Inspiration for your Canal Boat Hire
Canal Boat hire with Le Boat can be anything you want it to be, whether that's a relaxing boating getaway or an active river boat adventure. So why not choose a destination that best suits your passion, or the interests of your party, and make your boat hire a holiday to remember.
Which region? Our boat hire recommendations by activity
We offer canal boat hire all over Europe, and Canada too. So whatever your passion is, you're sure to find a destination to 'float your boat'. Do you enjoy hitting the fairways, exploring on two wheels or learning about local history and heritage - or maybe it's wine-tasting and gastronomic pleasures you seek? Whichever it is, we have a boat hire destination to suit you.
Nature
The waterways are home to some of Europe’s finest wildlife and offer great scenery and natural spots. Also discover the great parks and gardens near the waterways.
History & Heritage
Our cruising routes are packed with both famous historical sites to see and lesser-known historical gems to discover.
Food
Each of our regions offers delicious gastronomic treats to taste on your holiday.
Wine Tasting
In our French cruising regions, opportunities to tour vineyards are as plentiful as the many wines they offer.
Swimming and seaside
Many of our cruises take you to perfect swimming spots that children—and adults—will love.
Fishing
Fishing's the perfect pastime for your holiday. Europe's rivers are full of fish to hook!
Cycling
All of our cruises are perfect for gentle cycling along the towpath. Find cruises close to more adventurous cycling routes.
Horse Riding
For something different, take to the saddle and enjoy a gentle trot along the canal paths.
Water sports
Many of our destinations are terrific places for kayaking, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, or just taking a swim.
Which region? Our houseboat rental recommendations - by group type
Rent a houseboat to explore our beautiful lakes, rivers and canals is the perfect vacation, regardless of who you are travelling with - even the dog! Families, couples and groups of friends will all enjoy crewing your own boat and helping to navigate it from one idyllic place to the next, which ever country you choose to explore. Some of our regions are particularly great for certain group types however, so allow us to recommend some for you.
Family friendly
Fun for families of all ages, a houseboat rental with children is a great way of combining activity and relaxation in a totally different kind of way.
Dog friendly
Whichever boat or destination you choose, your dog is always welcome on board!
Group Adventures
Sharing a boat with friends and discovering new places to see and new things to do each day is not only great fun, but it's affordable too.
Short Breaks
Short holidays are perfect for a bank holiday weekend, a getaway when you have limited holiday time, a relaxing cruise for a romantic break or a taster opportunity for those new to boating who just want to give it a try.
Holidays for couples
If you're looking for a quiet break to recharge your batteries or a romantic getaway, then a boating holiday for two may be just the answer. Choose from our smaller cruisers such as the Cirrus or Sheba, which are easy for two to handle.
Canal boating holidays
Operating across nine different counties, each one has something special to offer. We’ve selected our canal boat hire destinations, steeped full of history and were once built to carry goods from one place to another, are now a tranquil escape.
Choose a houseboat rental destination to suit you - like these people did...
"We were quite a high maintenance group with our older kids to keep entertained and I was worried my in-laws might lose interest. But we all had an amazing time exploring the Canal du Midi by boat... there was plenty of variety for everyone." - James K
"We wanted somewhere good for a three night break and were recommended a boat rental in Belgium. A short break to Bruges for the August bank holiday was ideal and was certainly hassle-free! We were able to moor right near the centre which made exploring the architectural genius of the city very easy. We are already booking up another cruise in Scotland for the next bank holiday." - Steve P
"I had my doubts about leaving our dog at home, but when we learned that we were able to bring him along, it made our trip all the better. It was easy to moor and take him for a walk along the canal and into the woods. I would recommend a canal boat to anyone with a dog." - Leanne W
For more inspiration: