AKWA Launches Electric Boat Experiences on Canal de l’Ourcq in Paris
PARIS – AKWA, a new nautical base offering 100% electric boat experiences, opened April 21st on the Canal de l’Ourcq and the Bassin de la Villette in paris. Founded by Rodrigue Faleme, Lisa Ferrières, and Karine Arslanyan, AKWA features license-free boat rentals and “plancha boats” equipped with barbecues for dining on the water. The location also offers dockside activities, aiming to provide a unique and sustainable way to rediscover East Paris.
AKWA: A New Way to Experience the Canal de l’Ourcq
AKWA aims to be more than just a boat rental service; itS designed as a vibrant hub. The location features a dedicated children’s area with radio-controlled boats. During quieter periods, AKWA plans to host local associations for activities ranging from yoga classes to educational workshops on climate change.
Plancha Boats and Leisure Cruises Available
AKWA offers a variety of on-water experiences. Pleasure boats accommodating 5 to 11 passengers are available for rent. The “plancha boats,” circular vessels equipped with barbecues, can host up to nine people for a social experience on the Canal de l’Ourcq or the Bassin de la Villette.
Operating Hours and Reservations
AKWA is open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations are required and can be made through the AKWA website.
Local Founders Aim to Enhance Canal Experience
The AKWA project was born from the co-founders’ shared vision to enhance the canal de l’Ourcq experience. As local residents, they recognized the potential of the area and sought to create a more engaging and experiential way for people to enjoy it.
Explore the Canal de l’Ourcq up to bobigny
AKWA boat trips can extend as far as Bobigny, following the Canal de l’ourcq and passing through Pantin and the Parc de la Bergère.
Electric Boat Rentals Offer Unique Canal Ourcq Experience in Paris
PARIS – Discover a new viewpoint on the Canal de l’Ourcq with Akwa, a boat rental company offering silent, electric cruises. No boating license is required, making it accessible for anyone over 16 to captain their own vessel and explore the scenic waterway.
Five-Hour Canal Cruises encourage Relaxation, Discovery
These aren’t quick cruises; they’re designed for relaxation and exploration. The five-hour round trip allows passengers to take their time, enjoy the company of friends or family, and even share a meal while navigating the canal. The route passes notable landmarks including the Parc de la Villette, the Grands Moulins de Paris, and the center National de la Danse, providing a unique view of the city.
environmentally Pleasant and Accessible
Akwa’s fleet is entirely electric, ensuring a quiet and eco-conscious journey. The boats are designed to be accessible to people with reduced mobility, with four vessels equipped accordingly. The company also prioritizes affordability with its pricing structure.
Affordable Canal Adventures: Cheaper Than a Movie Ticket?
Rental prices start at €45 per hour for the “Ace” model, a small boat accommodating up to four people. This breaks down to approximately €11.25 per person, potentially less expensive than a trip to the cinema.
Bring Your Own Picnic or Enjoy Local Partnerships
Renters have the option to bring their own food and drinks or take advantage of Akwa’s partnerships with local businesses. They collaborate with L’epicentre coffee shop, which provides high-quality, 100% vegetarian meals, and le Paon qui Boit, France’s first non-alcoholic wine shop, offering a range of unique beverages.
responsible Consumption Guidelines
While akwa doesn’t sell alcohol,renters are welcome to bring their own food and beverages,provided they adhere to responsible consumption guidelines. Similar to road traffic regulations, the boat’s pilot is prohibited from consuming alcohol.
Plan your Excursion: Open Through October
Akwa operates daily from April 19th to October 31st, between 9 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Experience the Canal de l’Ourcq Like Never Before with AKWA
PARIS – A new nautical base called AKWA has opened on the canal de l’Ourcq, offering Parisians and tourists a unique way to experience the waterway. AKWA provides boat rentals and various quayside activities until the end of October.
AKWA Opens on Canal de l’Ourcq: Rent a Boat and Enjoy Quayside Activities
AKWA aims to provide a differentiating experience, with a redesigned quayside and a brand-new fleet of boats. Whether it’s an after-work event, a family celebration or a romantic outing, all occasions are perfect to enjoy the canal in a new way.

Quayside Refreshments and Activities
AKWA offers drinks and snacks exclusively to its customers. Renting a boat or participating in a quayside activity such as yoga or children’s games are required to enjoy these refreshments.
A 10-Year Venture to Revitalize the Canal
AKWA has secured a 10-year authorization to operate from a public offering and plans to grow the AKWA experience year after year.The team is focused on creating a memorable visit that highlights the beauty of the Canal de l’Ourcq and Bassin de la Villette.
Discover a New Way to Experience the Canal
Visitors are encouraged to discover the canal de l’Ourcq and the Bassin de la Villette in a new light, through unique experiences on the water that need to be lived to be fully appreciated.
Global Air Travel Sees Strong Rebound, Nearing Pre-Pandemic Levels
Global air travel is experiencing a robust resurgence, with recent data indicating passenger numbers are closing in on pre-pandemic levels. This surge is fueled by pent-up travel demand, eased restrictions, and growing confidence among travelers.
International and Domestic routes Drive Growth
Both international and domestic routes are contributing to the upward trend. Airlines are reporting strong bookings, particularly for leisure travel, with popular vacation destinations seeing meaningful increases in passenger volume. Business travel is also showing signs of recovery, albeit at a slower pace.
Airlines Expand Capacity to Meet Rising Demand
In response to the increased demand, airlines are expanding their capacity by adding new routes, increasing flight frequencies, and deploying larger aircraft. This expansion aims to accommodate the growing number of passengers and alleviate potential bottlenecks at airports.
Airports Prepare for Increased Passenger Flow
Airports worldwide are implementing measures to manage the increased passenger flow.These measures include optimizing security procedures, enhancing check-in processes, and providing real-time facts to travelers to minimize delays and improve the overall airport experience.
Economic Impact of Air Travel Rebound
The rebound in air travel is expected to have a positive impact on the global economy. Increased tourism,business activity,and trade are anticipated to stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities in various sectors.
Potential challenges Remain
Despite the positive trends,potential challenges remain. These include fluctuations in fuel prices, labor shortages, and the emergence of new variants of COVID-19.The aviation industry is closely monitoring these factors and taking steps to mitigate their potential impact on the recovery of air travel.
industry Optimistic about Future Growth
the aviation industry remains optimistic about the future growth of air travel. With continued efforts to enhance safety, improve efficiency, and provide a seamless travel experience, airlines and airports are well-positioned to meet the evolving needs of travelers in the years to come.
What happens in case of bad weather during my rental?
AKWA & Electric Boat Rentals: Your Parisian Canal Adventure – Q&A
Dive into the heart of Paris with AKWA and experience the Canal de l’Ourcq like never before! Here’s a handy Q&A to help you plan your aquatic adventure.
frequently Asked Questions
What is AKWA?
AKWA is a new nautical base in Paris offering 100% electric boat experiences on the Canal de l’Ourcq and the Bassin de la villette. They offer license-free boat rentals and various quayside activities.
Where is AKWA located?
AKWA is located on the Canal de l’Ourcq and the Bassin de la Villette in Paris.
What kind of boats are available?
AKWA offers various options, including pleasure boats for 5-11 passengers and ”plancha boats” equipped with barbecues for social gatherings. There are also smaller boats, like the “Ace” model, wich accommodates up to four people.
Do I need a boating license?
No,you do not need a boating license to rent and operate the electric boats. (Over the age of 16)
what are the operating hours?
AKWA is open daily from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. (april 19th to October 31st).
Are reservations required?
Yes, reservations are required and can be made through the AKWA website.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
Yes, you can bring your own food and beverages. However, responsible consumption guidelines apply. The boat’s pilot is prohibited from consuming alcohol.
What are “plancha boats”?
Plancha boats are circular vessels equipped with barbecues, designed for social experiences and can accommodate up to nine people.
What else dose AKWA offer besides boat rentals?
AKWA features a dedicated children’s area with radio-controlled boats and plans to host local associations for activities like yoga and workshops. They also offer quayside refreshments and activities like yoga and children’s games.
How far can I go on the canal?
Boat trips can extend as far as Bobigny, passing through Pantin and the Parc de la Bergère.
What about accessibility?
Four of the boats are designed to be accessible for people with reduced mobility.
Are there any partnerships?
Yes, AKWA partners with local businesses like L’epicentre coffee shop for vegetarian meals and le Paon qui Boit, a non-alcoholic wine shop, for beverages.
How much does it cost?
Rental prices start at €45 per hour for the “Ace” model.
What is the 10-year venture?
AKWA has secured a 10-year authorization to operate and plans to grow the AKWA experience year after year.
Trivia: The Canal de l’Ourcq was completed in 1825, and it’s a vital part of paris’s historic waterways!
Ready to explore the magic of the Canal de l’Ourcq? Book your AKWA adventure today and uncover a new perspective on Paris!