RIVER CRUISES · CANAL CRUISES IN FRANCE
Good canal cruises in France sell their best seats weeks ahead. Below: the 10 to book early, what each fare covers and how they differ on the water.
Cruise from Parc de la Villette through Canal Saint-Martin locks and a 2-kilometre tunnel to the Seine for a fresh view of Paris.
“Enjoyed the views of canal and other parts of Paris. Nice to have the bar and soft drinks for the ride.”
Cruise the Seine and Canal Saint-Martin through locks, a 1.24-mile tunnel, and northern Paris for $28.
“Great variety on this trip! River Seine, canal and leafy superb, tunnel, locks...... On board catering choice was disappointing”
Review of Paris Canal’s Seine and Canal Saint-Martin cruise, with route details, value advice, guide tips, locks, tunnels, and practical planning help.
“Couldn’t understand the guide. Spent more time sitting at gates than moving. Ends in the middle of nowhere.”
Review of the Bruges day trip from Paris, covering the long coach ride, medieval sights, canal cruise, free time, costs, and practical tips.
“Our guide was spectacular- tour bus was comfortable- Brugge is a a must see beautiful town fulll of history, beauty and chocolate!!!”
Cruise Canal Saint-Martin and the Seine in two hours, with locks, tunnels, Paris landmarks, live commentary, and strong value at $38.
“Have never been on the St Martin canal before. It was so interesting-learned lots of new things about this area and Paris in general. Highly recommend!”
Cruise Sète’s canals and Thau pond for two hours, with Mont Saint-Clair views, oyster parks, fishing ports, and lively French commentary.
“Nothing to improve, everything was perfect with an exceptional guide named Antoine, aka Popeye, who combines very interesting explanations and humor. We didn't even notice the 2 hours go by. Thanks Antoine.”
Cruise the UNESCO-listed Canal du Midi near Béziers, passing Fonseranes locks and the Béziers Canal Bridge on a relaxed family outing.
“Excellent trip to see the canal and locks. Would definitely recommend. Would benefit from individual audio headphones.”
Cruise the Rance Canal from Saint-Samson-sur-Rance to Dinan on a small guided boat, with calm views, local history, and free cancellation.
“Excellent trip but we paid €39 each for two people but only enjoyed the basic tour and not the advertised one at this price.”
Review of the Canal de la Rance boat ride from Saint-Samson-sur-Rance to Dinan, with practical tips, costs, itinerary, and honest advice.
“Relaxed and we were free to move around the boat and listen to as much or little of the information as we liked”
Sip local wine and taste Brittany specialties on a small-group boat tour from the Rance to Dinan, with history, birds, and canal views.
By water, by hour, or by how many nights you want aboard.
