Houseboat rentals: Vacation inspiration
Find the perfect houseboat vacation destination, whatever your interests or crew
Renting a houseboat with Le Boat can be anything you want it to be, whether that’s a relaxing boating vacation or an active barge adventure. So, why not choose a destination that best suits your passion, or the interests of your group, and make your houseboat rental a trip to remember.
Which region? Our houseboat rental recommendations – by activity
We offer river boat rental for destinations all over Europe, or if you would prefer a trip closer to home, in Canada too. Whatever your passion is, you’re sure to find a destination to excite you and your party. Do you enjoy hitting the fairways, exploring on two wheels or learning about local history and heritage – or maybe it’s wine-tasting and gastronomic pleasures you crave? Whichever it is, we have a boat rental destination to suit you.
Nature
The waterways are home to some of Europe’s finest wildlife and offer great scenery and natural spots. Also discover the great parks and gardens near the waterways.
History & heritage
Our cruising routes are packed with both famous historical sites to see and lesser-known historical gems to discover.
Food
Each of our regions offers delicious gastronomic treats to taste on your vacation.
Wine tasting
In our French cruising regions, opportunities to tour vineyards are as plentiful as the many wines they offer.
Swimming and seaside
Many of our cruises take you to perfect swimming spots that children—and adults—will love.
Golf
Discover cruising routes close to excellent golf courses. Rent a houseboat with Le Boat and cruise yourself to all the best courses along the waterways.
Fishing
Fishing’s the perfect pastime for your Le Boat vacation. River houseboat rentals allow you to find all the best spots – Europe’s rivers & Canada’s Rideau Canal are full of fish to hook!
Cycling
All of our cruises are perfect for gentle cycling along the towpath. Find cruises close to more adventurous cycling routes.
Horse riding
For something different, take to the saddle and enjoy a gentle trot along the canal paths.
Water sports
Many of our destinations are terrific places for kayaking, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing, or just taking a swim.
Which region? Our houseboat rental recommendations – by group type
Using houseboat rental to explore our beautiful lakes, rivers and canals is the perfect holiday, regardless of who you are travelling with – even your dog! Families, couples and groups of friends will all enjoy crewing your own boat and helping to navigate it from one idyllic place to the next, whichever country you chose to explore. Some of our regions are particularly great for certain group types however, so allow us to recommend some for you.
Family friendly
Fun for families of all ages, a houseboat rental with children is a great way of combining activity and relaxation in a totally different kind of way.
Dog friendly
Whichever boat or destination you choose, your dog is always welcome on board!
Group adventures
Renting a houseboat with friends and discovering new places to see and new things to do each day is not only great fun, but it’s affordable too.
Short breaks
Short vacations are perfect for a long weekend, a getaway when you have limited vacation time, a relaxing cruise for a romantic break or a taster opportunity for those new to boating who just want to give it a try.
Vacations for couples
If you’re looking for a quiet break to recharge your batteries or a romantic getaway, then a boating vacation for two may be just the answer. Choose from our smaller cruisers such as the Cirrus or Sheba, which are easy for two to handle.
Rent a boat in a destination to suit you – like these people did…
“We were quite a high maintenance group with our older kids to keep entertained and I was worried my in-laws might lose interest. But we all had an amazing time exploring the Canal du Midi by boat… there was plenty of variety for everyone.” – James K
“We wanted somewhere good for a 3 night break and were recommended a barge rental vacation in Belgium. A short break to Bruges for our first trip to Europe was ideal and certainly hassle-free! We were able to moor right near the centre which made exploring the beautiful city very easy. We are already booking up a return to Europe in Scotland.” – Steve P
“I had my doubts about leaving our dog at home, but when we learned that we were able to bring him along, it made our trip all the better. It was easy to moor and take him for a walk along the canal and into the woods. I would recommend renting a boat to anyone with a dog.” – Leanne W
For more inspiration: