Canal Barges: Luxury Cruising through Europe’s Waterways

If you’re a fan of river cruising and slow travel, you’ll love the latest travel-by-water trend to resurface: canal barges. Smaller than river cruise ships and often carrying just two passengers (though some can carry as many as 20), canal barges focus on exploring small towns and European villages along the waterways. While the concept is far from new, canal barge cruising is experiencing a revival in 2022, with Abercrombie & Kent launching luxury canal barge cruises across Europe.

The Appeal of Canal Barge Cruising

Abercrombie & Kent’s approach to canal barging taps into travelers’ desire to slow down and enjoy quieter European destinations outside of major cities. Their canal barges will journey through the Loire Valley and the canals of Burgundy and Champagne. Moreover, these barges will take travelers on luxurious adventures in Germany, Italy, England, Ireland, Belgium, Holland, and Scotland. Instead of the chaos of road tripping and constantly changing hotel rooms, canal barge cruising provides a consistent home base as you navigate through charming villages, docking right outside must-visit pubs, wineries, and restaurants.

What to Expect from Canal Barge Trips

When it comes to amenities on the A & K canal barges, expect a truly delightful experience. These barges feature gourmet meals prepared by onboard chefs who prioritize sourcing local ingredients. They curate exquisite wine pairings for lunch and dinner, with all food and beverages included in your charter. Furthermore, any entry fees to local attractions are also covered in your charter costs.

Charter Options for Canal Barge Adventures

Bargers (yes, that’s the term we’re going with) can charter the entire vessel. For example, traveling in Strasbourg’s Roi Soleil along the Canal du Midi requires a six-person barge, with charters starting at $33,900 for a week. On a more grandiose scale, you can charter a 20-guest canal barge in Venice starting at $79,000 for seven days. However, for those looking for a more intimate experience, travelers have the option to join curated trips with as few as 11 other guests for only $5,590 per person.