European Waterways Cruises

24 Reviews
Finesse (Photo: European Waterways)

About European Waterways Cruises

British-based European Waterways offers luxury barging on Europe's rivers and canals. Expect fine wood paneling, soft carpeting and a mix of antique and traditional decor. The barges offer a country inn feel and a relaxed atmosphere.

  • More about European Waterways

  • Who goes on European Waterways cruise ships?

  • Do I have to dress up on a European Waterways cruise?

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European Waterways Cruises Tips, Activities, and Overview

Who goes on European Waterways cruise ships?

Barge passengers are a well-educated, well-traveled lot, primarily 50-plus. Most are from North America and the U.K., but European Waterways markets internationally so you will occasionally find people from other parts of Europe and around the world. Families primarily do full charters; on noncharters children under 12 are not permitted onboard.

Do I have to dress up on a European Waterways cruise?

No. There is no dress code or requirement to dress up. Pick comfortable clothes suitable for the climate and activities you want to do. Some passengers change for dinner, but this is not a requirement.

Is everything free on European Waterways cruises?

Pretty much. Fares include gourmet meals prepared by the onboard chefs, fine wines (different each day) with lunch and dinner, an open bar, Wi-Fi (when available) and daily escorted excursions to places of interest. Tipping is not included.

What are European Waterways’s most popular activities?

Passengers can choose to do as little or as much as they want, but overall the pace is slow, with a six-day cruise often covering little more than 50 miles along a rural canal. In addition to daily excursions by mini-bus, this allows plenty of time for passengers to walk or take leisurely bike rides along the towpaths where they can be picked up at the next lock or mooring spot.

Life back onboard is equally leisurely, with long lunches and dinners prepared by what is akin to having a private chef.

Why go with European Waterways?

  • All meals, drinks and excursions included.
  • Tranquil, relaxing cruising.
  • Onboard bicycles allow for exploring the European countryside.

Best for: Family or friend groups looking for a house boat-style experience on Europe's canals

Not for: Fast-paced travelers looking to cover lots of ground, late-night partiers

European Waterways Cruises Cruiser Reviews

Following the Scottish Whisky Trail On a European Waterways' Spirit of Scotland Hotel Barge Cruise

As our private guide led us through the distillery, we marveled at the intricate production process behind their exclusive bottlings and sampled six of their exquisite single malts.No whisky trail would be complete without a visit to the Speyside Benromach distillery.Read More
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marioalmonte

few6-10 Cruises

•

Age 50s

A Great Cruise on the Caledonian Canal

One dinner was held in a local restaurant in Fort Augustus; while it was meant to be an interesting change of pace, neither the food nor the wine was as good as on the barge.The barge carried a crew of six: the captain, the chef, a deck hand, the cruise director, and two hostesses.Read More
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MostlyLegal

many10+ Cruises

•

Age 70s

Small pleasures of a Burgundy Barge trip add up.

At breakfast included fresh bread and pastries from a different local bakery, fresh fruit plate, meat and cheese and eggs expertly prepared.The barge moved slowly down the Canal with a different stop each day; we could walk alongside or ride one of the bicycles on board when we wished.Read More
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sandbag7

many10+ Cruises

•

Age 70s

Fabulous and extraordinary…go barging!

La Belle Époque was our first barge cruise and we have already booked another one!There wasn’t a bill at the end of the trip; however, it is suggested that the crew be tipped 5% of the cruise price.Read More
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jodyt

many10+ Cruises

•

Age 70s

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