Canals and rivers are still open for boating holidays!

August 10, 2026/in News/by Debbie Ludford

Water shortages may be affecting some parts of Britain’s 3,000-mile canal and river network, but there are still many hundreds of routes and fantastic destinations open for boating holidays.

Our canal boat hire operators are committed to making sure everyone gets a great holiday, though in some areas it may not be the route first planned.

We continually monitor the situation and work closely with the relevant navigation authorities to keep our customers up to date.

So do go ahead and book your holiday afloat this summer and make the most of the sunny weather on a UK boating break!

Please do get in touch with us if you’d like to know more.

Blue Light Card Discount

Blue Light Card holders save 10% with our Blue light card discount. It’s our way of saying thanks to our NHS, social care & emergency workers.

Blue Light Card Discount

Drifters price promise

If you see the same holiday elsewhere at a lower price, we will match it. It would be good to flesh out this offer a little more to balance out

Drifters Price Promise

Hire Boat Survey

The national waterways charity wants to know about your experience of hiring a boat on the canals and rivers in its care, to help make the experience better.

Launch Survey