Top destinations for houseboat rental cruises in 2022
Le Boat has seen a huge increase in search traffic on their website in the last few weeks, which is a clear indication that people are ready to plan their 2022 houseboat holidays.
With the expanded roll out and acceptance of vaccination passports worldwide, flexible booking terms and COVID Refunds, travelers who have a pent-up demand to vacation are acting now to confirm their 2022 destinations so they, once again, have something to look forward to.
Here are the top destinations for houseboat rental cruises in 2022...
1. France - Canal du Midi
The Canal du Midi is our most popular boating region, and rightfully so, because the scenic canal is a once-in-lifetime experience. The UNESCO World Heritage site is a 300-year-old waterway that will take you from lush vineyard of the Languedoc wine regions to charming medieval villages, to ancient fortresses cities, to the Mediterranean Sea. Perfect for a family holiday getaway, you’ll enjoy fine foods, charming markets, excellent cycling, sandy beaches, and even family-fun adventure parks! The Canal du Midi is also a great all-season waterway. In July and August, you can enjoy peak season, when there is an abundance of events and festivals held or you can go when it is a bit quieter on the water in June and September. In April, May and October, there is an increased chance of disagreeable weather, but often it is still pleasantly warm and sunny in this region of southern France.
2. Netherlands - Holland, Amsterdam & Friesland
The Netherlands is a great country to visit for a springtime getaway, as our bases here open on April 1, 2022, and a wonderful cruising region in the summer and fall seasons too. Early-season vacationers will love the chance to visit during the Tulip Festival when the country is transformed into a colourful patchwork quilt! Peak-season travelers will also enjoy a chance to cruise from beautiful countryside and quaint villages to cosmopolitan cities. An Amsterdam canal cruise offers a range of activities from cycle trips, to beach days to museums visits and park picnics. Finally, if you are waiting to see how things go, book early and save on your late-season Holland holiday for September and October. Escape the busy summer crowds and find peace and quiet as you visit parks, nature trails, restaurants, shopping malls and cities! See why canal cruising is a way of life for Dutch residents.
3.United Kingdom (UK) – Scotland, Caledonian Canal
Perhaps you are looking for a more outdoorsy houseboat holiday--one that connects you to the natural environment--if so, the Scotland Highlands is the region for you! The Caledonian Canal is a rugged and scenic waterway that takes you from historic villages to natural lakes (lochs) to hilltop castles and the famous region of Inverness. Here you will enjoy stunning views of natural wonders of the world including Loch Ness, Ben Nevis—UK’s highest mountain--and the valleys of the Great Glen, just to name a few. This destination is perfect for nature lovers, skilled fishers, history buffs, and avid golfers. A 2022 Scotland holiday is one you and your family will never forget!
4. Canada – Rideau Canal, Ontario
Looking for a change of scenery? Discover our newest boating region in Canada. The UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal offers house boaters an adventurous cruise on a chain of beautiful lakes, rivers, and canals that wind from Ottawa—Canada’s National Capital—to Historic Kingston. Here you will enjoy the chance to travel in a ‘floating cottage’ on our premier Horizon and Horizon PLUS Fleet. Perfect for unwinding on wide open waterways, swimming in pristine lakes, taking in spectacular nature and exploring quaint towns and lively cities. The Rideau Canal is a great destination for new boaters as the locks are all operated by Parks Canada staff who ensure easy passage through the hand-operated lock system. If you are looking for an outdoor travel experience from the safety of your own social bubble, the Rideau Canal is Ontario’s best kept secret!
5. United Kingdom (UK)- England, River Thames
What is more traditional than a houseboat holiday on the River Thames, in the South of England? Here there really is something for everyone, whether you are looking for an exploration into the past for history buffs, fans of the monarchy and self-proclaimed royal watchers or a relaxing mosey down the river for slow-paced traveler. You will not run out of things to do on the River Thames, visit charming pubs, dine in fine restaurants, tour palaces and medieval castles, enjoy a trip to world-class museums (The Tate) or a West-End theatre, take a carriage ride or an open-top double-decker bus tour, the possibilities are endless! If you are looking for something a little more relaxing thought, don’t fret, the Thames has that too. Start your houseboat vacation at our Benson base where you will experience more of the English countryside, stop at an occasional pub for a pint of ale, moore your boat easily and enjoy fewer locks. Visit Britain and experience this versatile waterway and check London off your bucket list!
6. France – Burgundy: Nivernais & Loire
You will never get tired of boating in the Nivernais & Loire region of Burgundy. This idyllic landscape is the perfect backdrop for your private river boat cruise as it changes from stately châteaux to colourful gardens, flourishing vineyards, medieval villages, and bustling Roman towns. Famous for its world-class wineries and beautiful valleys, you’ll want to take your time and enjoy a slower pace of life. Why not take the bikes for a spin or stretch your legs on one of the many nature trails? When you cruise here, you are experiencing the quintessential tour of France and its history. From 12th and 13th century churches to museums with Gallo-Roman relics to modern architectural marvels. Enjoy the French way of life as you stroll through picturesque villages, dine in world-class restaurants, or sip Cabernet from the top deck of your private cruiser. This is sure to be a holiday you will always remember.
Need help planning your trip? Our expert Le Boat vacation planners can help find a trip that best fits your destination, budget, and travel style. Call AU: 1800 118 940 / NZ: 0800 449 891 or contact them direct for a quote or more information about our early booking offers.
Start planning your 2022 holiday today!