Cruising seduces many travellers who wish to explore the rivers, lakes and seas of the world and enjoy an experience that breaks definitively with ordinary shore holidays. There is no need to board a large cruise ship to experience the joys of this atypical holiday, because today, the rental of a boat in the smallest format, but which remains a real floating home, is accessible to families and groups of friends who wish to enjoy a more intimate setting. Looking for ideas for your next getaway? It's time to put yourself in the shoes of a sailor and cast off

A wide choice of boats for unique experiences

Boat rental offers many possibilities. A sailboat, for example, is a perfect vehicle when you want to sail from island to island and you like to let yourself be carried by the winds. A stay with family or friends on board a catamaran is an ideal option to enjoy anchorages in crystal clear waters. Often equipped with relaxation areas such as a trampoline or benches, you can alternate sunbathing and swimming sessions. The motorboat, also known as a speedboat, is a wise choice to start sailing. They are easy to manoeuvre, smaller in size and recommended for a first experience at sea. To get started, why not also consider renting a barge? By using river canals, navigation appears more reassuring and it is a good way to get used to sailing, before setting off to explore other horizons. And then, for larger budgets, there is the possibility of renting a yacht. For a professional or leisure stay, these are luxurious boats, with on board equipment worthy of any top-of-the-range stay

What all these boats have in common is that they are real floating houses. That is to say that on board, you can find everything you need for everyday life. Kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, space to eat, you just have to put down your suitcases, and to be prepared for food or to refuel during the stopovers ashore. Another alternative is to choose a crewed cruise. The navigation and the preparation of meals can then be carried out by qualified personnel, and for the travellers, there is nothing left to do but enjoy every moment. It should also be remembered that depending on the boat chosen, it may be necessary to have a navigation certificate. This is an element to be considered carefully and it is necessary to find out more about it. The barge and the motor boat below 6hp for example, do not require a licence. Boat rental is therefore accessible to a very wide public

Destinations around the world

This is another important point of the boat rental: the possibility to sail in various parts of the world. Starting with the rivers, synonymous with gentleness, slow tourism and also a touch of security for those who are just starting out, the possibilities are wide. In France, for example, the river network is dense and you can explore the Canal du Midi, Burgundy, Charente or Alsace and juggle between time on the water and the discovery of local heritage. To vary the pleasures, you can also discover beautiful European cities by boat, such as London along the Thames, or Prague along the Vlata. Unless there is a lake in Switzerland surrounded by mountains that appeals to lovers of very calm waters. To the north, the Göta Canal allows you to travel along the treasures of southern Sweden, and the lake region of Finland offers moments in harmony with the water and the pine and spruce forests. A region that inevitably seduces lovers of fishing

And since we're talking about boat hire, it certainly evokes for some people the warm, clear waters and the most beautiful lagoons and creeks in the world. Aboard a sailboat or a catamaran, sailing from island to island in Greece, the West Indies or the Maldives makes travellers dream of enjoying the sun, diving sessions and the most beautiful anchorages in the Mediterranean, the Pacific and the Indian Oceans