We have just a short time in the area around the Canal du Midi is it possible to either spend the day on the canal with a guide, or rent a boat and do it ourselves for a day or two? We are a party of four women traveling through France.

Thanks,

MB

We've done two cruises on self-drive barges, but none of the companies seems to rent out a barge for less than seven days.

We are four women in our early 60s. None of us has ever driven a boat,,,,we're great with cars, however. How difficult is it to drive the boat, moor and get through the locks? We have visions of bringing back the boat with lots of "dings".

Thanks,

MB

Hi MB,

>We are four women in our early 60s. None of us has ever driven a boat,...<

Your visit to France is not the time to learn.

I don't say this because of your age or sex, but because of lack of experience.

>We have visions of bringing back the boat with lots of "dings".<

I hope that you are well insured.

The boat rental companies are well aware that most renters have never driven a boat before. It is not difficult, nor is it going through a lock. However, I do not see the pleasure of doing it for just one day or two. This is not like cruising on a big lake to enjoy the sun and the water.