A 100% French manufacturer and boat rental
company...
Nicols was founded in July 1986, as part of the NADIA group, a
specialist in the transformation of plastics. Within a few years,
Nicols shipyard had become one of the leading French companies in the
river tourism sector with 21 models of boat divided into 5 ranges.
Nicols develops its fleet in line with its customers' desires. Thanks
to the unique location of its manufacturing site at the Cholet
shipyard, right beside the rental office (booking department), every
piece of information, remark, or suggestion from our customers is
always passed on to our design department, with a view to constantly
improving our models. This constant adaptability to the market is one
of NICOLS' undoubted strengths.
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At present, Nicols' fleet is comprised of almost 500 units originating
from its shipyard in Cholet (Maine et Loire) and spread out over the 21
NICOLS departure bases (18 in France, 2 in Germany and 1 in Portugal).
Departure Dates
In
general your cruise will start between 4 & 6 p.m. on a Saturday. It
is possible, however, to begin your cruise during the week, subject to
availability, when our staff will have even more time to devote to you.
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Bicycles
An
absolute necessity for exploring the area where you've moored, little
villages, places of interest or simply for going to buy your daily
bread. A bike can help you make unforgettable discoveries.
Helmets are recommended for the children : remember to take your equipment! |
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How do I go through a lock?
This
is a simple, pleasant manoeuvre if a few basic guidelines are followed
: always take it slowly, with care, and remain patient if there are
other boats waiting. Manually operated locks are easier with a minimum
of two agile people! In general, lock-keepers do not work on Bank
Holidays (these dates vary according to region) - Easter Sunday,
Whitsunday, 1st May, 14th July and 1st November. In Anjou, Charente and
the Lot, locks are open all year round.
Will I have to pay?
During your cruise you will have to negotiate a number of locks and bridges. Passage through these is free.
Are all locks automatic?
Some
locks are automatic whilst others are manual, and the lock-keeper may
ask you to lend a hand. In the Charente, the locks are operated by the
user - thus you are not restricted by timetables. |
