Looking forward to possible 2012 French canal barge trip. I am completely new to canal boats/barges. Have seen bikes on barges but what about kayaks? Several of us would like to have that option. Do understand might need to portage around locks or tie boat to barge when in locks. Suggestions, please, for kayaking canals. Canal du Midi is definitely of interest as I know the region and like it. Thinking of going from Med Sea as far as Toulouse only. However, what other French canals rise to top of list of you experienced canal trippers? Many thanks for ideas!
Posted by
Pensacola
9110 posts
In a bunch of self-drive boat trips in France, I don't think I've ever seen a boat with a kayak on top, or seen one that perhaps was an available option at the boat rental spots (I'd assume they'd be near the bike racks ?). Also I've seen very few in the water except around the lakes/etangs around Lattes/Montpellier and I don't suspect that they were associated with larger vessels. I read about a guy that paddeled from the Med to the Atlantic, but it seemed to be more of a stunt/extreme sport type of thing. Kayaks and canoes are not uncommon on the rivers, but not the ones with heavy motorized boat trafffic. The Midi would be the worst spot of all to try it - - the place is nothing but bumper boats in the summer. For a really great French canal trip in a self-drive boat take a look at Brittany between Redon and Dinan. I think Locaboat and LeBoat both cover that route.
Posted by
OP
Lake Oswego, USA
3 posts
Hello Ed, Yes, you're right. A fellow from Washington state did kayak the Canal du Midi. In fact, I saw his slide show about the Sept 2010 trip and that's where I got the idea. Note that he and Kristin went in the Fall when traffic is probably lighter. They arranged for kayaks from a friends who build kayaks somewhere else in Europe, not sure which country. Their kayaks held all their gear for camping, etc. for two weeks. The trek didn't sound hazardous but they did portage around locks and sometimes tie their kayak to a canal barge. Here's Nigel's story on his website: http://www.nigelkayaks.com/752.html That should get you to his photos of the trip. Guess that touring kayaks aren't common in France! I certainly never have noticed kayaks (sit-on-top) except in lakes, like you said, or in white water. Thanks for suggestion for other canal. Much appreciated!