European riverboat cruises, barge holidays, canal and houseboat cruising are fantastic alternatives for a vacation activity. Now is time to book for 2012 and 2013 as space is very limited. Two of the popular choices are on the Thames and on the Seine. Local Parisians would not consider taking a 2 hour cruise on the Seine and that's a shame because it's a great way to see one of the world's most beautiful cities. When visiting Paris for the first time, a Seine riverboat cruise is a great way to see many of the top monuments, including the Louvre, Notre Dame and the Eiffel Tower. Bateaux Vedettes du Pont-Neuf is a reputable company that I have used many times. I haven't cruised the Thames river yet, but I will.
Although this form of canal barge hire is nothing new, the popularity of cruising the inland waterways of Europe is increasing rapidly. Why? Very simple, really. European river cruises are something totally different and the mode of transportation is stress and worry-free. Houseboats and luxury hotel barges offer all inclusive barge holidays tours with an expert staff and crew that also act as your local guides, leading tours to local points of interest.
One brand stands head and shoulders above any other provider and that is Viking River Cruises. Viking's fleet of magnificent ships set the standard of excellence in European river cruising and for that reason they are the only company that gets my seal of approval. Don't even bother checking with anyone else. Keep in mind that they are the market leader for river cruises but that is quite different from barge cruising on the narrow inland canals such as in the countryside of France. In all fairness I am adding Avalon Waterways as an alternative to Viking but, quite frankly, they are just not in the same class. I want your river cruise through Europe to be a once-in-a-lifetime experience that evokes happy memories. While Tauck and Avalon Waterways offer several itineraries that are similar to Viking's offerings they emphasize the destinations rather than the entire experience. From my view and ultimately for my readers, one must consider the entire experience and that include the quality of the fleet of ships.
River and Canal Barge Holiday Vacation Ideas and Tips:
A very popular canal boat holiday trip is on the 300-year-old Canal du Midi. It is designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and considered to be the most beautiful canal in France.
Most French vacation barges and houseboats are air-conditioned, equipped with bathrooms and kitchens and also have sun decks and lounges. Check Voyage Masters sponsors for details.
For the more independent traveler, rent a smaller self-drive houseboat. No prior registration or boating license is required.
Always ask for AAA, AARP or Senior Citizens discount at time of booking. For example, The American Association of Retired Persons (AARP) Partner, Brendan Vacations, offers $50 per-person discounts on locally hosted and escorted rivers cruises.
Cruising slowly through the French countryside enables you to enjoy the true beauty of the of the Luberon region.
