Your Questions Answered!
So you are seriously thinking of a canal holiday for the first time. Well done! Hopefully the following information will help you get a better understanding of what it’s all about, and how easy and enjoyable it is steering your own boat! So, here we go with a few answers to some of the more commonly asked questions! YES, you will pick up steering the boat very quickly!Your narrow boat hire company will give you a thorough briefing before departure. Remember, a lot of their customers have never been on a boat before, so they will not let you out of their site until they feel happy that you are happy. After all, you are only travelling at walking pace! NO, you won’t get lost!Last time I enquired, no Hire Companies had ever lost a boat! As you have seen, there are lots of maps and guides available to guide you on your way. And, if in doubt at any time, do what we do. Ask! Canal folk are extremely friendly, and love helping other boaters. Don’t feel embarrassed. They were first time boaters themselves once! YES, canal folk are friendlyOne of the things we love about canal holidays, are the canal folk.They love a chat, love helping other boaters. It matters not if it is your first or one hundred and first trip, other boaters will gladly help with that lock, point you in the right direction, help clear that prop. Just ask!
NO, locks aren’t too difficult!No matter which canal or river you decide on, you will more than likely have to negotiate some locks.Again, before you head off, the hire base people will give you a thorough run through on lock operation. And, a detailed brochure on their workings is usually on the boat. A good idea is to moor just before the lock, and watch other boats going through. You will soon pick it up! And, ask other boaters! Locks are great places to meet other canal people, so there will be no shortage of help! YES, there is heating!Sure it can be chilly on the canals sometimes, but most hire boats come equipped with efficient central heating, and hot water. NO, you won’t run out of fuel!This is another thing no one has yet managed to do! The narrow boat is fuelled with enough fuel for you journey. If you are cruising for an extended cruise, 3 or 4 weeks, as we do, then the hire company will give you a list of places that provide fuel. YES, they do come out at night!If there is a problem, there is help at the end of the line!It is very rare, only once or twice have we had to call, but the hire companies are there to help, and will come to your aid…..even at night!
YES! The kids will love it!Children love canal holidays! Our kids loved helping with mooring and the locks. In fact, if your kids are anything like ours, they will take over! There is always somthing new for them to see,and lots to do, steering, tying up, pushing up, planning a the day, and keeping everything ship shape. For younger children, buoyancy vests are available free of charge. What Items are includedThe hire companies not only supply the kitchen sink, but the detergent, tea towels and just about everything else!We have never boarded a boat that wasn't completely stocked. Boats come complete with bed linen, fuel, soap, toilet rolls, cups, saucers etc. For example here is an example of what Black Prince Narrowboat Holidays provide on their boats. You will also be sent a grocery order list, so you will have a fully stocked fridge when you arrive!
YES! You can take a pet!Well behaved pets are welcome on most hireboats. Check when booking. In fact, recently Hoseasons have combined with a few companies and are letting dogs travel free of charge! Check right here to find out more. Got a Question?Do you have a question, problem or concern about Canal Boat holidays? Here's the place to ask! What Other Visitors have Asked......Click below to see contributions from other visitors to this page...
Staircase locks
Back to Great Canal and River Holidays Home Page. |
