Riverboat and Boating Holidays in Europe

About riverboat holiday

About riverboat holiday
Destinations
Riverboats
Operators

What is a riverboat holiday?

Such is life aboard a riverboat

Discover a new way to vacation - (and) it requires no prior knowledge of sailing, no sailing certificates or anything else to be a skipper on a riverboat on Europe's waterways!

There are numerous exciting sailing areas and a large number of boats to choose from and a boat vacation to fit any holiday budget and crew size - it is an experience for all ages - young and old - a family trip - a trip with friends or for three generations.

Read our advice on choosing a riverboat here.

Discover Europe's most beautiful lakes, rivers and canals from the sun deck of the boat, while the landscape slowly pans past you. Enjoy an adventure in a relaxing atmosphere, gourmet travel, or historic surroundings - we guarantee an unforgettable experience.
Do not worry - the boats are easy to operate and prior experience is not necessary. There is only one gear back and forth and the boats are easy to control. Before arrival, you will receive an instructional material and the transfer is given thorough practical instruction in everything from knots and hitches to how the oven works on board. The boats are well equipped and comfortable with duvets, pillows, bed linen, kitchen utensils, bathroom with toilet and shower, etc.

Stop when (and where) you will (and for as long as you like) it is glorious on a boating vacation! Enjoy an impromptu visit to a wine chateau / Chauteau, shop at the local colourful market, visit a medieval village, makes a stop at the shore for a picnic in the countryside, explore the area on rented bikes - these are just a few examples of what you can expect a boat vacation. Sailing through a sluice is a fun part of the holiday and allows everyone to get involved. Once you've gotten through the first gate, you will soon find out that it is not so difficult. Most locks are automatic or operated by the lock operator and often you can buy local products directly from him - and other sailors can share tips and experiences. As the day draws to a close it's time to moor - either at a dock/marina or along the shore and enjoy the sunset from the sun deck.

A boat vacation is also an experience and enjoyment of a region's culinary experiences and one of the highlights of the holiday. Wherever you choose to sail there are opportunities to try out the delicious local produce, regional dishes, with wines and beers. Do you feel the history, the possibilities are also diverse: from medieval castles to Gothic cathedrals and ancient castle ruins. A boat vacation on Europe's waterways is like a journey through history. Remember binoculars: wildlife along the rivers and canals are unique - and no matter how you choose to sail, you get close to the local wildlife as you are in the middle of their habitat.

When you have total freedom to plan the days are guaranteed a myriad of diverse experiences for all.

Tips and FAQs

Do I need a license or sailing experience?

No experience is needed!
You can be the captain of your own boat — no license or sailing background required.
Exception: In some areas of Germany and Luxembourg, a boating license is required.

What's included in the rental?

Included:

Rental of boat and all onboard equipment
Fully equipped kitchen
Bed linen
Towels (not included with Nicols, but can be added as an extra)
Full boat demonstration and instruction
Technical support during your trip
Map of the cruising area (on the boat)
Mooring fees (except in Ireland and Holland; some marinas may charge a small fee)

Not included:

Travel to/from the base
Fuel
Security deposit insurance
All mandatory and optional extras
Cancellation or travel insurance

Where can I moor the boat?

River boating means freedom!
You can usually moor wherever you like along public canals and rivers.
Your boat has all the equipment needed for mooring.

Some areas have private sections with limited space, but it's rarely a problem to find a nice spot.
If you prefer a marina with facilities, there may be a small mooring fee.

Can I bring my dog?

Absolutely!
You can bring up to two dogs on board for an additional fee.
Just remember to bring a life vest for your dog.

What should I do if there's a problem with the boat?

If anything goes wrong, contact the base staff immediately.
They will quickly send a technician to assist you.

If you notice any defects on the boat, report them right away — not at the end of the trip.
Waiting until you return may void any complaint, as the base needs the chance to fix the issue during your cruise.

Are the locks easy to use?

Yes - and they're fun too!
After your first lock, it becomes second nature.
Some locks are manual, others are automatic, and many have friendly lockkeepers.

Many locks even have small shops, cafés, or museums, making them great places to stop and chat with other boaters.
For many, the locks are one of the highlights of the trip!

When can I pick up and return the boat?

Pick up: Between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM on your start day.
Return: By 9:00 AM on the final day.

It's best to arrive at the base a few hours early for check-in and briefing.

How does the briefing work?

When you arrive at the base:

You'll complete the final paperwork
The staff will give you a comprehensive instruction (in English, or German in Germany)
You'll learn about mooring, steering, onboard systems, and safety

Both the skipper and co-skipper should attend — two people remember more than one!
If you're unsure about anything, ask as many questions as you like.

You can also request a short test drive with a technician until you feel confident.
Before you leave, inspect the boat together with the staff to make sure everything is in order.

Water and bathing

Fill the water tanks before departure.
Conserve water (avoid washing dishes under running water).
Refill tanks whenever possible (it costs only a few euros).
If the tank runs dry, turn off the water pump to avoid overheating.
Hot water is available after the engine has been running for about 30 minutes.
After showering, use the pump button on the wall to drain floor water if it's not automatic.

Toilets onboard

Do not throw paper in the toilet - use a plastic bag beside it.
Rules can vary depending on the boat, so ask the base staff if unsure.

In France, Italy, and several other countries, toilet waste goes directly into the canal - so don't swim in the canals.
However, in lake regions of Germany, Portugal, and Poland, and rivers like Charente and Lot in France, swimming is allowed.

Want to know more? See more tips and FAQs here

Explore Europe and North America’s waterways

Riverboat holidays provide you with a wealth of options, depending on where you choose to go. What is common, however, is that you get the unique opportunity to experience the chosen destination’s culture and nature from a whole new side, namely the water side, at your very own pace. Find the exact destination for your upcoming riverboat holiday here.

France

Seatravel offers riverboat holidays in 12 different French regions - there's something for everyone. Travel on the charming canals and rivers of France; the waterways run through some of Europe's most beautiful areas. Riverboat holidays in France offer cultural and culinary delights, majestic landscapes, colourful villages and much, much more. Whichever destination you choose, you'll be sure to have unforgettable experiences – here are activities for all ages.

Highlights in France:

The famous Canal du Midi
Beach holidays and pink flamingos in Camargue
Wine Castles in Burgundy
Truffles and mountain villages in the sunny Aquitaine
The majestic cliff walls of the Lot River
The Cognac areas along France's most charming river, Charente
Brittany's fresh sea puffs and Celtic charm

Germany

Seatravel can arrange riverboat holidays in two sailing areas in the north-eastern part of Germany; the Mecklenburg and Brandenburg area near Berlin (NB: The Brandenburg area requires a sailing license). In the German countryside, you will travel on a network of crystal clear lakes and rivers, which form the setting for the idyllic sailing area. Discover medieval timber-framed houses, unique castles and beautiful nature reserves. On riverboat holidays in Germany, the beautiful landscape is combined with the German high culture.

Highlights in Germany:

The medieval towns of Mirow, Rechlin, Röbel and Brandenburg
Great animal and birdlife in the Spreewald nature reserve
Water sports activities in Müritz See
The Botanical Garden of Mirow
Vibrant city life in Berlin
The fairytale castles of Rheinsberg and Fürstenberg
The modern Aquarium in Waren
The Sanssouci Palace at Potsdam
The beaches at Werder

Italy

On riverboat vacation in Italy you can experience two very different areas – both very child-friendly destinations. In the boat area bordering Europe's most famous canal town, there is plenty to do. Here is the framework for your holiday both romantic and unique - hear the gondola drivers sing carelessly as the sun sets behind the rooftops, all while enjoying a glass of wine onboard. The Friuli region gives rise to island hopping between the quaint islands and delicious bathing spots, framed by an exciting bird and animal life.

Highlights in Italy:

Venice's renaissance art and culture
Italian cuisine and popular red wines from Veneto
Tradition-rich crafts on the islands
Great sandy beaches at Lido di Jesolo
Unique birdlife in the National Park of Po Delta
The fish market in Chioggia
Delicious Italian ice cream on every street corner

England & Wales

Go on a royal riverboat ride on the Thames, where the variety between land and city makes up perfect og interesting sailing conditions or experience the life on an old-fashioned narrowboat in Central England. If you want to travel with a cruiser, make your way to the famous River Thames, winding through rolling landscapes, past historic towns and traditional English pubs. If you want to travel on a narrowboat in the middle of England, there are plenty of bases to choose from on the crooked narrow canals, which can lead you to everything from the complex networks of adorable canals near Birmingham, the tranquil rural surroundings of Coventry or the metropolis of Manchester. Whichever area in England you choose, you'll experience the English channels side by side with local boat enthusiasts.

Highlights in England & Wales:

Travel on the historic River Thames
Feel the wings of history in Oxford
British pub culture and Fish 'n' Chips
Charming villages in a genuine Barnaby style
Grazing cows and local fishermen along the waterways
The mighty Windsor Castle and the vibrant London
Stroll in the Royal Parks

Scotland

In Scotland you can choose between two unique sailing areas; Falkirk in the Lowlands and Caledonian Canal in the Highlands. From Falkirk, you can enjoy easy boating and a classic canal holiday to Glasgow and Edinburgh. If you want to be challenged, you can choose a boat travel in the distinctive and dramatic Scottish Highlands on the Caledonian Canal. A riverboat holiday in Scotland offers both impressive landscapes and characterful cities.

Highlights in Scotland:

Tranquil lakes and dramatic nature in the Scottish Highlands
Whisky distilleries
Classic canal boating at Glasgow and Edinburg
Loch Ness monster, if you're lucky
Falkirk Wheel
Cycling and hiking

Ireland

Crystal clear rivers, Celtic monuments and Guinness are some of the keywords for a riverboat holiday in Ireland. Around Ireland's rivers Shannon and Erne, you will find a large network of lakes. Navigating on these rivers and lakes is easy, making Ireland a popular destination for riverboat holidays. The Irish landscape is made up of rolling, green hills, where you'll sporadically meet small, quaint villages. The water quality in Ireland is impressive and some of the cleanest of its kind in Europe.

Highlights in Ireland:

Ruins of Clonmacnoise Monastery
The walled gardens of Portumna Castle
World-class golf courses
Traditional Irish pubs
Delicate porcelain in Belleek
Horseback riding in Banagher
Lough Key Forest Park
The Dock - Center for art in Carrick
Fishing – Salmon, pike, bream, roach

Belgium

Discover Belgian chocolate and beer brewed by Belgian monks on a riverboat holiday in Belgium. Enjoy relaxing boating on the Belgian waterways, where you will be warmly welcomed by the inhabitants, ancient and charming towns and peaceful landscapes. Quaint villages and picturesque landscapes are connected by the pretty Flemish waterways that wind through this small, historic country.

Highlights in Belgium:

The UNESCO-protected tower of Diksmuide
Traditional Belgian handicrafts
Belgian chocolate art and the classic Moules Frites
Bakery Museum in Veurne
Cathedral of historic Gents
Endless and fine sandy beaches at Nieuwpoort
The promenade in Oostende
Flemish city rush in Bruges

The Netherlands

Enjoy the Dutch idyll on a riverboat holiday in the Netherlands, the homeland of tulips. Travel along waterways surrounded by many windmills of this country, cycling on one of the cycling routes along the riverbank or lay to berth in the beautiful, new marinas. On your riverboat holiday in the Netherlands, you’ll be able to enjoy lush green landscapes that spread out and form an amazing sight in common with the colourful tulip fields. Also, travel past Amsterdam and discover the beautiful capital city from the riverside.

Highlights in the Netherlands:

Brightly coloured tulip fields during Spring
Gouda cheese and Dutch pancakes
A dense network of lakes and canals in picturesque landscapes
The Cosmopolitan lifestyle of Amsterdam and its many art galleries
The flower garden in Keukenhof
The great lock in Muiden
Giethoorn - the Netherlands' little Venice
Great biking paths

Canada

Be greeted by the world-renowned Canadian friendliness and explore the country, which is known for the interesting mix of its French and English-speaking population, the production of maple syrup and breath-taking landscapes. If you really want to impress and try something completely different, you need to give yourself a riverboat trip to magnificent Canada with endless landscapes and charming towns.

Highlights in Canada:

The UNESCO-protected Rideau Canal
Hiking in Ontario's Highlands and vast natural areas
Cultural experiences in the big city of Ottawa
Local food producers and microbreweries
The Canadian maple syrup and hearty population

Portugal

Soak up the rays of the sun on a riverboat holiday on Grande Lago in Portugal. Grande Lago is the largest lake in Portugal and has an impressive coastline of about 745 kilometres. The lake's clear and clean water is ideal for swimming, fishing and diving. The lake, close to the Spanish border, is surrounded by beautiful nature. With over 300 days of sunshine a year, a riverboat holiday in Portugal is not only reserved for the summer months.

Highlights in Portugal:

Relaxed atmosphere in the sunny Alentejo region
The huge Alqueva Dam
Fishing, waterskiing, kayaking, ATV riding
Portuguese regional cuisine, including black-pig ham
Fishing and swimming

Hungary

Try something new and different – go on a riverboat holiday in the hidden paradise of Hungary. Travel through Hungary's rural areas, which will give you tranquil boating in scenic surroundings. This is a destination for nature and bird enthusiasts and the wine-lovers.

Highlights in Hungary:

Hiking in Hortobágy National Park
Outdoor life and fishing
Swimming in Tiszafüred and Abádszalók
Sail between mountains and vineyards in the Tokaj wine region
Thermal baths

Riverboat – the motor caravan of the water

With a riverboat, you can go on adventures without having to worry about returning to your hotel room. The boat is your floating motor caravan, and on board you will find all the necessary sleeping, kitchen, shower and toilet facilities. We have boats that can accommodate between 2 and 12 sleeping guests. Whether you are a couple or two families, we have a boat that matches your needs.

In general, there are two types of riverboats, or canalboats, as they are also called; cruisers and narrowboats.

Cruisers

Cruisers are equipped with everything you need. The sleeping cabins and living areas are separated, and there are many different layouts to meet any preferences.

Although the boat looks big, it is quite easy to steer – even for the inexperienced.

Narrowboats

Narrowboats are traditional English canalboats. These boats are characterized by their elongated and very narrow construction. The boats are incredibly charming and old-fashioned in their expression but have all the modern equipment you could wish for. Sailing with a narrowboat gives you an authentic riverboat holiday on the English canals and rivers.