River cruises and license-free boating in Aquitaine
Last updated on 11 June 2024
What type of boat should you choose for your charter?
- License-free river cruises: ideal for families and groups of friends, this option allows you to sail the canals of Aquitaine independently, without needing a river license. You can choose from a wide range of river boats, suited to your needs and desires. License-free river cruises are generally very well equipped and comfortable, with everything you need for a pleasant trip.
- Yacht charter without a license: similar to river cruises without a license, this option gives you access to smaller and more maneuverable boats, ideal for couples or small groups. Boats without a license are also very well equipped and offer optimal comfort for your stay in Aquitaine.
- River cruises with a skipper: if you want to make the most of your stay in Aquitaine without worrying about driving, this is the option for you. A professional skipper will take care of the navigation, while you can relax and enjoy the scenery passing by.
- River cruises: finally, for those who prefer an all-inclusive package, river cruises in Aquitaine are an excellent option. On the program: guided tours, tastings of culinary specialties from the Southwest, meals on board and cabin accommodation. River cruises are a friendly and enriching way to discover Aquitaine by river boat.
How much does a yacht charter in Aquitaine cost?
Here is a table showing the average prices for yacht charters in Aquitaine for one week. These prices are a rough dead reckoning and may vary depending on the season, the model and the age of the boat. Please note that they do not include extras such as the use of a skipper, insurance, cleaning, etc
| Type of boat | High Season July and August | Mid Season June and September | Low Season April, May and October |
|---|---|---|---|
| River boat 1 cabin | 1,200 USD | 900 USD | 700 USD |
| River boat with 2 cabins | 1,400 USD | 1,100 USD | 900 USD |
| River boat with 3 cabins | 2,300 USD | 2,000 USD | 1,600 USD |
| River boat with 4 cabins | 2,700 USD | 2,300 USD | 1,700 USD |
Where to sail in Aquitaine?
- Dordogne and Lot-et-Garonne, characterized by their atypical villages such as Monglancin or Villeréal, as well as their castles overlooking medieval villages, such as Collonges-la-Rouge. Take advantage of your yacht charter in Aquitaine to sail along the Garonne-Bordeaux-Toulouse canal, stopping off in towns and villages such as Agen, Montauban and Nérac along the Baïse river.
- The Pyrenees and the Basque Country, beautifying the south of Aquitaine, will entertain lovers of river boat trips.
- Gironde: Bordeaux, which is perfect for yacht charter in Gironde, will delight wine lovers. Also, take advantage of your yacht charter in New Aquitaine to visit the islands of the Gironde estuary: the "île nouvelle", the Cordouan lighthouse, the Margaux island and the Patiras island.
When to sail in Aquitaine?
Here is an average of the temperatures recorded in recent years in Aquitaine:
| Temperatures | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | June | July | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Air min (°C) | 5° | 5° | 6° | 9° | 12° | 16° | 18° | 17° | 14° | 12° | 9° | 6° |
| Air max (°C) | 11° | 12° | 15° | 19°C | 22°C | 26° | 28° | 29° | 26° | 21° | 15° | 12° |
Our advice for a successful yacht charter in Aquitaine
- The locks: The canals are open to navigationfrom April to October. The locks are generally open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., with a one-hour break at midday, and are closed on certain public holidays. To pass through a lock, allow about 20 minutes to enter the chamber, moor, wait for the water level to rise or fall, and then leave the chamber. During busy periods, you may have to queue before entering.
- Pets on board: The river boat rental companies allow pets (dogs, cats, rodents) on board. Some companies allow pets free of charge, while others charge a flat fee of around 50 USD (80 USD at LeBoat).
Good to know
| Number of boats available | 725 |
|---|---|
| Average price per week | $2,387 |
| Minimum weekly price | $947 |
| Maximum price per week | $5,774 |