Planning your first river cruise? You're probably asking yourself lots of questions about the organisation, navigation and progress of your adventure. As with any first time, there are some rookie mistakes to avoid. In this article, we'll help you avoid these pitfalls, so that your houseboat adventure is unforgettable and trouble-free!
One of the most common mistakes you make when hiring a licence-free houseboat for the first time is to underestimate the importance of planning. Before casting off, it's crucial to prepare your itinerary properly. Although river cruising is simple and enjoyable, it's essential to know the locks, mooring points and places of interest you want to visit. A good itinerary will allow you to manage your navigation time and make the most of your stopovers.
Don't hesitate to order the river guide before you set off and to consult the tourist guide for the region, as they will help you to know beforehand where you can stop and to find out about the points of interest and activities in the towns.
Although hiring a licence-free houseboat is accessible to everyone, you should not forget that navigating requires a certain amount of concentration, especially when manoeuvring through locks or negotiating tight bends. Some beginners think they'll be able to master everything without listening carefully to the training, but it's advisable to take this time to familiarise yourself with the boat.
Before setting off, the basics of navigation will be explained to you during a training session lasting around an hour. Don't hesitate to ask questions and ask for a practical demonstration to get a better understanding of how your houseboat works.
Hiring a licence-free houseboat often involves going through locks, and this can be a challenging time for novices. Many people underestimate the time it takes to pass through a lock and end up wasting valuable time, which can affect their itinerary.
It's essential to learn how to manoeuvre smoothly and coordinate your team well, so we advise you to assign a role to each person beforehand. You should also allow extra time for lock passages in your daily schedule.
A common mistake on your first houseboat cruise is not taking into account the opening times of locks, ports and other services. On some routes, locks do not operate 24 hours a day, and you may be surprised by a closure at the end of the day.
Before setting off, find out the lock and service times along your route. If you are in any doubt, don't hesitate to call the harbour office. Plan your navigation days according to these constraints to avoid getting stuck. In addition, some locks may be closed for specific reasons (maintenance, weather conditions), so always plan an alternative route.
The weather is a crucial factor to take into account when hiring a licence-free houseboat, not only for navigation, but also for comfort on board. Temperatures can plummet in the evenings, especially at the water's edge, and it's important to pack appropriate clothing. Even if the days are sunny and pleasant, the evenings can be chilly, and the wind can make navigation a little colder than expected.
Take warm clothes with you, such as light jackets, jumpers or scarves, even if you're setting off in summer. And don't forget waterproof clothing to be ready in case of rain. An extra plaid or blanket can make evenings on deck much more comfortable.
Ready to embark on a houseboat cruise? At CrisBoat, we'll be with you every step of the way to make your experience as successful as possible. Book your cruise now and take advantage of our offers to discover the canals of France and Europe at your own pace!