In response to the heightened interest in France following the recent Paris Olympic Games and shifts in travel preferences, Le Boat is delighted to unveil a range of new and immersive experiences for 2025, showcasing the historic canals of France. This destination embodies the growing trend towards experiential spending, as travelers increasingly prioritize meaningful experiences over material purchases.   A Shift Towards Experiential Travel   Recent research from Mastercard’s “Travel Trends 2024” report highlights a compelling trend: travelers are dedicating a larger portion of their budgets to experiences rather than shopping. In 2023, Americans allocated a record 13% of their travel expenditures to experiences, driven by a desire for personal fulfillment and deeper connections. This evolving trend is further supported by findings from the Mastercard Economics Institute and other industry surveys.   Le Boat trips allow people to try vacationing by boat- Travelers will experience life as if they are a locals and enjoying the waterways from their own private boat, making new friends at the docks in the evenings, and cruising to their next destination by day and getting a better understanding what it is like to vacation onboard houseboat. There is no license or experience required allowing everyone to give it a try!   Discover French Canal Holidays in Nine Stunning Regions   Fall in love with the French way of life through canal boat vacations in France, offered by Le Boat, Europe's leading boating rental company!   A Le Boat vacation in France provides the perfect opportunity to enjoy the spectacular scenery of French waterways from the comfort of your own private boat.  Experience the country from the vantage of its romantic rivers, explore captivating sights, or pause to relax and savor fine French wines and delicious cuisine. Choose from Le Boat’s nine regions, each offering distinct scenery, gastronomy, culture, and charm, and explore them at your own pace aboard a private boat.   In alignment with this trend, the French Canals and Historical Waterways are set to be premier destinations in 2025 for those seeking extraordinary and unique travel experiences.   Why Experiences Matter   Sources such as Big Think and MoneySense emphasize that investing in experiences enhances personal happiness and satisfaction far more than material acquisitions. Experiences foster lasting memories and deepen personal connections, offering a profound sense of fulfillment. As travelers embrace this philosophy, destinations like the France Canals  provide the perfect canvas for these enriching adventures.   Plan Your 2025 Adventure in France   Canal du Midi   Explore the Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage site with a 300-year history. Visit Carcassonne, a medieval city overlooking the Aude River, sip local French wines along the riverbanks, explore France’s largest outdoor market in Narbonne, and cruise through the unique Malpas tunnel, commissioned by Louis XIV. New for 2025, Le Boat will offer a Captain for Hire for the day, providing an enhanced and personalized boating experience.   The River Lot   One of France’s most scenic and longest canals, the River Lot is ideal for a leisurely, picturesque adventure. The scenic River Lot is lined with trees, leading to medieval villages, vineyards, limestone cliffs, and wilderness. It offers a unique venue for boating vacations, complemented by outdoor activities such as cycling, swimming, and fishing, as well as fine dining, market browsing, and château sightseeing.   Camargue   Home to breathtaking wildlife and beautiful beaches, the Camargue is a paradise for nature lovers. Experience the sunny Camargue region with its saltwater lagoons, beaches, and daily sightings of white horses grazing on the riverbanks. Learn to shuck oysters and see how the famous Sel de Camargue is harvested. Must-see stops include the ramparts of Aigues-Mortes, a jewel of medieval military architecture, ideal for a leisurely stroll and shopping in the old town.   Alsace-Lorraine   One of the most unique aspects of traveling to Alsace-Lorraine is its rich history. The region border both France and Germany and its reflected in  its cuisine, and traditions.  Discover the region’s enchanting castles and unique architecture, reminiscent of a storybook.   Charente Valley Located in south western France, the Charente Valley is famous for its rich heritage, wine, and Cognac, is a must-visit for any connoisseur seeing new experiences .   New for 2025!   Le Boat announced new moorings in Narbonne and Angoulême France, offering the perfect opportunities for cruisers to plan an overnight stop and explore these beautiful towns.  

• Narbonne is home to France’s largest outdoor food market and is a must-see when visiting the Canal du Midi. Les Halles, the market, features stalls selling local wines, olives, tapenades, cakes, and pastries. Narbonne also boasts grand and ancient buildings nestled among modern, lively streets. Highlights include the Saint-Just-et-Saint-Pasteur Cathedral (the third tallest in France) and the Archbishop's Palace dating back to the Roman era.

 

• Angoulême, located in the Charente Region, has seen many historical conflicts, evident in its numerous fortifications. Today, it is a charming area with restaurants and boutiques. Downtown, visitors can discover monuments such as the impressive City Hall, a former castle.

  To learn more about the Cruising  French’s Waterways on your own private houseboat and to book a 2025 adventure, visit www.leboat.com or call 1-800-734-5491. For media inquiries, please contact Marketing Manager Lisa McLean at [email protected].   Le Boat’s partner page :https://www.leboat.com/contact-us/partner-with-us

  Le Boat, Europe’s number No. 1 boat rental company, is excited to announce their Canadian Expansion and new cruising route and newest base on the historic Severn- Trent Waterways on May 11th. The new base will be located at the newly renovated Horseshoe Bay Marina & in Peterborough Ontario offering guests easy access to the Trent-Severn Waterways.   On May11^th the Global Executive team willunveil the new base with a ribbon cutting ceremony, tour of their Luxury Horizon Cruises, and inaugural 2024 voyage on the waterway.   “We are so excited for the grand opening of our second Canadian Base on the Trent-Severn Waterway, a national historical site. Our customers have been asking when we will be offering luxury boat rental vacations on this National Historic site we are excited to give them what they have been waiting for, “said Lisa McLean, North American marketing manager and head of Canada. Our Le Boat international customers will be in awe of the beautiful Ontario landscapes and pristine waterways as they experience the infamous Lift Locks in Peterborough and cruise Ontario's wide-open lake. It also offers those staycations looking for a getaway to " Cottage Country" the opportunity to enjoy boat life like a local   Boating season on the Trent-Severn opens on May 17, Victoria Day Long Weekend, marking the unofficial kick-off to summer. Guests can still have time to book their long weekend getaway or their summer vacation for 2024. Le Boat is both family-friendly and pet-friendly so everyone can enjoy the summer escape.   Le Boat predicts that their newest cruising ground will attract new customers from the Greater Toronto area, Quebec, and the United States, as well as their current base of international travellers from Germany, France, the UK, Ireland, Australia, and South Africa.   Le Boat will have a fleet of eight premier Horizon Cruisers on the waterway in the first year of operation. Boats range in size from two bedrooms to four bedrooms and will offer several suggested cruising routes from their new base at Horseshoe Bay Marina. Pricing starts at $2,800 CND for a week on Horizon 1 Cruisers that sleep up to five people. Travellers can choose a 3 to 6-night short break or a 7-10+ night vacation where they can eat, sleep, and live on board Le Boat’s luxury houseboat as they captain the boat themselves and cruise the waterways. No Boat license or prior boating experience is required—the experienced Le Boat base team will teach guests everything they need to know to captain the boat themselves.   Events Happening Summer 2024 Along the Waterway   For travellers who want to book their sailing during a prime time for events along the waterway, here are a few to consider that will add an extra touch of culture and fun to their sailing. The Peterborough Music Festival takes place June 29- Aug. 17; the New Canada Canoe Museum opens on May 13 and will give guests the opportunity to check out Canada’s Snow Bird Formation and F-16 Falcon as they pass overhead; and on June 29^th guests can cruise to the Trent Port Marina for the weekend to watch the Air Show from their deck.   To help with trip planning, Le Boat provides their customers with sample cruising routes as well as recommendations and key highlights of what they can see and do along their sailing.   Suggested itineraries would include a cruise north towards Peterborough to Bobcaygeon.  

• Check in at the Le Boat base in Horseshoe Bay Marina and cruise towards Young's Point and experience the Peterborough Lift Lock, a National Historic Site. This 120-year-old lift lock is the highest hydraulic lift lock in North America and stands 19.8 meters high.
• Cruise picturesque lakes and rivers to its lush forests as guests arrive in the charming town of Lakefield.
• Enjoy the tall pines and granite shores of Stony Lake and continue their cruise towards beautiful Burleigh Falls.
• Discover the beauty of Kawartha Lakes to Buckhorn, named for the collection of deer antlers which were displayed on the outside walls of the original sawmill in the area.
• Continue Cruise to Bobcaygeon, a charming village situated on the shores of Pigeon Lake. Dock at Bobcaygeon Harbour and explore the town, full of quaint and unique shops, eateries, and lots to see and do.
• Visit the scenic town of Fenelon Falls, known as the “Jewel of the Kawarthas” where guests will find an eclectic mix of antique stores, gift shops, coffee houses, and of course Lock 34 – located on its island.

  A second option for Le Boat customers is to do a return trip cruising south toward the historical town of Trenton.  

• Cruise south along the Otonabee River to Rice Lake, and visit the small village of Hastings.
• Cruise to Campbellford. Boaters will have time to explore this charming community, visit the iconic Millennium Trail Suspension Bridge or stop for a selfie at the World’s Biggest “Toonie.”
• Just after Campbellford, boaters will get a chance to explore some truly beautiful natural sceneries of the Trent-Severn Waterway and Parks Canada Oasis pods located between Locks 10 and 9.
• Cruise to Trenton, which is set along the Bay of Quintes and marks the entry point to Trent- Severn Waterway (TSW) from Lake Ontario and the southern end of the cruising area. Known for its military ties, Trenton is also home to the National Air Force Museum of Canada, which exhibits over 30 aircraft and is dedicated to preserving the history of the Royal Canadian Airforce.

  Le Boat’s Trent-Severn Waterway Cruising Grounds   For suggested itineraries and more information visit https://www.leboat.ca/en/boating-holidays/canada/trent-severn

  Le Boat, a leading provider of luxury houseboat vacations, has announced its spring and summer 2024 vacation lineup, offering early planners a wide range of vacation package options for their spring and summer vacation.   "For those seeking a unique outdoor adventure, Le Boat offers packages tailored to their preferences and budgets, whether it's relaxing on their own private boat as they cruise through scenic landscapes, savoring local cuisine, visiting ancient castles, or embarking on an unforgettable adventure. There's something for everyone on a private houseboat vacation with Le Boat," said Lisa McLean, Long Haul Marketing Manager.   With spring and summer approaching and boating season in Europe opening as early as March 15  and luxury houseboating in Ontario opening on May 17, 2024. Customers can easily book their next dream vacation and Le Boat offers an extensive collection of boat types in 8 European destinations and two Canadian destinations in 2024 to fit all budgets and travel styles.   Le Boat boasts a fleet of over 950 private boat rentals in France, England, Scotland, Ireland, Belgium, the Netherlands, Italy, and Germany. New for 2024, Le Boat is opening two new bases, one in Ottawa at Dows Lake Pavilion and The Historical Trent-Severn Waterway from a new base in Peterborough, Ontario.   Never boated before? No problem!   All new boaters are welcome as no boat license or prior boating experience is required to rent a private houseboat in Canada or Europe. Enjoy a relaxing vacation on tranquil waterways versus navigating busy highways and see the world from a new perspective. The Le Boat team will teach you everything you need to know to enjoy your vacation on the water.   Spring Cruising offers less congested waterways, cheaper airfares, and canals in full bloom. In the Spring, the waterways are less busy, allowing for a more peaceful and uninterrupted journey. Remember that spring in Europe arrives much sooner than in North America, with the average daily temperature 7-19°C (63-66°F) in Europe. The weather is mild, the sun is shining and perfect for leisurely cruising and enjoying the beauty of nature as it gets ready for the first days of summer. The UK and cruising on the Thames offers some of the best springtime blooms in Northern Hemisphere and canals and rivers in Europe come alive with vibrant blooms and lush greenery, creating a picturesque backdrop for your voyage. Boating in the spring offers a unique opportunity to witness nature's rejuvenation firsthand, making it an unforgettable experience for any adventurer.   Canal cruising and houseboating in Europe opens as early as March 15, 2024. Le Boat March Deal offers travelers savings of up to 25% on March and April departures or Save up to 20% on Premier and Comfort Plus boats for May-Oct. 2024 departures (includes 20% off 3-6 night short breaks in Canada and Europe!). Offers end March 20, 2024.  

• Cruise Amsterdam and fields blanketed with colors as the 1000’s of thousand tulips bloom. A 7-night cruise starts at just US$849 (CA$1,149) for 7 nights, onboard our Sheba boat departing on Mar 27- Apr. 3, 2024.

 

• Plan a trip to the UK May 21-25 and visit the world’s largest, Royal Horticultural Society’s Annual Chelsea Flower Show as it reveals cutting-edge garden design, fabulous floral displays and simply the best shopping. Attracting 150K visitors each year and an A-list of celebrity guest and royal family. A 7-night cruise on the Thames starts at just US$879 (CA$1,799) for 7 nights, onboard a Caprice cruising departing on March 23-30, 2024.

 

• Plan a cruise on the UNESCO Canal du Midi this spring and witness the bright pink hues of the cherry bloom in Carcassonne. Enjoy a 7-night cruise on board our Horizon 1 Cruiser boat from US$1,813 (CA$2,592), departing May 17 - 24 May 2024

 

• Ireland opens for boating season on March 15th. Cruise the Shannon River and explore Ireland from the comfort of your own private boat. A 7-night cruise for 4 people starts at just US$789 (CA$1,059) on the Lake Star Boat, departing Mar 27-April 3, 2024.

  New Lower Prices on Canada Cruises- plus saving of up to 20% on our Horizon Cruiser Fleet   For those planning a vacation north of the border in Canada, you will benefit from Le Boat's recent price drop on all boat rental pricing on the UNESCO World Heritage Rideau Canal and historical Trent-Severn Waterway. PLUS book before March 20, 2024 and benefit from an added saving of 20% for those who book before March 20, 2024. Cruise Canada on board a Horizon 1 cruise (sleeps up to 5 people) on May Long Weekend from just US$1823 (CA$2,592) for 7-night cruising May 17-24, 2024.   2 FREE Nights on European Rentals   For travelers planning their trip to Europe this summer and looking for a budget-friendly vacation and great value, Le Boat is offering a 7-night vacation for the price of 5 nights on the Budget and Comfort Class Boats – Cirrus A & B, Caprice, Elegance, Salsa A & B, available on European Cruises. Valid on bookings confirmed before March 20, 2024.   FAMILY DISCOUNTS-Save 5% more   For families, Le Boat offers vacation packages with a choice of boats that sleep up to 12 people, perfect for travelers with children or multi-generation family travel. For a limited time, travelers can experience a family vacation on their private boat with a saving of 5% more on their vacation when one of the traveling passengers is 16 or under. This offer is combinable with all other in-market discounts and applicable on all boat rental vacations in Canada, France, England, Ireland, Scotland, Belgium, Italy, and Germany. Quote promo code FAM5 at the time of booking.   Special Savings up to 25%   To view Le Boat’s list of current and upcoming savings and to see where you can book your client's next vacation visit www.leboat.com/deals ,  www.leboat.ca or call 1-800-734-5491

  The Canal du Midi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a picturesque waterway snaking its way through the heart of southern France. Immersed in history and surrounded by stunning scenery, it offers the perfect backdrop for romantic getaways. Whether travelers are strolling hand-in-hand throughout the towns, indulging in gourmet delights at bistros, or touring on the canal by boat, there's no shortage of romantic experiences to enjoy along the Canal du Midi.   Here are 10 enchanting activities to elevate this romantic escape:   1. Savor an Apéro at a 19th Century Lock Keeper's Residence Travelers can begin their romantic journey by immersing themselves in the rich history of the Canal du Midi at the Ecluse de Castanet. This unique lock, which also doubles as a restaurant, offers a blend of culinary delights and historical ambiance. Travelers can sit back, relax, and savor the flavors of regional specialties while soaking in the atmosphere of this 19th-century lock keeper's residence.   2. Watch the Sunset at the Old Bridge (le Pont Vieux) in Carcassonne  As the sun sets along the horizon, guests can head to the iconic Pont-Vieux in Carcassonne for a perfect sunset experience. This historic stone bridge, with panoramic views of the city, provides the perfect backdrop for romantic moments with a special someone.   3. Indulge in the Minervois Wine Region of France  Embark on a wine-tasting adventure in the enchanting Minervois wine region, where rolling vineyards and quaint villages await. Travelers can sample a variety of wines, from full-bodied reds to crisp whites and learn about the region's winemaking heritage. At the end of their wine-tasting experience, guests can raise a toast with loved ones while enjoying the landscapes of this renowned wine-growing region.   4. Delight in Dinner at Le Tirou, Castelnaudary  Guests can treat their taste buds to a culinary journey at Le Tirou, a charming restaurant nestled amidst picturesque gardens. Here, they can feast on traditional cassoulet, a hearty French dish, as they enjoy the romantic ambiance of this family-owned establishment. With alpacas roaming around nearby, the atmosphere is as unique as it is enchanting.   5. Explore the Quaint Village of Pexiora  Guests can escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and explore the peaceful village of Pexiora. During their visit, they can take a leisurely stroll or a bike ride through the winding streets while admiring the rustic charm of its historic buildings and quaint shops. Guests can also stop by the local bakery for fresh pastries and enjoy a romantic picnic on the top deck of the boat while taking in the peaceful scenery.   6. Discover Portiragnes Plages For a truly romantic escape, travelers can explore Portiragnes Plages and lose themselves in the beauty of its pristine beaches. A romantic stroll along the sandy shores while taking in the tranquil atmosphere and breathtaking views is the perfect setting for couples looking to getaway for some alone time. This coastal paradise is the perfect setting for a romantic getaway.   7. Experience the Olive Oil Cooperative Oulibo  Guests can immerse themselves in an olive oil experience at the Cooperative Oulibo. During a guided tour of the olive groves, travelers can learn about the ancient art and production of olive farming and treat themselves to a tasting session where they can savor the rich flavors of freshly pressed olive oil and discover why this culinary treasure is cherished around the world.   8. Stroll Through Le Somail  Travelers will step back in time as they wander through the charming streets of Le Somail, a picturesque village immersed in history. Here, they can explore its quaint shops and art galleries, and marvel at the beauty of its historic buildings. A not-to-miss experience is a visit to the renowned antiquarian bookstore where they can browse the shelves in search of treasures both old and new.   9. Visit Château de Paraza in Paraza  Journey to the majestic Château de Paraza where travelers can immerse themselves in its rich history and romantic ambiance. As guests explore the vineyards that surround the château, they will learn about the winemaking process from grape to glass. During their visit, they can also take a guided tour of the château's elegant interiors and indulge in a wine tasting session where they can sample the finest vintages produced on-site.   10. Dine at Les Tonneliers, Homps  Travelers can conclude their romantic escapade with a memorable dining experience at Les Tonneliers, a charming restaurant nestled in the heart of Homps. During their stay, guests can indulge in a gourmet meal crafted from the finest local ingredients and paired with wines from the region while dining beneath the stars in the restaurant's elegant garden setting.

  Le Boat is inviting travelers to be the captains of their own ship in 2024. The company is announcing an array of updates and booking incentives, encouraging adventure seekers and travel enthusiasts to discover the world in an unconventional way as they invite everyone to go boating together in 2024.   Boating Made Easy   Le Boat is committed to simplifying the boating experience with no boat license or prior boating experience required. The Le Boat team provides comprehensive onboard training at the time of check-in for all cruisers before they set sail. A dedicated base team provides guests comprehensive briefings and demonstrations, which allows them to confidently navigate their houseboat vacations. Le Boat cruises are custom designed with the first-time cruiser in mind by featuring simple controls plus bow and stern thrusters to make maneuvering the boat easy. This approach ensures that anyone capable of driving a car can confidently navigate their private boat rental.   Le Boat offers a plethora of destinations across nine countries, including Canada, France, Italy, Scotland, Ireland, England, Netherlands, Belgium, and Germany. From serene lakes and rivers to vibrant cities and tranquil countryside, each destination promises a unique and immersive experience.   Le Boat's New Canadian Destinations and Bases   In the upcoming season, Le Boat adds the picturesque and historic, Trent-Severn Waterway in Ontario Canada to its roster of destinations. This addition allows travelers to navigate 240 miles of waterways while immersing themselves in the beauty of nature stretching from the Bay of Quinte in Eastern Ontario to the eastern tip of Lake Simcoe.   The newly established base in Peterborough, Ontario, on the Otonabee River, ensures convenient access to the Trent-Severn Waterway. Peterborough is also home Lock 21, which is a National Historical Site and boasts to be the highest hydraulic lift lock in the world that lifts boats 65 ft. (19.8 meters) above the Trent Canal. The lift lock is considered an engineering marvel that opened to great fanfare in 1904 and is currently operated by Parks Canada. Lock 21 is also home to the new Canadian Canoe Museum, which is set to open in May 2024.   Rideau Canal, Canada   On this sailing, travelers can combine city adventure with lakes and scenic beauty on a Rideau Canal boating vacation in Canada. On this trip, travelers can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site from Ottawa to Kingston while sailing on luxury houseboat. Guests can relax as they cruise through the natural landscape, picturesque towns, and lively cities. Rates start at $2,283 for a 7-night sailing.   Book before January 31, 2024 to save up to 10 percent on Canada boat rental vacations.   European Sailings   Le Boat is currently offering booking incentives through the end of the month for European boat rental experiences. Below are a few examples of European trips with Le Boat:  

• Lot, France Experience the natural beauty of the Lot River with its tree-lined shores, medieval hilltop towns, and vineyards. Guests can enjoy outdoor activities like cycling, swimming, and fishing, complemented by fine dining and historic châteaux sightseeing. Rates for a 7-night sailing starts at $999.
• Burgundy Franche Comté, France Travelers can immerse themselves in the heart of Burgundy, which is known for its fine wines and gourmet cuisine as they sail across the Saône River while exploring lush vineyards and quiet villages. During this sailing, guests will be indulged in a world of sensory pleasures and soul-soothing experiences. Rates start at $919 for a 7-night sailing.
• Aquitaine, France Discover the gastronomic delights of sunny Aquitaine, famous for its wines and cuisine. On this itinerary, travelers cruise along the Canal Latéral à la Garonne and the River Baïse as they pass through meadows, orchards, and medieval villages. Guests can relax as they sip wine in the warm sunshine with family and friends while soaking in the vistas that surround them. Rates start at $879 for a 7-nights sailing.
• Shannon and Erne, Ireland Explore the unique character of central Ireland along the River Shannon. As guests sail along the river, they can enjoy fishing, golfing, and cycling on the towpath. In addition, travelers can visit villages, medieval churches, and pubs for a relaxing and immersive experience along the route. Rates for a 7-night sailing start at $569.

  Book before January 31 and save up to 20 percent on European boat rental vacations.