Paul Cole, who travelled down the Canal du Nivernais, said the slow and laid-back journey provided the perfect opportunity to escape "the frenetic pace of 21st-century life".
He added that his boat meandered past many of the region's well-respected vineyards and said there were plenty of opportunities for him to sample the local wines on his travels.
Mr Cole wrote that he was also keen to explore the region by foot or bike and was pleased that his cruising journey enabled him to take in places of interest that could not be seen from the boat.
Some say that the Canal du Nivernais is among the most picturesque waterways in France and its peaceful landscapes inspired many Impressionist paintings.
People who choose to take a boating holiday in this region also have the options to cruise on the Canal de Bourgogne or the River Yonne.
