UK Narrowboat holiday frequently asked questions : Bargain Boating.net

What, Where, Will and Why

Where do we pick up our boat from?
We have a choice of seven starting locations to enable you to explore our many canal routes.

What is a boating holiday like?
In a nutshell relaxing imagine gently cruising the waterways at your own pace as you watch the countryside drift pass. Get close to nature spot the herons and the kingfishers and the host of other wildlife that make the canal and the canal banks their home.

Why should I book a canal boat holiday?
Because as we claim it really is the fastest way to slow down. Avoid airport strikes and delays, traffic jams and long car journeys. Visit parts of the UK that you never knew existed as you meander along some of our most tranquil waterways.

What about the kids?
A narrow boat holiday is superb for families and certainly one that you can all enjoy together.
As you will be in a different place every day seeing something different all of the time you will not hear those dreaded words “I'm board”. There are plenty of family attractions to visit on route and plenty to keep the children, young and old, occupied.

What about our pets?
We know that your pets are an important part of you family and therefore well behaved pets are welcome at the following marinas:-

Aldermaston Marina - £30.00 per pet - maximum 2 pets.
Alvechurch Marina - £30.00 per pet - maximum 2 pets.
Blackwater Meadow Marina - £30.00 per pet - maximum 2 pets.
Gayton Marina - £30.00 per pet - maximum 2 pets.
Worcester Marina - £30.00 per pet - maximum 2 pets.
Anderton Marina - £30.00 per pet - maximum 2 pets.
Hilperton Marina - £30.00 per pet - maximum 2 pets.
Union Wharf Marina - £30.00 per pet - maximum 2 pets.

What time can I pick up the boat?
We ask that you arrive at 1:30 pm on your arrival day in order to provide sufficient time to check-in, load the canal boat and receive your comprehensive training and tour of the boat.

What time do I have to bring the boat back?
On your day of departure you will need to vacate the canal boat no later than 9:30 am and we respectively request you leave the boat tidy and in good order.

What is the minimum hire period?
The minimum rental period is 3 nights, but you can bring the canal boat back earlier if you wish. Our canal boats are not suitable for day hire but you may like to check out this website for day boat hire providers. www.canalboatholidays.info

What is included in the costs?
Each canal boat is supplied with gas bottles giving you plenty for your holiday. You will be supplied with a British Waterways key, free of charge, and there are water points along the canal to enable you to fill up with water should you need to.

Will I have to buy a licence?
You do not need a licence as each canal boat is licensed by us with British Waterways.

What extras do we have to pay for?
If you choose to stay in another marina overnight there may be a charge. Cruising on the canals is free, however there are a few waterways and Rivers, such as the River Avon and Thames, where an additional licence will be required.

Will I need insurance?
The canal boat and contents are fully insured. We would suggest that you check your own policies for household and car insurance before you leave home.

Will need experience?
No, many of our guests are 'first timers' and you will be given all the necessary training you need to get started. You will be fully trained on all aspects at the start of your canal boat holiday. Please ask questions as you go as we want you to be completely confident. We also leave a manual and training DVD on board in case you need to refer to them.

What are the crew requirements? click here

Where do I park the car?
Car parking is FREE and is available at all our canal boat locations.

What is on the boat?
The kitchen or galley is fully equipped with a gas cooker, fridge and microwave - The fridge is an under counter type with small freezer compartment. The oven has 4 rings, oven and a grill. All of the cooking utensils, crockery and glasses are provided. We also provide a pack containing washing up liquid. tea towels, toilet rolls, cleaning/washing up cloths and bin bags. There is a shower and sink and toilet/s, one on a four berth and two on a six berth, and these have modern fresh water flushes. The lounge/dining area has plenty of comfortable seats and a dining table, Colour TV with DVD, CD Stereo. Duvets, linen and towels will be provided FREE of charge for the number of people travelling.

Will the boats have power?
The canal boat has 240v (UK Mains) sockets which accept 3 pin plugs. Power is produced from the engine and then stored in the batteries. An inverter then converts the 12v to 240v which supplies the power to the boat. You will be able to charge your mobiles and the children will be able to charge their games.

Will the boat have heating?
Our boats are equipped with radiators which are fitted throughout the boat.

Will the boat have hot water?
There is a shower and sink in the bathroom and a sink in the kitchen so long as you run the engine everyday there will be a supply of hot water which is stored in tanks.

What is driving the boat like?
Steering the canal boat comes easily and after some practice you will find our boats are very easy to handle even the children, under adult supervision, can manage it.

Where do I moor?
Designated mooring on the canals will be clearly marked and will tell you where you can moor and for how long. Within reason you can moor up at any point you choose along the towpath side of the canal but you must be mindful of other canal boat users at all times.

Will the locks be difficult to manage?
The locks are very easy and something the whole crew will want to help with . You will all be given full training on how to operate a lock before you leave your holiday base.

Will I be able to shop on route?
One of the pleasures of a canal boat holiday is to be able to stop off exactly where you want to. You will find everything on route from large supermarkets to small farm shops selling fresh local produce.

Where can I go?
The itinerary is yours you decide when to stop, where and for how long.

Will I get lost?
Well we have not lost anyone yet but just in case you are able to purchase maps and guides to help you plan your route.

When can I cruise?
You can cruise during daylight hours at any time, you cannot cruise after dusk or before sunrise.

What speed can I go?
On most of the canals the maximum speed is around 4mph but the average speed is more like 3mph.

Will I be able to fish?
Fishing is allowed on the canals at any time of year, but buy a rod licence as the penalties are high if you do not have one. You can get a 1 day, 8 day, or annual licence from the post office, or on-line at the Environment website: www.environment-agency.gov.uk. Some stretches of canal require permits or have fishing rights so adhere to any signs.

What should I pack?
Your boat will be very well equipped so you do not have to bring the kitchen sink. Specific items you may want to bring to help you get the most out of you holiday are a torch, camera, binoculars, DVDs and CDs. A good waterways guide (such as Nicholson's) which you can purchase before hand is brilliant for planning your journey Your food for the first day and maybe tea, coffee sugar and milk. Come prepared for whatever the great British weather may throw at you so pack those water proofs and the suntan cream. Warm clothes and non-slip soft deck shoes and protective gloves (for working locks) and pack them in a soft bag, not a suitcase as this will save on space.

What about life jackets?
There are life jackets available free of charge for both children and adults at the marinas these are compulsory for children and non-swimmers.

What if I have any more Questions?
If you have a question that we have not covered or if you have a question that you think can be included in this article please feel free to email us or ring us to speak to one of our experienced holiday advisor's.

When can we book? We want a canal boat holiday how do we do it?
Choose your date and location using our on line Holiday Finder and complete the on line booking form, the availability is live and current. If you require assistance or if you have any questions please do not hesitate to contact us by email or ring 01395 _ 443545 to speak to us in person we will happy to book, at no extra charge, your holiday for you.