River cruises and license-free boating in Dinan

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 independently on the Ille et Rance canal, without needing a river license. You can choose from a wide range of river boats, adapted 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 Ille-et-Vilaine.
• River cruises with a skipper: if you want to make the most of your stay in Ille-et-Vilaine 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 on the Ille et Rance canal are an excellent option. On the program: guided tours, tastings of culinary specialties, meals on board and accommodation in a cabin. River cruises are a friendly and enriching way to discover Ille-et-Vilaine by river boat.

How much does a yacht charter in Dinan cost?

In the table below, we have made a dead reckoning of average river cruise prices according to the season and the size of the boat. Note that these yacht charter prices are indicative and may vary according to different parameters: the size and style of the boat, the duration and period of the stay, the services included or optional, and demand.

Where can you sail from Dinan? 

• Tinténiac: Tinténiac is a small town in Ille-et-Vilaine, on the border with Côtes-d'Armor, halfway between Saint-Malo and Rennes. Visiting Tinténiac is an opportunity to discover its pretty old houses dating from the 15th and 16th centuries. You won't be able to miss them if you pass through the heart of the town. Numerous hikes are possible from Tinténiac, on foot or by bike!
• Hédé: A small village nestled on a hill close-hauled to the Ille et Rance canal, hence the need for staircase locks, Hédé is a stopover worth making. During your stroll through the village, you will discover the 3 historic churches, one of which dates from Roman times! We recommend a visit to the Maison du Canal museum, which houses numerous permanent exhibitions retracing life on the canal over time.
• Rennes: Capital of Brittany, your river boat charter will allow you to discover Rennes. A word of advice, moor your river boat downstream from the Mail lock, it will be quieter. The city has a rich architectural and religious heritage, including Saint-Pierre Cathedral,Sainte-Madeleine Abbey andSaint-Germain Church. Rennes also offers you the opportunity to visit the Parliament of Brittany, one of the most beautiful sites in the region. The building displays its great wealth through its imposing architecture. Stroll through the superb Jardins du Thabor, a must-see place in the city for a relaxing break. 

When should you go on your boat trip in Dinan?

Dinan has an oceanic climate. The best months for a cruise in Dinan are from May to October. The hottest months are July and August, but it is still very pleasant to visit in June or September. Note that August and September are the best months for swimming. At this time of year, temperatures are around 26°C, ideal for strolling along the river and visiting the towns without getting too hot.

Here is an average of the temperatures recorded in recent years in Dinan:

Our advice for a successful yacht charter in Dinan: 

• 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: River boat rental companies allow pets (dogs, cats, rodents) on board. Some companies allow pets free of charge, while others charge a fixed fee of around 50 USD (80 USD at LeBoat).
• The main departure bases close-hauled to Dinan are the port of Lagarde, the port of Cahors, the port of Sireuil and the port of Le Somail. From one of these ports, you can then start your cruise and sail down the Rance towards Rennes or Saint-Malo!