Below we’ve highlighted four great canal boat holidays in France that are all within just 45 minutes of an airport and our team can even organise hassle-free transfers for you.
While travelling by ferry is still a great option there are many reasons why customers may choose to fly to our Nicols bases to begin their canal boating holidays. Some want to avoid driving in another country or simply prefer flying to sailing! There are excellent flight prices offered by airlines flying to France’s many regional airports and several are only a short distance from our popular bases.
Below we’ve highlighted four great canal boat holidays in France that are all within just 45 minutes of an airport and our team can even organise hassle-free transfers for you.
30km from Nantes airport
Enjoy a network of rivers set in a land of magic and mystery – with fairytale castles, colourful traditions and charming countryside. The location of our base is perfect for cruising into the heart of the city of Nantes and its many attractions including Cathedral St Pierre, the Pommeraye passage and the Museum of Fine Arts.
After working up an appetite enjoy freshly caught seafood, delicious crepes and locally produced cider.
See all cruising itineraries and canal boat hire options from Sucé sur Erdre
30km from Montpellier airport
The south of France has perfect weather nearly all year round making this a great destination for a boating holiday. Head to the Camargue for crusader ports, sandy beaches, the famous salt marshes and interesting wildlife including flamingos and wild horses.
What’s more with only a few locks on the waterways this region is ideal for first time cruisers.
See all cruising itineraries and canal boat hire options from Aigues Mortes
Aigues Mortes in Camargue
40km from Strasbourg airport
Navigate your Nicols boat through magnificent scenery – rivers framed by forests and mountains. Wonderful architecture and delicious regional food and fine wines are other highlights of the region.
Must sees from Saverne are a trip to Strasbourg to the east or the famous Arzviller boat lift (the only one in France!) to the west.
See all cruising itineraries and canal boat hire options from Saverne
Arzviller boat lift in Camargue
50km from Carcassonne airport
Cruise through sun-drenched vineyards and quaint villages – most with canal side restaurants to try out! From the base at Port Lauragais you can head either way along the Canal du Midi, west towards the red bricked ‘pink city’ of Toulouse or east towards Castelnaudary and then the medieval city of Carcassonne.
A canal boating holiday on the Canal du Midi lets you explore one of UNESCO’s most famous World Heritage Sites.
See all cruising itineraries and canal boat hire options from Port Lauragais