When you choose self-drive cruising, you can enjoy a holiday in total freedom, far from the crowds and mass tourism. Cruising at the river's pace of rivers invites you to rediscover the pleasure of taking your time, in harmony with nature. Each cruise is a unique opportunity to marvel at the richness of the flora and fauna, while enjoying the cultural and gastronomic treasures of the regions we cross. From village visits to tasting local specialties and exploring vineyards, every stop is a discovery. These privileged moments also allow you to reconnect with loved ones and nature, far from the concerns of everyday life.
For almost 40 years, we've been offering elegant, bright, family-friendly French-built boats with maximum safety. Our bases are spread across nearly 25 destinations in France and Europe, including Germany, the Netherlands, Portugal, Hungary and Ireland. On board, enjoy unique services such as a heated swimming pool, ideal for young and old, and a welcome gift on board. Your loyalty is also rewarded: boating with us regularly entitles you to exclusive fare advantages.
Piloting a boat without a sp. licence is simple and accessible. All our boats are easy to handle, thanks to ergonomics designed for novices, and comply with French legislation: they are no more than 15 meters long, and their speed is limited to 12 km/h. The engines are governed to guarantee safe navigation, and enable you to sail at a speed adapted to the waterways, which are often limited to 6 or 8 km/h.
Our license-free boats are specially designed for pleasure boating, and require no special skills. When you arrive at the base, our team will welcome you and show you around your boat. An instructor will explain how the main equipment works and introduce you to river navigation. He can also accompany you through the first lock and show you the essential manoeuvres, such as mooring or passing another boat. Piloting Nicols boats is simple and intuitive: a key in the ignition, forward gear, reverse gear to slow down and stop, a little patience, and you're boating with complete confidence. Taking your time and enjoying the peaceful rhythm of the water is the essence of the river vacations we offer.
Although it depends on the country you're boating in, in France you can moor anywhere, as long as you respect the navigation rules in force. Our navigation zone maps show you the pontoons where you can moor. In most areas, it's also possible to moor in the open with a sledgehammer and mooring stakes.
The price of a river cruise varies according to the period, destination and type of boat chosen. For example, for a weekend for two, our rates start from €499 in low season. For a precise quote tailored to your needs, please consult our offers directly on our website or contact our team by e-mail or telephone.
By booking early, you benefit from a wider choice of boats, dates and preferential prices thanks to our Early Booking offer. To keep up to date with our offers, we recommend that you visit the "Special Offers" section of our website and subscribe to our newsletter.
Canals and rivers often have towpaths, ideal for cycling. You can use them to discover nature or to do your shopping. We offer bike rentals at our bases to make these moments even more enjoyable. To find out more, visit the General Information section of our website.
Holidays often mean swimming, so don't forget your bathing suit. Depending on the region, you'll be boating on canals or rivers where swimming is generally permitted. Safe bathing is possible in many places: on beaches, in swimming pools or in natural waters, as in the Charente. For those who prefer warmer water, we offer heated piscinettes at certain bases. In the Camargue, you'll sometimes be boating very close to the sea, so the nearest beach is just a hop, skip and a jump away.
You can continue your journey, as many customers take advantage of the cooler days to cruise, without interrupting your itinerary - even when it's raining. Our boats feature a large relaxation area with 360-degree panoramic views, ideal for enjoying the scenery, even on gloomy days. Of course, it's always a good idea to bring along board games, card games, books and modern media.
A houseboat holiday offers a wide range of activities for young and old alike. Enjoy swimming, fishing, or organize a picnic by the water. The towpaths are also ideal for walking or cycling. Maneuvers such as mooring or lockage are moments of complicity in which young and old alike enjoy taking part. With family or friends, every moment on board is an invitation to adventure and discovery.
The minimum crew requirement for our Nicols boats is two adults or one adult and one young person aged at least 16. Although you don't need a driver's license to operate a Nicols boat, it's important to have two people to ensure a smooth sailing experience. Depending on the size of the boat, the crew may be larger, but two people are enough to ensure a pleasant and stress-free experience. Our on-site staff will ensure your health is adequate for the trip. Please also note that alcohol regulations apply both on the road and on the waterways.
Yes, barge vacations are possible at any age, as long as your health permits. For added convenience, we especially recommend the Fly, Estivale or Sedan boats, which feature a single-storey layout and easy boarding. This guarantees safe navigation and allows you to enjoy your river cruise to the full.
Our boats are designed to guarantee safety for everyone, including children and grandchildren. Renowned for their maneuverability and ease of access, models such as the Fly, Sedan and Estivale ranges feature a single-level deck, ideal for younger children, with no stairs. What's more, all our boats are equipped with double-rail balconies and handrails, guaranteeing maximum safety around the boat. The aft deck is protected by a 1-meter-high balcony, and from the living room or cockpit, you can easily keep an eye on the children. However, given the risks associated with water, it is recommended that children wear a lifejacket or armbands for toddlers, which are more comfortable in warmer weather. Particularly during maneuvers such as mooring or lock passage. We offer standard-size lifejackets for children at our bases.
Pets are welcome on board. A fee of €50 per animal will be charged either when booking or when boarding. It's important to remember to bring their own equipment, such as food bowls and blankets, for their comfort. We also recommend that you ensure their safety and that they do not create a nuisance on board. This way, you and your pets can enjoy your cruise in complete peace of mind.
Canals are generally easier to navigate, thanks to more regular routes and well-developed infrastructures. Rivers, on the other hand, offer a more natural setting that will appeal to lovers of swimming, fishing and water sports of all kinds. The choice between canals and rivers therefore depends on your preferences: opt for the calm and ease of canals, or explore nature and the pleasures of natural water on rivers.
The best time of year for a river cruise depends, of course, on your preferences. In autumn and spring, you'll enjoy gas heaters in all our boats and almost empty waterways, for total disconnection.
In summer, when temperatures are very high in the south of France, you can take advantage of the air conditioning installed on 25% of our fleet. Air-conditioning can be used either dockside after plugging in your boat, or underway for boats equipped with a generator.
Passing through locks is one of the simple pleasures of cruising on a boat without a license. The number of locks varies according to your destination: in the Camargue, for example, the flat landscape means there are none, while in the more hilly Burgundy region, you'll find plenty. This maneuver is simple to carry out, and quickly becomes an enjoyable experience that adds a touch of experience to your cruise. It's also a great way to meet other boaters, with whom you can exchange impressions and tips on places to visit. Passing through the locks becomes a convivial experience that adds to the charm of your cruise.
The cost of passing through the locks is included in the rental price of your boat. So you won't have to pay any extra to pass through the locks during your cruise. So you can enjoy your cruise to the full, with complete peace of mind.
On the contrary, the round trip has several advantages. Firstly, you can stop wherever and whenever you like. If there's a corner of paradise that appeals to you, you can moor there for several days, as long as you bring the boat back to base at the scheduled time and day. The round trip offers you the freedom to sail at your own pace, taking as many breaks as you like. However, you'll need to sail for a few hours each day to recharge your batteries, which ensure the autonomy of your equipment (fridge, lighting, etc.). What's more, there's no extra cost for a round trip, unlike a one-way trip, which is more expensive. Last but not least, the landscape, even if it's the same, is not the same in reverse, offering a new perspective on each stage of your cruise.
At the end of the cruise, you'll have to return your boat in the morning, between 8 and 9 a.m.: remember to arrive in port the evening before, so as not to encounter any last-minute constraints (lock passage). You'll have plenty of time to spend the last night on board, then the next morning you can empty and clean the boat before handing back the keys at 9am.
For weekend cruises, the boat can be returned either on Sunday evening at 5pm or on Monday morning at 9am, at no extra charge. After your cruise, you will receive a satisfaction questionnaire by email. We encourage you to complete it, as your feedback helps us to improve our service. You can also share your experience on our blog, publish your photos and give your opinion. This will enable other boaters to find out more about river cruises in France, Germany, Ireland, Hungary, Portugal or the Netherlands.
Self-drive cruisers offer comfort comparable to that of a mobile home or motorhome. Their specific design, with a flat bottom, allows you to optimize the interior layout and create functional spaces such as bedrooms, bathrooms and fully equipped kitchens. What's more, all our models (except the Riviera 920) feature an outdoor terrace, perfect for al fresco dining. The dual steering system (inside and outside) also allows you to enjoy the sun while boating. All these features guarantee optimum comfort for a pleasant, relaxed cruise.
All our boats are made in France and maintained by our expert teams to guarantee a pleasant and comfortable cruise. The Estivale and Fly boats, from the Bateaux Premium and Bateaux Confort ranges, are the most recent additions to our fleet, offering spacious accommodation and modern facilities. To help you make your choice, you can refer to the number of badges assigned to each boat, indicative of their level of comfort. Our team is also at your disposal to advise and guide you towards the model that best meets your expectations.
With a fleet whose average age is less than 15 years, we rely on French know-how and craftsmanship, guaranteeing high-quality, robust constructions. Each boat undergoes rigorous maintenance at our bases, to ensure that they are in good working order. Should the need arise, we provide rapid repairs to ensure your peace of mind. We make it a point of honor to offer you a carefree boating experience, with the reliability and safety you expect.
We offer three categories of boat, from two to twelve people. The choice of model depends on a number of criteria, such as the number of passengers, the level of comfort required and the budget available. To help you find the boat you're looking for, we invite you to consult the "Our boats" section, which will give you more details on our different options. You can also contact our reservations team, who will be delighted to guide you in your choice and answer any questions you may have.
We offer boats equipped with air conditioning to guarantee your comfort. Air conditioning is available on the following models: Quattro Fly C, Quattro Fly C Green, Sixto Fly C, Octo Fly C, as well as on the Estivale Sixto Prestige C, even when boating. For other models, such as the Estivale Quattro B+, Estivale Quattro S and Estivale Sixto+, air conditioning only works when they're plugged in at port, thanks to dockside air conditioning. This means you can enjoy a cool environment, whether you're boating or stationary.
In the event of a technical problem aboard your riverboat, we advise you to contact your base immediately to report the nature of the problem and your location. We provide a breakdown service available 7 days a week, during office opening hours. A technician will intervene as soon as possible to solve the problem and enable you to continue your cruise in complete peace of mind.
The most easily accessible boats are the Fly and Estivale boats in the Comfort and Premium categories. These models have been designed for easy embarkation and disembarkation. The number of steps is limited, and a staircase molded directly into the hull provides easy access to the upper deck. These features ensure optimum comfort, particularly for those with mobility difficulties, while guaranteeing pleasant, stress-free cruising.
For couples, we offer several models to suit your needs. Boats with one cabin, such as the Sedan 800, Sedan Primo or Estivale Duo, offer all the comfort you need, with the latter featuring a double helm station. For more space, the Estivale Quattro S, the Confort 900 DP, or the Sedan 1000 and 1010 are ideal. A special couple's discount is available for the latter. Finally, for superior comfort, the Quattro Fly C and Estivale Sixto Prestige C are exceptional choices.
The most easily accessible boats are the Fly and Estivale boats in the Comfort and Premium categories. These models have been designed for easy embarkation and disembarkation. The number of steps is limited, and a staircase molded directly into the hull provides easy access to the upper deck. These features ensure optimum comfort, particularly for those with mobility difficulties, while guaranteeing pleasant, stress-free cruising.
For a six-person cruise, we particularly recommend the Sixto Fly C, Estivale Sixto + and Estivale Sixto models, which combine comfort and practicality. These boats offer excellent living space and modern equipment. Other options are also available, such as the Comfort 1100, with three cabins and three bathrooms. The Sedan 1000 and Sedan 1010, or four-cabin boats like the Sedan 1160, 1160N and 1170, may also suit your needs and preferences. Our teams are at your disposal to help you choose the model that best suits your crew.
For eight-person cruising, we recommend models with four cabins, such as the Octo Fly C, Estivale Octo and Octo Fly, which offer excellent comfort and optimal layout for groups. As a second choice, the Confort 1350, Confort 1350B, Sedan 1160, Sedan 1160N and Sedan 1170 models are also suitable, with well-appointed spaces and practical equipment to guarantee pleasant cruising. We'll be happy to advise you on the boat best suited to your needs.
For a group of up to ten people, there are several boat models to choose from. The Octo Fly C and Estivale Octo, with convertible living room, offer comfort and modularity. Depending on your needs, the Confort 1350 and Confort 1350 B are also interesting options. For maximum space, the Sedan 1310, with its five cabins, is perfect for larger groups. Finally, the Octo Fly 12, available exclusively in Anjou, is another option to consider. These models guarantee pleasant cruising for your crew.
For a group of 12, we recommend the Sedan 1310, with its 5 spacious cabins, ideal for sharing convivial moments while preserving everyone's privacy. If your cruise takes place in Anjou, the Octo Fly 12 is also an excellent option, with its 4 well-appointed cabins and optimal comfort. Both models are designed to offer a pleasant experience for large groups, while guaranteeing comfortable living space on board. For both boats, the convertible saloon bench can be used to sleep up to 12 people.
To rent an electric boat, head for Alsace, where we offer two models designed for environmentally-friendly cruising. The summery Sixto Green and the Quattro Fly C Green combine comfort, modernity and electric technology for a quiet, pleasant experience. These boats are ideal for exploring the region in complete tranquillity, while enjoying the natural landscapes and heritage of Alsace. Our bases in Alsace welcome you to start your river cruise aboard these eco-friendly models.
The Sixto Green's battery pack allows it to cruise for around 6 hours at an average speed of 6 to 8 km/h, or a distance of 30 to 40 km depending on the number of locks encountered. Bearing in mind that boaters sail for an average of 4 to 5 hours a day, this autonomy is more than enough for a full day, or even longer. This allows you to enjoy your cruise in peace, while exploring the landscapes and stopping-off points on your itinerary.
The fast charging stations installed by VNF along the waterways enable batteries to be fully recharged in less than two hours. You can recharge during the day, for example during a lunch break, to optimize your time. These charging stations offer a practical, fast solution to guarantee uninterrupted navigation and enjoy your cruise to the full.
You can recharge your batteries at various points along the way. VNF has installed 10 fast-charging stations along the waterway, on average every 10 km. These terminals complement the slow-charging terminals in the ports, ideal for overnight recharging, for example. So you'll find several options for fast or slow recharging, giving you the freedom to choose where to moor and recharge. If you prefer peace and quiet, you can even opt for a wild or "fairground" mooring in the countryside, far from the noise and crowds.
Yes, you're sure to find a place to recharge your boat. We provide 10 fast-charging stations, exclusively reserved for electric boats. Mooring at these terminals is strictly reserved for these boats, and signs indicate that mooring is forbidden for others. So you can rest easy knowing that you'll always find a free place to recharge your boat during your cruise, as part of your navigation package.
With an electric boat, you always have the option of wild mooring. If you've recharged your batteries during the day, you can choose a quiet spot to moor up at night. You can also take advantage of the fast-charging stations available both in town, for access to shops and tourist sites, and in the countryside. At Nicols' request, VNF has installed these terminals in remote locations such as Stambach and Lupstein. So you can moor up in quiet places, far from the noise of the city, while enjoying the comfort of an electrical connection for the night.
Electricity on board is simple, powered by batteries that recharge as you sail. All boats are equipped with USB sockets, and the more comfortable ones with electrical outlets for plugging in low-power devices such as cell phones, computers and tablets. If you're moored at a pontoon, , you can plug in to the shore power socket to benefit from 220 volts: you'll be able to operate all the devices you need on board. When boating, if you need to connect more energy-intensive appliances, you can use a 12/220 volt converter (optional extra) to transform the battery's energy into alternating current, allowing you to use your appliances. This gives you self sufficiency for the duration of your cruise for even greater comfort.
Onboard equipment varies according to boat model. It is therefore advisable to consult the page dedicated to each boat to discover the specific equipment available. In general, you'll find facilities for your comfort such as spacious living areas, a fully equipped galley, cabins with storage space, a heating system and sanitary facilities. Some models also offer additional features such as a sundeck, sunbathing area or air conditioning. We make sure that every boat meets your needs for a pleasant cruise.
It's perfectly possible to connect your breathing apparatus on board. For this, we recommend boats with a dock connector, which makes it easy to connect the device on board. All Fly, Estivale and Confort models, as well as the Sedan Primo and Sedan 1160N, are equipped with this socket. You'll also need to moor in a harbor that offers electricity every night to ensure continuous power supply to your device. This will enable you to sail with complete peace of mind.
Battery life depends on the use of onboard equipment. To ensure optimum operation of essential equipment such as lights, fridge or radio, you need to sail for at least 4 hours a day, or recharge the battery in port. If you wish to use more energy-intensive equipment, it is advisable to connect to the shore to recharge the battery. This guarantees sufficient autonomy to enjoy your cruise in complete tranquillity.
A coffee machine is available on board every boat. Electric coffee makers are available on Quattro Fly C, Quattro Fly C Green, Sixto Fly C, Octo Fly C and Estivale Sixto Prestige C models. For other boats (depending on departure base), a pour-over coffee maker with filter holder is available. Please refer to each boat's inventory for further details.
Hairdryers consume a lot of energy, so our boats' bathrooms are not equipped with them. To use a hairdryer, you'll need to bring your own, and make sure the boat is docked and plugged into a 220-volt outlet.
We do not offer cots on our boats. We recommend that you bring your own adapted equipment to guarantee your child's comfort during the cruise. However, our teams will advise you to bring a simple mattress to lay on the floor, rather than an travel cot, which can be cumbersome and difficult to fit into a cabin.
No, you don't need to bring sheets or blankets. We provide all bed linen on board, so you can travel lighter. This lightens your luggage and saves you the hassle of packing, for a more enjoyable cruising experience. So you can enjoy your stay without worrying about the logistics.
For your luggage, you can bring your own towels and household linen, or rent them on arrival at the base. We advise you to opt for soft bags, as rigid suitcases can be cumbersome on board. If you prefer suitcases, remember to empty them before boarding and leave them in your car. We recommend that you wear comfortable, non-slip shoes (sneakers or tennis shoes) when traveling on board. Don't forget to bring sun protection creams, sunglasses and a hat, not forgetting your camera. We do not supply household products, hygiene products or cooking condiments. We advise you to bring what you need, giving preference to biodegradable products.
We offer a 15 GB WIFI package for €50 (free in Hungary, prices may vary by country). This allows you to stay connected during your cruise. However, it can be difficult to get Internet in some rural areas, where network coverage is sometimes limited. So it's a good idea to take advantage of your stay to get away from it all and take full advantage of the natural surroundings.
The length of time you can sail without refilling depends on the model you choose and your water usage. Our boats have a water reserve ranging from 200L to 1400L, depending on the model. The frequency of refilling will vary according to this capacity and your daily consumption. To guarantee a supply of drinking water, we advise you to bring water bottles, especially for your excursions off the boat. This will ensure that you have drinking water to hand at all times.
The fuel tanks on our boats allow you to cruise for around two weeks without having to refuel. However, should refuelling become necessary during your cruise, we'll explain to you precisely how to fill up your tank during your navigation instruction. So you can enjoy your experience to the full without worrying about fuel.
The price of your cruise does not include the consumables package, which covers all consumables used during your stay (oil, diesel, gas, etc.). A full tank of fuel is filled up before departure, giving you freedom. Each motorboat is equipped with an hour meter, which is read on departure and on your return. The number of hours of use will be invoiced at the current rate, displayed in the base. On average, you should expect to pay between €30 and €90 per day, subject to fluctuations in oil prices. For electric models Sixto Green and Quattro Fly C Green, an energy package of €300 to €390 per week applies.
As previously mentioned, the rental price does not include the consumables package, which covers oil, diesel, gas and other consumables used during your stay. We recommend that you pay this amount by credit card, a simple and secure way to facilitate payment at the end of your cruise. Payment is made directly to the base on your return.
Boat fuel consumption depends mainly on the number of hours the engine is in operation. The longer the engine is used, the higher the consumption. The price of the fuel package is therefore calculated on the basis of this running time, recorded at the end of the cruise. To optimize fuel consumption, we recommend cruising at a leisurely pace and avoiding excessive engine use.
It's difficult to quantify precisely in terms of kilometers, as it depends on a number of factors: the region, the number of locks, the crowds, the current (whether you're boating downstream or upstream)... On average, boaters sail between 4 and 6 hours a day. This allows you to take full advantage of the scenery while keeping to a pleasant pace.
Your choice of destination will depend on just one thing: the wishes and expectations of your crew. If you want to discover a rich heritage, you can opt for regions where the waterways are dotted with castles, museums and typical villages. If you want to immerse yourself in nature, you can opt for wilder, more unspoilt rivers, ideal for enjoying lush green landscapes and diverse fauna. If gastronomy is on your mind, some destinations offer local markets, regional specialties, excellent restaurants and vineyards to explore. Finally, thinking about the length of your cruise and the region you wish to explore can also guide your choice. Our travel consultants will help you make the right choice, so you can enjoy your vacation with complete peace of mind.
Yes, we offer cancellation insurance to cover you if you have to cancel your cruise for a major and justified reason, such as hospitalization or illness. To find out the exact conditions and amount of this insurance, please contact us. We'll be delighted to provide you with all the information you need to book with complete peace of mind.
Our reservations are firm and final. In the event of cancellation, charges will be applied according to the date of cancellation. The closer the cancellation date is to the departure date, the higher the cancellation charges will be, up to 100% of the boat hire charge for cancellations made less than 6 weeks before departure. For added peace of mind, you can opt for cancellation insurance when you make your reservation. This option gives you greater protection if your plans change.
For your luggage, you can bring your own towels and kitchen linen, or rent them when you arrive at the base. Bedding is already provided by us! We advise you to opt for soft bags, as rigid suitcases can be cumbersome on board. If you prefer suitcases, remember to empty them before boarding and leave them in your car. We recommend that you wear comfortable, non-slip shoes (sneakers or tennis shoes) when traveling on board. Don't forget to bring sun protection creams, sunglasses and a hat, not forgetting your camera. We do not supply household products, hygiene products or cooking condiments. We advise you to bring what you need, giving preference to biodegradable products.
We provide an inventory sheet detailing the equipment on board, both inside and outside the boat. Generally speaking, all fittings, crockery and bedding are included to ensure your comfort throughout the cruise. This information sheet will give you a precise idea of the equipment available, so that you can be well prepared before your departure.
For a pleasant cruise, we advise you to bring comfortable clothing suitable for boating. Light, breathable clothing for sunny days, and warmer clothes for cooler evenings. Closed-toe shoes suitable for walking on decks are essential. Depending on the season, a raincoat or jacket may be useful in case of inclement weather. Don't forget sunglasses and sunscreen to protect yourself during stopovers. For on-board activities, keep your clothing simple and practical, to make the most of your stay.
A number of resources are available to help you prepare for your trip. The river map (if you've ordered one) will be an invaluable guide, enabling you to locate locks, water points, mooring pontoons and tourist attractions. Don't forget to order it before you leave. On our nautic.nicols website, you'll find useful information to help you discover the basics of navigation, such as: the access map to the base, which indicates the coordinates and geographical location, and will help you prepare for your arrival; and finally, to learn about safety instructions and navigation tips, you can watch our navigation instruction videos. These resources will ensure you get the most out of your boat.
Your charter price includes boat insurance and third-party liability. For further details, please consult our rental conditions. A security deposit (boat and cleaning) will be deposited on the day of your departure and returned to you on your return, provided the boat is returned clean and undamaged. If you wish, you can take out a cancellation insurance policy, or buy back half the deposit or interrupt your cruise. Please contact us for further information.
The ideal season for a liveaboard cruise depends on your preferences. Generally speaking, the period from May to September offers a pleasant climate and mild temperatures, perfect for enjoying the scenery to the full. The spring and autumn months can also be privileged times, with fewer people and even more beautiful nature. It's important to choose the right period according to your desire for tranquility and discovery, while enjoying optimal boating conditions.
The best regions for gourmets are numerous in France and beyond. In Charente, you'll enjoy Marennes Oléron oysters, while in Aquitaine, truffled foie gras will delight your taste buds. Camargue offers fougasse from Aigues-Mortes, and Alsace invites you to savor flammekueche in a Winstub. Stopovers in wine-growing regions such as Burgundy or the Loire Valley allow you to discover exceptional wines. Every stop offers you the chance to sample local specialities, from markets to Michelin-starred restaurants.
The most famous wine-tasting regions are Burgundy, Alsace, the Loire Valley and Charente. Each of these destinations offers a unique immersion in the world of wine: from discovering the Grands Crus of Burgundy and the wines of Alsace, to visiting the châteaux and wine estates of the Loire Valley. You can meet winemakers, take part in tastings and explore wine-related sites as you cruise along the river.
Top cycling regions include Anjou, with the "Vélo Francette" along the Mayenne river, voted best European cycle route, the Camargue, ideal for seaside cycling, and the Canal du Midi, perfect for exploring its picturesque villages by bike. Brittany also offers a network of greenways along its canals, while Alsace, Burgundy and Mecklenburg in Germany are also must-see destinations for cycling enthusiasts.
The best regions for bathing on a river cruise include the Camargue, with its accessible beaches such as those at La Grande Motte, and the Nivernais Loire Valley, with its landscaped ponds such as Baye. In Charente, families will be delighted by the many beaches and watering holes. Germany's Mecklenburg offers superb lakes for bathing, while Portugal's Lake Alqueva guarantees sunbathing all year round. These destinations offer waters ideal for swimming and a variety of water sports.
The best regions for cultural visits include destinations rich in history and heritage. While cruising, you'll discover emblematic castles like those of Erdre and Burgundy, medieval cities like Carcassonne and Cahors, and remarkable religious edifices like Strasbourg's Notre-Dame Cathedral. UNESCO World Heritage sites such as Strasbourg's Grande Île will also enrich your cruise. Each region offers a unique journey to the heart of history, through charming monuments and villages.
For nature lovers, several regions offer exceptional landscapes to discover by boat. The Camargue, with its pink flamingos and wilderness, is ideal for birdwatchers. Alsace, with its forests and hiking trails, is perfect for lovers of unspoilt nature. In Anjou, green riverbanks and botanical parks enrich the trip. Brittany, with its cliffs and sporting activities, and Mecklenburg, with its lakes and biodiversity, complete this list of unmissable natural destinations. The Grande Lago offers an exceptional setting, with very few buildings around the lake.
Lovers of swimming and paddling will be delighted. We offer a wide range of destinations where you can enjoy these water sports: the crystal-clear waters of the Charente, the landscaped beaches of the Lot valley, the great Portuguese lagoon or the Camargue and its beaches bordered by the Rhône in Sète canal.
Fishing is an activity you can enjoy on your Nicols cruise in many regions. In France, the Charente, Saône and Lot rivers offer excellent fishing conditions. You'll be able to catch a variety of fish, from carp to pike and catfish. If you want to broaden your horizons, Portugal, with its Lago Alqueva, is an ideal destination for anglers. For fly-fishing enthusiasts, Ireland is a true paradise. Finally, Hungary, with its many lakes and rivers, will delight predator anglers. Don't forget to bring your fishing licence and find out about local regulations before you leave.
Each stopover is an opportunity to discover the local heritage. You can visit picturesque villages, explore castles, museums or historic sites. Depending on your itinerary, you can enjoy the surrounding countryside on foot or by bike, or savor regional culinary specialties at local markets or typical restaurants. Stops are also an opportunity to discover vineyards and taste local produce. Every stage of your cruise is an invitation to discover and relax.
Most towns and villages are within easy reach during your cruise. Some ports of call also offer easy access to must-see sites on foot or by bike. River tourism allows you to reach picturesque places directly from the river banks, often close to historic centers or areas of interest. Many villages offer pontoons or quays suitable for rental boats, making access easy. This means you can explore the local heritage at your leisure, stopping to discover markets or sample regional specialities.
A houseboat vacation is a real opportunity to relax and share, ideal for young and old alike. You can enjoy a refreshing swim, go fishing or organize a friendly picnic by the water. The towpaths, ideal for walking or cycling, allow you to explore the surrounding countryside. Manoeuvres such as mooring or lockage are moments of complicity in which everyone, whether a young sailor or a sailor for a day, enjoys taking part. With family or friends, every moment spent on board becomes an adventure rich in discovery, far from routine.
Yes, it is possible to obtain a cruise guide to help you get organized before your departure. We offer a river guide for €30, valid for all French waterways. This guide is also available on board. For Portugal and the Netherlands, the guide is available for €25. However, for the Netherlands, we recommend using the "WATERKAART" application for optimal navigation. For Germany, a river guide is available on arrival at the base. To discover other suggestions for cruises, please consult our upcoming offers.
The navigation season generally runs from April to October, offering many opportunities to organize your river cruise. For precise availability, we invite you to consult our online booking engine. You'll find all the information you need to book your boat on the date that suits you best, and explore the options available according to your preferences. If you have any further questions or requests, please do not hesitate to contact our team.
When you organize a round-trip cruise with Nicols, you're free to choose your itinerary. You can stop wherever you like, whenever you like, and if you find a particularly pleasant spot, it's possible to moor for several days. All you have to do is return the boat to the base at the time and on the day scheduled. There's no extra charge for the return trip. And don't forget that the landscape reveals itself from a different angle when you discover it in the opposite direction, offering a renewed experience at every stop.
Many customers opt for a one-way cruise, attracted by the idea of a more flexible itinerary. This option offers a great adventure, but it's important to consider a few practical points. You'll need to cover the distance between the two nautical bases within the allotted time, so you can make the most of each port of call without rushing. You'll be asked to pay a supplement of €200, and you'll have to book a car transfer or repatriation option, or do it yourself. It's a great opportunity to experience a unique cruise.
The ideal season for a liveaboard cruise depends on your preferences. Generally speaking, the period from May to September offers a pleasant climate and mild temperatures, perfect for enjoying the scenery to the full. The spring and autumn months can also be privileged times, with less crowds and even more beautiful nature. It's important to choose the right period according to your desire for tranquility and discovery, while enjoying optimal boating conditions.
We provide an inventory sheet detailing the equipment on board, both inside and outside the boat. Generally speaking, all fittings, crockery and bedding are included to ensure your comfort throughout the cruise. This information sheet will give you a precise idea of the equipment available, so that you can be well prepared before your departure.
The cost of passing through the locks is included in the rental price of your boat. So you won't have to pay any extra to pass through the locks during your cruise. So you can enjoy your cruise to the full, with complete peace of mind.
Bed linen is provided on board, so you don't need to bring your own sheets or comforters. For details of the equipment available, we invite you to consult the complete list in the boat's inventory. This will help you prepare for your stay and make the most of your cruise.
Your charter price includes boat insurance and third-party liability. For further details, please consult our rental conditions. A security deposit (boat and cleaning) will be deposited on the day of your departure and returned to you on your return, provided the boat is returned clean and undamaged. If you wish, you can take out a cancellation insurance policy, or buy back half the deposit or interrupt your cruise. Please contact us for further information.
Yes, we offer cancellation insurance to cover you if you have to cancel your cruise for a major and justified reason, such as hospitalization or illness. To find out the exact conditions and amount of this insurance, please contact us. We'll be delighted to provide you with all the information you need to book with complete peace of mind.
Yes, it is possible to purchase additional services directly at the base on the day of your arrival, subject to availability. However, we advise you to book in advance to ensure that the equipment or services you require will be available when you leave. Our local teams will be happy to help you make the right choices.
Booking your additional services in advance saves you precious time when you arrive at the base. It makes it much easier to organize and prepare your boat. Our teams can better anticipate your needs and ensure that all the equipment and services you require are available to make your cruise even more enjoyable. What's more, by booking in advance, you can be sure of getting priority over last-minute requests, which may not be able to be met.
Yes, we offer cancellation insurance to cover you if you have to cancel your cruise for a major and justified reason, such as hospitalization or illness. To find out the exact conditions and amount of this insurance, please contact us. We'll be delighted to provide you with all the information you need to book with complete peace of mind.
The price of your cruise does not include the consumables package, which covers all consumables used during your stay (oil, diesel, gas, etc.). A full tank of fuel is filled up before departure, giving you freedom. Each motorboat is equipped with an hour meter, which is read on departure and on your return. The number of hours of use will be invoiced at the current rate, displayed in the base. On average, you should expect to pay between €30 and €90 per day, subject to fluctuations in oil prices. For electric models Sixto Green and Quattro Fly C Green, an energy package of €300 to €390 per week applies.
As previously mentioned, the rental price does not include the consumables package, which covers oil, diesel, gas and other consumables used during your stay. We recommend that you pay this amount by credit card, a simple and secure way to facilitate payment at the end of your cruise. Payment is made directly to the base on your return.
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