Hi! We are looking for new imformation on barging. Has anyone been in the last few years? We are considering France and Italy. Does anyone have a favorite trip or company. Thanks, Sharon We are planning a fall trip.

topping

http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...mp;tid=1296171

are you referring to driving the boat yourself, or going on a barge tour?

If the former, try doing a search here on elvira, she once posted a thread about piloting her own barge, with some friends

elaine, I know the Elvira post you refer to and I spent hours recently trying to find it without success. But that was a group renting a houseboat on the Venetian lagoon -- quite a bit different.

Yes, we need to know if you are talking about a self-boating experience of a "cruise" situation.
My favorite would definitely be the Midi canal in the south of France , and I'd do it myself.

I can recommend Crowne Blue lines, which offers their services in quite a few countries. We self-piloted two "Classiques" (very spacious and clean) on the Soane and Canal Central in Burgundy. I enjoyed it and look forward to doing it again some day, but don't let anyone tell you that tieing up in the locks is always easy.

Sorry! We are discussing a small barge with a captain, food and drinks provided that would hold a small group, possibly 10- 20. I have read the older posts, but I was hoping someone had been in the last year or so. Thanks, Sharon