Hire self-drive river boats and navigate the Charente
Crisboat - Expert in river boat rental for over 20 years
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River Cruise on the Charente
With a total length of 361 km, the river Charente is navigable from Angoulême to Rochefort. At the gateway to the Atlantic, this destination perfectly showcases its history and its activities. During your boating holidays from Angoulême to Rochefort, passing through Saintes and Cognac, you will have the opportunity to try nautical activities and enjoy a multitude of swimming areas easily accessible. At Crisboat, we offer you 3 possible locations to start your river cruise : Cognac, Jarnac and Sireul. To help you choose, we suggest you discover the 2 navigation areas: the Charente Maritime and the Charente around Angouleme.
- Water activities, ideal for families
- Vineyards and tastings
- Operate the manual locks yourself
Cruise on the Charente
Rent your houseboat to navigate on the Charente between Cognac and Angoulême
What if you were to experience river tourism on the Charente around Angoulême (from Cognac to Angoulême)? On the Agenda : Cultural visits in Angoulême, water activities and gourmet breaks in Cognac. This navigation area is ideal for families. You can easily reach river ports and swim in the Charente and make the whole crew happy !
Cruise on the Charente
Rent your houseboat to navigate on the Charente between Cognac and Rochefort
With your licence-free boat, explore the river from Cognac to Rochefort. During your boating holidays, you will discover many exceptional sites such as Saintes, a beautiful city of Art and History and also the Corderie Royale in Rochefort. Take the time to admire them and enjoy the peaceful environment around you. This is an ideal cruise for families and friends to enjoy together. Join forces to pass through the manual locks.
- Several Cities of Arts and History
- Passage of manual locks
- Swimming and fishing allowed
Customer testimonials
4.8/5
(based on 55 opinion)
"Très bon séjour."
"Very good stay."
"We had a very pleasant holiday and really appreciated the welcome and availability of the CrisBoat agents."
"Cool."
"Nice."
"Belle expérience."
"Good welcome, comfortable boat, good sleeping accommodation."
"Reposante."
"Relaxing."
"A very pleasant family stay. We all have excellent memories of it."
"Very satisfying."
"Elegant boat. Alternating landscapes, water and nature."
"Very nice, we'll do it again."
"Good responsiveness and competence."
"The manager was very welcoming and available, the contact was great."
"Great trip, with some wonderful river encounters."
"Very professional agency."
"Everything went really well."
"Pleasant stay, attentive and responsive staff."
"auto-translation :''Very good''"
"auto-translation :''Reception, listening, help and advice''"
"auto-translation :''Stay meets our expectations''"
"auto-translation :''Very Good''"
"auto-translation :''Very good organization''"
"auto-translation :''Meets expectations''"
"auto-translation :''Nature cruise, pleasant and relaxing''"
"auto-translation :''Nothing special, only a propeller would have been welcome, but more expensive''"
"Perfect"
"auto-translation :''Nice but to do more slowly, on a week to meux visit and enjoy.''"
"auto-translation :''A dream stay, beyond all that we had imagined. We will do other stays with CrisBoat.''"
"auto-translation :''Friendly''"
"auto-translation :''To redo''"
"auto-translation :''This is the 4th time I rent and I am always satisfied''"
"auto-translation :''Very nice. We'll do it again.''"
"auto-translation :''Very professional home''"
"auto-translation :''Meets our expectations given our choice. No bad surprises''"
"auto-translation :''GOOD''"
"auto-translation :''18/20 stay without worries and very nice.''"
"auto-translation : ''Meets every way''"
"auto-translation : ''A real treat in a beautiful setting''"
"auto-translation : ''Perfect''"
"auto-translation : ''We will return''"
"auto-translation : ''Very good''"
"Very pleasurable."
"auto-translation : ''Good coaching clients. Benefit equal to the proposals.''"
"auto-translation : ''Great river cruise! I wish I could do all the channels of France''"
"auto-translation : ''Met my expectations''"
"auto-translation : ''Pleasant cruise, there was no problem''"
"auto-translation : ''The interlocutors are very available and very professional with the real worries to satisfy customers''"
"auto-translation : ''Good''"
"auto-translation : ''Perfect''"
"auto-translation : ''I am satisfied and will appeal to Cris Boat for another cruise''"
"auto-translation : ''Superb, despite the lack of development on the Charente''"
"auto-translation : ''Delighted with this first experience''"
Best current offers for the destination Charente
From €463 / pers
Week of the 7/19/25 to 7/26/25
- Max. people : 10
- Cabins : 4
- Bathroom & Toilet : 4
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air-Conditioning
Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV
Microwave
Dishwasher
Electric toilets
From €598 / pers
Week of the 7/30/25 to 8/6/25
- Max. people : 6
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions
Bow thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air-Conditioning
Bimini Top
Microwave
Electric toilets
From €378 / pers
Week of the 7/13/25 to 7/20/25
- Max. people : 9
- Cabins : 4
- Bathroom & Toilet : 4
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air-Conditioning
Bimini Top
Microwave
Electric toilets
From €296 / pers
Week of the 7/14/25 to 7/21/25
- Max. people : 4
- Cabins : 1
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
220V socket
From €397 / pers
Week of the 7/19/25 to 7/26/25
- Max. people : 6
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions
Bow thruster
Flat-screen TV
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €251 / pers
Week of the 7/25/25 to 8/1/25
- Max. people : 7
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €396 / pers
Week of the 7/26/25 to 8/2/25
- Max. people : 8
- Cabins : 3
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions
Bow thruster
Flat-screen TV
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €434 / pers
Week of the 7/12/25 to 7/19/25
- Max. people : 4
- Cabins : 1
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
Two steering positions
Flat-screen TV
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €450 / pers
Week of the 7/30/25 to 8/6/25
- Max. people : 9
- Cabins : 4
- Bathroom & Toilet : 4
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air-Conditioning
Bimini Top
Microwave
Electric toilets
From €238 / pers
Week of the 7/26/25 to 8/2/25
- Max. people : 5
- Cabins : 1
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €603 / pers
Week of the 8/6/25 to 8/13/25
- Max. people : 6
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions
Bow thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air-Conditioning
Bimini Top
Microwave
Electric toilets
From €513 / pers
Week of the 7/11/25 to 7/18/25
- Max. people : 5
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions
Bow thruster
Bimini Top
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €521 / pers
Week of the 8/1/25 to 8/8/25
- Max. people : 5
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions
Bow thruster
Bimini Top
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €342 / pers
Week of the 7/11/25 to 7/18/25
- Max. people : 4
- Cabins : 1
- Bathroom & Toilet : 1
Two steering positions
220 V converter
220V socket
Electric toilets
From €451 / pers
Week of the 7/11/25 to 7/18/25
- 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 €380 / pers
Week of the 7/11/25 to 7/18/25
- Max. people : 9
- Cabins : 4
- Bathroom & Toilet : 4
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air-Conditioning
Bimini Top
Microwave
Electric toilets
From €369 / pers
Week of the 7/12/25 to 7/19/25
- Max. people : 9
- Cabins : 4
- Bathroom & Toilet : 4
Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity
Air-Conditioning
Bimini Top
Microwave
Electric toilets
From €389 / pers
Week of the 8/1/25 to 8/8/25
- Max. people : 6
- Cabins : 2
- Bathroom & Toilet : 2
220V socket
Electric toilets
There are not many locks. Most of the locks are manual, without a lock-keeper (you have to operate them yourself).. They are open on bank holidays.
It is strongly advised to moor only on the pontoons provided, as the level of the Charente is influenced by the tides, and the level may fall or rise by a few centimetres at night.
Mooring is only permitted in designated places and not in the countryside.
Everything you need to know about navigation on a licence-free boat in the Charente
The Charente is a French river in the Aquitaine basin, navigable from Rochefort to Angoulême. Known for its tranquility, the Charente holds treasures from the past: castles, romane churches... The most beautiful part of the Charente to be explored by riverboat is the crossing of the Cognac vineyards. Take advantage of this crossing to taste the famous Cognac !
During your river cruise on the Charente, you will be able to cross several notable towns such as Rochefort, Tonnay-Charente, Saintes, Cognac or Angoulême and also small villages of character such as Saint-Savinien, Port d'Envaux, Châteauneuf-sur-Charente or Nersac. A boating holiday on the Charente river will allow you to discover a rich heritage.
For an unforgettable experience on the Charente, you can embark on a river cruise with a licence-free riverboat from April to October. Be aware that it is more likely to rain in Spring. If you plan your river cruise in July, enjoy the Cognac Blues Passions which takes place every year.
Renting a houseboat in Charente offers a unique experience. It allows you to navigate the tranquil canals while exploring the history and natural beauty of this iconic region in southwestern France. You can pass through locks, explore historically rich villages, and savor delicious local cuisine. Whether you are a novice or an experienced navigator, renting a houseboat in Charente provides an exceptional travel experience, combining the serenity of life on the water with the discovery of the region's cultural and natural wonders.
CrisBoat offers a wide selection of houseboats for rent in Charente. You can choose the one that best suits your preferences, thanks to our different quality categories.
- Essential Range: Houseboats in the Essential Range are of classic design and may have some years behind them, but they are perfect for a budget-friendly cruise on the Charente. Most of them feature electric toilets and a 220V electrical connection (if docked). Some even come with an outdoor steering station and a private terrace to enjoy the scenic Charente landscapes.
- Standard Range: We offer houseboats from the Standard Range for rental in Charente. These boats, though somewhat older, provide all the necessary comfort and come with multiple bathrooms. Most of them have an outdoor steering station and a terrace with pleasant views of the Charente. To make your cruise easier, some of these houseboats are equipped with a bow thruster.
- Comfort Range: Experience successful family vacations by renting a houseboat from the Comfort Range in Charente. These boats are modern and well-designed, offering an excellent level of comfort. Most cabins have their private bathrooms, and many amenities such as a bimini, microwave, air cooler, flat-screen TV, and DVD player ensure a pleasant stay in the Charente region.
- Premium Range: We provide elegant, spacious, and comfortable Premium houseboats in Charente. Each cabin has its private bathroom and toilet. Most of them are equipped with air conditioning, bow and stern thrusters, an integrated griddle, and an internal 220V circuit for permanent power access on board.
If you are about to rent a houseboat for the first time in Charente, here are some tips to help you embark on a stress-free cruise:
- Choosing the Houseboat in Charente: Select the houseboat rental that suits your preferences and needs. Our boats accommodate crews ranging from 2 to 12 people and offer various levels of comfort and options. Before booking, define your crew and expectations.
- Planning Your Houseboat Trip in Charente: When choosing a houseboat rental in Charente with CrisBoat, you should also pick a suitable departure base. You have the advantage of choosing from several bases in Charente if you opt for CrisBoat.
- Cognac
- Jarnac
- Sireuil
- Saintes
- Planning Your Houseboat Itinerary in Charente: You are free to choose your itinerary for your houseboat rental in Charente. It's recommended to plan ahead and order our waterway guide to assist you. This guide will also be available on your houseboat, allowing you to plan your route on the day of departure if you decide not to order it in advance.
- Operating the Houseboat in Charente: Before departing, you will receive a brief one-hour training session on the waterway code, navigation, and the operation of your license-free boat to familiarize yourself with its functions.
- Exploring the Charente Region at Your Own Pace: Renting a houseboat in Charente offers numerous advantages, including the opportunity to discover charming villages, lush landscapes, and delightful local cuisine. Don't forget to savor regional specialties during your journey.
- Respecting the Environment in Charente: When renting a houseboat in Charente, it's essential to care for the environment by adhering to navigation rules and leaving no waste behind.
By following these tips for your first houseboat rental in Charente, you're guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience!
When you rent a houseboat in Charente, you are likely to pass through locks, a crucial part of navigation. Here's how it typically works:
- Preparing the Crew: Ensure that everyone on board understands safety guidelines and assign specific roles (helmsman, line handler, etc.) to avoid accidents and ensure everyone's safety.
- Signaling to the Lock Keeper: Depending on the lock, signal your intention to the lock keeper to enter.
- Entering Slowly: It's recommended to enter the lock slowly to prevent any damage to the boat.
- Proper Positioning: Make sure to leave enough space for other boats while entering the lock. If you are alone, position yourself in the center.
- Mooring in the Lock Without Knots: Secure the boat to the lock bollards at the front and rear without tying knots.
- Beware of Swirls: When the lock is being filled or emptied, pay attention to the swirls, especially near the gates, to ensure everyone's safety.
- Letting Out the Mooring Lines While Holding Firmly: It's essential to hold the boat firmly with the mooring lines as it rises or falls in the lock. Do not tie knots on the cleat.
- Do Not Use Your Hands: It's recommended not to touch the mooring lines or the cleat with your hands or feet. Use tools such as boat hooks for handling.
- Wait for the Gates to Be Fully Open: You must wait for the lock gates to be fully open before departing to avoid any risk.
Lock keepers are there to assist boaters in safely navigating locks. They ensure that priority rules are followed and provide guidance to users as needed. It's important to carefully follow their instructions.
The choice of the rental period for a houseboat in Charente depends on various factors, including personal preferences. Here are some points to consider:
- High Tourist Season: In Charente, the busiest tourist season typically runs from late June to late August, when pleasant weather and school holidays attract many visitors. If you wish to rent a houseboat during this period, be aware that the canals can be busier.
- Low Season: For a quieter experience and lower rental rates, consider renting a houseboat in Charente during the shoulder seasons, such as spring or autumn. The autumn colors offer beautiful landscapes.
- Local Events: Check out local events like festivals or markets to enhance your houseboat rental experience in Charente. Many of these events take place during the tourist season.
By Car: To reach your houseboat rental in Charente, you can take the highway and park your car near your departure base. Alternatively, you can pre-book a parking space at your departure base.
By Train: You can access your departure base in Charente by taking the train. The railway network is well-developed in this region of France.
By Plane: If you want to save time and quickly reach your houseboat rental in Charente, taking a flight can be a good option. You can choose a flight to the nearest airport to your destination and then rent a car or use public transportation to reach 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
What to do in Angoulême during your river cruise?
What to do in Cognac in July ?
1 day in Cognac during your Charente river cruise
Our other destinations in France
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Franche-Comté
Navigate by licence-free boat through vineyards, postcard landscapes and gastronomy!
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Alsace
A licence-free boat rental, with gastronomic stops and bike rides along the canals.
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Aquitaine
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Ardennes
Cruise down the river and admire the surrounding Vosges mountains
"Très bien."