Before your tour
Meeting point, weather, children, dogs, accessibility, running late and frequently asked questions: everything to know before you step aboard.
The meeting point
The meeting point depends on the tour you choose. The Hortillonnages escapade, the signature tour, is a boat loop: it starts and ends at Île au Fagot, in the heart of the Hortillonnages. The walking tours of Saint-Leu start and end at Place du Don. The exact spot is confirmed after booking, as it may depend on the tour, the water level or the arrangements of the day.
Getting there
The Île au Fagot footbridge is in the heart of the Hortillonnages; Place du Don is right in the centre of Saint-Leu, close to the terraces and the town centre. Allow a little extra time to reach the meeting point calmly.
Arriving before departure
Please arrive a few minutes before the stated time. The boat leaves on a set time slot; if you are running late, contact Jules as soon as possible.
Weather
The tour can go ahead in suitable weather. In light rain, bring a jacket or suitable clothing. Umbrellas get in the way on board: a hood or waterproof clothing works better.
In case of a storm, strong wind or dangerous conditions, Jules may cancel or offer to reschedule.
Evening departures
The last departure of the day is the one closest to the evening light, depending on the season. The light depends on the weather: a sunset is never guaranteed.
Children and babies
Children are welcome. Children aged 3 to 11 inclusive pay the child rate. Babies under 3 are free, must be declared, and do not count towards the 10 seats, as they stay in the arms of a parent.
Dogs
Dogs are welcome free of charge and must be declared when booking. On a shared boat, they must be kept on a lead. They remain the responsibility of the person accompanying them.
If a shared departure already has one or more declared dogs, the site may show it, so there are no surprises on board.
Boat capacity
The boat has 10 seats, not counting babies in arms. Adults and children each take a seat. Babies under 3 do not count towards this capacity, but must be declared.
Accessibility
Boarding requires being able to step into and out of the boat, with help if needed. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users who cannot leave their wheelchair. If you have reduced mobility, are pregnant, have any doubt or a specific need, contact Jules before booking.
Cancellation and rescheduling
Cancellation and rescheduling terms are given when you book. If the weather becomes dangerous, Jules may cancel or offer to reschedule. For any personal request, contact Jules as early as possible.
Combined boat and walking tour
If you choose the combined tour (a boat escapade in the heart of the Hortillonnages, then a walk to Saint-Leu), the summary gives the itinerary, the estimated time and the end point. Any drinks, meals, purchases or activities are paid directly to the venue.
Frequently asked questions
Where does the tour start?
The starting point depends on the tour you choose. The Hortillonnages escapade, the signature tour, is a boat loop from Île au Fagot, in the heart of the Hortillonnages: you start and finish at the same place. The walking tours of Saint-Leu start at Place du Don. The exact spot is confirmed after booking and repeated in the confirmation email.
Is this the official Hortillonnages tour?
No. Ecologik Amiens offers a boat escapade in the heart of the Hortillonnages, separate from the official tour. The experience is more personal, and guided by Jules.
How much does the tour cost?
Current prices (adult, child aged 3 to 11, babies and dogs free) are shown when you book, on the tours page. Babies and dogs are free but must be declared.
How many seats are there in the boat?
The boat has 10 seats, not counting babies in arms. Adults and children each take a seat. Babies under 3 do not count towards the capacity.
Do babies pay?
No. Babies under 3 are free, must be declared, and stay in the arms of a parent.
Are dogs allowed?
Yes. Dogs are welcome free of charge and must be declared. On a shared boat, they must be kept on a lead. They remain the responsibility of the person accompanying them.
Can I come with several dogs?
On a shared boat, one dog per booking is allowed, declared in advance so the other passengers know. To come with several dogs, book the whole boat: you are alone on board with Jules, who can then welcome several, as long as everyone stays comfortable.
Can we book the whole boat?
Yes. You can book the whole boat for your group, up to 10 seats not counting babies in arms: it is an option you choose, whatever the size of your group. The price is shown before you pay.
How does the boat become private?
When the whole boat becomes better value than your shared seats, the site tells you and offers it to you: you are then alone on board with Jules. You are free to say no, and your total never exceeds that flat price anyway.
Can other people be on the boat?
Yes, if you book seats on a shared tour. If you want to be with your group only, book the whole boat.
Does Jules speak English?
Yes. Jules speaks French and English. Tours can be adapted for English-speaking visitors.
Does the boat drop me off in Saint-Leu?
Not this season: the boat tour is a loop from Île au Fagot, with no drop-off (it returns with the boat to Saint-Leu in 2027). To reach Saint-Leu, the combined tour links the boat in the heart of the Hortillonnages with a walk to the quarter.
Is a meal at a good local spot included?
No. Ecologik Amiens sells the tour. Meals, drinks, purchases or activities are paid directly to the venue.
What happens if it rains?
The tour can go ahead if the weather stays suitable. Bring a jacket or suitable clothing. In case of a storm, strong wind or dangerous conditions, Jules may cancel or offer to reschedule.
Are sunset departures guaranteed?
No. The last departure of the day may come close to the evening light depending on the season, but the light depends on the weather.
Can I cancel or reschedule?
The terms are shown while you book. If the weather is dangerous, Jules may offer to reschedule or cancel the outing.
Can I book by phone?
Booking online is recommended to secure your time slot. For a specific request, you can call Jules on 06 09 38 43 13; he can help you complete the booking after talking it through.
Can I give a tour as a gift?
Yes, gift cards let you give a tour or the whole boat, depending on the options available.
Is the tour accessible to people with reduced mobility?
Boarding requires being able to step into and out of the boat, with help if needed. The tour is not suitable for wheelchair users who cannot leave their wheelchair. Contact Jules before booking if in doubt.