If you haven't set foot anywhere near a canal boat before then start right here. We're happy to help you get to know the canals from the absolute basics. Every week we provide over a hundred groups with everything needed for a narrow boat hire holiday- and many are complete newcomers to the canals. We love giving people their first experience of canal boating and we're happy to answer your every question.
When?
Canals were introduced to Britain during the industrial revolution over 200 years ago. They were painstakingly dug out by hand and they have no current like a river does- this means it is very easy to navigate a
canal boat along the still water!
Where?
Canals are common across England and Wales- most regions in Britain are connected by the
waterways that snake through urban and rural landscapes. In some areas canals are everywhere- Birmingham actually has more canals than Venice. There are very few rules on the canals- you can go nearly anywhere you please and you can stop wherever you like. There are sometimes restricted moorings outside pubs or busy areas but we'll show you what to look for before you embark on your adventure.
How do locks work?
Locks allow canal boats to go up and down hills. They are easy to get the hang of when you understand how they work- you cruise into the lock and shut the gate behind you so that your boat is in a sealed area of water. You then open the ‘paddles' at one end of the lock- these allow water to flow into (or out of) the sealed area of water where your canal boat is. The water level then rises (or falls) until your
canal boat is taken up (or down) to the next level.
Still confused? Don't worry- the team at the marina can take you through it, step by step before your narrow boat hire holiday begins.
How do you operate the canal boat?
Canal boats don't have steering wheels- they have a ‘
tiller' at the back of the boat instead. The tiller is connected to the propeller beneath the water and so the boat turns when you swing the tiller to the right or the left. We give you full training in how to control the canal boat when you arrive at the marina for your
canal boat hire holiday.
Who.... comes with us?
We leave you to your own devices! We tell you everything you need to know and then you cruise the canals at your leisure. Your bed, your lounge, your kitchen and your bathroom are all on board; if you wish, your
narrowboat hire holiday can be utterly peaceful and totally private. If you prefer a little company, prop up the bar at any of the canalside pubs and let the banter begin!
What.... if?
If you have any problems, a member of the local marina team can be contacted 24 hours a day, so you won't need to worry about a thing.
