River cruising and river tourism: slow travel on the waterways

Cruises and river tourism are increasingly appealing to travelers in search of the perfect slow travel to the peaceful rhythm of rivers and canals. Discover the charm of a barge trip, as you slowly immerse yourself in the heart of the landscapes and canals. villages the countrya place to escape and discover.

Why choose a river cruise and river tourism?

An experience slow tourismnature and heritage

Opt for a cruising and river tourism allows you to immerse yourself in the rhythm of the river and nature, far from mass tourism. You'll enjoy stopovers in small villages, whose rich architectural and cultural heritage can be fully discovered on foot or by bike. bike.

Intimate comfort on board

Riverboats, like barge-hotels or small liners, offer a cosy atmosphere and a human scale, providing a warm ambience and personalized ports of call, without the crowds of large ocean cruises.

Supporting the local economy

Each port of call helps craftsmen, winemakers and restaurateurs. According to one report, the river tourism generated nearly 100 billion of spin-offs in 2019, thanks to passenger spending in local shops.

When should you go? Ideal season and weather

The ideal season for cruising and river tourism in Europe extends from May to OctoberWith peak demand in summer and autumn, when the countryside is bathed in color. However, 2024 was disrupted by episodes of flooding, unstable weather and inflation, impacting bookings on rivers such as the Seine .

Types of cruises available

Unlicensed rental

Ideal for independent travelers, this formula offers freedom and privacy. Ideal for discovering the canals with family or friends, at your own pace.

Organized cruises (barge-hotel, luxury, expedition)

Companies like CroisiEurope offer refined river cruises on the Rhine, Seine or Loire, with on-board services and guided excursions.

City walks & shuttles

Visit Île-de-FranceThe boats on the Seine carry millions of passengers. The number of boats has increased by +11 % between 2023 and 2024. In Lyon and Bordeauxelectrically-powered river shuttles complete the urban transport system.

Must-see destinations

In France

• La Loirefor its châteaux and vineyards.

• The Seine between Paris and Honfleur: 4ᵉ tourist attraction of the capital, with over 9.5 million passengers by 2023 .

• The Rhône-SaôneIn 2024, the number of passengers rose to 96,300 (+15 %) and overnight stays to 592,500 (+16 %).

• The Garonne River (+11 % passengers in 2024).

• Burgundy, Camargue, Alsace, Lot, Charente & Midi canals.

In Europe and worldwide

• Rhine (record ~400,000 passengers in 2023)

• Danube, Douro, Kiel Canal

• Outside Europe : NilMekong, Guadalquivir, Amazonia...

Bassin fluvial - Making the most of France's navigable waterways

What is a river basin?

A river basinalso known as watershedA watershed is a "collection area for rainwater, runoff or infiltration" converging on a main watercourse and its tributaries. The boundaries of a basin are delimited by water divides, usually ridges or natural hedges.

In this way, a river basin encompasses an entire hydrographic network - streams, rivers and canals - draining towards a common outlet, from source to mouth.

Types and sizes of major river basins in France

France is made up of five major river basins Seine, Loire, Rhône, Garonne and Rhine-Meuse, covering thousands of km² . Each covers hundreds to thousands of kilometers of rivers and canals, forming a dense network of navigable waterways.

For example, the Maine basin - including Sarthe, Mayenne, Oudon - is navigable and well suited to river leisure activities, while the Sèvre Niortaise offers more than 100 km of navigation in an unspoilt setting.

A river basin: an ideal location for tourism

River basins are the backbone of the river tourism in France, supporting various activities: cruising, boating, canoeing, cycling, hiking and cultural visits.

• Historic waterways and canals (e.g. Canal du Midi, Canal de Bourgogne) offer day or discovery cruises to explore heritage and landscapes .

• Along the riverbanks, cycle routes built on former towpaths invite you to take a leisurely stroll. river tourismcombining a stopover at the port, a stroll and natural heritage.

Ecosystem & hydrology

The river basin is not just about surface water. The infiltration that feeds the groundwater is essential to environmental balance. River managers are working to protect biodiversity, ensure sustainable water use and resist floods and droughts.

River basins and territorial development

The basins structure the territories and give rhythm to local economic life:

• They define the navigable zones useful for tourism and river transport .

• Layout plans enhance ports of call, facilities and practices managers (electric boats, riverbank protection, intermodal circuits) .

A few examples of tourism assets

• Seine In Paris, it welcomes 8 M visitors + urban river transport projects for Paris 2024 .

• Canal du Midi UNESCO site, ideal for cultural cruises and cycling/rowing activities in Occitanie .

• Bassin de la Maine & Sèvre Niortaise Family-friendly sailing and a pleasant natural setting for local getaways.

A river basin is much more than a drainage system. It is the foundation of a ecosystem of a territory shaped by water and the cradle of numerous forms of river tourism and fluvestre. Whether you're looking for a boat trip, a cultural cruise, a bike ride or a stay in the countryside, these basins offer rich, sustainable and diverse experiences, combining nature, heritage and activities.

River driving licence and river code - Discover nature on your own

What is the river permit?

Visit river licenceor inland waterway boating licenseis mandatory in France to pilot a motorized pleasure boat on canals, rivers or lakes as soon as the power exceeds 4.5 kW (6 hp) and the length of the boat exceeds 20 m (without extension). It is accessible from the age of 16, but theextension of large river yachts (for boats > 20 m) requires a minimum age of 18 .

Why take the test?

• Safety and compliancedriving without a licence carries a fine of 1 500 € .

• Freedom of navigationAccess to most of France's inland waters (rivers, canals, lakes).

• Versatile usevalid for motorized boats, motorized sailboats and even watercraft with more than 6 HP on inland waters.

Training content: the river code

1. Theory test (river code) : MCQ of 40 questions (5 on VHF, priority rules, locks, buoyage, environment...) .

2. Practical training Basic manoeuvres on a training boat (at least 3 h 30 practical + 5 h theoretical) . Holders of a coastal license are exempt from practical training.

Estimated cost

• Total average price : about 350 €including training and exam (excluding tax stamps) .

• Tax stamps Approx. €108 (€30 registration + €78 delivery).

• Possible promotion Some packages are available for as little as €225 excluding stamps.

• Large yacht extension 800-1,000 (including €38 tax stamps), depending on training required.

Procedures and conditions

• Minimum age Age: 16 for the basic option, 18 for the extension.

• Registration form Include photo ID, medical certificate, tax stamps, ID, registration form.

• Approved center Register with an approved boat school or center (CER, La Poste, Bureau Veritas...), examination conducted by a private operator since June 2022.

Use after obtaining

With the river licence you can :

• Navigate French or foreign inland waterways (canals, rivers, lakes).

• Activate a VHF radio for safety, especially in urban areas and when cruising.

• Piloting vessels up to 20 metres; theextension of large river yachts is required for longer boats.

Preparation tips

• Start early Theoretical and practical training spaced out to learn about buoyage, locks and currents.

• Preparing for the exam online MCQs and mobile applications can help.

• Selecting the right center Compare prices, success rates and trainer quality.

• Anticipating expansion If you're planning to pilot a barge, you'll need to take the Grande Plaisance course right from the start.

Visit river licence is a must-have for anyone who wants to fully enjoy the pleasure boating on inland waters. Accessible from the age of 16, it opens up a vast horizon of discoveries on rivers, canals and lakes, in complete legality and safety. With a reasonable budget (≈ 350 €), and the possibility of an extension for larger boats, this license allows you to navigate with confidence on a rich and varied river network, in a safe and responsible environment.

The CroisiEurope river pier: port of embarkation and gateway to river Europe

L'CroisiEurope river landing stage refers to the quays or river ports where passengers board their ships. These embarkation points are carefully selected for their accessibility, logistical comfort, and proximity to the proposed cities or circuits.

Typical locations and organization

CroisiEurope operates on many European rivers: Rhine, Danube, Seine, Rhône, Loire, Douro, Elbe, Mekong, Nile... boarding docks are generally located in the heart of towns or villages, easily accessible by car, train or public transport. Detailed maps and directions are provided in the travel documents, with seasonal updates if necessary.. In Strasbourg, for example, the landing stage is located at number 3, rue du Havre..

The boarding process

1. Arrival in port - please bring your ticket and proof of identity.

2. Docking respected - ships are decked according to a precise schedule. Keeping to the schedule is essential, as navigation is planned to the nearest thousandth. .

3. Control and recording - staff check your file, luggage and any formalities (visa, health).

4. Boarding - you are accompanied to the boat, located just a few meters from the quay. A reception point is usually set up to guide you.

Boarding aids and services

• Comfortable waiting areas with benches, shelters or tents depending on the pier.

• Multilingual signageThese are often in French and English, and provide information on the itinerary, boat map and instructions.

• Access assistance for people with reduced mobility, with stable walkways and human assistance.

• Parking information parking lots or drop-off areas are available nearby in most ports .

Why choose a CroisiEurope landing stage?

• Centrality The first step: embark on a journey to the heart of the city to start discovering it straight away.

• Efficiency one fluid process guarantees fast, stress-free climbing.

• Comfort & welcome : trained team, careful signage, assistance included.

• Safety & respecting schedules river vessels are subject to lock passage constraints, mosquito netting, bridge crossings, etc., hence the need for strict schedule management.

Examples of famous piers

• Strasbourg (France) - flower-filled harbour on the Ill, within easy walking distance of the town center .

• Paris - cruises on the Seine From the downstream/downstream quays of the Eiffel Tower or Bercy. Maps and timetables provided before departure .

• Romantic Rhine choice of several ports (Koblenz, Rüdesheim, Basel), each with access card and parking facilities .

Practical tips for passengers

• Be sure to check your precise time and place of embarkation in travel documents.

• Arrive 20 to 30 min in advance - useful for parking, inspection and installation.

• Labeled luggage according to instructions (color, code).

• Stay tuned for updates Docks may vary according to season, water level or local constraints. Our teams will contact you if necessary..

On board after boarding

Once on board, you'll discover a comfortable boat:

• In general 2 or 3 bridgeswith sun deck and sun loungers,

• Air-conditioned cabins with bathroom, TV and safe,

• Panoramic lounge-barspiano bar, gourmet meals on board.

L'CroisiEurope river landing stage is the ideal starting point for your cruise. It combines accessibility (ample parking, public transport), meticulous organization (maps, timetables, assistance) and optimal comfort (reception area, disabled access). Well-prepared and serene, boarding marks the official launch of a privileged immersion in Europe's most beautiful rivers.

River ports in France

What is a river port?

A river port is a specially equipped area on the banks of a waterway - river, canal or stream - designed to accommodate pleasure boats, cruises, city shuttlesand sometimes cargo ships . It includes infrastructures such as a harbour master's office, mooring quays, water and electricity connections, sanitary facilities, parking areas and sometimes launching ramps or even repair workshops.

Main roles and missions

• Welcoming boaters river ports offer temporary or annual stopoverswith refuelling services and tourist information.

• Development of river tourism : these sites are starting points for cruises, walks or shuttles .

• Network management support VNF contributes to the safety, riverbank maintenance, hydrological stability and enhancement of the river. river tourism .

Emblematic examples of river ports in France

• Narbonne river port (Canal de la Robine): about a hundred moorings, sanitary facilities, parking, wintering, capacity up to 30 m .

• Strasbourg Port Authority 7.6 Mt of freight in 2019, tourism via Batorama (773,000 passengers).

• Port of Briare (Canal de Briare): 110 places, services, Pavillon Bleu label since 2008 .

• Port Jacques-Yves-Cousteau (Castelsarrasin): 65 places, river technical center, development since 1997 .

• Metz's new port France's leading inland grain port on the Moselle River.

Services & equipment

Visit river ports complete their offer with :

• Harbour master's office access management, docking assistance, berth sales.

• Technical equipment Water, electricity, wifi, sanitary facilities, launching ramp, sometimes fuel stations and maintenance workshops.

• Multimodal access parking lots, pedestrian and bicycle access, links to public transport and rail networks.

• Tourism signage, brochures, services for walkers and cyclists, local events .

River ports, economic and ecological challenges

• Sustainable tourism ports support the responsible river tourismwith "sustainable stopover" and environment-friendly labels.

• Energy transition Some ports offer boarding on electric boats or alternative fuels, such as Batorama in Strasbourg (GTL).

• Modal shift River transport helps to reduce road traffic, pollution and congestion, particularly for freight and passenger transport.

• Territorial development Ports are home to nautical and logistical activities, creating magnets for tourists.

Challenges & prospects

• Infrastructure upgrades to accommodate larger boats or containers.

• Shoreline protection and water stabilization, flood prevention, level control .

• Urban integration Develop urban shuttles and the "river metro" in the run-up to the 2024 Games, particularly on the Seine.

Visit river ports are essential platforms at the heart of river networks. They play a strategic role in the logistics, tourism, regional development and ecological transition. Much more than mere stopping places, they represent the reclaiming of waterways by users, pleasure boaters, local authorities and businesses, with a view to sustainable development and living heritage.

River transporters

Who are the river transporters?

Visit river transporters are companies or professionals specializing in the inland waterway transport (canals, rivers). They are divided into :

• freight carriersfor bulky cargoes (aggregates, cereals, containers, liquid bulk, etc.),

• passenger carriersriver promenades, cruises and urban shuttles.

Economic and environmental role

In France, river transport represents around 2 % land trafficbut is a strategic alternative to road transport, particularly for the modal shift. In 2019, the French river sector transported 56.3 million tonnes (≈ 7.4 billion tonne-km), with growth of +9 % compared with 2018.

Players and structures

France's river transport landscape is dominated by :

• VSEs and craft SMEs (some 650 companies operating 700 freight boats),

• Large industrial shipowners as Sogestran (with 130 units and 2.8 Mt/year on the Seine and Rhône rivers...),

• Voies Navigables de France (VNF)public operator responsible for the navigable network, facilitator between players.

Activities and services

• Freight transport loading, unloading, transit, often integrated into a multimodal service with road or rail .

• Passenger transport tourist walks, multi-day cruises and city shuttles (e.g. Batobus in Paris, Navibus in Nantes).

Challenges and prospects

• Long-term underinvestment in the waterway network, hampering river development.

• Fleet modernization (double-hulled boats, larger sizes) and infrastructure projects such as the Seine-Nord-Europe canal and the Seine-Escaut network by 2030.

• Ecological transition: reduced CO₂ emissions compared to road, logistics optimization and shift to river transport. .

Visit river transporters are playing a growing role in sustainable supply chains and inland waterway tourism. Combining traditional craftsmanship with industrial innovation, they remain pillars of ecological mobility and regional development.

Key figures and trends in the river tourism sector

• French network : 6,700 km navigable .

• +7 % passengers on river routes (excluding the Rhine) in 2024.

• Increase in 8 % of overnight stays1.72 M in 2024.

• 84 % foreign customers on these cruises.

• Boat rental without a license: +94 % customer satisfaction rating .

• Inflation: average daily rate 350 € à 490 € between 2019-2024 (+15 %); average stay ~€3,160.

• Dynamic supply: touring boat fleet +11 % and stable capacity in Île-de-France.

• River cruises are moving up-market with themed experiences.

How to prepare your river cruise

River cruising - Choosing the type of boat

• Unlicensed : total autonomy

• Framed comfort, planned itinerary

• Themed expeditions culture, oenology, nature

River cruising, Itineraries & ports of call

Spot the highlights: castles, vineyards, medieval villages. Link your route to regions such as Burgundy, Camargue or Alsace via the blog's internal links.

Budget & formalities

Be prepared to pay €490/day (+ ins. and deposit). Don't forget cruise insurance and security. Book in advance to benefit from the best rates.

River cruising - Best practices & responsible tourism

• Respect the fauna and flora banks.

• Encourage soft energies electric boats, urban shuttles.

• Balance between tourism and combating overtourismespecially in sensitive areas.

• Focus on local products to support port economies.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is a cruise and river tourism?

Tourist activities on rivers and canals: rentals, cruises, walks, shuttles .

Do I need a license to sail?

Not for boats without a license (up to certain power ratings), but essential for larger boats.

What's the best time of year?

From May to Octoberwith a peak in summer and autumn, depending on the destination.

River cruising: What's your budget?

About 490/dayincluding rental and services, with an average stay of 3 160 € .

Can you sail with your family?

Yes, no-license rentals are ideal for families. The clientele is often transgenerational.

Is it accessible to seniors?

Absolutely: comfort, a slow pace and all-inclusive services make this a popular option for seniors.

River vs. sea: what are the differences?

The river offers frequent stopovers, an intimate atmosphere, and little dependence on the weather, as opposed to oceans and waves.

Should you combine boat and bike?

YES: more than 80 % of the routes can be followed by bicycle/boat, perfect for activating slow travel.

River cruising: how to travel responsibly?

Opt for electric barges, respect biodiversity, avoid overtourism, consume locally, and favor short themed cruises.

What kind of insurance do you need?

Seaworthiness, boat damage, cancellation and third-party liability insurance recommended according to type of cruise.

Conclusion - river cruising and river tourism

Visit cruising and river tourism offer a gentle, cultural and responsible escape to the rhythm of Europe's canals and rivers. With stable growth figures, friendly tourism and a wide range of offers, this type of travel is a sure bet for slow travel enthusiasts. Embark on a river adventure, rich in discoveries, encounters and landscapes, while supporting local economies and respecting the environment.

Find out more about river tourism, it's over here!