Voile et camping sur le Gange

We booked a two day, one night camping sail down the Ganges and were very disappointed to discover that the boat provided was not a sailing boat at all — it had neither mast nor sail. This felt misleading, as the experience was described and marketed specifically as a sailing trip. We even asked the operator when we would sail and he said when there was wind - this was a complete lie! We were also led to expect certain activities, including visiting a local village school and watching fishermen bring in their catch. Neither of these experiences happened. It left us feeling that the reality did not match the description we had been given. The five boatmen who accompanied us, including the cook, were absolutely brilliant — kind, capable and hardworking throughout. Our disappointment is not with them, but with how the trip itself was represented. We were told we would arrive at Assi Ghat in Varanasi at around 2:30pm on the second day. In fact, we arrived at 10:45am, after being hurried through an early lunch and strongly encouraged to tip the crew before disembarking. The rushed ending added to our sense of being managed rather than hosted. Lastly the accommodation tent and latrine were pretty old and could do with a bit of an upgrade. Sadly, we feel let down and think it’s important that future travellers understand what the trip actually involves. It is priced at a fairly premium rate so should be much better. On that basis, I’m afraid we can’t recommend it.

This was a memorable trip on the Ganges above Varanasi. It was comfortable, interesting and very relaxing. The food was good and the views spectacular as was the wildlife

The men who crewed the boat, set up our camp including making our beds, cooked amazing food and generally tended to our every need were courteous, respectful and couldn’t do enough to help to ensure an amazing and unique experience. I loved the experience and would recommend to anyone…. The boys rowed for hours with four tourists and all our luggage aboard … an awesome effort Thank you again so much

Amazing trip. Only spoilt a little by the fog. The effort that the guys on the boats put in to make us comfortable was incredible. They rowed like crazy, made us food, put up tents and smiled at us constantly. Unfortunately, The unusual weather spoilt it a little as the banks of the Ganges weren’t always visible clearly and it was a little cold. Would do it again!

I joined this trip as part of an Explore Small tour and had a fantastic experience. The company looked after us so well, setting up camp, cooking delicious food and taking us on the most wonderful sail. All done with a smile 😊. Would definitely recommend as a brilliant highlight of our Indian adventure.

Peaceful respite from the general Indian hustle & bustle. Lovely overnight camp & meal before sailing to Varanasi on the Ganges. Lots of wildlife to observe on the way. Really friendly crew. Basic toilet facilities and tents - but if you are prepared this is all part of the experience.

Fantastic relaxed boat trip down the Ganges. The boat and kitchen crew really looked after us and we really enjoyed the camping on the sand bank.