Have you ever heard of boat lifts?
Today, we take you on a journey of discovery of these architectural structures that can be found along some canals and rivers in France, Europe and the world!
Real technological feats, these mechanical devices allow ships to overcome significant differences in water levels, thus replacing many locks. These structures are also much faster and require less water consumption than a lock.
Several technological systems exist and there are four different types of lifts:
through which the boat is moved up or down. You can find them on our cruises along the Oder in Niederfinow in Germany or along the Elbe in Scharnebeck.
Another spectacular example in Europe is the Strépy-Thieu boat lift. Located on the Canal du Centre in Belgium, it is one of the tallest boat lifts in the world, raising vessels by 73 metres in just a few minutes.
Guests travelling aboard the Raymonde barge in Belgium may experience this remarkable feat of engineering firsthand. Passing through the Strépy-Thieu boat lift is often a highlight of the journey, offering a unique perspective over the surrounding canal landscape.
which move the boat diagonally along a slope. You can experience it in Arzwiller, during our cruise from the Marne to the Rhine Canal on board our Madeleine barge.
where the boat is moved up or down by pivoting around a metal axis. One of the most impressive in Europe is the Falkirk Wheel in Scotland.
where the volume of water will lower or raise the boat, similar to a lock but overcoming a much greater level of difference in elevation.
There are around 16 boat lifts in Europe, including six in France.
Some vessels in our fleet, thanks to their adapted dimensions, cross between 3 and 16 European boat lifts each year, offering passengers the chance to witness these fascinating engineering achievements up close.
From the historic lifts of Belgium to the innovative systems in Germany and Scotland, these structures are not only practical but also spectacular landmarks along Europe's waterways.
If you would like to experience one of these installations one day, we have selected for you the different itineraries that allow you to cross these boat lifts!
