French Country Waterways Cruises

11 Reviews
French Country Waterways

About French Country Waterways Cruises

Massachusetts-based French Country Waterways is a family-owned and -operated company whose ships have been plying the canals of France for decades. The company has carved out a niche for its more luxurious interpretation of the barge experience, one that focuses both onboard and ashore.

  • More about French Country Waterways

  • Who goes on French Country Waterways cruise ships?

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

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French Country Waterways Cruises Tips, Activities, and Overview

Who goes on French Country Waterways cruise ships?

French Country Waterways markets primarily to American and Canadian travelers in the 50-plus age range and aims for those who are more interested in an in-depth experience of a particular region of France -- as opposed to folks who simply like to cruise. This is not an experience good for families with small children (unless the family charters an entire barge).

Do I have to dress up on a French Country Waterways cruise?

No, there is no dress code. What's most important is to pack clothes suitable for the climate and for going out on excursions. Some passengers change into slightly smarter clothes for dinner, but this is not expected.

Is everything free on French Country Waterways cruises?

Pretty much. Fares cover all meals, an ever-changing selection of fine wines served with lunch and dinner, an open bar, fully escorted shore excursions, Wi-Fi and transfers. Gratuities are the only extra, aside from a handful of shoreside activities (such as hot air ballooning) that might require an upcharge.

What are French Country Waterways’s most popular activities?

Shore excursions are the most popular activity for passengers on a French Country Waterways cruise and the choices are varied. Private excursions visit points of interest, such as castles, historic towns and vineyards for wine tasting. Additionally, a weekly dinner at a Michelin-star restaurant is a highlight and activities including balloon rides are available.

Onboard, it's all about relaxation and socializing.

Why go with French Country Waterways?

  • Intimate hotel barges carrying no more than 18 passengers
  • Off-the-beaten track French itineraries
  • Onboard bicycles to explore local villages and countryside

Best for: Francophile couples and friend groups looking for upscale slow travel

Not for: Fast-paced types who want an action-packed vacation

French Country Waterways Cruises Cruiser Reviews

Relaxed elegance with stellar service

The bar was open all day long (and half the night) with many top shelf selections.One night was a celebration of birthdays and anniversaries with an over-the-top dessert complete with sparklers.Read More
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Debydo

couple2-5 Cruises

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Age 60s

Best trip ever

The ambiance of only 12 passengers, spacious rooms (the king size bed was the best we had in our total of three weeks in France) and great bathrooms with plenty of room for two people to be in them at the same time (if necessary)--the hot water was almost instantaneous and we were encouraged to use as much as we needed).Scott, the pilot and Aurailian, the first mate, guided our barge through the many locks on the Canal du Centre and the Canal de Burgundy with great expertise.Read More
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DianneES

couple2-5 Cruises

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Age 70s

Wonderful!

The Captain set the tone and made the entire experience positive.The entire staff did so many little things that added up to a surreal experience.Read More
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Dranson

couple2-5 Cruises

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Age 60s

Wow!!! Exceeded our expectations!

The countryside was just as we thought it would be -- maybe better!We thought this would be a once in a lifetime adventure, but we now think we are going to do it again!!!Read More
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kirklandjoe

few6-10 Cruises

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Age 70s

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