Hire a boat in Canal du Midi with or without a licence

Boat hire in Canal du Midi with Click&Boat

Located in the heart of the Occitanie region in the Southwest of France, the Canal du Midi is a must for your next sailing holiday. Scenic vineyards, lush forests, 14th-century medieval cities with gothic bells and canal bridges… you will easily understand why the Canal du Midi is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Designed by French engineer Pierre-Paul Riquet, the Canal du Midi spans 150 miles through the rich countryside with 63 locks marking the majestic crossing. Take a break from the hustle and bustle of your day-to-day life and embark on a journey with Click&Boat into the heart of nature.

What type of boat is best for a yacht charter in Canal du Midi?

The type of boat you choose depends on various factors such as the number of people in your group, how many cabins you need

Houseboat Minimum capacity 2 and maximum capacity 9

Houseboat Minimum cabin space 2 and maximum cabin space 3

How much does it cost for boat hire in Canal du Midi?

The cost varies depending on your individual requirements. It is important to take into consideration the length of your trip, the season, type of boat and additional extras such as a skipper, crew or equipment.

Houseboat Prices start at £262 per day

What is included in the cost?

At Click&Boat, some boats include the skipper, fuel, or basic equipment. However, it is best to check with the boat owner to establish what is and isn't included.

What season is the best to charter a yacht in Canal du Midi?

Owing to the southwest of France’s mild climate all year round, you can charter a yacht any month. However, if you wish to escape the crowds and opt for a more authentic experience, we highly recommend hiring a boat between April and June when the flowers will be blooming in the neighbouring fields. During this period, you will be able to embrace the sublime landscapes, but one thing is for sure - whether you visit for a long or short break, a Canal du Midi boating experience will not disappoint.

Where to hire a boat in Canal du Midi?

If you're looking to hire a boat on the Canal du Midi in France, there are several options available to you. One option is to rent a canal boat from the Nicols base at Le Somail, which is located halfway between Carcassonne and Béziers on the canal's longest continuous section. This charming little port provides an ideal starting point for your journey along one of Europe's most famous waterways. With a length of 52km without encountering a lock, you can enjoy a seamless navigation experience.

Another popular starting point for canal boat hire on the Canal du Midi is Toulouse, a vibrant city that serves as a hub for boating holidays.

Where to sail on your yacht charter in Canal du Midi?

With a length of 150 miles, the Canal du Midi connects the Garonne river near Toulouse with the Etang de Thau on the Mediterranean coast. Hire a boat on this iconic waterway and discover some of the most fascinating scenery that the south of France has to offer.

Toulouse, also known as the “pink city” is a fantastic starting point for your Canal du Midi tour. From the Place du Capitole to the Basilica of Saint-Sernin and the Convent of the Jacobins, France’s 4th largest city offers something for everyone. We highly recommend mooring your houseboat for a few days in this city, to indulge in the local culture and admire the breathtaking architecture.

The historic city of Carcassonne, located halfway between Toulouse and the Mediterranean coast, is entirely worth the visit. Famed for its medieval fortress, Carcassonne offers visitors the chance to take a glimpse into another period of French history. The nearby Lac de la Cavayère offers families the possibility to relax and enjoy the different watersport activities. For wine enthusiasts, there are also many wine cellars scattered across the surrounding region.

The coastal town of Agde, along the white sandy shores of the Mediterranean, is a favourite in France. The seaside resort attracts tourists from all over the country, and rightfully so.

Hire a boat with or without a skipper?

The cost of renting with a skipper in Canal du Midi varies depending on the boat owner so we recommend you contact them to get a better idea of the cost. There are many benefits to hiring a skipper on your boating holiday. To begin with, they are familiar with the area and will be able to advise areas to visit including any lesser known towns and villages to stop off at for lunch or dinner. On the hand, if you opt to charter your own canal boat, it gives you more freedom to visit locations of your own choice and also do things at your own pace.