French canals to the med in a boat?

Question

Anyone done it, whats it like?

Answer 1

Canal du midi is possible for up to 5 ft draft only.  Restricted headroom so any mast etc has to be laid down too and because it is a working canal, tourist boats get lower priority through locks and a rough ride too, often lashed up against commercial traffic through locks with high risk of bashes and scrapes.  If you value your boat, dont.

Answer 2

We have freinds who took their boat over to France and they live on it all year around,,they cruise the Canal Midi but do all the off shoots,,I know they can do the whole length of France and will be doing it in time,the canals there are much better maintained than in the UK and welcome pleasure craft,but be aware the French canal system is still in use as a freight transport route,,the French system is some 6,000 miles long and 3 times that of the UK

Answer 3

I've always wanted to do it but never have. Best to get a really comfortable vessel - either motor cruiser or wide beam boat, and take it really slowly. Stopping for ages at places that are good, to drink the wine, meet the people, 'drink' up the local flavour (and export some from home waters).

HEAVEN!

Count me in - I'm yer crew!