Traveling the waterways of France is perhaps one of the most fascinating adventures in the world. These
barge cruises accommodate their passengers in numerous ways, from fine French cuisine instructions,
to tours and entertainment. But there are those of us who sometimes want to do things our own way.
We want to stop here; we want to see that. Maybe we just want to cruise and explore at our own whim.
So if you think you’ve got your water bearings in order, you may even have the chance to be the captain
of the ship and go where you want. Using a self-driven barge, you won’t have to follow any itinerary.
You can see the sights according to your own wishes, stop where you want, and experience the
French culture in your own way. This is great for those guests that have been barging before and want
something specific from the experience, such as a visit to the open markets. The cruise lasts for a week.
So if you leave on Saturday, you’re due to port the following Saturday, which gives you plenty of time to
enjoy the scenery and culture of France.
There is no license required, not even a driver’s license. Instead, you’ll be given a boat-handling
demonstration so that you’ll understand how to operate the equipment and navigate the waters. You
will be instructed on what knots to use to tie off the boat and how to use all the equipment aboard
(right down to the oven). The instructors will show you everything and demonstrate how to operate the
barge until you are confident in your own ability as a captain.
After your instruction lesson, you’ll be given a temporary permit for the duration of your cruise. And
while out on the water, you’ll have access to 24-hour technical support for any questions you might
have. Additionally, for your own use and convenience, you’ll have access to a waterway guide and the
captain’s handbook so you can sharpen your sea legs.
The barge cruises at a steady five miles per hour, so there’s no rush and plenty of time to make the right
decisions while out on the waters. You’ll have complete access to the canals to navigate to your own
specific destinations. Just be sure that you understand how the channel locks operate and what times
they’re open and closed. These can change depending on location, some of which are even activated by
your boat.
And there’s no worry about running ashore whenever you’re hungry. You’ll have a fully equipped galley
(kitchen) to prepare your own dishes (or even to practice a few French cuisine recipes you’ve learned).
Just remember to be safe and enjoy the cruise.
Navigating the French canals as your own captain means that you can go wherever you want and see
the sites that intrigue you the most, especially some of the extraordinary architecture of the cities that
can only be seen from out on the water. Be the captain of your own ship and be in charge of your own
French destination.
Author Bio:
Crystal Groome is owner of Barge Connection – specializing in European Barge Vacations since 1988.
Crystal has specialized in barging vacations specifically for over eleven years and visits Europe yearly to
personally inspect individual barges and operators. Check our latest time sensitive specials on Facebook
and Twitter (@bargeconnection).
