There’s nothing better than a day spent on the water. From the canals of Little Venice to the rocky coves of the Mediterranean, Europe has it covered. Here are some of the best ways to while away a summer’s day on the continent.

 

An English Barge Day, Little Venice

Step aboard a traditional canal barge in the heart of one of London's prettiest neighbourhoods, Little Venice - a short cab ride from the Carlton Tower Jumeirah. With a deck of cards, a basket of sandwiches and, of course, a jug of Pimm's, you're ready for a quintessentially British day on the water. You can head eastward, through Regent’s Park, past London Zoo and towards Camden Lock. Or, you can head westward towards Brentford. Fancy a bit of excitement? Try your hand at steering the barge under the Maida Hill Tunnel. Don’t worry, it's completely straight – just a bit longer than you may have imagined. If tranquility is more your style you can of course let somebody else take control aboard a chartered barge with a captain. Then you can simply sit back, relax and enjoy the journey as you drift towards Brentford. Here, you can choose to alight and explore this up-and-coming part of West London, or turn the barge around and pootle on home.

 

Exploring Capri's hidden gems on a gozzo

Embarking from Jumeirah Capri Palace, you're invited to spend a day sailing around Capri in a traditional Italian gozzo. These sleek motor boats are synonymous with the island and surprisingly quiet. Enjoy the ride with a cool glass of Fiano Di Avellino in hand, while the gentle hum of the boat's engine merges with the lapping waves. The Blue Grotto is a must-see for visitors to Capri, but the lesser-known attractions are the Green and White Grottoes, all offering a spectacular expression of the island's natural beauty. For lunch, why not drop anchor near lively Marina Piccola beach for a feast of Italian olives and Caprese sandwiches accompanied by a spot of people-watching? As the sun starts to set, the silhouette of the Punta Carena lighthouse beckons you back, capping off a day of relaxed exploration.

 

A Majestic Sail from Port Soller

Follow in the footsteps of the Phoenicians by sailing the Mediterranean waters around the rocky shores of Mallorca from Jumeirah Port Soller. Your vessel for the day is a grand chartered sailboat, the perfect craft for a day of coastal exploration from Port de Sóller. The journey takes you past dramatic cliffs and secluded coves, with tiny, magical Cala Deià offering a perfect lunch spot. Will you dive into the azure waters, or perhaps simply lounge on deck, soaking up the sun with a glass of Mallorcan red? The afternoon might see you taking the helm in the thrill of the ocean breeze. Alternatively, sit back, relax, and enjoy the view as you sail towards Sa Calobra before looping back as the sun sets over the sea.

Explore more of Europe in summer with The Carlton Tower Jumeirah, Jumeirah Capri Palace and Jumeirah Port Soller.