Boating holidays offer a unique way to spend your vacation, allowing you to explore scenic waterways from the comfort of a houseboat or yacht. Imagine spending a few weeks basking in the sunshine, fishing, swimming, and visiting charming towns along the shore. Unlike crowded cruise ships, boating holidays provide a more intimate and relaxed experience, free from the hustle and bustle of mega-ship tourism. These smaller vessels are often surprisingly well-equipped, boasting amenities like showers and even bicycles for exploring the countryside during stops.
From the historic canals of Holland to the rugged lochs of Scotland, a diverse range of destinations awaits. In Holland, explore the intricate network of canals that connect quaint towns and cosmopolitan cities like Amsterdam, showcasing the country’s unique maritime heritage and carefully preserved architecture. England and Wales also offer numerous canal tours, including routes through Llangollen, Cheshire, and along the Thames, revealing hidden waterways and historic towns away from crowded tourist routes.
For a truly unforgettable experience, consider a boating holiday on Scotland’s Loch Ness. While Nessie sightings aren’t guaranteed, the stunning scenery of the Great Glen and its ancient castles will leave you breathless. This pristine environment is home to rare birds, otters, and abundant fishing opportunities. History enthusiasts can delve into the area’s rich past at the Loch Ness Centre in Drumnadrochit.
France’s romantic waterways beckon with the canals of Brittany, Burgundy, Alsace, the River Charente, the River Lot, and the South of France. These routes combine scenic beauty with opportunities to savor French culture, food, and wine.
North America offers its own boating adventures, particularly in the Great Lakes region and along the St. Lawrence River. This vast river, which flows from the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean, forms a border between Canada and the USA. A tour up the St. Lawrence canal offers spectacular scenery and the chance to spot wildlife like Beluga whales in French Canada.
Finally, don’t overlook the allure of Lake Tahoe. This perennially popular destination offers Emerald Bay sightseeing cruises on the Tahoe Queen, rides on the M.S. Dixie II paddlewheeler, and smaller boats for private family rentals. With its upscale resorts, restaurants, and historic tours, Lake Tahoe offers something for everyone.