogs, cats, rodents) on board, free of charge in some cases and for a fixed fee of around 50 USD on average in others (80 USD at LeBoat). Make sure your pet can swim.

How do the locks work and how do you pass through them?

A yacht charter in Angers involves passing through locks, which are mechanisms that allow the canal's gradients to be managed. When approaching a lock, reduce your speed and follow the instructions of the lock keeper, if present. Otherwise, follow the posted instructions. Moor your boat inside the lock and let it rise or fall with the water level. Note that there may be charges associated with the use of locks, especially if they are managed by lock keepers.

How do I finalize the booking of a river boat in Angers?

Once we have received your charter request, an advisor will contact you by telephone to discuss your boating plans. They will then send you a list of riverboats by email. Once you have found a boat, you can pay a deposit in your customer area to confirm the charter and reserve the boat.