One-way Cruise Port Cassafières / Carcassonne / Castelnaudary
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Port Cassafières - Carcassonne - Castelnaudary - 158 Km - 61 Locks - 33 h of navigation - 9 Nights
From Port Cassafières to Béziers, 15 km, 5 Lock(s), 3 h of navigation
Stopover : Port Cassafières > Béziers
Monument
Béziers
For a long time the French capital of table wine, this town features a historical center full of monuments: the Cathedral of Saint Nazaire, the Church of the Madeleine, and the Arena (seating 13,500), not forgetting the Feria (around the 15th August).
River constructions
the Canal Bridge of Beziers
Built in 1856, this aqueduct allows the Orb river to be crossed in a barge. 198m in length and 8m wide, it is considered the most beautiful stone canal bridge of the 19th century.
Monument
Portiragnes
Portiragnes offers a perfect combination of fine sandy beaches, preserved nature, and historical heritage. Close to the Canal du Midi, you can enjoy the unspoiled coastline, the azure blue sea, and discover the RoqueHaute Regional Nature Reserve, a protected ecosystem home to a wide variety of plant and animal species.
Monument
Les Arènes de Béziers
The Béziers Arena, built in 1897, has long been a major center for bullfighting, earning Béziers the nickname "The French Seville." Throughout the year, this arena serves as the main meeting place for various festivities and events, notably the famous Béziers feria.
Monument
Saint-Nazaire Cathedral
Saint Nazaire Cathedral is a city landmark, visible for miles around. Its history is told through its architecture. During your visit, explore the bell tower to enjoy panoramic views of the Biterrois wine plains, discover the unfinished cloister leading to the Bishops’ Garden, and stroll around the cathedral’s forecourt while admiring the surrounding landscape.
Nature
the Natural Reserve of Roque-Haute
At more than 150ha in size, this reserve features more than 400 varieties of vegetable and 360 species of animal.
Gastronomy
the Soupe d'ail at the Biterroise
Gastronomy
Petits pâtés de Pézenas
The taste of this small spool-shaped pâté is surprising. It comes from the clever blend of sweet (lemon and brown sugar) and savory (lamb) flavors. These flavors combine wonderfully and have made this specialty a success since the 18th century! Enjoy it slightly warmed, at the start of your meal, accompanied by a good glass of muscat!
Gastronomy
Les Coques de Béziers
The Saint-Aphrodise coques, also known as Béziers coques, are a culinary specialty of the city. They are traditionally enjoyed during the feast of Saint Aphrodise, the patron saint of Béziers. Made with poolish, a liquid starter essential for achieving a soft and fluffy crumb, these delicious brioches are distinguished by their elongated shape and captivating aroma. They are perfect for breakfast or a tasty snack. To taste the best in Béziers, we recommend the bakery "Le Cristal," which won the "Golden Coque" contest. 44 Allées Paul Riquet, 34500 Béziers – 06 68 98 36 61
Swimming
Portiragnes-Plages
Portiragnes-Plage offers a beautiful fine sandy beach, ideal for relaxing in the sun for a few hours. It is recommended to bring your own supplies, as there are no shops or stores nearby.
Sports and leisure activities
Azimut Aventure
This park offers tree-climbing courses of various levels and lengths, as well as zip line descents, all set in a beautiful park filled with century-old pines and plane trees, located 2.7 km from the Canal.From Béziers to Capestang, 19 km, 7 Lock(s), 3.9 h of navigation
Stopover : Béziers > Colombiers > Capestang
Monument
The oppidum ofEnsérune
Located above the Malpas tunnel, the Oppidum d'Ensérune is an archaeological site where relics of the Greek, Celtic and Roman civilizations were discovered. There are still traces of the human occupation of this site from 800 B.C. through to the Christian era.
River constructions
the Canal Bridge of Beziers
Built in 1856, this aqueduct allows the Orb river to be crossed in a barge. 198m in length and 8m wide, it is considered the most beautiful stone canal bridge of the 19th century.
River constructions
the scale of Fonserannes
In order to descend from 20m and get back to the level of the Orb river, Paul Riquet, the designer of the Canal du Midi, constructed a ladder of 7 locks; one of the most impressive sections of the Canal du Midi.
River constructions
the Tunnel of Malpas
In fact there are 3 tunnels placed on top of each other: an underground culvert for draining the water from the Montady Lagoon, the SNCF rail tunnel, and at the top the passage of the Canal du Midi. A unique piece of work navigated by barge without a permit.
Monument
Colombiers Castle
The former cellar of Colombiers Castle offers tours and exhibitions dedicated to viticulture.
Monument
Les Arènes de Béziers
The Béziers Arena, built in 1897, has long been a major center for bullfighting, earning Béziers the nickname "The French Seville." Throughout the year, this arena serves as the main meeting place for various festivities and events, notably the famous Béziers feria.
Monument
Saint-Nazaire Cathedral
Saint Nazaire Cathedral is a city landmark, visible for miles around. Its history is told through its architecture. During your visit, explore the bell tower to enjoy panoramic views of the Biterrois wine plains, discover the unfinished cloister leading to the Bishops’ Garden, and stroll around the cathedral’s forecourt while admiring the surrounding landscape.
Monument
The Collegiate Church of Saint Stephen
In perfect Gothic style, the Collegiate Church of Saint Stephen in Capestang was built in the 13th century on the site of an earlier Romanesque church, likely by the same team that constructed the Saint-Just and Saint-Pasteur Cathedral in Narbonne. The building was listed as a historic monument in 1906.
Monument
Colombiers
You'll be charmed by the appeal of its small river port, perfect for a stopover during your cruise on the Canal du Midi. Nearby, the Oppidum of Ensérune rises, known for its archaeological site and museum. Take advantage of this walk to admire the exceptional view of the drained Colombiers-Montady pond.
Monument
Capestang
Charming village nestled in the bends of the Canal du Midi, Capestang experienced prosperous times in the Middle Ages. Today, its heritage bears witness to that history.
Monument
The Archbishops' Castle
Come and discover the summer residence of the Archbishops of Narbonne in Capestang. This castle houses a painted ceiling dating back to the 15th century. You can admire numerous scenes from the era (animals, romantic and religious scenes) on the beams. At the end of the Middle Ages, the castle was a splendid residence that some documents even describe as a palace. The Interpretation Center will provide you with insights into the ceiling and the history of the castle.
Gastronomy
Les Coques de Béziers
The Saint-Aphrodise coques, also known as Béziers coques, are a culinary specialty of the city. They are traditionally enjoyed during the feast of Saint Aphrodise, the patron saint of Béziers. Made with poolish, a liquid starter essential for achieving a soft and fluffy crumb, these delicious brioches are distinguished by their elongated shape and captivating aroma. They are perfect for breakfast or a tasty snack. To taste the best in Béziers, we recommend the bakery "Le Cristal," which won the "Golden Coque" contest. 44 Allées Paul Riquet, 34500 Béziers – 06 68 98 36 61From Capestang to Le Somail, 23 km, 0 Lock(s), 3.1 h of navigation
Stopover : Capestang > Le Somail
Monument
Le Somail
In addition to its Hat-making Museum and its old bridge, Le Somail has 4 structures listed as historical monuments: the former icehouse, the chapel, the old guard building and the former inn.
Monument
La bibliothèque
The bookstore "Le trouve tout du livre" contains over 50,000 books and manuscripts.
River constructions
Le Pont-Canal de Cesse
The Cesse Aqueduct, built from 1689 to 1690 by Vauban and engineer Jean Goudet, is 64 meters long and 14 meters high. It is located at the level of the main reach of the Canal du Midi, which is primarily fed by the Cesse River.From Le Somail to Homps, 21 km, 5 Lock(s), 3.8 h of navigation
Stopover : Le Somail > Argens > Homps
Monument
Le Somail
In addition to its Hat-making Museum and its old bridge, Le Somail has 4 structures listed as historical monuments: the former icehouse, the chapel, the old guard building and the former inn.
River constructions
the Canal Bridge of the Repudre
Throughout the length of the Canal du Midi there are 49 aqueducts, most of them built by Vauban; only the Répudre Aqueduct was completed during the building of the canal, in 1676.
Monument
Homps
A small village known for its harbor and pleasant recreational lake, Lac de Jouarres. Don’t forget to stop by the Maison des Vins du Minervois at the port, which offers a selection of the best wines. The famous blue footbridge leading to Lac de Jouarres is worth a visit.
Monument
La bibliothèque
The bookstore "Le trouve tout du livre" contains over 50,000 books and manuscripts.
Vineyard
The Wine House
At the port of Homps, you will find the Minervois Wine House, which offers a selection of the finest wines and showcases the expertise of winemakers from the Aude region.
Swimming
the pond of Jouarre/Homps
A 100ha lake, situated a few meters from the Canal du Midi, where it is possible to bathe.
Sports and leisure activities
the pond of Jouarre/Homps
A 100ha lake, situated a few meters from the Canal du Midi, where it is possible to go sailing.From Homps to Marseillette, 18 km, 11 Lock(s), 4.6 h of navigation
Stopover : Homps > Puichéric > Marseillette
Monument
Marseillette
Wedged between the Minervois and Corbières vineyards, today this town is known for producing the most rice in the region; the rice fields can be seen from the lagoon.
Monument
Puichéric
A village with a medieval character located along the Canal du Midi, also known as “the Venice of Minervois” due to the three rivers that flow through it. It has a timeless charm that should not be missed.
Monument
Homps
A small village known for its harbor and pleasant recreational lake, Lac de Jouarres. Don’t forget to stop by the Maison des Vins du Minervois at the port, which offers a selection of the best wines. The famous blue footbridge leading to Lac de Jouarres is worth a visit.
Monument
La Tour de l’Horloge
The Clock Tower served as a relay station for the world’s first telecommunications network.
Nature
The rice field
The Saint-Gabriel estate, which has focused primarily on winegrowing since 1925, stands out for its 70 hectares of rice-growing. The estate recently launched Orizginale, a gluten-free, organic craft beer made from rice grown on the estate.
Vineyard
The Wine House
At the port of Homps, you will find the Minervois Wine House, which offers a selection of the finest wines and showcases the expertise of winemakers from the Aude region.
Swimming
the pond of Jouarre/Homps
A 100ha lake, situated a few meters from the Canal du Midi, where it is possible to bathe.
Sports and leisure activities
the pond of Jouarre/Homps
A 100ha lake, situated a few meters from the Canal du Midi, where it is possible to go sailing.
River constructions
Le Pont-Canal du Rivassel
The Rivassel Aqueduct is one of the many bridges of this kind along the Canal du Midi. It crosses the small "Ruisseau de Naval" stream.From Marseillette to Carcassonne, 23 km, 10 Lock(s), 5.1 h of navigation
Stopover : Marseillette > Trèbes > Carcassonne
Monument
Marseillette
Wedged between the Minervois and Corbières vineyards, today this town is known for producing the most rice in the region; the rice fields can be seen from the lagoon.
Monument
Trèbes
The old village, with its narrow streets, was built around the Church of Saint-Etienne. The latter houses the "Treasures of Trèbes": 320 oak corbels which support the structural beams, each featuring a painted figure: men, women, animals…
Monument
Carcassonne
The medieval city of Carcassonne has had two designations as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Dating back to the Roman Empire, this fortified city later became a garrison town.
Monument
La Bastide Saint-Louis
La Bastide Saint-Louis is at the heart of the city. It embodies the warm, friendly spirit of Carcassonne and is home to many shops, restaurants, squares, and parks.
Monument
The Medieval City
Just a 10-minute walk from the Bastide is the famous Medieval City, open free of charge 24/7. Guided tours, both day and night, are offered to uncover the secrets and history of the City.
Monument
The Comtal Castle
In the heart of the medieval city, you will find the imposing Comtal Castle. Admission is paid, but free for visitors under 26 years old.
Monument
Saint Stephen’s Church
Saint Stephen’s Church, in the Southern Gothic style, houses the "Treasure of Trèbes": 320 oak corbels supporting the beams of a timber frame classified as a Historic Monument.
Monument
La Tour de l’Horloge
The Clock Tower served as a relay station for the world’s first telecommunications network.
Nature
The rice field
The Saint-Gabriel estate, which has focused primarily on winegrowing since 1925, stands out for its 70 hectares of rice-growing. The estate recently launched Orizginale, a gluten-free, organic craft beer made from rice grown on the estate.
Vineyard
the Minervois
Vineyard
the Côtes de Malepère
Vineyard
the Corbières
Gastronomy
the Artichauts à la Carcassonnaise
Gastronomy
Le Petit Carcassonnais
This small oval cake, with a texture similar to a sponge cake or a madeleine, reveals subtle flavors of candied orange peel when you taste it. This specialty was created in 1928 by Mr. Gau and was later acquired by the Fuster family, who are currently the sole producers of this delicacy.
Gastronomy
Le Poumpet
A cake originating from Soual and Sémalens, brought to Carcassonne in the 8th century, made with lemon and bergamot. Triangular in shape, it was traditionally made with lard. Today, it is usually made with butter. It has gained great popularity thanks to its blend of lemon, bergamot, and honey added after baking. It is perfect for lemon lovers.
Gastronomy
Les Écus de la Cité
By far, this is the sweetest memory you’ll take away from Carcassonne. Small and round in shape, these little coins featuring the medieval city come in dark chocolate or milk chocolate. 7 Avenue Arthur Mullot, 11000 Carcassonne
River constructions
Pont Marengo
The Marengo Bridge, downstream from Lock 40, is known to be the lowest on the canal. Be sure to warn all your crew members before passing under it.
River constructions
The Moulins Locks
The Trèbes locks form a lock staircase consisting of three basins. Built around 1674, it is located downstream of the port of Trèbes, at the town’s exit toward the village of Marseillette. Taking advantage of the steep gradient of the lock staircase, a thriving milling industry developed on the left bank of the lock.
River constructions
Les écluses et le Pont-Canal du Fresquel
The Fresquel site consists of the Fresquel aqueduct, a lock from the era of Pierre-Paul Riquet, and a double lock built at the same time as the aqueduct. The 135-meter reach between the two locks is the shortest on the Canal du Midi.
River constructions
The Orbiel Aqueduct
This beautiful structure with three arches, where the Canal crosses the Orbiel Valley, was built based on Vauban’s plans in 1688. It is one of the first large canal bridges constructed in France. The original method for crossing the Orbiel was quite different. A causeway had been built to raise the waters of the Orbiel to the level of the Canal. Boats would pass behind this dam to reach the other shore.From Carcassonne to Villesèquelande, 13 km, 5 Lock(s), 2.7 h of navigation
Stopover : Carcassonne > Villesèquelande
Monument
Carcassonne
The medieval city of Carcassonne has had two designations as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Dating back to the Roman Empire, this fortified city later became a garrison town.
Monument
Presbytère de Villesèquelande
An old 11th-century building that was part of the village’s former castle, which was destroyed. It was restored in 1991 and has since belonged to the municipality, but traces of Raymond de Villesèquelande’s presence can still be found.
Monument
La Bastide Saint-Louis
La Bastide Saint-Louis is at the heart of the city. It embodies the warm, friendly spirit of Carcassonne and is home to many shops, restaurants, squares, and parks.
Monument
The Medieval City
Just a 10-minute walk from the Bastide is the famous Medieval City, open free of charge 24/7. Guided tours, both day and night, are offered to uncover the secrets and history of the City.
Monument
Villesèquelande
A small, authentic village with just a few inhabitants. It is crossed by an ancient Roman road. It is home to one of the last elm trees in Western Europe, and since 2021, Villesèquelande has even become the world’s first Tree Village.
Monument
The Comtal Castle
In the heart of the medieval city, you will find the imposing Comtal Castle. Admission is paid, but free for visitors under 26 years old.
Vineyard
the Côtes de Malepère
Gastronomy
the Artichauts à la Carcassonnaise
Gastronomy
Le Petit Carcassonnais
This small oval cake, with a texture similar to a sponge cake or a madeleine, reveals subtle flavors of candied orange peel when you taste it. This specialty was created in 1928 by Mr. Gau and was later acquired by the Fuster family, who are currently the sole producers of this delicacy.
Gastronomy
Le Poumpet
A cake originating from Soual and Sémalens, brought to Carcassonne in the 8th century, made with lemon and bergamot. Triangular in shape, it was traditionally made with lard. Today, it is usually made with butter. It has gained great popularity thanks to its blend of lemon, bergamot, and honey added after baking. It is perfect for lemon lovers.
Gastronomy
Les Écus de la Cité
By far, this is the sweetest memory you’ll take away from Carcassonne. Small and round in shape, these little coins featuring the medieval city come in dark chocolate or milk chocolate. 7 Avenue Arthur Mullot, 11000 CarcassonneFrom Villesèquelande to Villepinte, 14 km, 4 Lock(s), 2.7 h of navigation
Stopover : Villesèquelande > Bram > Bram > Villepinte
Monument
Villepinte
The 12th century Romanesque chapel of Notre-Dame de la Romenguière.
Monument
Bram
Bram, the circular town with its 13th century church. At the House of Archaeology you can discover the ancient past of this city.
Monument
Presbytère de Villesèquelande
An old 11th-century building that was part of the village’s former castle, which was destroyed. It was restored in 1991 and has since belonged to the municipality, but traces of Raymond de Villesèquelande’s presence can still be found.
Monument
Eglise de Villepinte
The church was built around an old Romanesque chapel, of which only remnants now remain within the new structure. The original construction, along with subsequent renovation work, was carried out in stages, with the most recent significant modification dating back to 1991.
Monument
Villesèquelande
A small, authentic village with just a few inhabitants. It is crossed by an ancient Roman road. It is home to one of the last elm trees in Western Europe, and since 2021, Villesèquelande has even become the world’s first Tree Village.
Monument
Lavoir et Epanchoir
Ancient washhouses are located opposite a magnificent eight-arched spillway that transfers excess water to the Fresquel River. These structures reflect the way of life of the time and are still in very good condition, allowing for clear observation from your houseboat.
Monument
The Church of Saint Julien and Saint Basilisse
A true jewel of the village, it is the starting point of the “circular village.” Hidden in the heart of the town, it is one of the rare churches still found in France with a single nave featuring three rib-vaulted bays and a 36-meter bell tower. Come and discover its Gothic architecture, which dominates the village!
Nature
Parc des Essars
The Parc des Essars is an ideal place for a stroll. At the heart of the park is an exhibition centre dedicated entirely to the visual arts and culture.
Swimming
Le Lac de Buzerens
Lake Buzerens offers a variety of activities: fishing, supervised swimming, wakeboarding, paddleboarding, and water skiing.
River constructions
Aqueduc de Rebenty
Cross over the Rebenty stream, originally built in 1687, to prevent the stream's waters from mixing with those of the canal. Composed of four arches, this aqueduct was accompanied by a gatehouse that has now been completely destroyed.
River constructions
Echelle du Vivier
The Vivier Lock is a staircase of three locks. Built around 1674, it is located 68.7 km from Toulouse, at an altitude of 154 meters. The neighboring locks are the Guillermin Lock to the east and the Gay Lock to the west.
River constructions
Le Pont-Canal de Mezuran
One of the many aqueducts of the Canal du Midi, this one allows the canal to cross over a stream, while also offering an elevated view of the landscape and nature.From Villepinte to Castelnaudary, 12 km, 14 Lock(s), 4.4 h of navigation
Stopover : Villepinte > Castelnaudary
Monument
Villepinte
The 12th century Romanesque chapel of Notre-Dame de la Romenguière.
Monument
Castelnaudary
This town, widely known for its Cassoulet, also features a number of interesting historical monuments, such as the Collegiate Church of Saint-Michel, the Moulin (windmill) de Curagel, or even the 13th century Chapel of Notre Dame de Pitié.
River constructions
the locks scale of Saint-Roch
This ladder of locks, near to Castelnaudary, was constructed in 1678. It was electrified by the Germans during the Second World War.
Monument
Eglise de Villepinte
The church was built around an old Romanesque chapel, of which only remnants now remain within the new structure. The original construction, along with subsequent renovation work, was carried out in stages, with the most recent significant modification dating back to 1991.
Monument
The Collegiate Church of Saint Michael
This magnificent 13th-century church overlooks the town of Castelnaudary with its beautiful bell tower. Don’t hesitate to step inside to discover its baroque high altar and grand organ.
Monument
Lavoir et Epanchoir
Ancient washhouses are located opposite a magnificent eight-arched spillway that transfers excess water to the Fresquel River. These structures reflect the way of life of the time and are still in very good condition, allowing for clear observation from your houseboat.
Nature
Cybelle Island
Let yourself be tempted by this island, moor up discreetly and watch the animals, ducks and migratory birds, in their natural environment.
Gastronomy
the Cassoulet of Castelnaudary
River constructions
Le Pont-Canal du Tréboul
The Tréboul Aqueduct is one of the many structures along the Canal du Midi. Located in the commune of Lasbordes, it crosses the Tréboul stream, which later flows into the Fresquel. This aqueduct is situated just 100 meters from the Tréboul lock.
River constructions
Echelle du Vivier
The Vivier Lock is a staircase of three locks. Built around 1674, it is located 68.7 km from Toulouse, at an altitude of 154 meters. The neighboring locks are the Guillermin Lock to the east and the Gay Lock to the west.
River constructions
Ecluses de Saint-Roch
This series of four locks, built in 1678 at the exit of Castelnaudary heading toward Carcassonne, allows barges to overcome a 10-meter elevation difference. Nearby, two mills and a flour mill were constructed in 1680, adding a historical and industrial dimension to this remarkable site.
River constructions
The Cugarel Windmill
This former flour windmill from the 17th century operated until 1921. It overlooks the entire Lauragais plain, offering a beautiful panoramic view.
River constructions
Le Pont-Canal de Mezuran
One of the many aqueducts of the Canal du Midi, this one allows the canal to cross over a stream, while also offering an elevated view of the landscape and nature.
Bike
Bike
Tow paths provide an ideal place to ride your bikeThe Locks
2 type(s) of lock(s) on The Canal du Midi- Automatic locks operated by boaters themselves, without a lock-keeper
- Automatic locks
Best current offers for the destination Port Cassafières
Range Comfort
2
2
-15%
From €492 / pers
Week of the 5/11/26 to 5/20/26
- Max. people : 6
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions
220 V converter
Air cooler
Microwave
220V socket
Electric toilets
Customer testimonials
Average :
4.4/5
(based on 5 opinion)
4.4/5
(based on 5 opinion)
Stephany H.
Cruise carried out on Sep 1, 2025, HorizonCruise :
between Port Cassafières and Castelnaudary
"Obviously doable, but alittle long for just 7 nights. We did not have a lot of time to visit."
Oliver M.
Cruise carried out on Jul 26, 2025, Horizon 5Cruise :
between Port Cassafières and Castelnaudary
"It was great."
Robert L.
Cruise carried out on Jun 23, 2025, Vision 4Cruise :
between Port Cassafières and Castelnaudary
"Beautiful scenery, and lock staff are generally very cooperative."
Robert V.
Cruise carried out on Jun 8, 2025, ClipperCruise :
between Port Cassafières and Castelnaudary
"Very interesting, good contacts with very competent employees."
"It was nice."