River cruising is a unique experience, but to make sure it goes as smoothly as possible, it's important to choose the right houseboat. A number of practical features can really make all the difference when it comes to renting a houseboat. Whether it's for manoeuvrability, comfort or pleasure on board, here's our TOP 5 equipment to make the most of your river cruise in France or Europe.
Navigating a river cruise can be a real pleasure, especially with two steering positions. This feature is extremely practical for a licence-free houseboat rental, as it allows you to navigate from both inside and outside.
The first berth is indoors, ideal for driving in bad weather or in the evening. The second station, usually located on the upper terrace, allows you to steer while enjoying the scenery and the open air. It also makes manoeuvring easier when approaching locks or mooring ports.
One of the great pleasures of cruising on a licence-free houseboat** is being able to spend time outside, whether admiring the scenery or enjoying a meal in the open air. That's where the terrace with bimini (a removable roof) comes in. The outdoor terrace is the perfect place to soak up the sun and the views while you navigate. And the bimini allows you to create a shaded area in bright sunshine, making hot days much more pleasant. This removable roof also protects against light rain, giving you more flexibility to stay outside, whatever the weather. Enjoying a terrace equipped with a bimini is a must for convivial moments with family or friends.
When you set off on a river cruise, manoeuvring can sometimes be a source of stress, especially for novices. That's where the bow thruster comes in, an essential piece of equipment that makes manoeuvring much easier and safer.
The bow thruster** is a side-mounted propeller located at the front of the boat, which allows the bow (front) of the boat to be moved from side to side without moving forward. This makes it much easier to manoeuvre in tight spaces such as locks or harbours. If you're new to houseboating, a boat fitted with a bow thruster will give you greater control during tricky manoeuvres.
Holidays are often synonymous with good meals. A cruise on a houseboat** lets you organise your meals as you please. With a plancha, you can easily prepare convivial meals outside, while enjoying the terrace. Whether you're grilling vegetables, fish or meat, this equipment is simple to use and doesn't require a lot of space.
If you're planning a river cruise in summer, especially in hot regions such as the south of France or Italy, air conditioning is a feature not to be overlooked. It can turn your cruise into a much more pleasant experience. Navigating under a blazing sun can become tiring, and an air-conditioned cabin keeps the inside of the boat at a pleasant temperature. This means you'll be more comfortable when you're resting or sleeping after a day spent navigating in the heat.
Choosing a well-equipped boat for your river cruise is crucial to ensuring a pleasant experience. If you're ready for an adventure, explore our houseboat hire offers and get ready for an unforgettable cruise!