NJ Charters Blog: French Canal Barge Charter; A Different Way to Travel

Languedoc

Also referred to as the now popular “Slow Travel”, crewed yacht charter on a French Canal Barge through the canals of France is a very relaxing yacht charter of literally floating through the French Countryside. A crewed French Canal Barge Yacht Charter follows the coastal and interior canals and rivers of France. Once heavily used for the commercial transport of goods, French canals and rivers are now more often used for luxury yacht charter vacations on crewed French canal barges. Generally built for groups of 4 to 8 guests , a crewed yacht charter on a French Canal Barge is a unique way to experience the culture, history, wines, and foods of the French countryside.

Canal du Midi in the Morning

One of our favorite canals for crewed French Canal Barge yacht charter is the Canal du Midi, one of the oldest canals in Europe. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site, the Canal du Midi offers a cruise in the shade of old plane trees through the rolling countryside of Languedoc, famous for gastronomy and wines. Stop at little cafes, bistros and restaurants and caves du vin along the way to literally eat and drink your way through this region. And along the way, explore the medieval walled city of Carcasonne and the city of Argens and experience the staircase of locks near Beziers.

Castle of Carcassonne

Many of the French Canal Barges available for crewed yacht charter are actually original cargo hauling barges that have been converted and now feature luxury interiors with all of the amenities. Some of the French Canal Barges available for crewed yacht charter have fireplaces in the main salon and some even have elevators. They all have very nice staterooms with ensuite bath rooms, a large galley and dining area, and a nice aft deck on which to relax and enjoy the French countryside while cruising along.

Chateau and Vineyard in France

Barge charter activities range from exploring the countryside and cities and villages along the canals, visiting chateaus and farms, and wine tastings at vineyards and caves du vin. Bicycling is always a popular activity as is hiking alongside the barge on the canal tow paths. And of course food and wines are of great focus, especially the local wines and artisan cheeses. Imagine your own private local wine and cheese tasting with fresh French baguettes while floating along the historic Canal du midi in the shade of the plane trees gazing on the French countryside. If this sounds like your type of travel, think about a French Canal Barge for your next crewed yacht charter experience.

Several French Canal Barges that we really like are: