SMITHS FALLS, ON — Le Boat has a brand new program called ‘Skipper for Hire’.

The initiative should appeal to potential Le Boat clients who like the idea of a private boating vacation, but are unsure about piloting their own vessel.

“For many of our new customers, captaining a boat themselves is a new experience. All our boats are easy to drive, and no boat license or prior boating experience is required. The Le Boat experienced base teams provide in-depth orientation, safety briefings, and hands-on training to ensure you’re fully prepared,” says Le Boat’s Long Haul Marketing Manager, Lisa McLean.

She added: ”Many of our North American guests have expressed interest in having a skipper available as the idea of piloting a boat for the first time can be daunting. In response to this feedback, our Skipper for Hire program aims to enhance the boating experience and provide unparalleled support to our valued guests.”

“Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned cruiser, our skilled skippers are dedicated to helping our customers feel more confident and ensure their journey is stress-free and enjoyable,” she said.

‘SKIPPER FOR HIRE’ EXPLAINED

Le Boat’s Skipper for Hire will be available exclusively along the Canal du Midi in France starting in the 2025 season, across all boat types.

For US$199 per day, travellers can enlist the expertise of a seasoned Le Boat skipper to accompany them on their maiden voyage.

On the first full day of the voyage, the appointed skipper provides guests with hands-on instruction on boat operation, navigation techniques, and maneuvering through locks.

The idea is that this personalized guidance will instill confidence, empowering guests to navigate independently for the remainder of their excursion.

Le Boat skippers will accompany guests for approximately seven hours on the first full day of their vacation, starting at 9 a.m. local time after a comprehensive pre-departure briefing.

Skippers provide their own lunch and refreshments onboard, and arrangements are made for disembarkation at a suitable location by day’s end.

Le Boat assumes liability for any accidental damage incurred while the skipper is on board, underscoring the company’s commitment to guest satisfaction and safety.

Skippers are stationed along the Canal du Midi, departing from Le Boat bases in Castelnaudary, Carcassonne (Trèbes), Homps, and Port Cassafières. Skippers are also proficient in both English and French.

Due to limited availability, early booking is recommended for the 2025 cruising season. If successful, Le Boat plans to expand the program to other cruising grounds in Europe or Canada in future seasons.

SUMMER 2024 SAVINGS AND MORE

McLean wants Canadian travel advisors to know there’s still time to book clients on private boating vacations this summer.

Travellers can save up to 35% on boat rental vacations in Europe or Ontario. The booking deadline for this promotion is July 18. Contact Le Boat for a quote at 1-800-734-5491 or see

https://www.leboat.ca/en/vacation-deals.

Le Boat also has early booking offers for 2025. Clients can save up to 25% on budget, comfort, and Comfort Plus boat rentals across Europe. Travellers can also get 15% off Le Boat’s Horizon Fleet available for travel in Canada, France, Holland, Belgium and Germany. Book before Sept. 1, 2024, and secure vacations with a 25% deposit at time of booking.

Plus, with Le Boat’s 2025 Lowest Price Guarantee, clients looking at 2025 boat rental vacations in Europe or Canada can book with confidence. If the price drops after they’ve booked, Le Boat will refund the difference. They guarantee the lowest price up to 90 days before departure.

For more information about Le Boat’s Skipper for Hire program and Early Booking offers for the 2025 season, see https://www.leboat.ca/en/new-season or call 1-800-734-5491.