Hire canal boats and navigate in Anjou/Pays de Loire
Crisboat - Expert in river boat rental for over 20 years
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River cruise on the Mayenne or the Sarthe river
With a network of more than 500 km, the waterways in Mayenne-Anjou are among the most beautiful in France. From Mayenne to Angers or from Angers to Le Mans, you will navigate at your own pace, close to the Loire River, in the heart of a landscape packed with Renaissance castles. These cruises are a great way to discover the French historical heritage! At CrisBoat, we offer you 3 possible locations to start your river cruise: Chenillé-Changé, Grez-Neuville, and Sablé-Sur-Sarthe. To help you choose, we suggest you discover the 2 cruising areas of the Mayenne-Anjou region: The Mayenne and the Sarthe.
- Water activities, perfect for families
- Ideal for history lovers
- Near Angers
Canal boating holidays on the Mayenne river
Rent a river boat to cruise on the Mayenne.
Why not go on a river cruise aboard a licence-free boat on the Mayenne? You will navigate between the cities of Mayenne and Angers, on one of the most beautiful rivers in France. This boating area is ideal for history enthusiasts. You can discover many exceptional sites and villages of character such as the old town of Laval and its castle. The Mayenne also invites you to enjoy water sports activities with your family or friends near the Chenillé base in a calm and relaxing environment.
Canal boating holidays on the Sarthe river
Rent a river boat to cruise on the Sarthe.
Your river cruise on the Sarthe will allow you to discover an exceptional historical heritage! Visits of Renaissance castles and a stopover in Angers, a gourmet destination, will be on your programme. Don't forget to taste one of the AOP Anjou wines. During your stay, you can also enjoy the Domaine de Houssay leisure park in Spay, where you can have a great day out with your family or friends. Swimming, canoeing, paddling, mini-golf, boules, and even tyrolean traverse are among the activities available there.
- Tasting of AOP Anjou wines
- Perfect leisure base for families
- Cruise to the heart of history
Customer testimonials
4.6/5
(based on 62 opinion)
"Very satisfied."
"Très agréable."
"We'll do it again. Staff attentive and good advice"
"Good."
"Nice expériecne. It's a shame that the price is a barrier to repeat."
"Very relaxing."
"Everything was perfect."
"Très bien."
"Customer service that listens and is there when you need it."
"To be repeated."
"Everything was just perfect."
"Great time, comfortable boat for 2 adults."
"A conclusive debut that makes you want to set off again."
"Great."
"Good organisation."
"Nice, quiet and relaxing."
"Top."
"Professional and friendly team"
"auto-translation :''Good, autonomy and nature''"
"auto-translation :''Great welcome, top boat equipment,''"
"auto-translation :''Great, a lot of luck with the weather, beautiful area, quiet very relaxing lack of entertainment at stops guenguettes closed the region should make a famous effort for tourists.''"
"auto-translation :''A discovery that makes us want to start again ...''"
"auto-translation :''Very well''"
"auto-translation :''Good contact before departure, clear documentation, easy booking''"
"Good"
"auto-translation :''An original experience that is worth a visit''"
"auto-translation :''Very pleasant stay''"
"Very good"
"auto-translation :''I repeat to myself perhaps "A wonderfully atypical moment spent with family"''"
"Super"
"Perfect"
"auto-translation :''Always very good''"
"auto-translation :''No problem, everything went well.''"
"auto-translation :''Pleasant stay, home very well and followed also because the next day, small breakdown of the boat and we were repaired in the quarter of an hour that followed. What good memories !!!''"
"auto-translation :''Excellent as usual''"
"Had a really good time"
"auto-translation :''Very good''"
"auto-translation :''Very successful, to renew in very good weather''"
"auto-translation :''Good service and availability ''"
"auto-translation :''Really good holiday, good exchanges with lockers''"
"Excellent"
"auto-translation :''An excellent moment of break in a welcoming region''"
"auto-translation :''Very nice''"
"auto-translation :''Peaceful.''"
"auto-translation :''No regrets - to remake!''"
"auto-translation :''Very pleasant cruise on the Mayenne''"
"auto-translation :''VERY GOOD''"
"auto-translation :''Boat in perfect working order''"
"auto-translation : ''Very satisfied, very good memories''"
"auto-translation : ''Well as usual''"
"auto-translation : ''Warm and fun to sail''"
"auto-translation : ''Exotic''"
"auto-translation : ''Relaxing, quiet. River cruises are a good way to unwind.''"
"auto-translation : ''Very welcoming, friendly staff and available''"
"auto-translation : ''Team Cris very professional Boat''"
"auto-translation : ''Very good stay, but next time we will choose a newer boat''"
"auto-translation : ''A remake soon as possible''"
"auto-translation : ''Good experience''"
"auto-translation : ''For 3 days, it is really great. For children, there should be games time navigation''"
"auto-translation : ''Some small problems with the electricity on board the boat''"
"auto-translation : ''Good, very friendly staff''"
Best current offers for the destination Mayenne and Anjou
From €242 / pers
Week of the 8/25/25 to 9/1/25
- Max. people : 8
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €274 / pers
Week of the 8/15/25 to 8/22/25
- Max. people : 9
- Cabins : 4
- Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions
Bow thruster
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €270 / pers
Week of the 8/16/25 to 8/23/25
- Max. people : 9
- Cabins : 4
- Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions
Bow thruster
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €246 / pers
Week of the 8/22/25 to 8/29/25
- Max. people : 8
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €177 / pers
Week of the 8/23/25 to 8/30/25
- Max. people : 8
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
Two steering positions
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €140 / pers
Week of the 8/25/25 to 9/1/25
- Max. people : 8
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €174 / pers
Week of the 8/25/25 to 9/1/25
- Max. people : 8
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
Two steering positions
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €327 / pers
Week of the 8/25/25 to 9/1/25
- Max. people : 5
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €229 / pers
Week of the 8/25/25 to 9/1/25
- Max. people : 8
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €259 / pers
Week of the 8/2/25 to 8/9/25
- Max. people : 8
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €189 / pers
Week of the 8/29/25 to 9/5/25
- Max. people : 5
- Cabins : 1
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €135 / pers
Week of the 8/29/25 to 9/5/25
- Max. people : 8
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €168 / pers
Week of the 8/29/25 to 9/5/25
- Max. people : 8
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
Two steering positions
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €222 / pers
Week of the 8/29/25 to 9/5/25
- Max. people : 8
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €262 / pers
Week of the 8/29/25 to 9/5/25
- Max. people : 7
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions
Bow thruster
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €188 / pers
Week of the 8/30/25 to 9/6/25
- Max. people : 5
- Cabins : 1
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €153 / pers
Week of the 8/30/25 to 9/6/25
- Max. people : 7
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €167 / pers
Week of the 8/30/25 to 9/6/25
- Max. people : 8
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
Two steering positions
220V socket
Electric toilets
The locks are electric or manual and manned by lock keepers. They are open on bank holidays.
Anjou is an ideal destination if you are new to boating holidays.
It is strongly recommended you only moor in the designated places.
Everything you need to know about navigation on a licence-free boat in Mayenne
The Mayenne is a 200 km long river in the Pays-De-La-Loire region. This river is known to be peaceful and only frequented by pleasure boaters. Embark on a river cruise on the Mayenne for a relaxing boating holiday! The most beautiful part of the Mayenne to be explored by riverboat is from Chenillé to Segré. In one weekend, you will cruise between historical sites and natural wonders.
During your river cruise on the Mayenne, you will be able to cross several notable towns and villages such as Laval, Entrammes, Chenillé-Changé, Segré or Angers, which came first in a 2022 ranking of French towns according to their perceived quality of life. A boating holiday on the Mayenne river will allow you to discover the rich historical heritage of the Pays de la Loire region.
For an unforgettable experience in Mayenne-Anjou, you can embark on a river cruise with a licence-free boat from April to October. If you choose a river cruise in June, don't miss out on the Festival d'Anjou, which takes place throughout the month. The Festival d'Anjou is a theatre festival, where more than twenty classical and contemporary plays are performed at the beginning of each summer.
Renting a houseboat in Mayenne is a unique experience that combines river navigation with the exploration of the historical heritage and stunning natural landscapes of this iconic region in western France. Renting a houseboat in Mayenne allows you to discover a region rich in history and natural beauty. Whether you're a novice or an experienced boater, a river cruise offers a unique and peaceful experience. You can explore villages steeped in history, pass through locks, and savor delicious local cuisine. The calm waters of the Mayenne provide a tranquil environment for navigation while admiring the region's cultural heritage.
If you rent a houseboat in Mayenne with CrisBoat, you can choose from a wide range of available boats. You'll select the houseboat to rent in Mayenne based on your preferences and needs. To assist you, we've categorized the houseboats for rent in Mayenne into different ranges:
- The Essential Range: Our Essential range houseboats have a traditional and older design. They are ideal for experiencing river cruising in Mayenne while staying within your budget. Most houseboats have electric toilets and a 220V socket when connected to a quay. Additionally, some have an external steering position with a terrace for enjoying the Mayenne's landscapes.
- The Standard Range: The Standard Range boats available for rent in Mayenne are older but equipped with all the necessary comfort. They offer multiple bathrooms and typically have an external steering position with a terrace overlooking the canals of Mayenne, allowing you to enjoy the sun and magnificent views. Some of these houseboats are equipped with a bow thruster to make your cruise in Mayenne easier.
- The Comfort Range: Choose a houseboat from the Comfort Range for a successful family vacation in Mayenne. These newer boats offer optimal comfort and many amenities, such as a private bathroom for each cabin, a bimini, a microwave, an air cooler, and a flat-screen TV/DVD player to fully enjoy your stay.
- The Premium Range: Our Premium Range boats available for rent on the Mayenne River are elegant, comfortable, and spacious. Each cabin has an en-suite bathroom and toilet. Most of these boats are equipped with air conditioning, bow and stern thrusters, an integrated plancha, and an internal 220V electrical circuit for access to power outlets at all times.
If you are considering renting a houseboat for the first time in Mayenne, here are some tips to prepare for your river cruise with peace of mind.
- Finding the Right Houseboat: To find the houseboat rental that suits you best, it's important to identify your preferences and needs since our boats come in different ranges and offer various options, suitable for crews of 2 to 12 people. This involves creating a crew before renting a houseboat in Mayenne.
- Planning Your Houseboat Trip in Mayenne: To select your houseboat, it's essential to choose a departure base in Mayenne. At CrisBoat, if you decide to rent a houseboat in this region, you have several possible options to choose your departure base : Chenillé-Changé, Grez-Neuville, Sablé-Sur-Sarthe
- Itinerary for Your Houseboat Rental in Mayenne: As for the itinerary for your houseboat rental in Mayenne, it's up to you to decide. We recommend thinking about it before your departure. For that, you can contact us to order the Mayenne river guide. This guide will be on your houseboat, and you can plan your itinerary on the day of departure.
- Operating the Houseboat in Mayenne: Before your departure, we will provide you with about an hour of training to familiarize you with the river code, navigation rules, and the controls of your no-license boat.
- Discovering the Mayenne Region at Your Own Pace: In Mayenne, renting a houseboat offers the opportunity to explore charming villages, green landscapes, and delicious local cuisine. Don't hesitate to try local specialties.
- Environmental Preservation in Mayenne: When renting a houseboat in Mayenne, be sure to respect the environment by adhering to navigation rules and leaving no traces of your passage.
By following these tips for your first houseboat rental in Mayenne, you're in for a memorable experience.
If you rent a houseboat in Mayenne, you will likely need to pass through locks. Here is how it typically works:
- Crew Preparation: It's necessary to provide safety instructions and assign roles to each adult, such as the helmsman or mooring crew, to ensure everyone's safety. Make sure no one is at risk.
- Notify the Lock-Keeper: Before passing through a lock, it's important to inform the lock-keeper based on the type of lock in question.
- Enter Gently: It's recommended to enter the lock cautiously to avoid damaging the boat.
- Proper Positioning: When entering a lock, be sure to leave enough space for other boats. If you are alone, position yourself in the center.
- Mooring in the Lock without Knots: Secure the boat to the lock bollards, both at the front and rear, without tying knots.
- Watch for Eddies: Be attentive to eddies that may occur during the filling or emptying of the lock, especially near the gates, to ensure everyone's safety.
- Hold and Let Out the Mooring Lines Securely: It is recommended to securely hold the boat with lines during the passage through the lock, without tying the lines to the cleats.
- Do Not Touch with Hands: To avoid any risk, it's advisable not to touch the lines or cleats with your hands or feet. Use tools such as boat hooks to handle the lines safely.
- Wait Until the Gates Are Fully Open: Do not leave the lock until the gates are fully open to avoid any potential issues.
Lock staff are present to assist boaters and ensure safe passage. It's crucial to adhere to right-of-way rules and obey lock-keepers' instructions when needed.
To determine the best time to rent a houseboat in Mayenne, consider various factors. Here are some:
- Tourist High Season: The tourist high season in Mayenne typically runs from late June to late August and is the most popular time for houseboat rentals due to pleasant temperatures and school holidays. However, it's worth noting that there is usually more traffic on the canals during this period.
- Low Season: To enjoy a peaceful setting and attractive rental rates, it's recommended to rent a houseboat in Mayenne during the off-season, particularly in spring or autumn. The autumn scenery is particularly beautiful.
- Local Events: To enhance your houseboat vacation in Mayenne, inquire about local activities such as festivals or markets that could be of interest during the tourist season.
- Weather: It's important to consider the weather and temperatures when planning your trip. The months of May and September are ideal in terms of weather conditions and tourist traffic, with pleasant temperatures.
Mayenne offers a variety of popular itineraries for houseboat cruises. Here are the two main navigational areas if you rent a houseboat in Mayenne:
- The Mayenne River: It is a calm and welcoming river. When renting a houseboat on the Mayenne, you will navigate on both wild and canalized sections of the river. There are a total of 19 locks, all automated, ensuring smooth navigation.
- The Sarthe River: Navigation on this river is ideal for beginners. You will encounter about twenty electric or manual locks. Whether you opt for a one-way cruise on the Sarthe or a round trip, you will navigate through nature, charming villages, beautiful mansions, and Renaissance castles.
- Round-Trip Itineraries: You can rent a houseboat for a round-trip cruise on the Mayenne. You return to your starting point halfway through your stay, providing a more in-depth experience of the region.
Our website provides detailed itineraries to help you prepare for your houseboat rental in Mayenne. Consult them for useful suggestions.
By Car: To get to your houseboat rental departure base in Mayenne, you can take the highway and find parking nearby or reserve a parking space in advance.
By Train: You can reach your departure base by train.
By Plane: If you want to save time getting to your houseboat rental in Mayenne, take a flight! This is an excellent option that allows you to fly to the nearest airport of your destination. Then, you can rent a car or use public transportation to get to your location.
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
1 week cruising in Mayenne, our detailed itinerary!
Spend 1 day in Angers on your cruise on the Mayenne river
Treasures to discover on a Mayenne river cruise
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"Great welcome and organisation."