Top River Cruises That Will Float Your Boat

07 June 2023

With a spectacular mix of rivers, canals, lakes, harbours and bays, it's no wonder that the UK and Europe boast so many delightful cruises! To celebrate these majestic waterways, we have pulled together a selection of our most unique journeys, so you can cool down this summer and admire the scenery from a breezy new perspective. Featuring a wonderful dive into the past, there’s a boat trip for everyone to enjoy. 

All New A-ROSA Breaks

We have partnered with cruise specialists A-ROSA to offer exclusive no-fly cruising packages along the magnificent Rhine. These packages allow you to enjoy the convenience of return coach travel from your local pickup point. No airport, no queues, no flights! Choose between three brand-new tours, including Cruising the Dutch Waterways & the Northern Rhine, Cruising the Middle Rhine Valley and Cruising the Southern Rhine to Switzerland. Arguably the most relaxing way to discover Europe, get ready to sit back, relax and experience almost endless magical moments on our cruises that will become lasting memories for you to take home.

Discover Donegal, Slieve League Cliffs & Wild Atlantic Way

An excellent time awaits on Ireland's largest purpose-built waterbus around Donegal Bay. Spot the seal colony on Seal Island, admire the beauty of the Bluestack Mountains, enjoy the fascinating commentary and look out for historic points of interest, from the old booking office of the White Star Line (owner of RMS Titanic) to the embarkation site of the Coffin Ships, used by emigrants during the Famine. The best part comes on the return leg; join in with the traditional singalong with on-board entertainer, Folksy Gerry!

Ilfracombe, Horse Drawn Cruise & RHS Garden Rosemoor

Our idyllic tour to North Devon features a delightfully old-fashioned experience – a charming cruise on a horse-drawn, traditionally painted barge, one of the last equine-pulled boats of its kind (special mention to the horses, Ross, George and Brindley – our skipper explains just how easy they find it)! Starting in Tiverton, the journey is complete with anecdotes and historical facts about the Grand Western Canal plus a few moments of silence to hear the tranquillity of travelling without motor power, and you can even buy a retro soft drink or ice cream onboard. 

Little Trains of Norfolk & the Mississippi Paddle Steamer

Known as the Southern Comfort, a nostalgic cruise aboard the double-decked Mississippi Paddle Steamer is a must when visiting the mystical Norfolk Broads! From the picturesque village of Horning, we embark on a memorable trip through Britain’s largest protected wetland, passing thatched cottages, windmills, ancient churches and reed beds while spotting some local wildlife and listening to the insightful commentary.

Torquay, South Devon & Dartmoor National Park

Keep your camera at hand for the sparkling waters of the River Dart, popular for its diverse range of sights. There is simply so much to see during our relaxing jaunt, including the colourful buildings of Dartmouth, Agatha Christie’s beloved holiday home of Greenway, the Britannia Royal Naval College, where Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip reconnected in 1939 and where King Charles III attended from 1971. Don’t forget to look out for the Sharpham Estate with its vineyards and steep hillsides plunging down to the river’s edge.

The Lakes & Dales – Narrowboat, Steam & Sail

England’s largest lake is a true sight to behold and the best way to soak up its beauty is by boat, of course! Nestled in the heart of the Lake District, Windermere offers a glorious combination of stunning mountain scenery, secluded bays, verdant rolling hills, wooded islands and charming lakeside towns. You may even catch a rare sight of the lake's resident monster, affectionately known as Bownessie thanks to its similarity to the mysterious creature of Loch Ness! 

Sail Away with Just Go! Holidays