Frequently Asked Questions for river cruises

1 – Are the locks easy to pass? How do I do it?
Passing the locks is a simple manoeuvre and is enjoyable if you follow some basic rules: navigate slowly and carefully and remain patient if there are several boats waiting for the lock. It is easier to pass through the manual locks if you do so with two fit people. As you travel along you’ll realise that the lock manoeuvres can be very interesting as you can often chat with the lock keepers, sometimes enjoy the local produce or just admire the view and observe the local atmosphere.

2 – Are the locks manual or automatic? What must I do to cross a lock?
There a several different types of locks: manual locks with a lock keeper which is the most common and automatic locks with a lock keeper which is often found on the larger rivers. However there are also another two types of locks without a lock keeper. The manual locks without a lock keeper tend to be found on certain canals and rivers which are rarely visited. If you come across one, you and your crew must cross it by yourselves; this will surely be an interesting memory for everyone involved. While the aforementioned manual locks tend to be rather small, the automatic locks without a lock keeper tend to be medium sized and are often found on commercial canals where there is not much traffic. The technicians at your departure base will show you a control system for an automatic lock and explain how to operate it.

3 – What are the hours when I can pass a lock? Are they closed on certain days?
The locks are usually open every day; however they may close for certain holidays. The opening hours are different for each canal and our team at your departure base will inform you about this when you arrive or when you book.

4 – Is there a fee for crossing a lock? And is it necessary to tip the lock keepers?
No, there is no fee for crossing a lock as the lock keepers are paid for their work. Hence a tip is not mandatory and it is at your discretion whether you wish to tip the lock keeper or not.

5 – Is it dangerous for young children?
All our boats are equipped with safety equipment including a double chain on the balcony railing and movement aboard is always easy due to the wide set decks protected by railing and the large and stable sun decks. However the aquatic environment always presents risks and as such we recommend that children wear life jackets. For toddlers you should consider arm floats as it is often easier for them to wear during the hot weather. In addition we offer a baby set to save you from the stress of trying to remember to bring everything you need.

6 – How long does it take to pass a lock?
The time is takes to pass a lock depends on several factors, including the amount of traffic, but on average it takes about 20 minutes.

Ready to set sail!
You do not have a sailing licence and are worried about driving the boat? Rest assured! The handling is quite simple and our teams on the bases will take the time to show you how the different equipment works and introduce you to the maneuvers and docking. The boat works with two commands: a throttle lever with two positions (front and rear) and a wheel to steer: you see, it’s simple!

Travelling at an average speed of 6km ph. Enjoy your holidays with a peaceful soothing rhythm, gently travelling on the water. Enjoy the scenery from a new perspective and feel free to punctuate your cruise with a few stops, gourmet, history or sports. There will be something for everyone!

Don’t forget your cameras: You won’t want to miss herons, black kites, egrets, mallards, kingfishers…!

Important: during your cruise, you sometimes come across mariners for whom sailing is their livelihood. They always have priority, it’s the rule!

Tip: do not anger fishermen. When you come across them on the banks, remember to slow down in order not to create too much backwash, and move over a little so as not to break their lines. You will soon make friends!

1 – Is it possible to make a one way river cruise?
Of course it’s possible, if you look at our suggestions for cruises you will discover all our options relating to one way trips. Also if you do decide to make a one-way trip we provide additional services such as: Vehicle transfer (driving your vehicle to your arrival base), or transfers by taxi. Please consult our sales team for more information at the time of booking.

2 – If I make a one way trip, how do I find my car?
If you wish to have your car driven to your arrival base we can organise the delivery of your car, which will be insured under the owner’s responsibility, and will be driven no earlier than the day after your departure and no later than the day before your arrival. All information about this service will be available from your starting point.

3 – Can I take or leave the boat where I want?
During your cruise you are free to moor your houseboat where you wish as long as there is no prohibition against the mooring of houseboats at that location. However it is your responsibility to comply with your lease of the houseboat, therefore you much insure that your houseboat arrives at the place and time as originally stipulated in the booking.

4 – Is it possible to make a one-way trip in a mini-week?
There are some one way trips which are possible to make in a mini-week, for more information please contact our reservations centre on 0333 85 53 76 70

5 – Is the return trip boring?
We often assume that the return trip will be boring and that a one-way trip would be preferable, however the one way trip has certain constraints such as: the obligation to cover the distance separating the two bases in a timely manner, you must pay an extra 100€ for the one way and there is also a cost for the transfer of your car or yourselves if you have ordered this additional option which costs 100€.On the other hand the return trip allows you more time to stroll around and explore the area. Also you will discover that the landscape is not the same when you view it from the opposite direction on the return trip.

1 – Where can I park my car during my voyage?
The majority of our river bases have secure and/or cover parking available for a fee. Call the reservations department on 00333 85 53 76 70 for the conditions specific to each base.

2 – Where can we go shopping?
You can go shopping in practically every village along the canal or river. If you check the map on the boat it will indicate where you can buy supplies and in which town you can find a grocer, bakery, fishery or butchery. Occasionally some lock keepers sell eggs, poultry, vegetables or wine, all at very reasonable prices. Try to stock up on the day of your departure as it is easier to transport the larger items that you may need while you have your car with you.

3 – I have a dog, am I able to take him with me on the boat?
Dogs and other pets are welcome aboard our fleet of houseboats. However, please ensure you have all the equipment necessary to look after your pet (including a cover and sleeping basket) as you will not find anything at the base or on board. Also, please remember to ensure your pet’s safety, especially when you are passing through the locks.

4 – How late can we arrive on the day of departure?
It is important to respect the timetables, which you can find on your booking. If you are delayed please warn your departure base.

5 – How long is the instruction on the departure day?
The instruction for the boat lasts about 45mintures and is suitable to your level of experience. This initiation provides you with the knowledge needed to operate your boat and all the river manoeuvres necessary for river navigation.

6 – Are there supermarkets near the bases?
There are supermarkets located near most of our bases which allow you to purchase the larger/heavier items at the bases and transport them to the boat in your car before boarding, hence making your life easier.

7 – Where can we fill up with water or refuel the boat?
There are numerous water supply points along the canals and they are all shown on the river map aboard the boat. The cost of fuel varies from less than a euro to several euros depending on the fuel price.

8 – What is the capacity of the water tank? Is there enough for the week? Is the water drinkable?
The capacity of the water tank on board the boat varies depending on the size of the boat. When you board the houseboat the tank is full and it generally takes about two days of autonomy to empty the tank in the case of a reasonable consumption. We advise you to refill every day so that you never find yourself without water and because it takes less time to refill as the tank is not empty. The water from the water tanks is drinkable, but we recommend keeping the water for showers, cooking, dishwashing and cleaning.

9 – Is there enough fuel for my trip or do I need to refuel?
The boat’s tank is full when you depart and the quantity is sufficient for a classic cruise, that’s to say a river cruise of at least a week; however you need to refuel the boat before bringing it back to the base as you must return it with a full tank.

Do you like cycling? Don’t forget to book your bike in advance!
RENTING BICYCLES (one is included in the liberty Cruise pack)

• Basic bicycles: advised for short distances, for example to go shopping
• Mountain bikes: ideal for long trips along the towpaths
• Child Bicycles: be careful, in order for us to prepare and adapt our bicycles for your children, please indicate the approximate height and weight of every child during your booking

1 – Can we stop wherever we want?
Of course! One of the advantages of this mode of transport is that you can stop wherever you want (unless it is prohibited). In addition to the many ports built along the canals and navigable river where you may moor your boat, you can also moor anywhere in the countryside as long as it is not prohibited. After an enjoyable day of sailing, or during a ‘touristy’ break, you can moor at the dock of a marina or in the countryside on the banks of the canal by using the mooring poles that you have aboard and whose operation will be explained by the team at your departure base before departure.

2 – Do you have to pay to moor at a port?
You will find marinas throughout all the canals and navigable rivers of our regions, however some of them are free and others require a payment. The ports that provide electricity and water dockside often charge a fee for parking your boat there.

3 – Will I be able to find hotels near the waterways?
Most of the time you will find restaurants and hotels near the marina villages that line the canals. If you consult your river map on board your boat you will find more information about these services. It will also show you the different must-see tourist spots, the villages with supermarkets and grocers, and places where you can refill with water.This is another advantage of river tourism: you can lazily navigate the canals and find a place of serenity in a different way than usual, and then return to civilisation when you stop at a port or village.

4 – How do you moor in the countryside?
During your cruise you will undoubtedly be tempted to moor in the countryside to admire the landscape and profit from the peace and quiet. Your houseboat is completely equipped for this and you can do so by using the mooring pole as the team at the departure base showed you during your instruction.

PREPARING MY TRIP
You have chosen your region, your boat and your extras, and your reservation is now made. Less than one month before departure, your voucher and your logbook in hand, it’s time to plan your journey!
The following pages will provide you with valuable information to help you in this preparation, so please read them carefully before you go, and contact your travel agent for further information.

What should I pack?

Let’s start with the case itself: ideally plan to use flexible bags such as sports bags: aboard a boat, space is limited and rigid suitcases may take up too much space during your stay.
We recommend that you take light clothing (shorts, swimsuits) and some rain gear and warmer clothes depending on the season. Tennis shoes are required, dress shoes are not advisable as they are inappropriate for boats and so can be dangerous.

FPP Travel boats are fully equipped, you’ll find that you need to pack little in your bag!
Essentials: your camera, a torch, binoculars, a deck of cards and something to read.

Departure and return times

Reception at the departure base, times for boarding and returns

Whether you arrive by car, train or plane, the bases are ready to welcome you. To help you reach your starting point, an access plan will be sent to your agency with your voucher. On arrival, the base manager and his team will offer you their warmest welcome. No need to arrive early as most boats leaving in the afternoon are returned to the base the same day. We must therefore allow the necessary time for our team to prepare your boat before departure. Why not plan to arrive an hour before the scheduled time? This will leave time to stock your boat from the local shops.

The paperwork (licence, inventory, installation) and explanations about how the boat works, take time: approximately 2 hours.

Week days	Departure from Monday to Saturday depending on the base, and return from the following Monday to Saturday. Poland: Departure possible on Saturdays	Arrival 3pm Boarding and explanation between 4pm and 7pm Poland Sundays at 12noon	Return 9am Poland Saturday at 12noon
Week-end	Saturday morning (or Friday evening depending on availability, to be confirmed one week before departure)	Arrival and boarding between 10am and 11am (Fridays between 4pm and 7pm) Italy Friday at 3pm (week-ends to be confirmed 30 days before departure)	Retun Monday morning at 9am
Mini week	Departure on Monday	Arrival at 3pm Boarding and explanation between 4pm and 6pm. Italy: mini weeks confirmed 30 days before departure	Return on Friday at 2pm, Redon Belgium and Italy return at 9pm

Ready to set sail!

You do not have a sailing licence and are worried about driving the boat? Rest assured! The handling is quite simple and our teams on the bases will take the time to show you how the different equipment works and introduce you to the maneuvers and docking. The boat works with two commands: a throttle lever with two positions (front and rear) and a wheel to steer: you see, it’s simple!

Travelling at an average speed of 6kmph. enjoy your holidays with a peaceful soothing rhythm, gently travelling on the water. Enjoy the scenery from a new perspective and feel free to punctuate your cruise with a few stops, gourmet, historical or sports. There will be something for everyone!

Don’t forget your cameras: You won’t want to miss herons, black kites, egrets, mallards, kingfishers…!

Important: during your cruise, you sometimes come across mariners for whom sailing is their livelihood. They always have priority, it’s the rule!

Tip: do not anger fishermen. When you come across them on the banks, remember to slow down in order not to create too much backwash, and move over a little so as not to break their lines. You will soon make friends!

When you reach your first lock, don’t panic! The lock is simple, and not dangerous, as long as the basic safety rules are followed. You will usually be assisted by the lock keeper, who will appreciate a helping hand if you can, for the operation of the doors and sluices, when they are not automatic. In France the locks are free. They are normally open daily from 9am to 7pm.

Important: times may vary according to season. Some bank holidays are not worked by the lock keepers (Easter Sunday, 1 May, 14 July, 1 November) .

Manual locks! On some waterways (including the Charente, Lot and the Seille), locks are manual. It is you who maneuver through them, so allowing you greater freedom of navigation, without time constraints, from sunrise to sunset. These cruises are more physical, however, and are not recommended for a first timer, for persons who have difficulty moving, or who have young children with them.

1 – Is the boat comfortable?
Whichever model of houseboat you choose, there is everything on board to make your stay a comfortable one. You will find a spacious lounge, comfortable bunks or double beds, heating, hot water, toilets and showers. As you can refill with water all along the canals and rivers you can always enjoy a nice, long, hot shower at anytime. On a houseboat the amount of space that you have will always be limited, however the lounge/dining area of the boat tends to be the largest room in the boat as this is the true heart of your holiday. The cabins are modest in size; however there is a lot of space for stowing your luggage and other possessions. You will also find a bathroom, with a toilet, sink and a shower, connected to almost every cabin. All our houseboats are also equipped with bedding: sheets, pillow and duvets. Therefore we hope you will feel at home on your houseboat.

2 – Are the houseboats heated?
All our boats are equipped with a heating system thus providing you with comfort in any climate.

3 – Is the houseboat equipped with linen, bedding, dishes etc? Are cleaning products, brushes and dustpans provided?
On board all our boats you will find crockery, cutlery and all the kitchen equipment required to cook for an intimate dinner or a large family meal on the deal. There is in most of the boats a stove, oven, refrigerator, sink, pots and pans, and an assortment of dishes which are sufficient for the maximum number of passengers expected on board the boat. Similarly you will find enough bedding (sheets, duvets, pillows) for the maximum number of passengers.

4 – Is there hot water on board?
Of course there is hot water on all our houseboats. While the engine is running it produces the hot water, therefore if you run out of hot water all you have to do is turn on the motor for a couple of hours to generate more hot water.

5 – Is there a 220V outlet on board and where can we find it?
Most boats are not equipped with 220V, however all our houseboats are equipped with a 12V cigarette light charger, so if you have a 12V charger you can recharge your mobile phone there. In relation to any equipment powered by 220V you can use them aboard if you rent a 12V-220V transformer. Otherwise you will find numerous power points along the canal that you are able to use. Also all our most recent houseboats are equipped with generators.

6 – Can we lock the boat?
Yes, all our houseboats are equipped with locks which allow you to leave the boat to go exploring the surrounding countryside in peace, however, we do recommend that you should not leave your valuables in plain view.

7 – What is the capacity of the fridge?
The fridge capacity depends on the size of the houseboat that you have chosen and it ranges from 60 to 220litres. During summer we recommend that you do not overload the refrigerators in order to allow them to function better.

8 – What is the use of the bow thruster present on some river boats?
The bow thruster is in fact a small propeller located at the front of the boat which allows for easier manoeuvring. It is used in spurts and at low speeds to facilitate the navigational manoeuvres such as entering a lock and docking the boat.

1 – What do we do if we breakdown? What if there is something caught in the propeller?
Our team is available seven days a week on all our bases and there is always someone there. Therefore in case of a problem, just call your departure base, whose number is provided in the logbook, and we will be more than happy to help. Our team will do their utmost to provide a solution to your problems. Luckily most problems can be solved by telephone, if not a technician will come to help you as soon as they can. If you can, try to locate a landmark close to where you are in order to help us locate you faster and thus resolve your problem in the shortest amount of time.

2 – Accidents: How do they happen? How much does it cost? Should I take out insurance?
Your houseboat is fully insured and you are only responsible to pay for any damage caused up to the amount of the bond that you have taken out. You can also opt to purchase the franchise package by subscribing to the insurance package cruise deal.

3 – Are accidents common?
Accidents are infrequent and normally very minor due to the limited speed of our houseboats. However, you must always be vigilant while cruising and it is advisable to take turns steering the boat.

1 – Who should I go with?
A river cruise on a houseboat is a great way to spend some quality time with your beloved, or to get together as a family, you can even use it as a great way to spend some quality time with your friends. The kids will soon get used to life aboard the boat and are normally more than happy to try steering the boat! This is a great experience to share with those important to you.

2 – Will we all be able to get along in a small space?
A licence free houseboat is a great opportunity to enjoy the surrounding environment at a leisurely pace and is certainly not a place where you should shut yourself in your cabin! You can enjoy nice meals together in the lounge or out on the deck, or even on the canal banks. Inside the boat, relax in the lounge space or in the cabins.

3 – How many people can stay on the houseboat? Is it possible to be just two?
France Passion Plaisance offers a range of boats for a crew consisting of 2 to 12 people. The steering and manoeuvring of the boat can easily be carried out with just two people. And, depending on the region that you choose, your cruise of two can focus on all the romantic stops along the water’s edge making it the perfect trip for young and old lovers alike.

4 – How many people do we need to have to steer the boat?
Our houseboats are rented out to two people minimum (there must be at least one adult and one child over 16 years). As all the lock manoeuvres require one person to steer the boat and another to hold the boat in place you need at least two people capable of steering the boat and helping with the manoeuvres.

5 – Is it dangerous for young children?
All our boats are equipped with safety equipment including a double chain on the balcony railing and movement aboard is always easy due to the wide set decks protected by railing and the large and stable sun decks. However the aquatic environment always presents risks and as such we recommend that children wear life jackets. For toddlers you should consider arm floats as it is often easier for them to wear during the hot weather. In addition we offer a baby set to save you from the stress of trying to remember to bring everything you need

6 – Are pets allowed on board the houseboats?
Dogs and other pets are welcome aboard our fleet of houseboats. However, please ensure you have all the equipment necessary to look after your pet (including a cover and sleeping basket) as you will not find anything at the base or on board. Also, please remember to ensure your pet’s safety, especially when you are passing through the locks.

7 – Can anyone drive the boat?
When we instruct you on the day of departure we will issue you with a card that acts as a boat licence, it will appoint one of you as the captain and on the boat anyone can drive under the surveillance of the captain. Therefore this allows you to let your children have a go at steering the boat as well, as long as you are there to watch over what they do and help them in any manoeuvres.

1 – What are the deadlines for booking? How far in advance should I book?
Don’t wait too long to book! Houseboat holidays are very popular and the best reservations tend to be made in advance. So if you’re interested in a river cruise holiday contact France Passion Plaisance on 0033 3 85 53 76 70 soon to make any inquiries and to reserve your cruise.

2 – Is it necessary to take out insurance?
Your Canalboat is fully insured and you are only responsible to pay for any damage caused up to the amount of the bond that you have taken out. You can also opt to purchase the franchise package by subscribing to the insurance Cruise Plus (Damage Waiver).

4 – Does the Liberty Cruise pack include cancellation insurance?
The liberty Cruise Pack includes: fuel, insurance in case the cruise is interrupted, rental of one basic bike and the cleaning fee. However it does not include cancellation insurance which represents 4% of the rental price.

5 – What are the means of payment and is it possible to spread the payments out?
We accept Visa and Master card and cash. Yes it is possible; Just contact our sales team.

1 – Is it dangerous for young children?
All our boats are equipped with safety equipment including a double chain on the balcony railing and movement aboard is always easy due to the wide set decks protected by railing and the large and stable sun decks. However the aquatic environment always presents risks and as such we recommend that children wear life jackets. For toddlers you should consider arm floats as it is often easier for them to wear during the hot weather. In addition we offer a baby set to save you from the stress of trying to remember to bring everything you need

2 – Are pets allowed on board the houseboats?
Dogs and other pets are welcome aboard our fleet of houseboats. However, please ensure you have all the equipment necessary to look after your pet (including a cover and sleeping basket) as you will not find anything at the base or on board. Also, please remember to ensure your pet’s safety, especially when you are passing through the locks.

3 – Do I need to be sporty to go on a houseboat holiday?
Houseboat holidays are accessible for everyone and do not require any significant physical conditions. In addition, some of our boats have wheelchair access, thus it is possible for everyone to benefit from our cruises.

4 – Can anyone drive the boat?
When we instruct you on the day of departure we will issue you with a card that acts as a boat licence, it will appoint one of you as the captain and on the boat anyone can drive under the surveillance of the captain. Therefore this allows you to let your children have a go at steering the boat as well, as long as you are there to watch over what they do and help them in any manoeuvres.

5 – What is the use of a map of the river?
The river map is a veritable gold mine of information about the route that you will take and its environs. Thanks to this map you can discover the many restaurants close to the canal and also the places where you can refuel the boat. By using this map you can organise your trip and decide where you wish to stop and what you desire to see while you are on the houseboat.