Your Canal Holiday Questions Answered
 How
are boat hires priced?
How much
experience do I need?
Is there a minimum age?
Do I need a licence to steer a boat?
Where can we take our boat?
How do I find pubs and shops along the route?
Can we fish on any rivers?
Where can we stop overnight?
Can we bring our dog?
Can we bring or hire bicycles?
What about fuel and water?
Can I charge my mobile phone and camcorder?
Can
I take my laptop computer?
How
are boat hires priced?
The hire charge is quoted
for the boat with up to the maximum number of people. A compulsory
non-refundable Damage Waiver is also charged. Cancellation Insurance
is strongly advised - this may be included in the hire charge,
or may be a compulsory or optional extra depending on boat operator.
Personal Insurance may also be offered.
How
much experience do I need?
No experience is necessary for the boats featured on this website.
Most boats are extremely easy to handle, with one lever controlling
speed and forward or reverse direction. Tuition will normally be
given at the start of the holiday.
Is
there a minimum age?
Most boat firms require hirers to be over 21. Many firms do not
allow under-25 or all-male or all-female groups on some or all of
their boats.
Do
I need a licence to steer a boat?
 No,
you don't need a licence or certificate to steer a boat for up to
12 people, the maximum boat size on the canals.
Where can we take our boat?
We offer thousands of miles of rivers and canals, so you can take
the boat anywhere within your time constraints. You can plan your
cruise with our guides to each route, but can also order Route Planners
and Cruising Guides from this website or when you book your boat.
You are automatically licensed for most canals, but there are a
small number of waterways (including the River Avon) for which you
may need an extra licence.
How
do I find pubs and shops along the route?
You can order guidebooks
when you book for most routes, showing all major points of interest.,
or buy online from this website.
Can
we fish on any rivers?
In Scotland and Ireland,
you can fish at any time. In England and Wales, any time except
the 'close season' - mid March to mid June - and you will need
an Environmental Agency licence. These are available from Post
Offices and should be obtained in advance of your holiday.
Where
can we stop overnight?
There are plenty of
free moorings along most waterways. You can also tie up at private
or local authority marinas, quays and harbours, where a small
charge is usually made. Mooring along canal towpaths is free,
but be careful not to restrict access to locks or bridges. Mooring
spots near popular pubs and eating places can get busy at peak
times.
Can
we bring our dog?
Many
boats allow up to 2 well-behaved pets, although there may sometimes
be an additional cleaning charge. It is best to check when you
are booking your boat
Can
we bring or hire bicycles?
Some firms allow bicycles
to be taken on a suitably protected boat roof. This may not be
possible on routes with many lift bridges. Cycle hire may be
available.
What
about fuel and water?
A full tank of fuel
is provided, giving two weeks cruising time on average. With most operators a fuel deposit is payable, with unused fuel costs refunded. Your
boat also comes equipped with a full tank of water, which can
be refilled at any of the numerous water points. This may need
to be refilled daily depending on water usage.
Can
I charge my mobile phone and camcorder?
Most boats are fitted
with a 12 volt cigar lighter, so if your phone or camcorder can
be charged from your car, it will work from the similar socket
provided on the boat. You will need to bring your own lead.
Can
I take my laptop computer?
Laptop computers can be used on some of the boats
which have 240 volts. Please check when booking.
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