Over 28,000 Ways to Take to the Water, with Le Boat

Le Boat has been helping holidaymakers captain their own self-drive river cruise holidays in Europe for more than 50 years, and 2023 promises to be the best year yet. With over 28,000 different holiday options available, it’s time to hit the water.

With 11 new cruisers built for the 2023 fleet, Le Boat is successfully broadening the horizons of its customers and promising holiday fun for couples, families and groups. Its extensive network in Canada, England, Scotland, Ireland, France, Italy, Belgium, Netherlands and Germany means Le Boat offers more one-way cruises than any other operator; a perfect way of seeing more of a cruising area without retracing steps.

Cost savings are possible for Le Boat holidays next year, with the best value secured by booking in advance.

For holidays that are as much about the journey as the destination, holidaymakers can now travel in style and serenity along the romantic rivers and picturesque waterways of nine European countries. Le Boat has over 30 different departure bases to choose from and a variety of boats to suit all budgets.

The best cost-saving option for families is a self-catering boating holiday where the views change daily. The price does vary depending on the number of people travelling, and the size of the boat (the largest sleeps up to 12), but the base cost of a holiday tends to be much lower and stocking up at the local supermarket can be far more economical than eating out.

Looking further ahead, it is always risky to second guess the markets. Perhaps sterling will strengthen, or the dollar or the euro might suddenly take a hit. Whatever happens, travellers will be wise to assume that the pound will remain weak for at least a few months more, so now is the time to book.

Le Boat is offering up to 10% off all holidays* for 2023 booked by 30 November 2022, and an additional 5% extra discount with at least one child under 16 years old on board. When booking, choosing to pay up in full Le Boat will offer an additional 3% discount and from Monday 03 October 2023 a low deposit offer will start with 25% paid on booking and the rest of the 25% deposit paid by 31 January 2023. It is also possible to lock in the price of fuel ahead of travel with a silver or gold bundle deal.

The Canal du Midi has multiple start locations to choose from, and holidaymakers can traverse more than 150 miles of scenic waterways along the 17th Century network of canals that connect the Atlantic to the Mediterranean. Famed for its wine tasting and world-class gastronomy, the Canal du Midi is also rich in history and heritage, boasting impressive cathedrals, grand châteaux, ancient ruins, and medieval cities. A seven-night self-catered stay on the Canal du Midi, from 10 April 2023, starting and finishing at Le Boat’s base in Port Cassafières, on board a Sheba boat (sleeping five), is priced from £1,309 per boat (was £1,459 per boat, saving 10%). Transport to and from the base is not included.
Le Boat (023 9222 2177, www.leboat.co.uk)

The River Thames provides a magical combination of lush-green countryside, historic castles, royal palaces and gardens, and offers a lovely calm oasis to give time for contemplation. Mooring is possible in Windsor and it’s a stroll to visit this historic town.  A four-night self-catered stay on the River Thames, from 17 September 2023, starting and finishing at Le Boat’s base in Chertsey on board a Caprice boat (sleeping six), is priced from £935 per boat (was £1,039 per boat, saving 10%). Transport to and from the base is not included.
Le Boat (023 9222 2177, www.leboat.co.uk)