The Best Barge Holidays with Children

Children make wonderful travelling companions, but they can be incredibly paradoxical, which often makes finding the perfect holiday a challenge…

If you’re searching for fun and educational barge cruises with children, including a host of sights and activities the whole family can enjoy – look no further than our family-friendly barges!

Cruising the sweeping waterways of the French countryside is one of the best ways to travel with children. If you’re dying to explore Burgundy and the Loire Valley, for example, a trip on a luxury barge can make for the most wonderful memory in a child’s life – and yours as well.

Every Day is a New Adventure

Every parent knows the dreaded phrase “I’m bored!” — it’s the greatest enemy of a peaceful family holiday. Fortunately, on our barge cruises with children in mind, their hours are filled with exciting activities such as bicycle rides in Paris, kayaking near Chatillon sur Loire, lake swimming in Rogny, and plenty more.

Children usually find Montbouy particularly exciting; they can visit the animal farm Parc Animalier de L’Emprunt, try go-karting at Planete Karting, or go horseback riding astride palominos. When the vessel reaches Montargis, playing in the sand or taking a ride in a horse-drawn carriage are both perfect ways to entertain younger members of the family. Barge cruises with children have never been so fun!

A Fabulous Way to Learn French History and Culture

Learning about history and culture is important, but let’s face it, there’s nothing children hate more than a dry history lecture! Head to shoreside and enjoy a variety of fascinating and educational excursions on our barge cruises. For children, the freedom to roam, touch and interact with their storyteller is a key part of their experience. Watch them as history comes alive at the places they visit.

Just a few examples of our family-friendly excursions include Chateau Sully sur Loire, the castle where Georges de la Trémoïlle imprisoned Joan of Arc; the medieval town of Chateau Landon, which is said to have been captured by Caesar in 52 BC; and Château de Fontainebleau, the former residence of Napoleon I.

Children will also get to know local cultures, with an introduction to local products, customs, and cuisine (while adults enjoy its fine wines), giving them a well-rounded overview of a destination very different to their own home.

Barge Cruises with Children

You can enjoy a number of barge holidays with children in France, Scotland, England and Ireland with European Waterways. A range of family cruises can be enjoyed on a selection of whole barge charters featuring a selection of excursions and activities for all to enjoy, whilst many of our classic cruises welcome children over 12 years.

Chat to our dedicated team of Cruise Specialists for more details, or order your free copy of our brochure.

Browse all Family Cruises