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Barge Cruising and Canal Tours

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Try something different on your next cruise—barge cruising! These unique and small vessels are a new take on an old way to navigate the waters of the world. As tourism has increased throughout Europe, owners of old cargo barges have taken time to convert their vessels into now-luxurious hosts of your cruise, giving you exclusive access to canals and rivers all from aboard a truly intimate boat, often hosting fewer than 12 passengers. Contact us for more information on the treasured experience of barge cruising!

10 Best Barge Cruises for 2025-2026

Grossmunster Cathedral, Zurich

Enchanting Rhine

12 Days from $5,699
After spending two nights in both Zurich and Lucerne, Switzerland, board the MS Amaprima on an exclusive 7-day Rhine River cruise through the historic old towns and big cities of Germany, the historic borderlands of Strasbourg, France, and finally to Amsterdam in the Netherlands.
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Heidelberg

Rhine & Moselle Delights

15 Days from $7,219
This 15-day Rhine & Moselle River cruise aboard MS Amaprima takes you from Zurich to Basel to Amsterdam, passing through Germany and France along the way. Hike and bike in the lush Rhine Valley, stroll the "Crossroads of Europe" in Strasbourg, and savor the best wines and beers that have made this region famous.
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Bicycles are a part of everyday life in Europe

Tulips & Windmills

10 Days from $4,399
Embark on the River Princess in Amsterdam for an exciting 10-day river cruise to discover the best of the Netherlands and Belgium. Along the way, you see the unique attractions of Holland, like the extraordinary expanse of tulips at Keukenhof Gardens and the UNESCO-designated windmills at Kinderdijk.
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Ring Of Brodgar, Orkney

Wild Scotland

12 Days from $11,995
Embark on a 12-day cruise aboard the Greg Mortimer, exploring the stunning landscapes of the Inner and Outer Hebrides. Experience highlights like Fingal's Cave, the ancient island of Iona, and the rich history of Orkney before concluding your adventure in Aberdeen.
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Ring of Brodgar is a unique stone circle in Scotland.

Scotland's Highlands and Islands

8 Days from $9,678
From Inverness to Kyle of Lochalsh, explore the historic sites of Scotland on this week-long cruise on the Lord of the Glens. Lochs, castles, villages, pubs, and ancient ruins highlight this tour, which features inland visits like Loch Ness and Duart Castle as well as some time on the quaint & remote Scottish Isles of Rum, and Skye.
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Visit charming Passau

Magna on the Danube - Budapest to Vilshofen

8 Days from $3,749
Embark on an 8-day river cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen aboard MS AmaMagna. Enjoy captivating architecture, music, and culinary experiences. Explore Vienna's Baroque gems, savor epicurean delights, and discover vibrant cultures in Budapest and Bratislava.
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Adventures in Europe. Scottish marine band

European Classic Cruise - Scotland

7 Days from $6,090
Discover the beauty of Scotland on a 7-day getaway cruise aboard the cozy barge hotel Scottish Highlander. Explore the mystical waterways of Scotland and be amazed at its geographical beauty. See the beautiful stone castles of Scotland that the country is famous for.
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Broch of Mousa, Scotland

Best of British Isles

13 Days from $6,195
Embark on a 13-day expedition aboard the Sea Spirit, starting in Portsmouth and exploring the Scilly Isles, Ireland's scenic coast, Wales' Snowdonia, and Northern Ireland's Giant's Causeway. Discover Scotland's Orkney sites and Fair Isle's seabirds, and finish in Edinburgh's lively port of Leith.
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Explore the enchanting city of Glasgow

Scotland Slowly

11 Days from $7,395
Explore Scotland's ancient past on this 11-day expedition cruise through Scotland's western and northern isles aboard Ocean Endeavor. In this land of abundant culture, heritage and natural history you'll discover islands that preserve some of the oldest monuments in Europe dating back to the Stone Age with visits to Glasgow & Shetland & Orkney Islands.
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Keukenhof Gardens

Tulip Time Cruise - Cruise Only

8 Days from $3,539
Set sail on an 8-day spring cruise from Amsterdam aboard the MS Amalucia, exploring the blooming Keukenhof Gardens, Floralia, and Kinderdijk’s iconic windmills. Savor Belgian chocolates, waffles, and cheeses while discovering the charm of Bruges, Ghent, and Delft.
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Best Barge Cruising Deals for 2025-2026

Trip Name From Days Next Departure Summary
Colors of Provence - Cruise Only $4,139 8 Apr 03, 2025 Embark the MS Amakristina in Arles, France for your week-long cruise through France's legendary wine regions, including Cotes du Rhone, Burgundy and Beaujolais. Enjoy wine tastings, ancient Roman ruins, and medieval villages on this European vacation. Les Baux, Avignon, Viviers, Tournon, and Vienne are all stops before arriving to Lyon, France.
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Taste of Bordeaux - Cruise Only $4,139 8 Apr 03, 2025 Board an enchanting 8-day round-trip cruise from Bordeaux to Libourne on the MS Amadolce. Visit the towns of Cadillac, Pauillac, Bourg, Libourne, and Blaye as you enjoy wine-tasting tours, visit classic French chateaus, and explore historic sites. Biking and hiking options are available as well.
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European Canal Cruises $6,190 7 Jul 06, 2025 Embark the Nymphea on a 7-day cruise along Loire Valley in Central France. Explore the magnificent chateaus in the region and learn more about French history. Enjoy the scenery of the countryside's landscapes and have a taste of their locally produced wine.
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Highlights of Normandy & The Seine $10,390 8 Apr 06, 2025 A journey on the Seine River is an experience you’ll never forget, from the glittering lights of Paris to riverside villages dating back centuries.
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Paris & Normandy $4,099 8 Mar 30, 2025 The best way to see historic buildings and the beaches of Normandy is on a river cruise from Paris through the countryside. Visit Claude Monet's house and gardens, Honfleur's harbor, and Utah Beach on Normandy. Traveling on the enchanting S.S. Joie de Vivre for eight days is sure to leave a lasting impression.
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Tulips & Windmills $4,199 10 Apr 03, 2025 Set sail on a 10-day cruise from Amsterdam to Antwerp aboard the River Duchess, exploring springtime Belgium and the Netherlands, from vibrant tulips to historic sites.
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Wild Scotland $13,595 12 May 07, 2026 Join this 12-day expedition from Edinburgh to Aberdeen aboard the Greg Mortimer. Explore Scotland's isles, cruise rugged coastlines, spot wildlife, and visit historic sites.
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Wild Scotland $13,595 12 May 26, 2026 Set sail on a 12-day cruise from Edinburgh to Aberdeen aboard the Sylvia Earle, exploring Scotland's untamed islands. Discover the ancient Hebrides and lush Orkney Islands, encounter wildlife along scenic coastlines, and experience local culture in charming villages while enjoying Scotland's renowned whisky.
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European Classic Cruise - Ireland $5,750 7 Apr 20, 2025 Discover the scenery and historic structures throughout Ireland on this 7-day cruise aboard Shannon Princess. Take a relaxing cruise along the beautiful waterways of the region to experience an excursion to Portumna and Galway, explore haunted Leap Castle, tour Birr Castle’s Gardens, and visit the oldest whiskey distillery plus so much more!
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Essence of Burgundy & Provence - Cruise Only $4,139 8 Apr 03, 2025 Embark on an 8-day cruise aboard the MS Amacello through Burgundy and Provence, savoring French flavors and exploring Roman heritage, charming towns, and iconic sites like Lyon’s culinary treasures and Avignon’s Papal Palace.
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The World's Top 9 Barge Cruising Destinations for 2025-2026

Stop in Avignon on your cruise of the Rhône river.

French Barge Cruises
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Historic old town Strasbourg

Canal du Midi
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Golden hour in Venice's famed Piazza San Marco

Italian Barge Cruises
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The beautiful tulip gardens of Holland

Holland Barge Cruises
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Relax in one of Edinburgh's parks

Scotland Barge Cruises
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Visit charming villages in France

Moselle River Barge Cruises
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The Palais des Papes dominates the Avignon skyline

Rhone River Barge Cruises
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Explore Paris, the legendary city of light

Seine River Barge Cruises
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Peaceful canal running through a European town

All European Barge Cruises
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Top 10 Barge Charters for 2025-2026

Trip Name From Days Next Departure Summary
Private Charter - Southern Islands Aboard Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise $117,705 4 Apr 14, 2025 Set sail on a private 4-day Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise to the Eastern Galapagos Islands. Explore San Cristóbal, and visit Tijeretas Hill. Enjoy Gardner Bay and Punta Suárez on Española, then discover unique beaches, flamingos, and marine life at Punta Cormorant on Floreana. Conclude your journey at the Charles Darwin Research Station and fly back home.
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Private Charter - Western & Eastern Islands Aboard Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise $275,405 9 Apr 06, 2025 Embark on a private 9-day Western & Eastern Galapagos Islands trip aboard the Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise. Discover Bachas Beach, Tagus Cove, Urbina Bay, Espinoza Point, Santiago Island, and more. Witness unique wildlife, hike, snorkel, and savor the stunning natural beauty of the Galapagos Islands.
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Private Charter - Central East & Southern Islands Aboard Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise $246,905 8 Apr 10, 2025 Explore Central East & Southern Islands on this 8-day private cruise aboard Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise. Visit Baltra and meet giant tortoises. Enjoy geological wonders and encounter diverse wildlife on Rábida, Bartolomé, South Plaza, and Santa Fe. End at Fausto Llerena Breeding Center to see Galápagos tortoises and support conservation efforts.
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Private Charter - Western Islands Aboard Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise $155,705 5 Apr 06, 2025 Set off on a 5-day private Western Islands Galapagos cruise aboard the Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise. Begin at Baltra and sail to Bachas Beach for wildlife encounters. Explore Tagus Cove, Urbina Bay, Espinoza Point, and Vicente Roca Point, discovering rich marine life. Conclude with a visit to North Seymour Island before disembarking in Baltra.
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Private Charter - Northern Islands Aboard Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise $117,705 4 Apr 03, 2025 Embark on a private 4-day North & Central Islands Galapagos cruise aboard the Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise. Observe Santa Cruz Highlands' giant tortoises and lava tunnels. Journey to Dragon Hill, home to land iguanas and flamingos then visit Chinese Hat. Explore El Barranco cliffs and Darwin Bay's bird paradise. Conclude with a visit in Black Turtle Cove.
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Private Charter - Northwestern Islands Aboard Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise $246,905 8 Apr 03, 2025 Embark on a private 8-day Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise in the Northwestern Galapagos Islands. Explore unique wildlife, including giant tortoises and lava tunnels. Visit Cerro Dragón, Chinese Hat, Genovesa, and more. Enjoy birdwatching, snorkeling, and diverse wildlife encounters. Finally, visit North Seymour before heading to Baltra for your flight home.
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Private Charter - Southern & Northern Islands Aboard Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise $222,205 7 Apr 14, 2025 Join the 7-Day Hermes Ultra Luxury Cruise in the Eastern & Central Galapagos, beginning on San Cristóbal Island. Explore Tijeretas, Gardner Bay, Punta Suárez, and Floreana. Snorkel at Champion Islet, then visit Genovesa Island. Conclude at Black Turtle Cove, disembarking in Baltra, marking the end of your unforgettable journey.
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Private Charter - Eastern Islands II $51,120 5 Apr 03, 2025 Embark Archipel I for a 5-day private cruise through the eastern islands of the Galapagos. Enjoy the unique green sand beaches of Cormorant point, the abundance of wildlife on Española, and the friendly interaction with Floreana's playful sea lions. These volcanic and wildlife-rich islands are ideal for a vacation.
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Private Charter - Western Islands II $51,120 5 Apr 10, 2025 Join the Archipel I for a 5-day private cruise of the Western Galapagos Islands. The scenic Santa Cruz, wildlife-rich Isabela, cliff-lined Fernandina, and pristine white sands of Bachas Beach are among the highlights. Swim beside friendly sea lions or stroll through volcanic landscapes teeming with gigantic tortoises, flamingos, iguanas, and penguins.
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Private Charter - Western Islands Aboard Bonita $60,800 7 Mar 30, 2025 Embark on a Galapagos cruise aboard the Bonita for a private expedition. This 7-day tour of the western islands takes you to white beaches, secluded lagoons, and pristine snorkeling locations for an unforgettable week-long tour of the Galapagos.
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All Europe Articles

Barge Cruising Travel Guide

Stroll through charming Strasbourg

All you need to know about Barge Cruising

Barge cruises are one of the most unique ways to explore France, Central Europe, and the United Kingdom. Intimate accommodations, great food, and focused experiences are part of the excitement of a barge cruise.
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Canal du Midi in France

Best Destinations for European Barge Cruises

Barge cruising in Europe is nothing new, but it is certainly a trending option for avid travelers hoping to experience something different. The top destinations for barge cruising are France, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium.
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Top Barge Cruising Destinations in Europe

Cruising the canals of Europe is a relaxing way to enjoy the company of friends and family. Here are some of the hot spots:

France is considered the crème de la crème of barge cruising with the best-established barging culture where you can explore the canals and waterways of: Canal du Midi in the South of France, the Alsace-Lorraine region sailing the Marne-Rhine Canal to Strasbourg, and the famous wine regions of  Burgundy and Champagne. Some barge cruises even arrive to Paris.

Scotland & Ireland -  Sail the length of Loch Ness on the lookout for Nessy or cruise Ireland's Shannon River in a barge.

Germany  - where you can explore the picturesque Moselle River on a barge. 

Netherlands and Belgium whose canals make excellent barge cruising territory.

Italy's Po River features barge cruises beginning in Venice.
 

What to expect on a barge cruise

On your European barge cruise, you can expect a leisurely pace, an intimate atmosphere, and great, locally sourced food.
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Explore some of the most beautiful towns in France

Barge Cruises in France

Riverboats are already much smaller than the giant ocean liners that cruise the Atlantic and Caribbean, but they can still be characterized as floating hotels, complete with several dining areas or bars, multiple lounges and social areas, occasionally a pool, hot tub, or spa, and occupancy for up to 200 or more guests.
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Cruise through the canals of Amsterdam

Barge cruise vs. River cruise

What is the difference is between a European barge cruise and a river cruise? The relaxed and intimate atmosphere onboard is similar, and destinations are often largely the same as well, visiting many of the same major ports. The main difference between a barge cruise and a river cruise in Europe is the size of the boat and hence the number of passengers onboard.
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Romantic evening light on the Rhine

When to take a Barge Cruise in Europe

The best time to take a barge cruise through Europe is probably the autumn season, between September and October. Summer can also be an enjoyable barge cruising season if you don’t mind hotter temperatures and bigger crowds, and the start of the river cruising season in late spring (April-May) can be a good time to see Europe coming back to life after winter.
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