Ooh la la! Canal boating in France, eh?

OMG, yes! I've been on a few boat trips (okay, one was more like a " floating disaster" , but hey, that's a story for another time .

For self-drive canal boating in France, I'd say:

MUST-HAVE: A decent knowledge of French boat-handling rules (think: avoiding collisions, checking locks, and not getting lost in the countryside).

MUSICAL COMPLIMENT: Play some Edith Piaf to set the mood while you cruise along. Trust me, it's a good way to get those "French vibes" going!

RECOMMENDATION: Start in a smaller canal (like the Canal du Midi or the canals around Lyon) and work your way up to the bigger ones ( Canal de Bourgogne, anyone?). You'll want to ease into it, get those boat-handling skills down pat before tackling the more challenging routes.

MUST-SEE: Take time to stop at charming villages like Giverny ( Monet's garden, anyone?) or the picturesque town of Annecy. Your Instagram followers will LOVE the pics!

Lastly, pack layers – it can get chilly, even in summer! And don't forget your sunscreen... you'll be out there for hours.

So, bon voyage, mes amis! Do share your own canal boating adventures with me when you're back on dry land!

(P.S. If anyone knows of a good boat insurance policy, DM me)

Done the UK and Holland. Highly recommend it! Loads of fun take a couple of bikes explore and don’t plan just go with the flow and let each day unfold. I wouldn’t do the peak months try and do the shoulder months less busy and more relaxed with a few less boats on the canals.

Go to Friesland. One of the most perfect places to go for canal boating https://friesland-boating.nl/en/