Tips for canal boat holiday beginners
You don’t need a licence to hire a canal boat and we provide tuition
Each year around one fifth of narrowboat hirers are new to the waterways, and tuition is included in our canal boat holiday hire.
To help you get the most out of your first canal boat holiday, we’ve listed 10 top tips for beginners:
1. Watch a boater’s guide
Boat steering tuition is provided as part of our holiday hire. But to get ahead of the game, take a look at the Canal & River Trust’s Boaters Handbook Video for some sound advice.
2. Plan your route
The Canal & River Trust has interactive maps online to help you plan your narrowboat journey. You can work out where to moor each night and canalside pubs to enjoy along the way. It’s best not to be too ambitious so you can stay relaxed https://canalrivertrust.org.uk/enjoy-the-waterways/boating/planning-your-boat-trip
3. Keep to the right
Unlike cars on our roads, canal boats travel on the right side of our canals and rivers, so when you meet another boat, keep to the right.
4. Watch out for the cill
When in a lock, make sure the boat is kept forward of the cill (step) inside the lock. And check all paddles and gates are shut after you’ve used a lock, unless you see another boat approaching.
5. Sharing is caring
If possible, always share a lock with other boats to save water. An extra boat in a broad lock can save the equivalent of 1,000 bath tubs of water. And it means you can share the lock operating work too.
6. Watch your wash
There’s a 4mph speed limit on the canals, but you’re going too fast if you’re creating too much wash. This disturbs wildlife, moored boats and anglers and it erodes the banks. So keep it to a slow walking pace and regularly check you are not creating a breaking wash behind your boat.
7. Slow down when passing moored boats
Reduce your speed further before you reach moored boats so that you don’t disturb them.
8. Practice good mooring etiquette
When mooring up at busy spots, make sure you don’t leave a big gap. And never moor opposite winding holes, on bends, near to bridges, on lock landings (unless waiting to lock through) or at water points (unless filling up). Don’t run your engine between 8pm and 8am, unless you are moored in isolation, out of earshot of others. And don’t run the engine in gear when your boat is moored, as it can damage the waterway walls.
9. Opt for a pet friendly stern
If you are bringing your dog, or you simply want a bit of extra outside space, opt for a cruiser stern narrowboat rather than a semi-traditional stern.
10. Bring some on board entertainment
For cosy nights in, bring along some cards and board games, as well some DVD’s. TV reception isn’t always available on the canals and WiFi strength can vary too.
