The boats which today navigate autonomously on the canals and rivers of Burgundy were formerly towed along the same waterways before the invention of adapted engines and when the use of sails was not possible due to tunnels, bridges or unfavorable winds. Human and animal tractions were then carried out from towpaths, the integrity of which was guaranteed by a towing easement corresponding to a space of 25.5 feet (7.80 meters) along the watercourse.