Péniche cruises
A péniche is a large motorised barge, originally designed in the 1800s for freighting goods in Belgium and France. For this reason, they are typically large and flat to maximise capacity and feature round sterns and bows. Today, you can enjoy many river cruises on péniches that have been expertly designed with beautiful cabins, restaurants, bars and sun terraces. Travelling on péniche cruises allows you to venture to quieter spots that would be hard to reach any other way.
Where do your péniche cruises go?
The majority of our cruises on a péniche explore the striking scenery, rich culture and fascinating architecture across France. There are many beautiful regions that can be explored on our barge cruises, from Paris to Saintes-Maries-de-la-Mer and everything in between.
Perhaps you’d like to discover the beauty of the south? Certain péniche river cruises in France cruise along the Canal du Rhône, where you can enjoy a laid-back atmosphere and plenty of delicious regional food and wine.
There are many other French cruises on péniches that we offer, take a look at our barge cruises to find out more.
What facilities and accommodation are available on péniche cruises?
Our péniche cruises provide comfortable and stylish accommodation that you’ll enjoy retreating to after a busy day exploring. Typically, the barges have ten air-conditioned lower-deck cabins with en-suite bathroom, safe, hairdryer and TV. Enjoy a buffet breakfast in the dining room before heading to the sun terrace for a dip in the Jacuzzi or to sit comfortably and admire the view. There’s usually WiFi on board, as well as bicycles that you can use when the boat is moored. After a busy day, enjoy delicious international and French cuisine by waiter service accompanied by local wines.
How do I book one of the péniche river cruises in France?
To secure your place on board one of our fantastic French cruises on péniches, you can click ‘Book’ on the relevant page and enter your travel details. A member of our team will be in touch as soon as they can to get your trip.
FrancePéniche Alsacienne
This ‘Great Canal Journey’ is a fabulous float on the Marne-Rhine canal, sailing through sylvan valleys and the Vosges Mountains, to picturesque villages, fairy-tale castles, chateau views, and Chagall glass, enroute from splendid Strasbourg to lovely little Lagarde
Péniche Provençale
An unhurried antidote to the pace of modern life, this ‘no fly’ tour takes the train to Avignon, and cruises from Roman ruins in Arles to revelations on the Canal du Rhône à Sète, in medieval Aigues-Mortes, the Camargue wilderness, and Étang de Thau sea-lake
Péniche Champagne
With a taste of Champagne every day of the tour, this joyous journey is an exclusive barge cruise, sailing along the majestic Marne Canal, visiting intriguing villages and exploring iconic towns, from the capital of the country to the ‘capital of Champagne’, Épernay