Through France via the Inland Waterways

Several hundred boats use the French inland waterways each year as a route between Northern Europe and the Mediterranean. While there are challenges to be overcome, for yachts of moderate draught (under 1.8m) and able to unship their masts to reduce air draught to a maximum of 3.5m, the inland routes offer not only a convenient way to avoid the perils of the outside passage via Biscay and the Atlantic but a unique opportunity to sample the attractions of French landscape, history, food and culture. This guide, produced by the European Inland Waterways Section (EIWS) of the Cruising Association, includes details of all the main access points to the waterways from seaward as well as the preparations necessary for travelling on them. It covers the four principal routes by which vessels can reach the Mediterranean, together with information on boat preparation; recommended equipment; licences and regulations; navigation; practical aspects of boat handling and managing locks; moorings and nearby facilities and sources of further information. The contents are regularly updated by Cruising Association (CA) members actively cruising the French waterways.