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River cruise in Franche-Comté
With over 300 km of navigation, Franche-Comté is the ideal destination for a river cruise in the heart of nature. Discover the vineyards, the regional nature parks or the emblematic towns and cities with your barge!
With CrisBoat, you have at your disposal 8 departure bases to start your cruise in Franche-Comté: Fontenoy-Le-Château, Port-Sur-Saône, Scey-Sur-Saône, Pontailler, Saint-Jean-De-Losne, Dôle, Saint-Léger-Sur-Dheune, Branges, Louhans. To help you choose, we suggest you discover the 2 navigation areas: Petite Saône and Basse Saône
- River cruise close to the vineyards
- A river full of fish, a fisherman's paradise
- Nautical base, ideal for families
Cruise in Franche-Comté
Rent your houseboat on the Basse-Saône
A river cruise on the Basse-Saône Basin is the promise of a holiday in the midst of wildlife in the wild. This river invites you to experience a real journey through a rich history and grandiose landscapes. You will cross many vineyards such as the Mâconnais or the Côte Chalonnaise. Don't forget to stop at the water sports centres to enjoy unique experiences with your family or friends. Canoeing, pedal-boating, initiation to water-skiing are all possible!
Cruise in Franche-Comté
Rent your canal boat to cruise on the Petite Saône
Looking for a relaxing holiday close to nature? Take a cruise on the Petite Saône in Franche-Comté without a licence! On the programme: discover an exceptional natural heritage, cycle along the towpath and take part in water sports activities in Scey-Sur-Saône or Pontailler! What about a beach with a bar-guinguette, a shaded area, pétanque, volleyball and table tennis? Nice, isn't it?
- River with few locks, perfect for beginners
- Several water sports facilities
- River cruise in the heart of the best preserved nature in Europe
Customer testimonials
4.7/5
(based on 58 opinion)
"To be done again."
"Everything worked really well. We also got a quick response to text message enquiries from Canalous when we were on the road. At this time of year, we found good space in all the marinas."
"Great Ascension weekend!"
"It was really nice, relaxing, easy even for beginners"
"Everything went well."
"Great stay, very pleasant."
"Very well organized with the local relay Le Boat."
"We absolutely have to do it again."
"Perfect."
"Very well organised, available team."
"Very good."
"A very warm welcome and clear explanations."
"Great."
"A great experience."
"It was a great experience with my daughter and 4 teenage grandchildren."
"Great."
"I recommend it."
"Super, loyalty discount, useful document sents by e-mail, and top advice."
"Well accompanied."
"Very happy with this experience."
"We were so delighted that we are planning a cruise on the Canal du Midi next year."
"A nice stay."
"A very relaxing holiday. Great landscape. Beautiful, very well maintained old technology (locks, tunnels)."
"Amazing."
"Very relaxing."
"Very good organisation. Very professional."
"auto-translation :''Very pleasant despite a heavy hailstorm''"
"Overall, we were very satisfied."
"Everything was perfect!"
"Very good organization."
"I don't have enough words to express my satisfaction…"
"Very pleasant stay - our two granddaughters (11 and 5 years old) loved it."
"auto-translation :''Perfect.''"
"auto-translation :''Works smoothly with a German-speaking telephone hotline''"
"auto-translation :''Everything is perfect. It's still a big budget but a very satisfying stay.''"
"auto-translation :''Very satisfied, following the problem with the fridge, Canalous offered to keep the boat for another 24 hours''"
"auto-translation :''To be redone''"
"auto-translation :''Good reception and good advice''"
"auto-translation :''Perfect''"
"auto-translation :''Warm welcome, family, correct boat''"
"auto-translation :''Super home with Ewin in Pontailler, very professional, very good advice''"
"auto-translation :''Nice casual''"
"auto-translation :''Nice casual''"
"auto-translation :''A beautiful ride''"
"auto-translation :''Satisfied''"
"auto-translation :''Pleasant. Comfortable and very user-friendly''"
"auto-translation :''Excellent experience, boat very correct''"
"auto-translation :''We had a wonderful stay, excellent time, beautiful scenery''"
"auto-translation :''We had a small regret about the distance of the shops by not having provided bicycles. we'll do better next time''"
"auto-translation :''Good discovery''"
"Service was great. When the sun canopy flew off, the team supplied us another one very quick."
"auto-translation :''It was a pleasant stay in which we lost the notion of time and we are perfectly relaxed''"
"auto-translation :''Perfect very quiet to take your time and original''"
"auto-translation :''No bad surprise, everything is well explained in terms of rates and what is allowed in navigation. A stay without false note thanks to a team really attentive.''"
"auto-translation :''Satisfies expectations''"
"auto-translation :''Good''"
"auto-translation :''Exotic, discovery, nature, friendly.''"
Best current offers for the destination Franche-Comté
From €483 / pers
Week of the 8/9/25 to 8/16/25
- Max. people : 6
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air-Conditioning
Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV
Microwave
Dishwasher
Electric toilets
From €166 / pers
Week of the 8/23/25 to 8/30/25
- Max. people : 8
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions
From €247 / pers
Week of the 8/24/25 to 8/31/25
- Max. people : 6
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions
220 V converter
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €443 / pers
Week of the 8/11/25 to 8/18/25
- Max. people : 7
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air cooler
Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV
Microwave
Electric toilets
From €347 / pers
Week of the 8/24/25 to 8/31/25
- Max. people : 9
- Cabins : 4
- Bathroom & Toilet : 4
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air cooler
Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV
Microwave
Electric toilets
From €345 / pers
Week of the 8/25/25 to 9/1/25
- Max. people : 9
- Cabins : 4
- Bathroom & Toilet : 4
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air cooler
Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV
Microwave
Electric toilets
From €353 / pers
Week of the 8/24/25 to 8/31/25
- Max. people : 7
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air-Conditioning
Bimini Top
Microwave
Electric toilets
From €246 / pers
Week of the 8/25/25 to 9/1/25
- Max. people : 6
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions
220 V converter
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €452 / pers
Week of the 8/25/25 to 9/1/25
- Max. people : 4
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air cooler
Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV
Microwave
Electric toilets
From €205 / pers
Week of the 8/30/25 to 9/6/25
- Max. people : 6
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions
220 V converter
220V socket
From €430 / pers
Week of the 8/15/25 to 8/22/25
- Max. people : 7
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air cooler
Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV
Microwave
Electric toilets
From €234 / pers
Week of the 8/29/25 to 9/5/25
- Max. people : 4
- Cabins : 1
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
Two steering positions
220 V converter
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €234 / pers
Week of the 8/27/25 to 9/3/25
- Max. people : 4
- Cabins : 1
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
Two steering positions
220 V converter
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €454 / pers
Week of the 8/9/25 to 8/16/25
- Max. people : 7
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air cooler
Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV
Microwave
Electric toilets
From €244 / pers
Week of the 8/22/25 to 8/29/25
- Max. people : 4
- Cabins : 1
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
Two steering positions
220 V converter
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €251 / pers
Week of the 8/23/25 to 8/30/25
- Max. people : 6
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions
220 V converter
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €249 / pers
Week of the 8/23/25 to 8/30/25
- Max. people : 6
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions
220 V converter
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €437 / pers
Week of the 8/30/25 to 9/6/25
- Max. people : 4
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air cooler
Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV
Microwave
Electric toilets
The locks are automatic or electric, most of them manned by lock keepers. Most locks are closed on 1st May and 1st November (and on 14th July on the Yonne river and the canal de Bourgogne).
Recommended experience for navigation on the Doubs.
From June 2025: Navigation is closed at Chagny on the Canal du Centre (between the Saint-Gilles lock and the Crissey lock) due to a leak. Works are required to secure the embankment. Navigation is expected to reopen in March 2026.
Between Saint Jean de Losne and Mâcon, docking at a pontoon or in a mandatory port. Otherwise you can moor on the banks, in the countryside.
Everything you need to know about navigation on a licence-free boat in Franche-Comté
The Franche-Comté waterways cover a total of more than 300 km! This network takes you through the best preserved nature in Europe! You will navigate through forests, vineyards and villages of character. It is the ideal destination for nature lovers!
During your river cruise on the Saône, you will be able to cross several villages of character such as Auxonne, Pontailler, Ray-Sur-Saône, Fontenoy-Le-Château or Saint-Jean-De-Losne. Navigating in Franche-Comté by licence-free boat, you will discover a rich natural and cultural heritage.
Renting a houseboat in Franche-Comté is a unique experience that allows you to discover the history and natural beauty of this renowned region in eastern France while enjoying a river adventure. You can peacefully cruise along the canals of Franche-Comté, navigate through locks, explore historic villages, and savor delicious local cuisine. Whether you are a novice or an experienced navigator, renting a houseboat in Franche-Comté can meet your expectations as you explore the local culture and natural beauty of the region while gently cruising on the water.
Renting a houseboat in Franche-Comté with CrisBoat offers a wide range of boat choices to suit your preferences and needs. You are free to select the houseboat that matches your expectations, thanks to the different ranges we offer.
- The Essential Range: Houseboats in the "Essential" range have a classic design and are a few years old. They offer an affordable option to discover river cruises in Franche-Comté. Most of them come with electric toilets and an electrical connection (when docked). Some also feature an external steering position and a terrace to admire the region's landscapes.
- The Standard Range: Houseboats available for rent in Franche-Comté in the Standard range are older but provide all the necessary comfort. They have multiple bathrooms, and most of them have an external steering position with a terrace to enjoy the view of Franche-Comté's canals. Some of these license-free houseboats are equipped with a bow thruster to facilitate navigation during your cruise.
- The Comfort Range: If you're looking to rent a houseboat in Franche-Comté, opt for the Comfort range, which offers comfortable boats with modern amenities for a successful family stay. Most cabins include private bathrooms, while amenities like biminis, microwaves, air coolers, and flat-screen TVs with DVD players ensure your comfort. You can make the most of your stay in Franche-Comté.
- The Premium Range: Our Premium houseboats in Franche-Comté are elegant and spacious vessels, offering high comfort. Each cabin has its private bathroom and toilet. Most of these houseboats come with features such as air conditioning, bow and stern thrusters, an integrated plancha grill, and an internal 220V circuit for a readily available power supply on board.
Are you considering renting a houseboat in Franche-Comté for the first time? Here are some tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:
- Find the Right Houseboat for Rental in Franche-Comté: Choose a rental houseboat that suits your preferences and needs. We offer boats for 2 to 12 people and various ranges with different options, so it's crucial to establish your crew and requirements before renting a houseboat in Franche-Comté.
- Plan Your Houseboat Trip in Franche-Comté: To choose your houseboat, you'll need to select a departure base in Franche-Comté. With CrisBoat, renting a houseboat in this region allows you to choose from several departure bases.
- Branges
- Louhans
- Dole
- Fontenoy-Le-Château
- Pontailler
- Port-Sur-Saône
- Scey-Sur-Saône
- Saint-Jean-De-Losne
- Itinerary for Your Houseboat Rental in Franche-Comté: You can choose your itinerary for your houseboat rental in Franche-Comté. We recommend planning it in advance by ordering the Franche-Comté river guide, which will be available on the houseboat to assist in your planning.
- Operating the Houseboat in Franche-Comté: Before departing, you'll receive a one-hour training to familiarize yourself with the river code, navigation principles, and boat controls without a license.
- Explore the Franche-Comté Region at Your Pace: Renting a houseboat in Franche-Comté offers a great opportunity to explore picturesque villages, green landscapes, and regional cuisine. It's the ideal chance to savor local dishes.
- Environmental Respect in Franche-Comté: When renting a houseboat in Franche-Comté, take care to respect the environment by adhering to navigation rules and leaving no traces of your visit.
By following these tips for your first houseboat rental in Franche-Comté, you'll have a memorable and exciting experience!
When you rent a houseboat in Franche-Comté, you are likely to encounter locks, which represent a crucial stage for navigation. Here's how it usually works:
- Prepare the Crew: Provide clear safety instructions to all participants, assigning each person specific roles (helmsman, moorers, etc.). Ensuring everyone's safety throughout the activity is essential.
- Signal to the Lock Keeper: You should inform the lock keeper of your intention to pass, depending on the type of lock.
- Enter Slowly: It's advisable not to rush when entering the lock to prevent potential damage to the boat.
- Position Well: Inside the lock, make sure to leave enough space for other boats. If you're sailing alone, position your vessel in the center.
- Mooring in the Lock Without Tying Knots: Secure the boat at both the front and rear to the bollards of the lock without tying knots.
- Watch for Eddies: Be aware of any water movements that may occur during the filling or emptying of the lock, especially near the gates, to ensure everyone's safety.
- Let the Line Slip While Holding Firmly: Keep the boat using the mooring lines during the lock's ascent or descent without tying knots to the cleat. It's essential to hold the lines firmly to prevent any unexpected movement of the boat.
- Do Not Touch with Hands: It's recommended not to directly touch the lines or cleats with your hands or feet. To avoid this, it's advisable to use tools like boat hooks to handle the lines safely.
- Wait Until the Gates Are Wide Open: Wait for the lock gates to be fully open before departing to prevent any complications.
Lock personnel are there to assist boaters and ensure the safety of their passage. It's crucial to adhere to right-of-way rules and be attentive to any instructions given by the personnel if needed.
To choose the ideal time for renting a houseboat in Franche-Comté, consider various factors, including your personal preferences. Here are some important elements to consider:
- Tourist High Season: The summer period in Franche-Comté, typically from late June to late August, is the most popular due to pleasant temperatures and school holidays. However, note that canals can be somewhat busier during this time.
- Low Season: If you're looking for more peaceful conditions and affordable rental rates, consider renting a houseboat in Franche-Comté outside the high season, such as in spring or autumn. The autumn colors enhance the landscapes.
- Local Events: Check for local events like festivals or markets that could add interest to your houseboat rental in Franche-Comté. Many of these events take place during the tourist season.
- Weather: Take into account weather conditions and temperatures. The months of May and September can offer a favorable compromise in terms of weather and visitor numbers, with pleasant temperatures.
Franche-Comté offers various navigation areas for houseboat cruises. If you choose to rent a houseboat in this region, here are the available areas:
- The Petite-Saône: It's a calm and welcoming river. During your houseboat rental in Franche-Comté, you will navigate through both wild and canalized sections of the river. There are a total of 19 locks, all automated, ensuring smooth navigation.
- The Basse-Saône: This is a calm river ideal for beginners. Your houseboat stay will involve passing some automated locks. If you sail on the Seille, you will go through manual locks.
- Round-Trip Itineraries: You can also opt for a houseboat rental in Franche-Comté on a round-trip basis. You can choose to return to your starting point, providing a more comprehensive experience of the region.
You can find detailed itinerary suggestions on our website to help you prepare for your houseboat rental in Franche-Comté.
By Car: You have the option of reaching your houseboat rental location in Franche-Comté by taking the highway, where you can park your vehicle near the departure base or reserve a parking space in advance.
By Train: The train is often a preferred mode of transportation, as it is both comfortable and environmentally friendly, for reaching your destination in Franche-Comté. French regions, including Franche-Comté, have excellent rail connections.
By Plane: If time is crucial to you and you want to save precious hours in reaching your houseboat rental location in Franche-Comté, flying can be an excellent option. You can take a flight to the nearest airport to your rental location and then rent a car or use public transportation to get there.
Travelling with CrisBoat
Crisboat has more than 90% of the French fleet of self drive river boats. Entrust us with your desires and your availabilities and we will shape your holidays on the water. Located in the heart of the Vienne, Crisboat is the leader in self driver river boat rental in France. Discover our team, made up of 6 experts ready to take up the challenge to design the cruise that will meet your expectations.
Satisfaction: 4,5 / 5
Cris Boat Blog
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What to do during a 1 week cruise in Franche-Comté ?
Discover the addresses of vineyards to combine a cruise in Franche-Comté with wine tasting
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Aquitaine
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Ardennes
Cruise down the river and admire the surrounding Vosges mountains
"The company is friendly and welcoming, and the staff are professional, pleasant and caring."