Your first waterways cruise will be an unforgettable experience. No licence is needed to hire a self-drive boat – just take the helm and fulfil your dream of cruising in freedom on your Pénichette®.
Not just a holiday, a unique experience
Looking for ideas for the approaching holidays but fancy doing something different this year? Boating holidays could be the answer – and there are more than 200 routes in Europe to choose from. There’s a huge variety of things to do and see as you crisscross the waterways to your next destination. It’s an ideal solution that offers something for everyone. As well as allowing you complete freedom to travel where you like, your Pénichette® is also a comfortable and welcoming place for you to unwind. And you’ll love the nomadic nature of this all-in-one arrangement (transport and accommodation combined, a budget solution): you travel light, everything is on hand and luggage problems are a distant memory. Finally, you’ll unwind in the peace and quiet of the waterways and recharge your batteries as you cruise along. Because holidays are not just about discovery and exploration; they’re also your chance to chill out.
our selection of ‘special first-timer’ routes
So your next holiday is going to be a waterways cruise but you haven’t chosen the route yet? Here are our top three departure bases – there aren’t many locks, making them ideal for newbie skippers…
Argens Minervois
Departing from Argens Minervois, head towards Somail and Capestang, exploring the treasures of the famous Canal du Midi.
Saint-Léger-sur-Dheune
From Saint Léger-sur-Dheure to Chagny, this route passes through Burgundy’s market towns and offers a wide range of stopovers.
Saint-Martin-sur-Oust
Brittany’s St-Martin-sur-Oust offers a calm and peaceful cruise with few manoeuvres and easy-to-learn navigation.
Your first waterways cruise – 100% serenity
Still not sure? Read our FAQs to put your mind at rest and help you prepare for your cruise. For starters, you have no experience: no problem. No licence is needed to skipper a self-drive boat and they’re easy to handle. You don’t have to spend all day at the helm – your top priority on holiday is to rest. And every boat in our range offers comfort, convenience and all you need on board to make your life easier. Steering really is child’s play, leaving you plenty of time for relaxation. And what about safety?
Everything on board has safety in mind: railings, wide gangways, large, stable decks and lifejackets. And when it’s time to stop somewhere, you can lock up your boat and go off to explore wherever the mood takes you. If you have any other questions, make the most of your time with our teams when they hand over your yacht or Pénichette®: the introductory lesson at your departure base will set you on course for a great holiday.
Our current Offers
BLOG Inexperience welcome!
Leave with peace of mind with the inclusive pack
Vous êtes de plus en plus nombreux à choisir de naviguer en pénichette® l'esprit libre, en toute sérénité. Aux nouveaux moussaillons, nous allons expliquer pourquoi !
How to moor your boat successfully?
Pour les novices, savoir bien manœuvrer sa pénichette© ou son bateau et réussir à amarrer peut sembler à première vue délicat. Mais si l’on suit quelques conseils d’expert, rien de plus simple !
10 Essentials to take with you on a Pénichette
Before taking charge of your canal boat, make sure you haven't forgotten anything, even though there will be plenty of stop-offs at villages for shopping.
Why choose Locaboat?
Locaboat Holidays has been the industry specialist for boating holidays and waterways cruises since 1977. Inventor of the Pénichette®, Locaboat is as famous for the friendliness and quality of its customer service as for the comfort and easy handling of its boats. When you rent a boat from Locaboat, you’ll benefit from the advice of local experts who are passionate about boating and will do their utmost to make sure you enjoy a wonderful holiday.
More than 200 routes throughout Europe
1.4 million customers since 1977
97% of our customers would recommend us
More than 40 years of expertise to draw on
