Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a license to drive a narrowboat?
No, no license is required. Our qualified team will show you everything you need to know about driving, mooring and locks before you head off on your own.
Is it hard to drive a narrowboat?
Most people get the hang of driving a narrow boat in just a couple of hours. At the start of your canal boat holiday we'll give you a hands-on lesson of how to operate the boat, and we'll stay with you until you are feeling confident. Check out our About Boating page for more information.
And, if you don't fancy being your own skipper for your barge break but still want to give it a go, why not book a skippered holiday? Your qualified private skipper will do the driving, mooring, locks and bridges, while you sit back and enjoy the view. Click here to find out more about our luxury skippered canal boat holidays.
What do I need to do to maintain the boat during my boating holiday?
All diesel and gas will be provided so there will never be a need to stop and fill up, or a worry that you will run out. You will need to refill the on-board water tank and empty the cassette toilet during your trip, and utility points are available regularly along the main Grand Union canal. We'll give you a map of where these are so you can plan your stops, or you can take a look at our interactive map.
How fast do canal boats go?
The maximum speed limit that a narrowboat is allowed to travel on the UK canals is 4 miles per hour. However, you'll need to travel a lot slower than this when passing moored boats or navigating locks.
How far can I travel on a narrowboat?
Although the maximum speed is 4mph, the speed of travel, and therefore how far you go, can vary considerably depending on a number of factors including: the weather; how busy the locks and canals are; how often you need to stop for utilities. Therefore, we recommend it's best to just go with the flow rather than have a set itinerary for your holiday but you can take a look at our routes an itineraries page to give you some ideas.
Is it difficult to work the locks on the canals?
The locks are a very simple system that has been used on the canals for hundreds of years, and they are all part of the fun of navigating the UK's historic canal system. We'll take you through everything you need to know about how to work the locks before you set off alone on your canal boat holiday.
Part of your induction here at Chiltern Canal Boat Holidays will include taking you both up and down a lock located just outside the marina, so you can get hands on experience with our qualified skippers at hand to help and guide you. We'll explain how the locks work, how to operate the paddles, tips on how to use your body weight to open and close the gates, and how to stay safe around the locks (plus lots more!).
So, even if you have no idea how to work canal locks, fear not, we'll help you and your crew get into a routine so they become a breeze.
Is a canal boat holiday right for me?
A narrowboat holiday can be whatever you want it to be, with boat travel bringing a sense of freedom that's hard to find with any other type of holiday.
You can choose whether you spend your days travelling the inland waterways, experiencing this traditional way of life while you wake up to a new view every day. Or moor up in a beautiful spot for a few days and head off exploring the local towns and family attractions that the Chilterns has to offer.
Bring your loved one and indulge yourselves in a relaxing break full of great food and romantic countryside walks. Or bring the whole family and go on an adventure exploring the UK's historic canals and rivers. For inspiration about what you can do on your boating holiday with Chiltern Canal Boat Holidays, check out our 'Things to do in the Chilterns' page.
Is a narrowboat holiday like camping?
No, the boat is a solid structure and once you are tucked up inside and surrounded by a fully equipped kitchen, flushing toilet, and comfortable beds, you'll realise it's a long way away from camping. However, due to it being a moving vehicle, it is likely that you will need refill the water tank or empty the toilet cassette during your break, but there are lots of utility points along the way to make these tasks easy and convenient for you. Click here for more information and photos about our hire boat accommodation.
Is it cold on a narrowboat?
No, not at all. The log burner is very effective and can heat the entire inside of the boat very quickly and very effectively! And in the coldest winter months, there is also central heating on Narrow Escape where you can benefit from radiators in both the saloon and the rear cabin.
Is it very cramped on a narrowboat?
We think you'll be surprised how spacious it actually is. The ceilings are good height and so most people (i.e. everyone under 6ft2") can stand up straight throughout the boat and our clever designed spaces mean there is plenty of room width ways too!
Who can I bring with me on my canal boat holiday?
Narrow Escape is best suited to families and groups of friends, but you can bring anyone you like, up to a maximum of 4 adults a 1 child (aged 12 or under). Mini Escape is a smaller boat suitable for couples. The conditions of narrowboat hire for both boats are as follows:
- Minimum party size of 2 adults aged 25 or over at the time of booking.
- No stag/hen party groups or booze cruises.
Read our full Terms & Conditions of Narrowboat Hire.
Can I bring the dog?
We are dog lovers too and we know how much they enjoy a boat holiday! We welcome one medium or two small well behaved dog aboard Narrow Escape only, at an additional charge of £35 per break. Unfortunately dogs are not allowed on Mini Escape. If you are planning to bring your dog, please select the 'Pet Charge' option when making your booking. Find out more about our dog friendly canal boat holidays here.
What do I need to bring on my canal boat holiday?
Just like a holiday cottage, you will find the boat has a lot of items you need already there including a well equipped kitchen, all bedding and sheets, some basic cleaning essentials and some games, books and DVDs for those quiet nights in (for a full inventory of Narrow Escape click here, and for Mini Escape click here). So pack up some clothes, toiletries, your own towels, a comfy pair of shoes and plenty of suncream and you'll be well away. We recommend using soft bags and holdalls for your belongings (rather than hard shell suitcases) as these are much easier to store on the boat.
Can I bring my fishing equipment?
Yes, fishing gear can be stored in the engine room on Narrow Escape. Please bear in mind that indoor space is more limited on Mini Escape.
Can I bring my bicycle?
Yes, bikes are a great way to get around when you are on a car-free holiday! Storage is limited inside the boats so we recommend storing them on the boat roof, and bringing a bike lock so they can be secured to the roof rings. We politely request that guests also bring a blanket or other protective layer to place between the bicycle and roof to prevent any damage to the paintwork.
What's included in the price of my narrow boat holiday?
Our canal boat hire prices include parking, bed linen, gas and toilet rolls, as well as some cleaning and cooking essentials. Check out our Prices page for details of our short break and full week costs, and a full list of what is included. The only additional charge is £35 per break if you wish to bring your dog(s).
Are you accessible by public transport?
Yes, we are, by bus and train.
Tring train station, on the Northampton to London Euston Line, is just 1 mile from the marina. This means you can be with us in less than an hour from central London! Taxis to the marina are available from John Taxis, located at the station.
There is a bus stop located just a couple of hundred yards from the marina, on the A4251 which runs from Tring to Berkhamsted. Regular buses run this route which can be boarded at either Aylesbury or Hemel Hempstead.
What if I am travelling from outside of the UK?
The closest airports are London Luton and London Heathrow, both about a 30-40 minute drive away. If you are arriving from abroad, please feel free to give us a call and we will be more than happy to help you arrange transport from the airport to the marina. We will also do whatever we can to accommodate your arrival times so you can have a seamless journey from start to finish.
OK, I like the sound of this so how do I book my narrowboat holiday?
You can book online today with only a 30% deposit - just select your preferred boat below and then click the 'Book' button to check available dates and prices.
You can also call us anytime on 01296 486 216 and we'll be happy to book your short break or longer canal boat holiday over the phone.