Trustpilot icon We are proud to say that we are rated excellent on Trustpilot. Rosette icon With over 50 years of experience and expertise, we're passionate about providing unbeatable vacations on the water. Compass icon Our extensive network of bases across 9 countries means you can enjoy a return-trip or choose from a wide selection of one-way routes. Boat icon We have more river and canal boats available than any other operator, available to hire between April and October. Our wide range of boats sleeps between 2-12 people. Boat wheel icon That's right! You can rent and captain your own boat for a short break (3 nights minimum), a week or longer. We'll show you everything you need to know before you set off.
Le Boat boating destinations

Canal Boat Holidays

Embark on an unforgettable journey with Le Boat and discover the charm of canal boat holidays across nine incredible countries. Whether you dream of a tranquil escape in the UK or an adventure abroad, your perfect canal holiday awaits.

Cruise through the breathtaking landscapes of Europe and Canada, navigating scenic lakes, rivers, and canals at your own pace. From picturesque villages and lush countryside to historic towns and vibrant culture, there’s no better way to take it all in than from the comfort of your private sundeck.

Whether you’re seeking a budget-friendly retreat or a luxurious floating holiday, each destination offers something special – from wine tasting and world-class cuisine to sun-soaked beaches and awe-inspiring views.

Our canal boat holiday destinations

Windsor Castle
England

Boating holidays in England are fun-packed adventures, through pretty countryside and historic sites.

  • Family fun and plenty to do and see
  • Beautiful green countryside
  • Riverside pubs and immaculate villages
  • Fishing and bird-watching
Explore
Urqhart Castle on the Caledonian Canal, Scotland
Scotland

Canal boat holidays in Scotland offer an unforgettable holiday experience, with the spectacular mountain scenery of the Highlands providing a stunning backdrop to every journey.

  • Spectacular mountain scenery
  • Hiking & hill walking
  • Whisky distillery tours
  • Fishing, wildlife & bird-watching
Explore
Castle in Ireland
Ireland

Boating holidays in Ireland offer the perfect mix of mystical waterways and a famously warm welcome, making for a truly memorable escape.

  • Ancient Celtic monuments & religious sites
  • Championship golf courses
  • Wonderful fishing
  • Fantastic scenery
  • Friendly pubs with traditional live music
Explore
Boat travelling on the Canal Du Midi
France

Discover the charm of French canal holidays as you explore nine stunning regions, each offering its unique blend of scenery, culture, and relaxation.

  • Range of boating holiday destinations
  • Unique scenery for each region
  • Rich history and heritage
  • Local gastronomy and finest wines
Explore
Parliament Hill, Ottawa, Canada
Canada

Enjoy unforgettable Canada holidays as you explore beautiful lakes and rivers within two world-class canal systems

  • Wide open lakes and water sports
  • A mecca for nature
  • Dynamic cities
  • Rich heritage
Explore
Colourful houses in Burano
Italy

Come boating in Italy and discover a unique blend of vibrant cities, historic charm, and peaceful countryside landscapes.

  • Romantic & historic Venice
  • Beaches & sunbathing
  • Traditional fishing-villages
  • Seafood restaurants
  • Art, history & iconic sightseeing
  • Craft – glass blowing, lace-making
Explore
Windmills in the Netherlands
Netherlands

A Netherlands holiday offers the perfect opportunity to explore a landscape filled with canals, windmills, and charming chocolate-box towns – all best discovered by boat.

  • City break in Amsterdam
  • Fishing, cycling & watersports
  • Festivals & events
  • Relaxed pavement café atmosphere
Explore
Ghent, Belgium
Belgium

A Belgium river cruise promises ancient, rich architecture and the charm of historic cities at every turn.

  • Gothic architecture
  • Cathedrals & churches
  • Museums & art galleries
  • Horse-drawn carriage tours
  • World War memorials
  • Tasty Chocolates & Beers
Explore
Castle in Brandenburg
Germany

German river cruises take you from serene lakes to the vibrant energy of Germany’s pulsating capital, offering a journey full of contrast and discovery.

  • Lakeside Baroque castles
  • Swimming & watersports
  • Hiking & biking
  • Forest & bird watching
Explore

Why choose Le Boat canal boating holidays?

Canal holidays with Le Boat offer a wonderful opportunity to explore the leafy countryside, experience diverse cultures, and visit charming villages often overlooked by traditional tourists. With boating holidays across a choice of nine different countries, your exploration possibilities are simply endless!

Our river boat holidays allow you to explore the surrounding areas wherever, whenever and in whatever way you want to. With a vast network of bases across Europe, we can offer the largest variety of cruising routes in comparison to our competitors, many of which are one-way trips, meaning that you won’t have to return to where you started.

Whether you fancy walking through the medieval cobbled streets of Bruges or indulging in the finest wines and cheeses of Burgundy, with over 170 varied river cruising holidays, we’ll be sure to have the right river boat holiday for you, whether it’s a weekend away or a long-haul trip.

Best of all, your choices don’t stop there. With over 40 different types of boats to hire, depending on your choice of destination, and the freedom to travel as slowly as you want to, your trip couldn’t be easier to book. So, take your pick and find out more.

Our canal boats

As captain of your own hired boat, you’ll be living in and navigating your personal cruiser. Our boats are easy to operate, and the best part is that you don’t need a boat licence or any prior experience to set off. We have plenty of boat hire options including Luxury,  PremierComfort and Comfort Plus, and even Budget boats  to suit every need and preference. With so many choices available, you can easily book the perfect canal boat holiday to enjoy with your loved ones.

Looking for canal boat holidays for beginners?

We know it can seem a little daunting to head off on your own canal boat cruiser without any experience. Your safety and security are very important to us, and although no licence is required, we ensure you get a full induction before setting off onto the waters. Our thorough orientation covers everything you need to know, from basic navigation skills to understanding the unique features of your canal boat.

Le Boat is committed to ensuring that first-time cruisers enjoy an unforgettable holiday and gain the skills and knowledge necessary to feel confident on the water. So if you’re new to canal boating, you can be sure you’ll be a confident boater on a Le Boat holiday.

What our customers say…