There is a compelling case to made for chartering a luxury barge on your next visit to Europe. The canal system there is most developed in France, Holland and Belgium. Considering that the canals were constructed starting back in the 17th century, you can be assured that these waterways have seen a lot of history along their paths.
Popularity of barging has certainly grown over the years. There are a number of companies that charter luxury barges and also sell them as well. These sturdy vessels usually run around 14 to 18 meters and vary in the accommodation size. A good example is a 17 meter barge that house 8 people. You can purchase a serviceable barge for as little as $30,000.
Anyone that has ever handled a boat, can most likely pilot a small barge. The key word here is "slow". Barge cruising is all about going in a slow relaxed pace, around 5 miles an hour. At this rate, it is hard to get into too much trouble.
Of course with canals, there are locks. In France, where the canal system is extensive, you will get to see lock-keepers doing their special job. One lock keeper usually tends around 3 locks. So, after he has let you in the first lock, he rides a scooter along the bank to assist you with the next lock. Other locks are more automatic, including the use of radar to detect your barge arriving.
Once you are in a lock, the procedure takes around 10 minutes to move you on through. Again the idea is to move slow and enjoy the ride. You may not really go many miles on a barge vacation, but you will never have a better way to see spots that are not in any tourist guide. Generally cruising 10 to 12 miles a day, and going through 6 to 10 locks is a normal day of barging in France.
Imagine around lunch time tying up to the bank to enjoy a quaint little cafe that you never would have found otherwise..or stopping to chat with a farmer or local. The countryside of France is particular beautiful and who could resist the urge to see what is around every next bend.
Barges have a galley, so you can spend some meals just enjoying local produce and meats that you prepare for yourself. You also get to sleep in your own bed each night avoiding the hassles of repacking and dealing with traffic. There really is just no better way to enjoy life.
Hopefully this article has enticed you to try a luxury barge vacation on your next visit to Europe.
Marshall Scott loves adventure travel and writing about those experiences.
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