Once you have been through this tuition cruise and you have chosen your
destination and confirmed your cruising route, you are ready to depart on the
waterways at a gentle pace, between 6 km/hour and 8km/hour on canals (10km/hour
on rivers).
When you have signed your contract, the professional will
give you the
"carte de plaisance" (pleasure cruising certificate) which
testifies that the boat is insured and in good working order.
This
certificate is valid for the time of your trip and has to remain on board at all
time, along with the other official papers, such as the waterway taxes card
related to the payment of taxes inherent to canal holiday cruisers. You will not
have to pay any tax when you sail on the river Lot and on the river
Baïse
Which type of
boat? You will find a wide range of boats in terms of
comfort and room. Some boats offer more inner space and others will favour outer
space. The owners usually give you a brochure to take your choice.
These
houseboats are as comfortable as a house and combine comfort and functionality.
Each one has at least individual cabins, a bathroom (with shower and hot water),
flush toilets, a well-equipped modern galley and heating.
Sheets, blankets
and other house linen are usually already on board. You can hire bicycles to
explore the countryside or go shopping. Car parking is provided. Some companies
can ensure your car transfer when you book a one-way trip.
Example of
comfort and functionality: 4+2 berths
1- Wide picture window and
bright wardroom.
2- Two cockpits, one inside, the other on deck.
3-
Engines at rear for your quietness.
4- Front cabin with bathroom.
5- Fully
equipped galley with cooker with oven and grill, refrigerator and
microwave.
6- Central cabin with separated bathroom.
7- Spacious saloon
with bunks that can convert to a double berth.
Example of comfort and functionality: 8
berths1- Spacious foredeck.
2- Two cockpits, one inside, the
other on deck.
3- Engines at rear for your quietness.
4- Front cabin with
separated bathroom.
5- Fully equipped galley cooker with oven and grill,
refrigerator and microwave.
6- Cabins with shower, flush toilet and wash
basin separated.
7- Spacious saloon with bunks that can convert to a double
berth.
How much will it
cost? (for information)
- 4 people : from 800 à 2 780 € per week
- 6 people : from 930 à 3 730 € per week
- 10 people : from 1 800 à 4 350 € per week
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Enjoy midseason better prices:
out of summer holidays prices
decrease!
Average price for a boat for 6 people in low season: 1
000 € per week.
- Deposit: from 600 to 800 € according to the size of the boat.
- Fuel: whereas water and gas are usually included, you will be charged for
fuel. Most of the boats use diesel, it costs about 15 € per day for 6 to 8 hours
sailing at average speed. You will be given a full tank at departure, that will
last 4 to 7 days. There are many places along the river where you will be able
to refuel.
- Bed sheets hire: 4 to 5 € a pair.
- Pets: some companies can charge as much as 30 €.
- Bicycle hire: from 20 to 30 €.