5 Reasons Why Luxury Barge Trips in France are Better Than a Traditional Cruise

Learn more about the difference between a French barge cruise and a traditional river cruise – and the top five reasons why a luxury barge trip should be your next vacation.

Imagine cruising gently along tranquil canals in France, surrounded by antique villages and rolling vineyards. Barge cruises offer tourists a glimpse of the serene French countryside, and they immerse you in local culture and cuisine. A luxury barge cruise is different from a traditional cruise in many ways – barges are smaller and slower, they offer more detailed itineraries, and they often explore remote regions. Here are five reasons why a luxury barge trip provides a more authentic travel experience than a traditional river cruise.

Access Unspoiled Countryside 

Luxury hotel barges are smaller than riverboats and cruise ships, and they glide through many inland canals that are inaccessible to larger vessels. French channels often travel through ancient hamlets and towns that predate the waterways and immerse you in rich architecture and history. Cruise past famous 17th-century landmarks in Montargis and Montbouy during a cruise on the canal de Briare or explore on foot to experience modern culture blossoming from historical remains.

Explore France’s Hidden Gems 

Luxury barge cruises include unique itineraries, and you will have the opportunity to stroll through small local markets and taste food and wine from boutique French restaurants and vineyards. Hotel barges provide even bicycles for you to ride alongside the canal to get some fresh air and light exercise during your trip.  If you’re looking to explore Europe off the beaten track away from bustling tourist attractions, a luxury barge cruise is the ideal summer vacation for you. 

Build a Leisurely Itinerary

Barge trips are much slower than river cruises – a barge travels at about 5 miles per hour, while a traditional river cruiser moves at about 15 miles per hour. The slower pace means you cover less territory, giving you plenty of time to explore all the rich culture the French countryside has to offer. Barge vacations are suited for relaxing and exploring at your own pace, offering more freedom than traditional cruises. They take time to move through locks along the canal, and you will never get left behind if you decide to spend the day exploring a local village. 

Travel With a Smaller Group

A barge cruise is a boutique experience that caters to smaller groups of people than a traditional cruise. Book a luxury barge trip to make lifelong memories with a small group of friends or family without being surrounded by bustling tourists on all sides. Travel restrictions are less likely to affect barge trips than traditional cruises, and you can book your barge vacation in advance with confidence.

Get Personal Service and Customized Excursions

The crew on a river barge is limited, and they quickly get to know you and your tastes to make your cruise more enjoyable. If you notice an amazing riverside attraction that you’d love to visit – ask the crew to take you on a tour! The intimate size of a barge cruise allows the crew to build custom adventures for you, even if your group wants to split-up for the day. 

Barge cruises are luxurious and relaxing, and they offer authentic travel experiences away from busy tourist areas. Cruising through French canals on a river barge is a magical experience that leaves you feeling refreshed for weeks after your vacation. Hotel barges offer diverse ways to enjoy France, and they are suited to couples, small groups, and solo trippers. If you’re looking for a picturesque summer abroad, consider a barge vacation on a glistening French canal.