What really happens on a boating holiday? 12 Must-try boating experiences
Beyond the soothing journey through the waters and beautiful sunsets, a boating holiday offers a range of unique experiences than your average getaway. Welcome to a special kind of holiday – a break filled with activities where a Venice boat trip can blend with the fun of weekend activities. Each day on the boat brings various experiences, balancing relaxation with adventure. But what exactly can you do during a boating holiday apart from the usual? In this blog, we’ll explore some great activities you can enjoy during a boating holiday.
12 unique activities that can make your next boating holiday unforgettable
1. Cycling
Experience the breeze and scenic views as you bike along our rivers and canals. Cycling through the countryside offers a refreshing experience, with routes available from key boating locations like Canal du Midi and Holland. Unlike a dedicated cycling holiday, renting a bike with Le Boat, or bringing your own, gives you the flexibility to enjoy the best of both worlds. In many locations, a towpath follows the waterways, ensuring a secure ride beside the boat. This setup allows you to go on rides when the mood strikes, without the commitment of a full cycling trip. Discover hidden spots like old towns and vineyards at a pace that suits you. You can also venture to quieter towns and villages that are less frequented.
2. Horseback riding
Horseback riding appeals to those looking for physical activity and wanting to immerse themselves in local culture and scenery. Le Boat provides equestrian escapes with unparalleled access to horseback riding in diverse destinations. Whether a seasoned rider or a beginner, these horseback riding experiences in regions like Camargue and Brittany are tailored to let you explore breathtaking landscapes from a unique vantage point. They blend adventure with culture perfectly, allowing you to experience the local environment authentically.
3. Wine tasting
A wine-tasting boating holiday combines the elegance of wine culture with the natural beauty of scenic routes. Cruising through countries like France and Italy, you can explore renowned vineyards and savor local wines in their authentic settings. Boating holidays through these iconic wine regions add a touch of luxury and cultural exploration to your boating experience.
4. Birdwatching
For nature enthusiasts, birdwatching is a calming and educational experience. It allows you to reconnect with the natural world. Le Boat destinations, like the Thames, are ideal for bird photography and observation, thanks to their varied bird species. To enhance your birdwatching experience, we offer a comprehensive Thames guide detailing the wildlife you will likely encounter. To make the most of this activity, we advise bringing binoculars to enhance the experience.
5. Arts and crafts station
Imagine creating art with the backdrop of serene waterways. Engaging in arts and crafts while aboard is not just therapeutic but a great family activity that is fun for both adults and kids. It's a unique way to capture the essence of your holiday – through painting, sculpting, or crafting. Whether you’re sketching the landscapes, assembling a scrapbook, or helping the kids with their own artwork, these activities offer a creative and calming escape.
6. Swimming and Seaside
Nothing epitomizes a refreshing holiday escape like being by the beach and indulging in swimming activities. Le Boat offers several destinations perfect for a swimming holiday, where the sea provides a much-needed break from everyday life. These seaside activities are ideal for families, friends, and couples looking for relaxation and fun by the water.
7. Yoga on deck
Yoga on deck, especially at sunrise or sunset, offers a tranquil and mentally balanced holiday. Practicing yoga aboard provides a distinctive wellness experience, enhancing both mental and physical well-being in the most calming surroundings.
8. Stargazing
Stargazing sessions on a boating holiday transform an evening into a magical experience. Away from the city's bright lights, the clear skies reveal a spectacular view of the cosmos. Stargazing is both romantic and calming and adds a touch of enchantment to any boating holiday, making it a memorable experience.
9. Fishing
A fishing holiday is an opportunity to embrace nature's quiet beauty and the calmness of the water. Casting a line from a peaceful riverbank or walking along a river is a meditative experience that allows you to be at one with nature. However, it's important to remember that permits and licenses may be required for fishing in various locations. Le Boat offers the flexibility to enjoy fishing while cruising to destinations like the River Shannon, known for its charming villages unique to Ireland. With options for both rod and line anglers, these holidays cater to those seeking a serene escape.
10. Board Games and Card Tournaments
Board games and card tournaments bring an element of lighthearted competition and entertainment to a boating holiday. These activities are perfect for enjoyable evenings or leisurely pastimes, fostering camaraderie and fun on the boat trip. With various board and card games, there’s never a dull moment with a family-friendly card match.
11. Golfing
Golfing on a boating holiday offers an exclusive blend of sports and scenic backgrounds. Playing on courses near stunning waterways in places like Ireland and Italy provides a unique golfing experience. With beautiful greens set against breathtaking landscapes, a Le Boat golfing holiday gives enthusiasts a chance to enjoy their favorite sport in some of the most picturesque settings in Europe.
12. Watersports
Watersports add an exhilarating dimension to a boating holiday. From kayaking in serene lakes to jet skiing on open waters, these activities offer both excitement and a unique way to explore the waters. Le Boat provides the option to hire extras like paddleboards, allowing you to further enhance your experience. We offer watersport inspired holidays in various destinations, catering to both beginners and experienced enthusiasts looking for an adrenaline rush on their holiday.
The unique experience of a boating holiday
Boating holidays are more than just a journey on water; they're a tapestry of special experiences. From the tranquility of fishing, the cultural richness of wine tasting, and the fun of board games - these holidays cater to a wide range of interests and passions. They offer a chance to explore, relax, and engage in activities that enhance the boating experience, making each journey memorable. Whether it's for a weekend break or a longer getaway, enrich the holiday experience with a diverse range of activities.
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Look through our wide range of activities for your next boating holiday.
