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Your Canal Boat Holiday

What's included in the price?

+ Diesel.
+ Gas
+ Central Heating
+ Pump-outs (if necessary)
+ Comprehensive boat tuition and lock training
+ Fully equipped galley
+ Shower
+ Flush toilet(s)
+ Towels and linen
+ 240v electricity
+ TV with DVD/Video
+ Free on Marina parking

What do we need to bring?

1)Groceries – you need to bring the basics, if you want a supermarket to deliver on your day of arrival, just speak to the marina for the closest one.

2)Waterproofs- we are in the UK after all!

3)Small garden chairs- useful for sitting at the stern of the boat (near the helmsman who is steering the boat), and good for when you moor up near a lovely stretch of grass.

4)Water- only if you want to, fresh water is put into the water tank for your arrival, and you can re-fill every couple of days at the British waterways free waterpoints along the canals.

5)Bikes- if you've got bikes just bring some old matting to protect the boat roof, and some straps.

6)Fishing Rods- Fishing is allowed provided that you have a current EA rod licence. Most clubs will not object to you fishing from the boat, but some may require you to purchase a day ticket. This varies from area to area. Please check with the boatyard on arrival.

7)We provide toilet rolls/ washing up liquid/washing up cloth/tea towels/hand towels/bath towels. We start you off with bin liners, but it is a good idea to bring some more.

8)Life jackets are provided free of charge if required

9)We provide duvets, duvets covers and sheets and pillowcases for all beds. If you want extra duvets eg if you have 2 children occupying a double bed, please speak to the marina before arrival.

10)Ask the marina if there is a DVD or Video player on board, if you want to hire Videos there are loads in the Reception you can choose from.

11)Plenty of games for adults & children as the TV reception may be patchy when you are quite low in the water.

12)Mobile phone charger or hairdryer- you can bring both or even the laptop, provided they are under about 1000 watts. There are 2 normal 3 pin plug sockets on board. One in the bedroom, one in the kitchen.

Other frequently asked questions

Do I need a license to operate a canal boat?
No, you will not need a license and you will be given all the training you need to get started.

Is it difficult to operate?
No. The waters are mostly current free and cruising speed is only three to four miles per hour making operating a canal boat child’s play.

Where can we stop?
You can moor up wherever you like find a nice spot and tie up.

Are there any hidden costs?
Mooring is free along the towpath although if you choose to stay in a marina overnight there may be a charge and British Waterways charge £5 for an overnight stay in Llangollen. Water is free and we give you a British Waterways key on arrival.

When do I collect and return my hire boat?
We ask that you arrive at 1pm on your arrival day in order to provide sufficient time to check-in, load the boat and receive the training and tour. On your day of departure, you will need to vacate the boat no later than 9.30am if staying for a week or 3-4pm if on a short break as we wish to avoid potentially penalising the incoming guests.

Does the boat have electricity?
Yes, the boat has 240v (UK Mains) sockets which accept 3 pin plugs. Electricity is produced from the engine by storing it in batteries. An inverter then converts the 12v to 240v electricity.

Do I need insurance?
The boat and contents are fully insured, but we do have an excess on our insurance so we recommend that you take out our £45.00 damage waiver, then if you do have an accident you do not have to worry. The only thing that is not insured by us are (a) your car which is probably protected under your motor policy and (b) your personal possessions which are also probably covered under your house contents insurance but please check your own policies carefully.

Is it easy to navigate?
Our Welcome folder is full of information and good advice as well as a canal map, which will show you where to find bridges, water-points, villages and those essential canalside pubs!

What happens if we have a problem?
Our dedicated team are on hand twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week for emergencies and every narrowboat is equipped with a mobile phone for such calls. Your safety and enjoyment are our paramount concern.

Why can't I book a 6 berth canal boat with 2 adults and 2/3/4 children who are all under 14 yrs of age?
Online you will not be able to book, but please telephone or e mail us, because as long as the children aren't too small we might be able to put you on a 6 berth canal boat, and we can take the booking over the phone.

Can I take a pet ?
We cannot take pets on this website. Click here for alternative site.

 

If you have a question that we have not covered below, please feel free to contact us by email and we will do our best to help you with your canal boat hire query.

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