[laryb]

I've had friends that have done the larger ships on the rivers in Europe and loved it. Personally, we've done the rivers and canals in France, Belgium, and The Netherlands on the smaller, self piloted house boats and would probably rank them as our favorite vacations. You have to be able to get off and on the boat to dock it, so it's not for everybody, but, if you can drive a car, you can pilot the ship. The boats are app. 30' to 50' long, with 2-4 bedrooms, full kitchen, AC (depending on model), bathrooms, etc. We always went with another couple, so the cost was reasonable. You can stop wherever you like and stay as long as you like, as long as you have the boat back on the designated day and marina. Again, it's not for everybody, but it makes for a great time with the feeling of exploration. We always got our boat thru a company called LeBoat, and they represent several companies. Last time contacted them they were in MD, but may have moved.