Have questions? We're here.
International Lyceum of Pontonniers in Strasbourg

Barge Cruising and Canal Tours

Travel made your way ™
Talk with an expert
Build your ideal trip. Call 1.406.541.2677
Start Planning My Trip
Talk with an expert
Try something different on your next cruise—barge cruising! These unique and small vessels are a new take on an old way to navigate the waters of the world. As tourism has increased throughout Europe, owners of old cargo barges have taken time to convert their vessels into now-luxurious hosts of your cruise, giving you exclusive access to canals and rivers all from aboard a truly intimate boat, often hosting fewer than 12 passengers. Contact us for more information on the treasured experience of barge cruising!

10 Best Barge Cruises for 2025-2026

Seabirds flying over dramatic ocean island cliffs St Kilda

Wild Scotland

12 Days from $13,595
Join this 12-day expedition from Edinburgh to Aberdeen aboard the Greg Mortimer. Explore Scotland's isles, cruise rugged coastlines, spot wildlife, and visit historic sites.
EXPLORE
0
Seabirds flying over dramatic ocean island cliffs St Kilda

Wild Scotland

12 Days from $13,595
Set sail on a 12-day cruise from Edinburgh to Aberdeen aboard the Sylvia Earle, exploring Scotland's untamed islands. Discover the ancient Hebrides and lush Orkney Islands, encounter wildlife along scenic coastlines, and experience local culture in charming villages while enjoying Scotland's renowned whisky.
EXPLORE
0
Ring Of Brodgar, Orkney

Wild Scotland

12 Days from $11,995
Embark on a 12-day cruise aboard the Greg Mortimer, exploring the stunning landscapes of the Inner and Outer Hebrides. Experience highlights like Fingal's Cave, the ancient island of Iona, and the rich history of Orkney before concluding your adventure in Aberdeen.
EXPLORE
0
Discover ancient cultures of the Orkney islands

Spirit of Scotland

11 Days from $12,995
Embark on an 11-day Spirit of Scotland cruise aboard the Exploris One. Witness rare seabirds on Fair Isle, cruise the dramatic coastlines of Papa Stour and Foula and uncover Neolithic wonders in Orkney. Immerse yourself in a journey that blends history, nature, and adventure in the remote and awe-inspiring locations in Scotland and Ireland.
EXPLORE
0
Skara Brae, Orkney

The Jewels of Scotland

9 Days from $7,295
Embark on a 9-day roundtrip cruise on Scotland’s stunning coastlines and wild islands from Aberdeen aboard the Ocean Albatros. Sail to remote gems like Scrabster, Stornoway, and Kirkwall. Visit historic landmarks such as the Castle of Mey, the Calanish Standing Stones, and the bustling port of Lerwick.
EXPLORE
0
Discover the rich history of Edinburgh

Shetland, Orkney & Hebrides

8 Days from $6,850
Sail into the heart of Celtic shores on this 8-day cruise aboard the Le Bellot. See essential places like the old and new parts of Edinburgh, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit the islands of Shetland, Orkney, and the Hebrides in the north.
EXPLORE
0
Visit charming Portree

Shetland, Orkney & Hebrides

8 Days from $6,500
Set sail on an 8-day cruise aboard Le Laperouse, exploring Scotland's stunning archipelagos from Edinburgh to Glasgow, including the Shetland, Orkney, and Hebrides Islands. Each port offers a unique excursion, from the Calanais Standing Stones to the Ben Nevis distillery, finishing in Glasgow’s vibrant cultural hub.
EXPLORE
0
Ring of Brodgar is a unique stone circle in Scotland.

Scotland's Highlands and Islands

8 Days from $9,678
From Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, explore the historic sites of Scotland on this week-long cruise on the Lord of the Glens. Lochs, castles, villages, pubs, and ancient ruins highlight this tour, which features inland visits like Loch Ness and Duart Castle as well as some time on the quaint & remote Scottish Isles of Rum, and Skye.
EXPLORE
0
Cochem town on the Mosel River, Germany

Classic Cruise – Germany & Luxembourg

7 Days from $10,725
Onboard La Nouvelle Etoile, sail through the beautiful canals of Germany and Luxembourg for seven days, stopping at quaint towns along the way. While driving through Trier, the oldest city in Germany, the Porta Nigra, and Pauli Bergweiler's wine cellars are just a few of the numerous historical landmarks to see.
EXPLORE
0
Explore historic Bamberg

Europe's Rivers & Castles - Cruise Only

8 Days from $4,239
Set sail on an 8-day river cruise aboard the MS Amacerto, exploring Europe’s charm from the scenic Main River to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley's castles and Moselle's vineyards. Visit picturesque villages like Bernkastel, Cochem, and Rothenburg, admire the Wurzburg Residenz fresco, and savor German wines and smoked beer.
EXPLORE
0

Best Barge Cruising Deals for 2025-2026

Trip Name From Days Next Departure Summary
Corsican shores, under Sail Aboard Le Ponant $12,220 8 May 17, 2025 Set sail on an 8-day cruise along the Corsican coastline aboard Le Ponant, departing from Nice. Explore the northern terrain of Balagne and Cap Corse with historic citadels and unspoiled villages. Experience the Gulf of Sant’Amanza. Visit the Gulf of Roccapina and Domaine de Murtoli before returning to Nice.
0
Normandy & Gems of the Seine $14,990 11 May 20, 2025 Board the luxurious Scenic Gem on this 11-day Seine River cruise. Experience some of the highlights of the Seine from the glittering lights of Paris, to historic Normandy, to charming riverside villages dating back centuries.
0
Burgundy & Provence $3,799 8 Mar 23, 2025 Embark on an 8-day Burgundy & Provence cruise from Arles to Lyon aboard the S.S. Catherine. Visit towns like Avignon, where medieval charm and the majestic Palace of the Popes await. Next, explore the quaint village of Viviers and its storied past, and then explore the twin wine villages of Tain-l’Hermitage and Tournon.
0
Brilliant Bordeaux $3,499 8 Mar 30, 2025 Embark on an 8-day river cruise through Bordeaux aboard S.S. Bon Voyage, exploring iconic wine regions, charming villages, and historic sites. Discover the Médoc wine route and sample world-class wines. Enjoy scenic biking through Bordeaux’s historic backstreets or guided walking tours to uncover the city’s UNESCO-listed heritage.
0
Southern Burgundy Cruise $9,090 7 Mar 30, 2025 Delight yourself with a 7-day trip on the Finesse while cruising around Southern Burgundy. As you sail, you will get to explore and discover the history, architecture, and culture of the spectacular villages this French region.
0
European Classic Cruise - Upper Loire & Western Burgundy $9,090 7 Mar 30, 2025 Board the luxury hotel barge Renaissance and take a 7-day cruise through the rivers and canals of France. Cruise over Gustav Eiffel's famous aqueduct spanning the Loire River. Take some time to explore the beautiful village and canals of Montargis either on foot or bicycle.
0
Classic Champagne Cruise $9,090 7 Mar 30, 2025 Embark on a 7-day cruise aboard the Kir Royale, blending history, culture, and indulgence. Explore vineyards, visit World War I sites, and enjoy private tastings at renowned champagne houses.
0
Colors of Provence - Cruise Only $4,039 8 Mar 27, 2025 Embark the MS Amakristina in Arles, France for your week-long cruise through France's legendary wine regions, including Cotes du Rhone, Burgundy and Beaujolais. Enjoy wine tastings, ancient Roman ruins, and medieval villages on this European vacation. Les Baux, Avignon, Viviers, Tournon, and Vienne are all stops before arriving to Lyon, France.
0
Canal Du Midi Voyage- Sallèles d’Aude to Trèbes $7,990 7 Mar 23, 2025 Enjoy an exciting 7-day cruise aboard Enchanté while cruising along Canal Du Midi. Experience a wine tour and tasting at a remarkable and historic winery. Explore historical villages and discover its stories from your knowledgeable tour guide throughout the cruise.
0
Southern Burgundy Cruise $6,850 7 Mar 30, 2025 Board L’Impressionniste for this 7-day cruise which will take you on a tour that starts and ends in Paris. View the beautiful French countryside from the ship, explore medieval villages, and taste the local goods produced in the region.
0

The World's Top 9 Barge Cruising Destinations for 2025-2026

Stop in Avignon on your cruise of the Rhône river.

French Barge Cruises
0
region
Historic old town Strasbourg

Canal du Midi
0
collection
Golden hour in Venice's famed Piazza San Marco

Italian Barge Cruises
0
collection
The beautiful tulip gardens of Holland

Holland Barge Cruises
0
collection
Relax in one of Edinburgh's parks

Scotland Barge Cruises
0
collection
Visit charming villages in France

Moselle River Barge Cruises
0
collection
The Palais des Papes dominates the Avignon skyline

Rhone River Barge Cruises
0
collection
Explore Paris, the legendary city of light

Seine River Barge Cruises
0
Peaceful canal running through a European town

All European Barge Cruises
0

Top 10 Barge Charters for 2025-2026

Trip Name From Days Next Departure Summary
Private Charter - Island Circumnavigation Aboard Aida Maria $106,957 15 Mar 30, 2025 Travel around the Galapagos islands on this 15-day private charter cruise. Learn about the plants and wildlife, swim in the Pacific Ocean, shop in Puerto Ayora, and visit the Charles Darwin Station on your trip aboard the Aida Maria.
0
Private Charter - Islands Circumnavigation Aboard Beluga $167,000 15 Apr 02, 2025 Take an extensive trip to the Galapagos Islands aboard the Beluga. Experience Cerro Brujo, Dragon Hill and Chinese Hat on this 15-day tour.
0
Private Charter - Islands Circumnavigation I aboard Cachalote Explorer $147,000 15 Mar 26, 2025 Circumnavigate the Galapagos Islands and experience unique flora and fauna. Take advantage of the opportunities to learn, snorkel, relax and explore on this 15-day private cruise aboard the Cachalote Explorer.
0
Private Charter - Islands Circumnavigation II aboard Cachalote Explorer $147,000 15 Apr 02, 2025 Board the Cachalote Explorer for an extensive private tour of the Galapagos Islands. Spend your time at places like Cerro Brujo, Devil's Crown and the Charles Darwin Research Center on this 15-day adventure!
0
Private Charter - Islands Circumnavigation Aboard Tip Top IV $166,831 15 Mar 28, 2025 Experience in the magic Galapagos Islands aboard Tip Top IV! Enjoy 15 days of travel in unique destinations. Observe the endemic wildlife in North Seymour, Darwin Bay (Genovesa), Vicente Roca Point (Isabela), Urbina Bay and others.
0
Private Charter - Islands Circumnavigation Aboard Seaman Journey $194,927 15 Mar 28, 2025 Embark on a 15-day Islands Circumnavigation private cruise to Santa Cruz, Fernandina, Isabela, Santiago, Rabida, Bartolome, Genovesa, San Cristobal, Espanola, Floreana, and more! This comprehensive voyage on the Seaman Journey highlights the best of the Galapagos archipelago and treats travelers to amazing scenery and wildlife viewing.
0
Private Charter - Islands Circumnavigation II Aboard Anahi $178,101 15 Mar 21, 2025 Experience a 15-day private Galapagos Islands circumnavigation cruise on Anahi. Explore Isabela's Las Tintoreras and Sierra Negra Volcano, snorkel with diverse marine life, visit Rábida's red rocks, and discover wildlife at North Seymour and Bachas Beach. Conclude with visits to Charles Darwin Research Station and Fausto Llerena Center.
0
Private Charter - Islands Circumnavigation I Aboard Anahi $142,485 12 Mar 21, 2025 Circumnavigate the Galapagos Islands on this 12-day private cruise, experiencing the best that the archipelago has to offer. Explore South Plaza, San Cristobal, Isabela, Genovesa, Santa Fe, and more! Abundant wildlife viewing opportunities await as you traverse the islands, snorkel in the clear waters, or enjoy a relaxing swim off the pristine shores.
0
Private Charter - Southwestern Islands Aboard Anahi $130,610 11 Apr 01, 2025 Embark on an 11-day private cruise aboard Anahi for a Southwestern Galápagos Islands adventure. From scenic walks and sea lion encounters in San Cristobal to snorkeling at Devil’s Crown, exploring volcanoes on Isabela, and marveling at unique landscapes on Rábida and Bartolomé, this journey unveils a variety of wildlife and breathtaking vistas.
0
Private Charter - Western & Eastern Islands Aboard Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise $275,405 9 Apr 06, 2025 Embark on a private 9-day Western & Eastern Galapagos Islands trip aboard the Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise. Discover Bachas Beach, Tagus Cove, Urbina Bay, Espinoza Point, Santiago Island, and more. Witness unique wildlife, hike, snorkel, and savor the stunning natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands.
0
All Europe Articles

Barge Cruising Travel Guide

Stroll through charming Strasbourg

All you need to know about Barge Cruising

Barge cruises are one of the most unique ways to explore France, Central Europe, and the United Kingdom. Intimate accommodations, great food, and focused experiences are part of the excitement of a barge cruise.
0
Canal du Midi in France

Best Destinations for European Barge Cruises

Barge cruising in Europe is nothing new, but it is certainly a trending option for avid travelers hoping to experience something different. The top destinations for barge cruising are France, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium.
0
Top Barge Cruising Destinations in Europe

Cruising the canals of Europe is a relaxing way to enjoy the company of friends and family. Here are some of the hot spots:

France is considered the crème de la crème of barge cruising with the best-established barging culture where you can explore the canals and waterways of: Canal du Midi in the South of France, the Alsace-Lorraine region sailing the Marne-Rhine Canal to Strasbourg, and the famous wine regions of  Burgundy and Champagne. Some barge cruises even arrive to Paris.

Scotland & Ireland -  Sail the length of Loch Ness on the lookout for Nessy or cruise Ireland's Shannon River in a barge.

Germany  - where you can explore the picturesque Moselle River on a barge. 

Netherlands and Belgium whose canals make excellent barge cruising territory.

Italy's Po River features barge cruises beginning in Venice.
 

What to expect on a barge cruise

On your European barge cruise, you can expect a leisurely pace, an intimate atmosphere, and great, locally sourced food.
0
Explore some of the most beautiful towns in France

Barge Cruises in France

Riverboats are already much smaller than the giant ocean liners that cruise the Atlantic and Caribbean, but they can still be characterized as floating hotels, complete with several dining areas or bars, multiple lounges and social areas, occasionally a pool, hot tub, or spa, and occupancy for up to 200 or more guests.
0
Cruise through the canals of Amsterdam

Barge cruise vs. River cruise

What is the difference is between a European barge cruise and a river cruise? The relaxed and intimate atmosphere onboard is similar, and destinations are often largely the same as well, visiting many of the same major ports. The main difference between a barge cruise and a river cruise in Europe is the size of the boat and hence the number of passengers onboard.
0
Romantic evening light on the Rhine

When to take a Barge Cruise in Europe

The best time to take a barge cruise through Europe is probably the autumn season, between September and October. Summer can also be an enjoyable barge cruising season if you don’t mind hotter temperatures and bigger crowds, and the start of the river cruising season in late spring (April-May) can be a good time to see Europe coming back to life after winter.
0
More Reasons

Why Travel With Adventure Life

All News

Recognized By

Erin Correia
Erin C
Plan My Trip
We love travel, talk with an expert 1.800.344.6118
GOT IT!
We use cookies to give you the best experience on our website. Continue browsing the site if you're ok with this. For more info, please see our privacy policy.