Summer is here! Enjoy up to 30% off your cruise in June, July or August 2025 ! (Valid on a selection of boats until July 10 inclusive)

Le Lot 

Hire canal boats and navigate on the Lot River

Crisboat - Expert in river boat rental for over 20 years

No licence, no experience, and completely safe
rental houseboat without licence navigation map view Map

River cruise on the Lot

The Lot, navigable on about 160km, is a river located in the southern Massif Central, running from Luzech to Larnagol. It is one of the most impressive French navigable waterways. The perfect destination for unique and depaysant holidays with friends and family! Start you river cruise from 4 different bases on the Lot : Douelle, Luzech, Cahors or Bouzies. We suggest 2 navigable areas : Lot west and Lot east.

 

Lets get on board

The Lot - towards Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

Cruise on the Lot

Rent your houseboat to navigate on the Lot between Cahors and Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

The Lot is the ideal destination for a river cruise. Think about it: manual locks, walks along the towpath in Bouzies and wanders around Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, voted most beautiful French village. During your stay, you will fin the perfect balance between nature and inhabited areas.


Cruise on the Lot

Rent your houseboat to navigate on the Lot between Cahors and Luzech

What would you say about navigating through a fascinating valley? Opt for a cruise on the western Lot. You will get the chance to discover some of the most picturesque French villages such as Cahors, Luzech and their majestic landscapes! On top of that, you will manoeuvre the locks by yourself, giving you an optimal riverboating experience!

The Lot - Towards Luzech

Customer testimonials

Average : 4.6 étoiles 4.6/5 (based on 82 opinion)
 
4
Cruise carried out on Jun 7, 2025, Horizon 5Cruise : Douelle round trip
"Nice trrip, with a great weather!"
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 28, 2025, Salsa BCruise : Douelle round trip
"Very good customer service."
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 30, 2025, Tarpon 32Cruise : Luzech round trip
"Very good."
 
4
Cruise carried out on May 28, 2025, CrusaderCruise : Douelle round trip
"Great."
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 8, 2025, CalypsoCruise : Douelle round trip
"This is adventure!"
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 1, 2025, Salsa BCruise : Douelle round trip
"Met my expectations."
 
4
Cruise carried out on Apr 12, 2025, Estivale OctoCruise : Cahors round trip
"Good."
 
5
Cruise carried out on Aug 17, 2024, Vision 4Cruise : Douelle round trip
"Very competent, attentive and friendly to the customer."
 
5
Cruise carried out on Aug 7, 2024, CapriceCruise : Douelle round trip
"I think it was one of our best holidays ever."
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jul 8, 2024, Tarpon 37Cruise : Luzech round trip
"Great."
 
4
Cruise carried out on Jun 29, 2024, Estivale OctoCruise : Bouzies round trip
"This wasn't our 1st booking with you; we're very satisfied."
 
5
Cruise carried out on Sep 25, 2023, Vision 3Cruise : Douelle round trip
"We had a great week."
 
5
Cruise carried out on Sep 11, 2023, Salsa BCruise : Douelle round trip
"We had a great week."
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jul 24, 2023, CalypsoCruise : Douelle round trip
"Serious company, pleasant staff, attractive discount."
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jul 26, 2023, Salsa BCruise : Douelle round trip
"A wonderful experience."
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 29, 2023, Riviera 920Cruise : Bouzies round trip
"We loved the welcome, the boat and the region... we'd love to do more similar experiences…"
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 31, 2023, TangoCruise : Douelle round trip
"Total change of scenery, very comfortable boat."
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 1, 2023, Salsa ACruise : Douelle round trip
"From the preparation of the trip to the return of the barge, the team is available, gives good advice and is very pleasant."
 
4
Cruise carried out on Sep 5, 2022, CrusaderCruise : Douelle round trip
"Meets our expectations"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Sep 24, 2022, Salsa BCruise : Douelle round trip
"Highly positive"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Aug 6, 2022, Sedan 1010Cruise : Bouzies round trip
"Lot river is perfect, might be too small for a one week trip - but take your bikes and go visit Pech Merle!"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Jul 2, 2022, Tarpon 37Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation :''Good stay''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Aug 30, 2021, Penichette 1107 W ACruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation :''Good''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jul 19, 2021, Tarpon 32Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation :''Super''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jun 12, 2021, Estivale QuattroCruise : Bouzies round trip
"auto-translation :''for our sixth cruise we were amazed by the region and the very good welcome of the inhabitants, our friends with whom we made this cruise for their first experience are ready to do it again''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Oct 17, 2020, Tarpon 32Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation :''Good''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Oct 17, 2020, Royal Mystique ACruise : Douelle round trip
"auto-translation :''Great.''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Aug 17, 2019, Tarpon 32Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation :''The people at Les Canalous were excellent''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jun 10, 2019, CapriceCruise : Douelle round trip
"auto-translation :''To redo''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Sep 15, 2018, Tarpon 42 TPCruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation :''Quietude''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Aug 11, 2018, Royal Mystique ACruise : Douelle round trip
"auto-translation :''Excellent time - to redo''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jul 28, 2018, Tarpon 42 TPCruise : Luzech round trip
"Relaxing in beautiful scenery....great"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jul 30, 2018, Espade Concept FlyCruise : Cahors round trip
"auto-translation :''Simple stay to organize as interlocutors present to answer our questions''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Jul 21, 2018, Confort 900 DPCruise : Bouzies round trip
"Good"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jun 25, 2018, Confort 1100 ACruise : Cahors round trip
"auto-translation :''Good''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Sep 6, 2017, Espade Concept FlyCruise : Cahors round trip
"auto-translation :''Pleasant stay''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Aug 19, 2017, Estivale DuoCruise : Bouzies round trip
"auto-translation :''Very good, comfortable boat for 2. Good reception and reactivity in case of need''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Jul 28, 2017, Tarpon 42Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation :''Pleasant stay despite a navigation a little more difficult than on the canal du midi''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jul 29, 2017, Tarpon 37Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation :''3rd rental and always satisfied''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Jun 26, 2017, Triton 860 FlyCruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation :''Pleasant stay but bad weather ''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 29, 2017, Penichette 935 W ACruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation :''Late May, before the crowd, on a quiet river, perfect!''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on May 8, 2017, Espade Concept FlyCruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation :''Very satisfied, served by pleasant weather''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Apr 29, 2017, Triton 860 FlyCruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation :''Excellent welcome. Staff very friendly base.''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 1, 2017, Sedan 1310 ACruise : Cahors round trip
"auto-translation :''All very pleased with the stay we highly recommend''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Apr 15, 2017, Riviera 1130Cruise : Buzet round trip
"auto-translation :''Very pleasant stay''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Sep 19, 2016, Triton 1050Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation :''Excellent''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Sep 12, 2016, Sedan 1300 ACruise : Cahors round trip
"auto-translation :''Well, the Lot is really beautiful''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Sep 23, 2016, Espade 850 FlyCruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Stay in line with our expectation''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Sep 17, 2016, Penichette 935 W ACruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Team underlying Luzech very nice''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Sep 10, 2016, Penichette 935 W ACruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Very good, very nice''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Aug 27, 2016, Confort 1350Cruise : Buzet round trip
"auto-translation : ''Very nice river cruise''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Aug 8, 2016, Renaud 8000Cruise : Cahors round trip
"auto-translation : ''Excellent responsiveness of the staff at our little worries naviguation.''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Jul 8, 2016, Espade Concept FlyCruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''First tasty experience … small flat on other companies disrespectful of the rules of safety and courtesy … 34 locks help keep the line while eating foie gras and magret …''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jun 24, 2016, Tarpon 32Cruise : Luzech round trip
"Excellent although missed out on a day collection from 16.00hrs delivery back 0900hrs"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Jun 25, 2016, Confort 900Cruise : Buzet round trip
"auto-translation : ''Cruise very well organized''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jul 2, 2016, Estivale DuoCruise : Buzet round trip
"Great service"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jul 4, 2016, Penichette 935 W ACruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Cruise the Lot relaxing and very enjoyable''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Jul 4, 2016, Renaud 8000Cruise : Cahors round trip
"auto-translation : ''Very good reception from the base Cahors, satisfied with this cruise''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Jun 27, 2016, Tarpon 42Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''All went well. No problem. Answered our questions.''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Jun 27, 2016, Penichette 935 W ACruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Well, good stay in houseboat''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jun 20, 2016, Triton 1050Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Exchange of information, reservation, etc. everything was done quickly and without hassle''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Jun 13, 2016, Triton 860 FlyCruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Well organized river cruise; shame the weather was not great!''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Sep 26, 2016, Riviera 920Cruise : Bouzies round trip
"auto-translation : ''A true professional team and a river cruise on the really great Lot''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 7, 2016, Penichette 1107 W ACruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''A few clicks and a form and everything was in order for our cruise. Very quick and easy to book our river boat''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 23, 2016, Espade 930Cruise : Fourques round trip
"auto-translation : ''Boat very clean; acceptable comfort for a week stay, very welcoming and competent staff''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on May 7, 2016, Triton 860 FlyCruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''A delicate first experience on the Lot, but that makes you want to renew''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 4, 2016, Espade 850 FlyCruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Perfect river cruise ''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Apr 11, 2016, Espade 930Cruise : Fourques round trip
"auto-translation : ''Relaxing for Mr., Mrs. Least (locks)''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Aug 8, 2015, Renaud 8000Cruise : Cahors round trip
"auto-translation : ''In line with expectations''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jul 27, 2015, Penichette 1107 W ACruise : Cahors round trip
"We are recommending it widely !"
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 29, 2015, Triton 1050Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Too short, we leave a full week next time''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Aug 22, 2015, Triton 860Cruise : Cahors round trip
"auto-translation : ''A beautiful way to discover the Lot, its nature and its villages''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Aug 8, 2015, Triton 860 FlyCruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Good tracking back - very welcome at the base''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Jun 27, 2015, Tarpon 37Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''A remake on other regions''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Aug 22, 2015, Triton 1050Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Super''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jun 29, 2015, Tarpon 32Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Very satisfied''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Aug 15, 2015, Triton 1050Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Very pleasant''"
 
4
Cruise carried out on Apr 25, 2015, Penichette 1107 W ACruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Good''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jun 15, 2015, Tarpon 32Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''This is unfortunately an expensive afraid''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on Jun 6, 2015, Tarpon 42Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Good''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 9, 2015, Tarpon 42 TPCruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Everything went as planned''"
 
5
Cruise carried out on May 23, 2015, Tarpon 32Cruise : Luzech round trip
"auto-translation : ''Relaxation and discovery, fabulous river cruise on the Lot''"

Best current offers for the destination Lot

Range Comfort 4 2
Estivale Sixto
-30%

€4,525 €3,168

From €396 / pers

Week of the 7/19/25 to 7/26/25

  • Max. people : 8
  • Cabins : 3
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions Two steering positions
Bow thruster Bow thruster
Flat-screen TV Flat-screen TV
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Standard 4 2
Crusader
Crusader
-30%

€3,879 €2,709

From €452 / pers

Week of the 7/25/25 to 8/1/25

  • Max. people : 6
  • Cabins : 3
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions Two steering positions
220 V converter 220 V converter
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Premium 4 0
Horizon 2-S
-30%

€4,559 €3,189

From €638 / pers

Week of the 7/16/25 to 7/23/25

  • Max. people : 5
  • Cabins : 2
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity Continuous 220V electricity
Air cooler Air cooler
Bimini Top Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV Flat-screen TV
Microwave Microwave
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Standard 2 0
Cirrus A
Cirrus A
-30%

€1,969 €1,369

From €342 / pers

Week of the 7/6/25 to 7/13/25

  • Max. people : 4
  • Cabins : 1
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 1
Two steering positions Two steering positions
220 V converter 220 V converter
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Comfort 8 0
Magnifique
Magnifique
-30%

€4,359 €3,049

From €305 / pers

Week of the 7/6/25 to 7/13/25

  • Max. people : 10
  • Cabins : 4
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions Two steering positions
Bow thruster Bow thruster
220 V converter 220 V converter
Air cooler Air cooler
Microwave Microwave
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Comfort 4 0
Clipper
Clipper
-30%

€3,639 €2,539

From €423 / pers

Week of the 8/3/25 to 8/10/25

  • Max. people : 6
  • Cabins : 2
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions Two steering positions
220 V converter 220 V converter
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Comfort 4 0
Tango
Tango
-30%

€3,209 €2,239

From €373 / pers

Week of the 7/20/25 to 7/27/25

  • Max. people : 6
  • Cabins : 2
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 1
Two steering positions Two steering positions
Bow thruster Bow thruster
220 V converter 220 V converter
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Standard 4 3
Tarpon 37
Tarpon 37
-30%

€3,186 €2,230

From €248 / pers

Week of the 7/12/25 to 7/19/25

  • Max. people : 9
  • Cabins : 3
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions Two steering positions
Bow thruster Bow thruster
Bimini Top Bimini Top
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Comfort 6 0
Calypso
Calypso
-30%

€3,989 €2,789

From €349 / pers

Week of the 7/9/25 to 7/16/25

  • Max. people : 8
  • Cabins : 3
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions Two steering positions
Bow thruster Bow thruster
220 V converter 220 V converter
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Premium 4 0
Horizon 2-S
-30%

€4,389 €3,069

From €614 / pers

Week of the 7/5/25 to 7/12/25

  • Max. people : 5
  • Cabins : 2
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity Continuous 220V electricity
Air cooler Air cooler
Bimini Top Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV Flat-screen TV
Microwave Microwave
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Comfort 6 0
Calypso
Calypso
-30%

€4,039 €2,819

From €352 / pers

Week of the 7/4/25 to 7/11/25

  • Max. people : 8
  • Cabins : 3
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions Two steering positions
Bow thruster Bow thruster
220 V converter 220 V converter
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Comfort 4 0
Estivale Quattro B+
-30%

€3,423 €2,396

From €399 / pers

Week of the 7/5/25 to 7/12/25

  • Max. people : 6
  • Cabins : 2
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions Two steering positions
Bow thruster Bow thruster
Air-Conditioning Air-Conditioning
Bimini Top Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV Flat-screen TV
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Premium 8 0
Horizon 4
Horizon 4
-30%

€5,889 €4,119

From €458 / pers

Week of the 7/4/25 to 7/11/25

  • Max. people : 9
  • Cabins : 4
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 4
Two steering positions Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity Continuous 220V electricity
Air cooler Air cooler
Bimini Top Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV Flat-screen TV
Microwave Microwave
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Comfort 4 0
Clipper
Clipper
-30%

€3,649 €2,549

From €425 / pers

Week of the 8/1/25 to 8/8/25

  • Max. people : 6
  • Cabins : 2
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions Two steering positions
220 V converter 220 V converter
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Premium 4 0
Horizon 2-S
-30%

€4,929 €3,449

From €690 / pers

Week of the 8/1/25 to 8/8/25

  • Max. people : 5
  • Cabins : 2
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions Two steering positions
Bow and Stern Thruster Bow and Stern Thruster
Plancha Plancha
Continuous 220V electricity Continuous 220V electricity
Air cooler Air cooler
Bimini Top Bimini Top
Flat-screen TV Flat-screen TV
Microwave Microwave
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Comfort 6 0
Calypso
Calypso
-30%

€4,019 €2,809

From €351 / pers

Week of the 7/6/25 to 7/13/25

  • Max. people : 8
  • Cabins : 3
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 2
Two steering positions Two steering positions
Bow thruster Bow thruster
220 V converter 220 V converter
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Comfort 8 0
Magnifique
Magnifique
-30%

€4,879 €3,409

From €341 / pers

Week of the 7/25/25 to 8/1/25

  • Max. people : 10
  • Cabins : 4
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions Two steering positions
Bow thruster Bow thruster
220 V converter 220 V converter
Air cooler Air cooler
Microwave Microwave
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets
Range Standard 4 2
Crusader
Crusader
-30%

€3,929 €2,749

From €458 / pers

Week of the 7/26/25 to 8/2/25

  • Max. people : 6
  • Cabins : 3
  • Bathroom & Toilet : 3
Two steering positions Two steering positions
220 V converter 220 V converter
220V socket 220V socket
Electric toilets Electric toilets

The locks are manual but they are easy to operate.

If the Lot is in spate, we may have to transfer your cruise to another departure base. We do not recommend the Lot for a first boating holiday.

It is important you only moor in the designated places.

Everything you need to know about navigation with a licence-free boat on the Lot

The Lot is the second longest river in France, navigable for 160 km on either side of Cahors, and is distinguished by its long meanders. Renown as one of the wildest regions in France, you will cruise through high cliffs, oak-covered hillsides and AOC Cahors vineyards. The most beautiful part of the Lot to do by barge is the Ganil towpath. On foot or by boat, you will walk along a man-made wonder of nature!

During your river cruise on one of the most beautiful rivers in France, you will pass through several villages of character such as Luzech, Parnac, Caillac, Douelle, Pradines, Cahors, a small town of Art and History, Arcambal, Bouzies, Saint-Cirq Lapopie, elected the most beautiful village in France, Crégols, Cénevières or Larnagol. Sailing on the Lot on a licence-free boat, you will discover its rich heritage.

For a memorable experience, you can take a river cruise from April to October. Note that the beginning of the season can be punctuated by floods. This is due to the snowmelt in the Massif Central, which can cause the navigation to stop in April and occasionally in May. If you choose to cruise the Lot in July, you can enjoy the Cahors Blues Festival, the oldest Blues festival in France.

Renting a houseboat in the Lot is a unique and enriching adventure. This iconic region in the southwest of France is perfect for exploring its rich historical and natural heritage. You can peacefully navigate the tranquil canals of the Lot, pass through locks, discover historic villages, and savor delicious local cuisine. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sailor, renting a houseboat in the Lot is an exceptional opportunity to explore a rich cultural heritage and the natural beauty of the region while enjoying the leisurely pace of river life.

Rent a houseboat in the Lot with CrisBoat and enjoy a wide selection of boats. You can choose the houseboat that best suits your preferences and requirements. For easier selection, we've divided the available houseboats in the Lot into different categories.

The Essential Range: Our houseboats in the Essential Range have a traditional design and are a few years old. They offer you the opportunity to experience the pleasures of river cruising in the Lot at an affordable price. Most of the houseboats have electric toilets and a 220V outlet (when docked). Some also feature an external steering position with a terrace that provides breathtaking views of the Lot landscapes.

The Standard Range: The boats in the Standard Range available for rent are older but offer all the essential comfort. These houseboats have multiple bathrooms and, for the most part, an external steering position on a terrace where you can enjoy the sun and the splendid Lot landscapes. Some boats have a bow thruster to facilitate navigation in the Lot.

The Comfort Range: Choose a Comfort Range houseboat for your family holidays in the Lot. These modern boats offer great comfort and are ideal for a successful stay. Each cabin usually has a private bathroom, and many amenities are provided, such as bimini tops, microwaves, air coolers, and flat-screen TVs/DVD players. Enjoy a pleasant stay in the Lot aboard these comfortable and modern boats.

The Premium Range: We offer Premium Range houseboats in the Lot that are elegant, comfortable, and spacious. Each cabin has its own bathroom and private toilet. Most of these boats also have air conditioning, both bow and stern thrusters, and an integrated plancha.

If you're considering a first-time houseboat rental in the Lot, here are some tips to prepare for your cruise with peace of mind.

  1. Find the right houseboat to rent in the Lot: To make the right choice for your houseboat rental in the Lot, we recommend identifying your preferences and needs and then selecting the boat that suits you best. We offer boats from different ranges, suitable for crews of 2 to 12 people, with various options.
  2. Planning your houseboat trip in the Lot: To choose your houseboat, it's also necessary to decide on your starting point in the Lot. Renting with CrisBoat offers several departure base options : Bouzies, Cahors, Luzech, Douelle
  3. Itinerary for your houseboat rental in the Lot: You have complete freedom to choose the itinerary for your river cruise in the Lot. It's advisable to plan ahead. You can contact us to order a river guide for the Lot. This guide will be on board your houseboat and will allow you to plan your itinerary from the day of departure.
  4. Operating the houseboat in the Lot: Before setting off, you'll receive an hour of training to familiarize yourself with the river code and navigation rules. You'll also learn how to operate your license-free boat's controls.
  5. Discovering the Lot Region at Your Own Pace: Renting a houseboat in the Lot allows you to explore charming villages, beautiful green landscapes, and savor delicious regional cuisine. Don't hesitate to taste local specialties during your stay.
  6. Respecting the Environment in the Lot: If you rent a houseboat in the Lot, be vigilant about respecting the environment. Follow navigation rules and make sure not to leave any traces behind.

By following these tips for a first-time houseboat rental in the Lot, you're guaranteed to have an unforgettable experience!

During your houseboat rental in the Lot, you'll likely be required to pass through locks. Lock passage in the Lot is a crucial step in navigation. Here's how it generally works:

  1. Crew Preparation: First and foremost, it's essential to outline safety instructions, assign specific roles to each adult on board, such as helmsman and mooring crew, and ensure the safety of the entire crew.
  2. Notify the Lock Keeper: Depending on the type of lock, it's necessary to inform the lock keeper of your intention to pass through.
  3. Enter Slowly: You enter the lock cautiously, avoiding any rush that could damage the boat.
  4. Position Properly: Ensure that you leave enough space for other boats inside the lock. If you're the only boat, place yourself carefully in the center.
  5. Mooring in the Lock Without Tying Knots: Moor the boat to the lock bollards at the front and back without tying knots, thus facilitating the operations.
  6. Watch for Swirls: Stay vigilant for swirls, especially during the filling or emptying of the lock, particularly near the doors, to ensure everyone's safety on board.
  7. Let the Mooring Lines Out While Holding Firmly: Ensure that you hold the boat firmly using the mooring lines during the ascent or descent of the lock, avoiding any knots on the cleat.
  8. Do Not Place Hands: It's imperative to avoid manipulating mooring lines or the cleat directly with hands or feet. Prefer the use of equipment like boat hooks to perform these maneuvers safely.
  9. Wait Until the Doors Are Fully Open: Under no circumstances leave the lock before its doors are fully open, an essential precaution to avoid potential issues.

In general, lock personnel are present to assist boaters and ensure safe passage. It's essential to respect right-of-way rules and follow the personnel's instructions as needed.

To rent a houseboat in the Lot, it's important to take various factors into consideration, including your personal preferences. Here are some points to consider:

  • High Tourist Season: The high tourist season in the Lot typically runs from late June to late August. Renting houseboats is in high demand during this time because the weather is pleasant, and it's the school holidays. However, canal traffic is often busier at this time.
  • Low Season: It's recommended to rent a houseboat in the Lot during spring or autumn to enjoy calm conditions and advantageous rental rates. During this time of the year, the landscapes are particularly beautiful, with lovely autumn colors.
  • Local Events: Check for local events, such as festivals or markets, that could make your houseboat rental in the Lot more interesting. Many of these events take place during the tourist season.

The Lot offers a multitude of popular routes for houseboat cruises. Here are some examples of routes if you rent a houseboat in the Lot:

  • The Lot River: This river winds its way through the Lot department, offering picturesque landscapes and the opportunity to visit charming hilltop villages.

You can find more detailed itinerary suggestions on our website to help you plan your houseboat rental in the Lot.

By Car: To get to your houseboat rental in the Lot, you can take the highway and park your car near the departure base or reserve a parking spot.

By Train: You can reach your departure base by taking the train.

By Plane: To save time and reach your houseboat rental in the Lot, choose to fly if time is precious to you. Just take a flight to the nearest airport to your destination and then rent a car or choose public transportation to get around locally.

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.

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Cris Boat Blog

Croisière sur le Lot - Saint-Cirq-Lapopie

1 day at Saint-Cirq-Lapopie during your river cruise on the Lot

Discover our list of must-sees in Saint-Cirq-Lapopie during a cruise on the River Lot.
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Croisière fluviale sur le Lot - Cahors

1 day in Cahors during your river cruise on the Lot

Discover our list of must-sees in Cahors during a river cruise on the Lot
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Itinerary ideas for your cruise on the Lot

How about a 1 week river cruise on the Lot? On the programme: relaxation, discovery of Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, visits to vineyards, not forgetting the magnificent scenery offered by this pretty region! Here's our programme!
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Lot

On a licence-free boat, navigate on the Lot through history and gastronomy

Enjoy a great boating experience through the lands marked by the culture of the vine. Local products, starred restaurants and local markets, no doubt the Lot will arouse your taste buds! The region is now world famous for its Foie gras and other duck-based dishes, not to mention its red wines! The Lot is also steeped in history with its numerous typical willages and monuments listed in the UNESCO World Heritage.

 

Along the Lot, enjoy the most beautiful village of France

When riverboating on the Lot, make sure to stop at one of the most beautiful French village : Saint-Cirq Lapopie. Real medieval masterpiece, the village is a true haven of peace.

Take time to stroll in its picturesque streets, it is totally worth it!