- Prepare your trip in advance
Preparedness is one of the most important things to do before your canal boat trip. Prepare yourself by:
- Route: Before you start, you should identify the route that you want to take. Most routes are circular and you will be able to see how long they would take, e.g. 4 nights, 7 nights, longer. Plan your canal route in advance if you have a tick list or an agenda that you need to adhere to.
- Packing: Make sure you are fully prepared, from practical items like map books, toilet paper and torches, to clothing, accessories, and entertainment.
- Choose your crew carefully
It’s true that narrowboat travel has many benefits, but living on one is cosy. You’ll want to feel comfortable with your boatmates. It’s important that the crew is prepared to help with boating, and they should also know what their role will be on the narrowboat. For Cheshire canal boat hire, visit https://www.cheshirenarrowboat.com/
- Respect other canal users
While on your narrowboat trip, it is important to respect canal boat etiquette. You can do this by:
- Travel Time Do not travel too early or late as it could disturb those who are sleeping on their narrowboats. Cruise only during daylight hours.
- Slow Down As you pass other boats in the canal, reduce your speed.
- Noise Levels Be aware of the noise level from your narrowboat if you are moored near other boats. Loud music and shouting can disturb others on canals.
Driving a canal boat is not always easy, especially for beginners. You might want to brush up on your skills to drive a boat before you embark on your trip.
- Mooring your narrowboat
Newcomers to narrowboats often ask where they can moor their boat and if there is a charge.
You can moor along the canal almost anywhere without paying a fee. Privately owned sites, such as those on the River Thames, will have their own mooring policy.
