french waterways

[dignity]

french waterways

We've lived aboard in the UK for several years now, it is now time for a change. I'm trying to find out info regarding living aboard in France, cruising the Inland waterways in summer and wintering in Southern France for extended periods e.g. 5 years?

Has anybody any info regarding keeping a british boat in French waters, mooring availability, legal stuff etc.

Any info would be welcome.

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[Col]

Re: french waterways

You could try contacting VNF (French waterway officials) They may be able to help
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[VicMallows]

Re: french waterways

With any luck I hope to be joining you in the French canals this year .... been planning the trip for nearly 9 years since stopping work (OK, at 45) but something keeps cropping up. Have done a 5 week circuit Le Havre/Paris/Somme so know we like the canals.

Assuming you are an EC National / Passport Holder, and boat is suitably registered to satisfy the French (SSR or full registration for UK citizens) there are no legal problems staying as long as you like (except perhaps Income Tax if applicable).

Suggest you get hold of a copy Marian Martin's book 'The European Waterways' (Adlard Coles). Should cover all the admin details you need.

An I.C.C. (International Cert. of Competence) with CEVNI endorsement is necessary. You also have to buy (except for the Brittany canals) a French canals licence ('Vignette') but the cost is quite reasonable, especially a yearly permit. Details are all in the book.

Mooring in the canals is completely free tied to the bank (possible in most places). In many areas there are even free municipal pontoons (first come first served) often with water and electricity. Also Marinas which of course you pay for.



Hope this helps. Happy to try to answer specific questions.

Vic

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[VicMallows]

Re: french waterways

Just looked at your profile (couldn't manage it whilst posting). Well, the Dutch Barge should be perfect! .. though might restrict your waterways a bit. My boat is a Sadler 29' drawing 1.15m. We carry the mast on deck.

Vic

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[dignity]

Re: french waterways

Thankyou for your response, one area of concern is someone mentioned import tax if the boat is in French waters more than six month, is this true?

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[Twister_Ken]

Re: french waterways

Not if you are coming from another EU state. Import duties between EU states ended a very long time ago.

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[dignity]

Re: french waterways

Thanks for that, it makes it even more realistic now. Are you aware of any form of tax or hidden expenses which I am likely to occur? Apart from the obvious like mooring fees, licences etc?



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[Twister_Ken]

Re: french waterways

Only thing I can think off of the top of my head is diesel prices - no red diesel in France - although the 'normal' price is much cheaper in France than in UK anyway.

Insurance? Perversely, damage is probably more likely in canals than on the high seas (although not total loss, I guess).

You do need to make sure your boat's VAT status is legitimate, or you might get hammered.

And the French also have some equipment rules depending on boat categories which they might get shirty if you don't meet. It's all in Marian Martin's book, I'm sure.

Usual disclaimers apply!!!!

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[Col]

Re: french waterways

Agreed re: damage.............I collected a Citroen on my prop!!!

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