Leave rigid itineraries and bustling crowds behind! With Entire Travel Group, set sail on a self-drive cruise holiday through France's sun-kissed waterways, crafting a holiday as unique as you are.
Imagine gently gliding along the Canal du Midi, pausing to admire the majesty of Carcassonne or savour rosé in serene riverside villages. Or venture through Burgundy's fairytale vineyards, with chateaux peeking from rolling hills and the scent of fresh bread dancing in the air. Navigate the tranquil canals of Alsace, where picturesque half-timbered houses line the water and Alsatian delights like flammekueche and choucroute await.
Entire Travel Group takes care of the logistics, leaving you free to choose your route, set your own schedule, and linger wherever your heart desires. More than just a voyage, it's an immersion into the French soul, from local delicacies and charming towns to ancient forests and iconic cities.
Discover our self-drive cruise packages today and craft your unforgettable French odyssey.
Our self-drive cruise packages focus on France for a reason –– the country boasts an unmatched network of canals and waterways:
Unlike river, barge, or ocean cruises, self-drive cruises come with a unique set of amenities and services, such as:
Crafting your ideal self-drive cruise holiday through France begins with aligning your interests, preferred pace, and wanderlust. Consider your interests, whether you're a foodie looking to savour local fare, a history buff eager to explore mediaeval towns, a nature lover seeking lush landscapes or dramatic gorges.
Next, decide on your pace. If you prefer a relaxed journey, plan shorter daily trips with time for leisurely stops and spontaneous explorations. For a moderate pace, aim for moderate distances that allow for sightseeing and cultural experiences while enjoying the serenity of the canals. If you're adventurous and thrill-seeking, plot longer daily stretches with minimal stopovers.
Embrace the unexpected by leaving flexibility in your itinerary for serendipitous discoveries, hidden gems, charming villages, or regional festivals. Don't hesitate to adjust your plans based on the weather or your mood, as self-drive cruising offers the freedom to go with the flow.
Use these tips and ideas as a foundation to create your unforgettable self-drive cruise through France.
Navigating open waters can seem daunting, but with the right preparation, it's achievable. Here are key considerations for a safe and enjoyable holiday:
Before you set sail:
While on the water:
Additional Tips:
Most regions in France offer a great one-way cruise itinerary easilly achievable in 7 nights:
The Canal du Midi is a UNESCO World Heritage site offering 240 kms of waterways connecting
the Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea. It is a work of art with aqueducts, bridges,91 locks
and a tunnel.
BURGUNDY REGIONBurgundy deserves its reputation for fine wines and gourmet cuisine. With lush vineyards, rolling hills
and quiet villages, this area offers a network of canals to explore, as well as the majestic Saône River,
the focal point of your Burgundy boat hire in France!
Magnificent architecture, historic villages, vine-ribboned countryside and more await along Canal de
Garonne in Aquitaine, an expansive region known for its foie gras, truffles, oysters and of course,
superb wines.
Embark on a rustic journey to Alsace and discover picturesque villages, soaring churches and
imposing castles tucked among gently rolling hills, ancient forests and miles of lush vineyards.
Uncover the highlights of Camargue, visit some of the most gorgeous villages and enjoy a wine
tasting in the most famous cellars. This region is famous for its flamingos.
Brittany is a Celtic land with many towering castles and a unique heritage. You can venture to
Nantes and Dinan for the museums, historic sites and fine restaurants. The Vilaine River and
Canal de Nantes à Brest are fine to explore by beginners to self-drive boating
Certainly! These journeys are designed to be beginner-friendly, and you'll receive all the training and support you need to make your cruise safe and enjoyable.
You don't typically need a special licence or any extraordinary skills to embark on a self-drive cruise. Most operators provide training before you set off, ensuring you have the knowledge and confidence for your trip.
Entire Travel Group's self-drive cruises in France offer a flexible and enjoyable experience. You can choose your itinerary, receive comprehensive training, and benefit from their support throughout your trip. Safety is a priority, and no prior boating experience is required.
These boats come with all the essentials like sleeping quarters, kitchens, and bathrooms. Some boats even offer extra comforts like sundecks and hot tubs for that added touch of luxury.
A self-drive cruise holiday is a unique way to explore the waterways where you get to be the captain of your own boat, steering your adventure at your own pace.
The types of boats used for self-drive cruises come in various shapes and sizes. Whether you're a couple looking for a cosy getaway or a group planning an adventure, there's a boat that suits your needs.
Self-drive cruises are available in various destinations, often in some of the most picturesque regions that boast canals, rivers, or scenic coastal routes.