The 2024 report from the Oise River Tourism Observatory shows an overall decline in river traffic, with private leisure boating down sharply (-30%) and a more moderate drop for passenger vessels (-10%). This mirrors a broader national trend, as river tourism across France fell 20% compared to the exceptional highs of 2023, according to Entreprises Fluviales de France.
After impressive growth between 2022 and 2023 (+58%), passenger boat activity slowed in 2024, partly due to the ripple effects of the 2024 Olympic Games. Notably, hotel barges continued to perform well with ongoing growth, while sightseeing boats and river cruise ships saw declines, impacting the overall sector balance.
Traffic through the region’s key locks fell between -20% and -35% across all categories, though this was largely driven by the sharp downturn in private boating.
The neighboring Marne River also recorded a drop in traffic, though it was less severe (-23% compared to -28% for the Oise).
These findings highlight the need for ongoing commitment from sector stakeholders — especially local authorities that invest in infrastructure, enhance riverbanks, and develop cycling routes — to further equip the Oise Valley and showcase its strengths. Strengthening coordination between public and private players remains essential to building a vibrant, diversified tourism offering.
Download the February 2025 edition of the Oise Valley Observatory Report
Between 2017 and 2018, the river cruise ship SWISS RUBY, now renamed VIVA RUBY, made history as the first cruise vessel to navigate the Oise River, linking Saint-Mammès to Compiègne.
This Dutch company offers unique itineraries combining hotel barge cruising with daily bike rides
The Oise River Side collective recently held its 2024 action review meeting. Allowing us to assess our progress and, look ahead with a strong ambition: make the Oise Valley an essential destination for river tourism.
