Choosing the right boat for a large family can be a real challenge. After all, no one likes to be restricted or to have less comfort when on vacation. So, which houseboats would we recommend and why?
1) La Péniche S
This 10-person houseboat is truly unique — a "green" eco-friendly choice powered by an electric motor rather than an internal combustion engine. Not only will you be cruising along silently, but you won't be polluting the environment. Plus, as the La Péniche S has five cabins and four bathrooms, privacy is 100 % guaranteed. The boat is available in the Alsace region of France.
YACHTING.COM TIP: Houseboats we offer are for 2–12 people. Unfortunately, this is the maximum size available, so if there are more of you, you'll need to book a fleet of two or more boats. And bear in mind that even a small baby counts as a legal crew member.
La Péniche houseboat
2) Challenger 1380
A large houseboat suitable for up to 12 people, the Challenger 1380 is equipped with 4 cabins, 3 toilets and showers. The saloon has a fully equipped galley (cooker, oven, sink and fridge) and the seat can be folded out if necessary. Plus, there are also two helmsman's stations. This boat is available in France from the port of Briare.
Challenger 1380 houseboat
3) Tarpon 42
A very spacious boat that we'd recommend to families with kids or a group of friends. Although it can accommodate up to 12 people, you'll be much more comfortable with just 8. In addition to the central saloon, you can relax on the upper deck, where there is a bimini top or umbrella and outdoor furniture. The galley is also equipped with a stove, gas oven and a fridge-freezer. This houseboat is available throughout ¨France, but also on the Mecklenburg Lakes in Germany.
Tarpon 42 houseboat
4) IJsvogel
This houseboat is suitable for two average families or a large group of friends. With a maximum capacity of 10 people, the fresh design and hold space is best enjoyed by 8 people in the 4 separate cabins. There are also 2 toilets and 2 showers. Benefits include a large deck with a built-in sofa and the option to bring a pet on board. The boat is currently available in Holland.
YACHTING.COM TIP: Are you tempted by a houseboating holiday but have no experience? No problem! We've put together a list of the 5 best houseboat routes for beginners. All you need to do is decide whether you’d prefer to take in some sights or simply relax on the tranquil waters of a lake.
IJsvogel houseboat
5) Grand Classique
This is the only houseboat from Le Boat that offers 5 cabins and is comfortable enough for up to 12 people. The toilets are electric, the saloon is luxuriously equipped, the upper deck is huge and the boat has a transom for easy manoeuvring. The Grand Classique is available in France (outside Aquitaine), Germany and Holland.
Grand Classique houseboat
6) Horizon 4
Horizon 4 was designed exclusively for Le Boat and has a "fundeck" terrace, which is as large as possible on this type of boat. Inside there are 4 cabins with 4 bathrooms, giving each cabin its own privacy. We recommend this boat to discerning clients, especially families, a group of friends or 4 couples. The boat can be booked for cruising in France, Germany, England or Holland.
YACHTING.COM TIP: Do you like active holidays exploring the local sights and culture? Try one of our best boat routes for the arts and the sights.
Horizon 4 houseboat
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