Awsome Holiday! The best experience Perfectly planned for less hassle 👌 Thank you Cassandra for your help We will definitely be using Entire Travel Group on our next adventure
My travel partner and myself have just returned from our trip to Switzerland ( May 2024 ) and wanted to put in writing our utmost gratitude to Katelyn Mulgrew and the team from Entire Travel Group for the professional, prompt and extensive service provided from start to finish. Kate was there with us every step of the way and answered any question or concern we had in a patient and understandable way, which left us with reassurance and confidence. Switzerland Grand Tour was amazing with picture postcard scenery at every turn. Every aspect of the booking was flawless, from the hotels, transportation and documentation it all worked seamlessly. Hotels were comfortable, central, welcoming and contained everything a traveller could need. Train travel throughout Switzerland is the only way to go, you just get on sit down and relax while enjoying the ever changing and spectacular scenery. I have, and, will be recommending Entire Travel Group to all my friends for any of their travel needs and, will definately be using them as my go to company for any future adventures. Thank you again to Kate and the team for helping us tick this item off our bucket list.
We had the most wonderful trip to the stunning Fiji organised by Entire Travel. Lisa Tappin was fabulous - accommodation and transfers were excellent and nothing was a problem. Highly recommend Lisa and Entire Travel Team. Thank you!!
My husband and I just returned from the most amazing trip that Zoe Condon compiled for us. Everything was perfect. From first enquiry to trip complete, Zoe was always available to answer questions big or small and offer helpful knowledgeable tips. If you are looking to visit Canada do yourself a favour and ask Zoe, her knowledge is 2nd to none. I look forward to dealing with both Zoe and Entire Travel Group for future holidays.
Whether it's an intimate celebration with family and friends, a shared journey with like-minded travellers, or a tranquil solo escape, the collection of barge cruises offers enriching experiences that foster connection through discovery, culture, and a deep sense of place. Tailored for discerning travellers who appreciate authenticity, comfort, and a slower pace, these journeys reveal the charm of hidden waterways in a truly rewarding and memorable way. Check out our range of packages.
Barge and River cruises both offer relaxed travel on the water, but the experiences are quite different.
Barge cruises are intimate and slow-paced, carrying just a few guests through canals and small rivers, with personalised service, gourmet meals, and local, immersive excursions, perfect for couples, families, or private groups.
River cruises are larger, faster-paced journeys on major rivers, visiting big cities with more structured schedules, group excursions, and a livelier, social atmosphere.
In essence, barge cruising is about depth, personalisation, and tranquil exploration, perfect for those who value authentic, off-the-beaten-path travel. River cruising offers breadth, convenience, and iconic highlights, ideal for first-time visitors or those looking to see more in a shorter time.
Feature | Cabin Booking | Private Charter |
Overview | Reserve an individual cabin on a scheduled departure, shared with fellow guests. | Secure exclusive use of the entire barge for your private group. |
Ideal For | Ideal For Independent travellers, couples, or small parties seeking a social journey. | Families, groups of friends, or those celebrating special occasions. |
Privacy | A shared onboard environment with other discerning travellers. | Complete privacy with only your selected guests on board. |
Itinerary | Pre-set routes and curated excursions are designed for shared departures. | Customisable itineraries tailored to your group's interests and pace. |
Onboard Atmosphere | Engaging and sociable—ideal for meeting like-minded guests. | Exclusive and personalised designed entirely around your group's preferences. |
Dining & Service | Gourmet meals and attentive service are shared with other guests. | Dedicated chef and crew, with menus and service personalised to your tastes. |
Pricing Structure | Priced per cabin—offers flexibility and accessibility for individuals or couples. | Priced per barge—cost-effective for larger groups seeking a bespoke experience. |
Choosing the right time can transform your experience from memorable to truly exceptional. The European barge cruising season typically runs from April to mid-October, with each period offering its unique charm.
Spring (April–May): Mild weather, blooming scenery, and fewer crowds—ideal for peaceful cruising in regions like Southern France and the Loire Valley.
Summer (June–August): Long sunny days, a lively atmosphere, and perfect conditions for outdoor dining and socialising. Best for France, Italy, and the Netherlands. Note: July–August can be warmer and busier.
Autumn (September–mid-October): A top choice for food and wine lovers. Enjoy cooler weather, golden landscapes, and harvest festivals in vineyard-rich regions like Burgundy and Alsace.
Late Autumn – Winter (Late October–March): Most barge cruises pause as waterways close and the weather
The Best Time for a European Barge Cruise is during May, June, or September
These months capture the essence of slow travel by barge, unhurried, immersive, and effortlessly elegant.
Whether your passion is gastronomy, golf, fine wines or flowers, our product range offers a wide range of themed cruises designed around special interests. If you dream of combining your favourite hobby with a relaxing cruise, a themed journey is the perfect choice. Sail through Burgundy on a wine-lovers' adventure, time your trip with England and Holland’s vibrant flower seasons or indulge in an Opera Cruise in Italy or a Whisky Cruise in Scotland. Themed cruises are available exclusively on fully chartered sailings.
Mornings begin with a relaxed breakfast of fresh pastries and coffee, followed by curated excursions, perhaps a local market, a historic château, or an artisan workshop. Returning to the barge, enjoy a gourmet three-course lunch paired with regional wines as the journey continues through scenic waterways.
Afternoons invite you to unwind lounge on deck, explore by bike, or simply take in the tranquil views. As the barge moors near a village or vineyard, enjoy tea, aperitifs, or quiet time at your leisure. Evenings bring fine dining, wine pairings, and relaxed conversation, followed by stargazing, a digestif, or light entertainment to end the day in style.
Most cruises are 6 nights / 7 days, operating from Sunday to Saturday. Extended or back-to-back itineraries are available on request.
You can either book a single cabin and share the cruise with other like-minded guests or charter the entire barge for exclusive use with your group. Private charters are available on select barges only, please inquire for details.
Hotel barges carry between 2 to 22 guests. Some can be paired for larger groups upon request.
Private Charters: All ages welcome
Cabin Bookings: Minimum age requirements vary by barge. Please check with us at the time of your inquiry.
Yes, barge cruises are well-suited to both solo travellers and couples. The intimate setting provides a comfortable balance of privacy and social interaction, making for an enjoyable and enriching experience.
Due to stairs and narrow corridors on some barges, accessibility may be limited. We encourage you to contact us to explore suitable options tailored to your needs.
Cabins feature private ensuite bathrooms, stylish décor, comfortable beds, quality linens, and climate control. Space is optimised for comfort and function.
Common amenities include:
Smoking is not permitted inside the vessel but may be allowed in designated outdoor areas. For specific details, guests are advised to consult with the crew.
Laundry service is not offered onboard. We advise guests to pack accordingly to accommodate the duration of the 7-day journey.
Daily guided excursions are included and may feature wine tastings, château visits, artisan demonstrations, local market tours, and explorations of historic villages or UNESCO World Heritage sites.
Itineraries depend on the type of booking. For private charters, itineraries are often fully customisable to suit your group’s interests. For individual cabin bookings, cruises follow a fixed itinerary thoughtfully curated by the crew.
Absolutely. We kindly ask that any special requirements, including dietary restrictions, celebrations, or beverage preferences, be communicated at least four weeks in advance to allow us to make the necessary arrangements.
Gratuities are generally not included in the cruise fare and are left to the discretion of guests. While tipping is not mandatory, it is usually appreciated by the crew as a gesture of gratitude for their service. Guests are encouraged to inquire directly with the onboard personnel for guidance.
Barge cruising involves travelling on a small, flat-bottomed boat, typically along canals and rivers. These cruises offer a more intimate, leisurely travel experience, focusing on cultural exploration and relaxation.
Discover the unique appeal of barge cruising in Europe with Entire Travel Group, your expert in luxury barge cruises. Experience a tranquil journey along Europe’s scenic canals and inland waterways, where each stop offers authentic cultural encounters and bespoke experiences. Enjoy serene countryside views and leisurely explorations of historic villages and regional culinary delights.
Entire Travel Group offers tailor-made European barge cruise packages perfect for travellers seeking an intimate and personalised adventure. Our small-group cruises ensure a cosy, exclusive atmosphere, allowing you to relax and connect with your surroundings. Cruise iconic routes such as France’s Canal du Midi barge cruises or Italy’s Po Delta barge cruises, with expertly curated itineraries featuring private excursions and local experiences.
Barge cruising provides a slower, more immersive way to travel, ideal for those wanting to escape typical tourist trails. Combining luxury, fine dining, and cultural exploration, barge cruises deliver a unique blend of relaxation and authenticity that redefines slow travel.
Let Entire Travel Group take you on a journey beyond the ordinary with luxury barge cruises through Europe's picturesque landscapes.
France: Barge cruises in France offer a unique way to explore the country's rich landscape and heritage. Discover the beauty of Burgundy with its sprawling vineyards and historic chateaux while indulging in fine wines and gourmet dining. The Canal du Midi invites you with stories of Renaissance and charming riverbank towns.
Italy: Journey through the Po Delta, rich with Roman history, lush landscapes, and delicious local cuisine. Experience Venice's enchanting canals and explore Padua's artistic heritage.
To help you maximise your barge cruise holiday, here are some handy tips and advice:
Embrace intimacy: With a small group of fellow travellers, be prepared for close quarters and friendly interactions. Pack your open mind and willingness to connect, as conversations and shared experiences are inevitable and enhance the charm.
Plan for excursions: Research and pre-book shore excursions if there are specific experiences you don't want to miss. Some barge cruises include excursions, while others allow for independent exploration.
Relax and unplug: Barge cruising is about slowing down and appreciating the journey. Leave the hustle and bustle behind, disconnect from digital distractions, and immerse yourself in the scenery and local culture.
Engage with the crew: The crew are your onboard experts and often locals. Don't hesitate to ask questions about the region, hidden gems, or recommendations for local specialties.
Embrace the local culture: Learn a few basic phrases in the local language, try local dishes, and participate in cultural activities offered by the barge.
By following these tips and advice, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable barge cruise experience.
Packing for a barge cruise should include comfortable and versatile clothing suitable for the weather, good walking shoes for excursions, and perhaps a swimsuit for onboard amenities. Don't forget a camera to capture the scenic views!
Barge cruising is popular in Europe, especially in countries like France, Belgium, Italy, and the Netherlands. The most common routes are along picturesque canals and waterways.