Messing About on the River

If you are looking for something a little different this year, why not try a canal boat holiday.

You do not need any previous experience or a boat licence to hire a canal boat, and you and your crew will be given all the training you need before you set off on your holiday. You will be taught how to use the controls which are fairly simple: the tiller controls left and right, and you push the lever forwards to go forward and backwards to stop or reverse. Life jackets are supplied to children and non swimmers for extra safety.

You can go to many different parts of the UK and choose your own itinerary. You can choose to moor up near a quiet canal side village or in a city centre. Birmingham for instance is famous for having more canals than Venice. It’s a good idea to look at maps and guides in advance, and talk to your hire company to plan a realistic route. Remember that the pace is slow. The speed limit on canals is just four miles an hour.

Kids or grandparents will love helping at the locks, and as you will be in a different place every day, you can find something to suit everyone along the way. This type of holiday is also ideal for dogs as there will be plenty of open spaces and traffic-free walking. You will gain a new love of nature as you spot birds and wildlife along the way. You might also choose to do some fishing from the boat or the banks, but do remember you may need to buy a rod licence. There will also be many other highly decorated craft to see along the way. It’s great fun waving to those on the tow path, and some of your party might choose to cycle on the paths or walk parts of the route whilst you steer.

Today’s holiday boats are bright and modern and all the comforts of home are available. The Galley is fully equipped with oven, hob and fridge and in some cases a micro wave. You will find all the utensils, crockery and glasses that you need on board. Lounges are fitted with comfortable seating, and some have DVD’s as well as TV’s. Bathrooms have hot and cold running water to the showers and sinks and a flushing loo!. There is usually a mix of single and double beds and often central heating.

If you are really looking for complete rest and relaxation, why not try one of the canal hotels that can also be found on the water. You get your own skipper and crew, who know the history of the canals, and you can share the trip with like-minded people. It’s the perfect way to unwind.

By Susan Brookes-Morris

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