Frequently asked questions

Is the Plan Incliné de Ronquières still accessible?

The operating concession for the Ronquières site, which expires in 2022, has not been renewed. The site is therefore currently closed and inaccessible to the public.

Can I take the tours and excursions with my pet?

No pets are accepted on our tourist sites or on board our boats.
On the other hand, nothing prevents you from walking with them along the towpath, as long as you obviously adopt a responsible behaviour when your four-legged companion has to relieve himself, by providing you with plastic bags.

Are the boat activities accessible for people with reduced mobility?

Unfortunately, our boat activities are not accessible to visitors in wheelchairs.
This decision, far from being discriminatory, is more in line with our desire to provide the best possible service to our visitors, both in terms of comfort and accessibility.

Is there space for changing my baby?

Each of our riverside tourist sites as well as our boats are equipped with changing tables.

Do I have to book my boarding tickets in advance?

With the sanitary crisis, reservations are required. Moreover, this is to avoid any unpleasant surprises on the day of your visit and the risk of being refused boarding due to insufficient space on board the boat.

Bookings can be made directly online.

For groups, it is requested to book at least 15 days in advance by contacting the reservation service on +32 78 05 90 59 or by e-mail on info@voiesdeau.hainaut.be.

From how many people can we benefit from the group rate?

You must come with a group of at least 20 people.

What are the different methods of payment accepted?

We only accept card payments. Cheques are not accepted.

Please note also that our boats and cafeterias are not equipped with bank terminals. Therefore, please bring cash and change to pay for your drinks at the electrical machines.

Are boat trips maintained in rainy weather?

Unless there are exceptionally bad weather conditions or technical problems beyond our control, our boat trips are maintained.

However, please bring rain gear and suitable footwear in case of bad weather.

What are the different catering options available?

With the exception of the restaurant La Cantine des Italiens, near the hydraulic lift n°1, our riverside tourist sites and our boats are not designed for the preparation and service of hot meals.

Are there parking facilities on site and how much do we have to pay?

Each of our riverside tourist sites has a large parking area which is completely free of charge, with parking spaces for disabled people close to the entrance.
On the other hand, the engine room of the hydraulic lift n°3 does not have parking spaces: you will be advised to park your car in the car park (also free of charge) located about 150 metres away, under the bridge of the N55 (Rue sous le Bois at 7110 Strépy-Bracquegnies).

Are there toilets on board the boats?

Yes

What does the boat trip consist of?

This cruise includes the crossing of a hydraulic lift over 100 years old (classified as a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and a lock, several movable bridges, and is accompanied by a guide. A visit to an engine room completes the cruise. The outward or return journey is by tourist mini-train.

How long does the cruise last?

The classic excursion lasts 2.5 hours, the actual cruise 1.5 hours.

Is the number +32 78 05 90 59 surcharged?

No, you can call our reservation service with complete peace of mind.

Is it possible to take the funicular lift from Strépy-Thieu?

This programme is no longer part of our offer but you can cross the largest boat lift in Europe by taking part in our monthly one-day cruise, the "grande boucle des ascenseurs".

The "grande boucle" is not available for the moment due to sanitary conditions.

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