Saumur is a city built for boat lovers. Sitting right on the banks of the Loire River, it offers a perfect blend of scenic views, historic castles, and authentic river experiences. Whether you’re after a leisurely cruise on a traditional boat or a private rental with a view of the Château de Saumur, this region delivers. We’re particularly fans of the traditional boat trip, which offers a charming glimpse into 18th-century river navigation—an experience that’s both authentic and relaxing.
For early risers, the sunrise cruise provides a magical way to start your day, with peaceful morning light and a chance to enjoy pastries and hot drinks while taking in the UNESCO-listed landscapes. And if you’re seeking a truly private experience, the traditional Loire boat rental gives you the flexibility to design your own adventure with a pilot at the helm, offering outstanding views of the Loire Valley castles.
Below, we’ve compiled three top options, each with its own charm and appeal, helping you decide which type of boat tour best suits your interests and schedule.
1. Traditional boat trip
Rating: 4.5/5 (97 reviews)
Price: Not specified
Duration: 1 hour
Location: Pays de la Loire, France
This traditional boat trip is a wonderful way to experience the Loire River just as locals have for centuries. Operating in the beautiful Pays de la Loire, this excursion takes you on an authentic, traditional vessel from the 18th century. The boat itself is a moving piece of history, and the trip offers a slow, relaxing navigation through UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscapes.
What makes this tour stand out is its focus on local craftsmanship and heritage. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quiet, intimate experience, far removed from modern tourist boats. The friendly crew shares insights about the river and its environment, making this a genuinely educational experience. Guests consistently praise the authentic atmosphere and the chance to see the Loire in a way that’s both historical and peaceful.
While the exact price isn’t listed, the value lies in the experience itself: a short but meaningful journey into the local river culture. The one-hour duration is ideal for a quick escape from busy sightseeing schedules without feeling rushed.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a calm, authentic, and intimate taste of the Loire, this traditional boat trip offers a memorable slice of Saumur life.
2. Sunrise cruise on the Loire River in Saumur
Rating: Not specified
Price: $36 per person
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, France
The sunrise cruise is a standout for early risers. For around $36, you’ll enjoy a two-hour journey into the peaceful morning hours, when the Loire’s landscapes seem to glow with the first light. The tour highlights the wild and royal sides of the river, offering spectacular views of the UNESCO-listed scenery and the famous castles that line the banks.
What makes this trip special is the atmosphere: the crew is attentive, ensuring your comfort as you savor pastries, a hot drink, and fresh fruit juice. It’s a sensory experience — sights, smells, and the quiet sounds of the river at dawn. Early morning light creates perfect photo opportunities, and the calmer waters mean a smooth ride, ideal for capturing that perfect shot or simply soaking in the serenity.
Guests describe the experience as “peaceful and beautiful,” emphasizing the chance to see the river in a completely different light. This tour is great for those who love nature, photography, or simply want to start their day with a memorable, tranquil experience.
Bottom Line: If you’re an early riser who appreciates beautiful landscapes and a bit of luxury, this sunrise cruise is a delightful way to see Saumur from the water.
3. Traditional Loire boat rental
Rating: Not specified
Price: Not specified
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Pays de la Loire, France
Looking for a more personalized experience? The traditional Loire boat rental offers private charters with a pilot, giving you the freedom to dictate your itinerary. For a flat rate, regardless of your group size (up to capacity), you get exclusive access to the river. The boat departs from 21 Quai du Marronnier in Saumur, with options to customize your journey, including stops at iconic castles or quiet stretches of the Loire.
The tour typically includes a photo stop in Saumur, a guided tour, and the chance to enjoy the exceptional views of the Loire Valley castles from the water. The boat is operated by a pilot who shares local insights and ensures a comfortable trip. It’s perfect for small groups, couples, or families wanting a tailored experience.
Reviews highlight the private nature of these rentals and the chance to see the region’s castles from a unique vantage point. Because it’s a private rental, it can be more expensive than other options, but the flexibility and intimacy are worth it for those seeking a special day. The itinerary includes practical details like the meeting point and restrictions on alcohol and drugs—important to note for planning.
Bottom Line: If you prefer a personalized, private river adventure with flexible stops, this boat rental offers a memorable, exclusive way to explore Saumur and its castles.
How to Choose the Right Boat Tour in Saumur
When deciding between these options, consider your interests, budget, and schedule. If you’re after an authentic, quick experience, the traditional boat trip is simple and charming. Want something more special to start your day? The sunrise cruise offers a peaceful morning on the water with scenic views and a small added touch of luxury. For a completely private, flexible experience, the traditional Loire boat rental provides the chance for a tailored journey with your own pilot.
For those on a budget, the sunrise cruise at $36 per person is a solid choice, especially if you’re an early riser. If you value history and tradition, the one-hour trip is perfect. For travelers seeking exclusivity and personalized service, the private rental is unmatched, despite potentially higher costs.
Booking early is advisable, especially in summer when Saumur’s river tours are most popular. Also, check the weather forecast — these tours are mostly outdoor, and a cloudy or rainy day can impact your experience.
In summary, Saumur offers a range of boat tours to suit different tastes and schedules. The traditional boat trip provides an authentic, quick introduction to the river, while the sunrise cruise offers a peaceful start to your day. For a private, bespoke experience with panoramic castle views, the Loire boat rental stands out. Whatever your choice, booking ahead will ensure you get the most out of your Saumur river adventure.
