IFR 069
Inland voyage (Spits/Peniche)
Route
Varies and depends on the cargo offered. Fixed routes or areas of operation are not bookable. The vessels frequently operate in France, the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany.
Duration
5 or 7 days
Departures
Monthly
About the vessel
Inland vessels for general and bulk cargo, type Freycinet-Peniche/Spits, Dutch (usually German speaking) ship command, approx. 360 tons dead-weight, length 39 m, breadth 5 m. This type of ship is exactly tailored to the size of the class I locks and bridges on inland waterways, which are often found in France, the Netherlands, Belgium and Germany
Cabins
Guest cabin in the foreship, usually with toilet and wash basin, access via a ladder or narrow stairs, sometimes seating, shower partly shared with the owners in the aft
Comments
A trip on these small, lovingly maintained ships is really something special.
The crew usually consists of just the two bargemen and the ship’s dog.
In earlier times, these ships were the backbone of the supply of building materials, coal, wine, etc.
Every pleasure boater in France knows the feeling of suddenly coming across such a “monster” on a small canal.
3 meals and coffee or tea are included in the price.
Space is limited on these small inland vessels, life usually takes place in the wheelhouse and outside, mutual respect and consideration are required.
There are bicycles on board for guests; you can bring your own bike free of charge.
We offer two comparable barges for this trip, the exact cabins and ship equipment of which may differ in detail.
You will need a travel period of 4 weeks to be able to join the cruise.
Shore leave
Depending on the cargo, longer unloading and loading times may occur. Shore leave is almost always possible, for example in locks. The trips are well suited for accompanying vessels by bicycle or on foot, for example on towpaths next to the canals.
Documents
Identity card
Passage prices
The voyage prices are calculated according to daily rates, which differ for the inland vessels.
Examples:
5 days:
€ 550.00 to € 662.00 per person in a double cabin
€ 550.00 to € 750.00 single use
7 days:
€ 926.00 per person in a double cabin
€ 1,047.00 single use
Embarkation / Disembarkation fees
Agency fee € 35.00
Travel insurance
Travel health and liability insurance
Medical certificate
Travel reports by customers
Northern Europe
- Many thanks again for my latest cargo ship experience which was wonderful.
I enjoyed the trip on the Gerda, with Captain H. who ensured that I had my best experience to date. Also, a mention to the Chef, who made very tasty meals, also to all the crew, I can’t list all their names, unfortunately, however, all staff combined made my experience so enjoyable and I will definitely try to go on that route again to meet them again.
I highly recommend this trip!
You are very...
>> more... - Dear Mrs Pfeiffer and Mrs Weber
Back from Hamburg, I would like to give you my feedback.
It was a very interesting week I spent on board; captain Z. and the officers were all very open and friendly, so there really was a good atmosphere. I have always felt welcome to go here and there, to ask questions, and able to spend a lot of time on the bridge. As I told the captain, I felt I was 40 years younger as I spent hours on the bridge, just like when I was an officer on merchant ships...
>> more...
