Discover the charms of Burgundy by boat
Burgundy is a magnificent French region, rich in historical, cultural and gastronomic heritage.
Whether you are a nature or history lover, or simply looking for a unique travel experience, river cruises in Burgundy are an excellent way to explore this multifaceted region.
As you travel along the canals, you will discover lush green landscapes, picturesque villages and renowned vineyards, while enjoying an original and environmentally friendly mode of transportation.
This article offers a complete overview of the different river cruise and yacht charter options in Burgundy, advice on planning your trip and ideas for sailing itineraries and activities not to be missed.
The different types of river cruises in Burgundy
Before diving into the details of river cruises in Burgundy, it is important to understand the different options available to you.
- License-free river cruises: ideal for families and groups of friends, this option allows you to navigate the Burgundy canals 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 boats are generally very well equipped and comfortable, with everything you need for a pleasant stay.
- Yacht charter: similar to river cruises, this option gives you access to smaller, more maneuverable boats, ideal for couples or small groups. The yachts are also very well equipped and offer optimal comfort for your stay in Burgundy.
- River cruises with a skipper: if you want to make the most of your stay in Burgundy 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 Burgundy are an excellent option. On the program: guided tours, local wine tastings, meals on board and cabin accommodation. River cruises are a friendly and enriching way to discover Burgundy by barge or boat.
How much do river cruises on the Burgundy Canal cost?
| Type of boat | High Season July and August | Mid Season June and September | Low Season April, May and October |
|---|---|---|---|
| River boat with 2 cabins | 2,500 USD | 1,500 USD | 1,000 USD |
| River boat with 3 cabins | 3,000 USD | 2,000 USD | 1,500 USD |
| River boat with 4 cabins | 3,500 USD | 2,500 USD | 2,000 USD |
How to choose and book your river cruise or boat in Burgundy
To ensure you have a successful stay in Burgundy, it is essential to choose and book the right type of river cruise or boat.
Step 1: Define your selection criteria
- Decide which type of charter suits you best (river boat without license, river boat with skipper, river cruise).
- Estimate the size of the group that will accompany you in order to choose a river boat that is suitable for the number of people.
- Identify your preferences in terms of comfort and equipment (cabins, kitchen, bathroom, etc.).
- Define your budget and the length of your stay in Burgundy.
Step 2: Compare the descriptions of the various river boats available for charter
- Compare the different types of river boats on offer, taking into account your selection criteria.
- Don't hesitate to contact us for further information and to ask your questions.
Step 3: Book your charter
- Once you have found the river boat that suits you, make a booking with our advisors.
- Prepare the documents required for the charter (identity document, river license if necessary, etc.).
- Plan your arrival at the charter base, taking into account the reception and briefing times on how to operate the river boat.
Sailing itineraries and activities for your stay on a river boat in Burgundy
Burgundy offers a wide range of sailing itineraries and activities for your stay on a river boat.
Here are a few suggestions to help you plan your trip.
Sailing itinerary 1: The Burgundy Canal
The Burgundy Canal is 242 kilometers long, linking Migennes to Saint-Jean-de-Losne and crossing superb rolling green landscapes. Ideal for a first experience on a river boat, this sailing itinerary allows you to discover unmissable sites such as the Château d'Ancy-le-Franc, the medieval village of Noyers-sur-Serein and the city of Dijon with its impressive historical heritage.
Sailing itinerary 2: The Nivernais canal
Crossing Burgundy from north to south, the Nivernais canal offers a 174-kilometer route between Auxerre and Decize. Along the water, you will discover bucolic landscapes, typical villages and remarkable sites such as the caves of Arcy-sur-Cure, the Château de Bazoches and the Morvan regional nature park.
Cycle along the canals! (photos by Locaboat)
Sailing itinerary 3: The Saône and the Canal du Centre
This 112 km sailing itinerary links Chalon-sur-Saône to Digoin, taking you along the river Saône and the Canal du Centre, through the heart of the Burgundy vineyards. Among the unmissable stops, don't miss a visit to Beaune and its famous Hospices, wine tasting in the cellars of the Côte Chalonnaise or discovering the industrial heritage of Montceau-les-Mines.
Activities not to be missed in Burgundy
- Wine tasting: Burgundy is a world-renowned wine region, with prestigious appellations such as Chablis, Meursault and Pommard. Make the most of your stay on a river boat to visit wine estates and taste the local vintages.
- Visiting castles: Burgundy has many castles, testifying to the region's rich history. Among the most famous are the Château de Cormatin, the Château de Châteauneuf-en-Auxois and the Château de Sully.
- Discovering the religious heritage: Burgundy is also famous for its churches, abbeys and cathedrals. Don't miss a visit to the Abbey of Fontenay, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, or the majestic Saint-Lazare Cathedral in Autun.
- Cycling: the canals of Burgundy have towing paths and greenways along the sides of the boats, ideal for cycling with family or friends. Some charter companies also offer bike hire, so you can explore the area at your own pace.
- Local gastronomy: Burgundy is famous for its refined cuisine and local produce. Specialties not to be missed include beef bourguignon, Burgundy snails and cheese gougères.
Practical tips for your river cruise in Burgundy
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.
They operate differently depending on the location:
- On the Saône, between St-Jean-de-Losne and Mâcon, the locks are automatic and operated by a lock keeper.
- On the Burgundy Canal, the locks are manual and operated by a lock keeper.
- On the Seille, most of the locks are automatic and operated by the boaters themselves. They are activated by turning a pole suspended over the waterway or by passing in front of a sensor on the bank. The lock keeper sometimes looks after several successive locks, so you may have to wait for him to arrive. Send a member of the crew ashore before the lock so that they can walk to the lock and receive the mooring ropes.
Here are the opening hours of the locks in the Burgundy-Loire-Nivernais region:
| Loing Canal | Moret-sur-Loing lock | Other canals | The Yonne |
|---|---|---|---|
| 7 a.m. - 7 p.m | 7 a.m. - 1 p.m. & 2 p.m. - 5 p.m | 9 am - 12 noon & 1 pm - 7 pm | 9:15 a.m. - 12 p.m. & 1 p.m. - 6:45 p.m |
Here are the opening hours of the locks in Bourgogne Franche-Comté:
| Saône (Seurre, Écuelles, Ormes and Dracé locks) | Saône (all other locks) | Vosges Canal | Rhône-Rhine Canal | Burgundy Canal, Center Canal, Seille |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6 a.m. to 9 p.m | 9 a.m. - 7 p.m | 9 a.m. - 6 p.m | 8:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. & 1:30 p.m. - 6:30 p.m | 9 a.m. - 6:30 p.m |
A river cruise in Burgundy is a unique experience, allowing you to discover this magnificent region from an original and authentic angle. Whether you opt for a license-free river boat, a license-free boat, a river boat with a skipper or a river cruise, you will be charmed by the green landscapes, picturesque villages and gastronomic and cultural riches of Burgundy. Don't wait any longer to climb aboard your river boat and set off to discover the hidden treasures of this exceptional region!
Good to know
| Number of boats available | 1 190 |
|---|---|
| Average price per week | $2,436 |
| Minimum weekly price | $794 |
| Maximum price per week | $4,662 |