Before 2008, we were on the canals of Northern France, but in August of that year brought the GOOSE down the Rhone to the southern waters. Since then we’ve cruised the Canal du Rhone and Sete, through the salt marshes of the Camargue, the World Heritage site of the Canal du Midi and the Canal Lateral du Garonne, which goes from Toulouse almost to Bordeaux. All the canals were different, sometimes intriguing, occasionally exciting, always interesting; something for everybody.

We’ve met the lock-keepers, learned the various ways (and there are many) of operating the locks, discovered where to moor and where to avoid, where to eat and where to shop. We have an encyclopaedic knowledge of laundrettes and local markets, and, even more necessary than those vital items … vital railway timetables.

Did you watch the programme with Rick Stein cooking on a barge? That’s what it’s like, except that you are the cook, not Rick.

Q         What do people who hire self drive cruisers do all day Friday before handing the boat back?
A         They spend the day cleaning, inside and out, so that they don’t lose their “clean boat” deposit.

What a way to end a holiday!

See you this year?

In 2010, we will be based in the Montauban area, about halfway between Toulouse and Bordeaux. All of these towns are accessible by train.

May we suggest that you go to your local library and ask for a copy of “Cruising French Waterways” by Hugh McKnight to find out more?