Last-Minute Autumn Boating Getaways with Le Boat – Save Up to 30% 

As the vibrant colours of autumn take hold, there’s no better time to escape to the water. Le Boat, the leading provider of inland waterway holidays, is offering significant savings of up to 30% on last-minute autumn cruises. Available for all boat types and destinations (excluding Italy), these discounted rates provide an excellent opportunity for holidaymakers to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of the season from the unique perspective of the water. The offer is available for a limited time, with bookings closing on 09 September 2024. 

For those looking to unwind before the busy festive season, a Le Boat holiday provides a welcome escape. Some of the last-minute autumn itineraries include: 

Re-discover the Thames, England 

Starting from Le Boat’s base in Benson, nestled in the tranquil, rural end of the Thames, the journey begins amidst rolling countryside, farmland, and villages. A six-hour cruise westward brings the group to the historic city of Oxford. Here, they can indulge in afternoon tea with panoramic views at the Ashmolean Dining Rooms, followed by a visit to the stunning Grade II listed Sheldonian Theatre to enjoy a show. Heading east from Benson, after another leisurely six hours on the water, guests will reach Basildon Park. This grand Georgian mansion, set within 400 acres of historic parkland, was featured in the iconic period drama Downton Abbey. With daily house tours offering insights into the filming, it’s a must-see for history and film enthusiasts alike. Mooring near Beale Park, the group can easily walk up to this historic gem for a day of exploration. A three-night self-catered cruise on the River Thames, departing on 24 September 2024, starting and ending at Le Boat’s base at Benson, on board the Consul sleeping up to four people, is priced from £459 per boat (was £659, saving £200). No experience required. Transport to and from the base is not included. 

Le Boat (023 9222 2177, www.leboat.co.uk) 

Explore the beautiful waterways of Flanders, Belgium 

One of Le Boat’s most popular destinations is the region of Flanders in northern Belgium, which bursts into colour during the autumn. Here holidaymakers can explore the beautiful coastal lowlands, which are a haven for seabirds and beachgoers. Cruisers start and finish at the Le Boat base in Nieuwpoort, allowing them take in the historic cities of Ypres, famous for the beautiful “Halle aux drapes”, and Bruges, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with countless museums and excellent restaurants to explore. A seven-night self-catered Belgium cruise, departing 28 September 2024, starting and ending in at the Le Boat base at Nieuwpoort, on board the Caprice sleeping up to six people, is priced from £959 per boat (was £1,379, saving £420). No experience required. Transport to and from the base is not included. 

Le Boat (023 9222 2177, www.leboat.co.uk) 

Enjoy the waterways of Canal Du Midi, France 

Take a trip along the Canal du Midi, with several starting locations holidaymakers can traverse more than 150 miles of scenic waterways along the 17th-century network of canals that connect the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. Dock and discover the stunning 17th-century Château Paraza, built in 1615 by Monsieur Ricquet, the château, nestled in the Languedoc region, is family-run and features a luxury B&B and a local tapas bar. Ideal for romantic wine-tasting getaways, immersed in history. Le Boat are currently offering up to 30% off on boating holidays departing in September and October, when booked before 9 September 2024. A seven-night self-catered stay on the Canal du Midi, starting and finishing at Le Boat’s base in Port Cassafiereson board a Sheba sleeping up to five people, departing 11 September 2024, costs £669 per boat (was £959, saving £290). No experience required. Transport to and from the base is not included.  

Le Boat (023 9222 2177, www.leboat.co.uk) 

Explore the historic Alsace-Lorraine, France 

Beginning from Le Boat’s base in Hesse, guests can discover the picturesque Alsace-Lorraine boating region, choosing from three options based on preference. If travelling Westward, guests can cruise through the deepest lock in France to Nancy, known for Art Nouveau and grand Baroque art and architecture. If heading North, there is the option to explore cosmopolitan Saarbücken in Germany. Choosing East will allow guests to experience the iconic boat lift at Arzviller and journey on to Strasbourg, the home of the European Parliament. Holidaymakers can try delicacies such as Flammekueche and Baeckoeffe, washed down with wine from the local area. A seven-night self-catered Alsace-Lorraine cruise, departing 18 October 2024, starting and ending at the Le Boat base at Hesse, on board the Cirrus B sleeping up to four people, is priced from £609 per boat (was £879, saving £270). No experience required. Transport to and from the base is not included. 

Le Boat (023 9222 2177, www.leboat.co.uk) 

Be part of Highland history with Le Boat Caledonian Canal 

In Scotland, Le Boat operates on the historic Caledonian Canal, which connects the North Atlantic with the North Sea. The 62-mile passage runs from Loch Linnhe to Moray Firth, with boaters able to explore the beautiful waters between Fort William and Inverness, including Loch Ness. Holidaymakers can explore the region, and enjoy hilltop castles, quiet waterside towns, cosy pubs, whisky tastings, and beautiful highland scenery. And for those in search of something a little more active, there are plenty of opportunities to moor up and go mountain biking or white-water rafting. A seven-night self-catered cruise in Scotland, departing 21 October 2024, starting and ending at Le Boat’s base at Laggan, on board the Capri WHS is priced from £367 per boat (was £507, saving £170). No experience required. Transport to and from the base is not included. 

Le Boat (023 9222 2177, www.leboat.co.uk) 

Le Boat’s autumn sale provides a unique opportunity to experience the magic of Europe’s waterways at an unbeatable price. With no prior boating experience required and the option to bring pets along, it’s an ideal getaway for families, couples, and groups of friends alike.