Learn from Others and Cruise with Confidence
Whether you’re on your first narrowboat holiday or you’ve been on the cut for years, everyone makes a few mistakes now and then. Narrowboating is full of charm — but it comes with a learning curve too.
To help you cruise more smoothly, here are some of the most common narrowboater mistakes — and how you can avoid them.
1. 🚤 Going Too Fast
The Mistake:
New boaters often underestimate how little speed is needed. Some throttle up out of nervousness or impatience.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Causes wake that disturbs moored boats
- Damages canal banks
- Makes steering and stopping harder
Avoid It:
Stick to the golden rule: go slow, then go slower. You’re not in a race — you’re on canal time.
2. 🛑 Not Slowing Down for Moored Boats
The Mistake:
Cruising past moored boats without reducing speed is a big no-no.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Rocking other boats can knock things over inside
- It’s considered very bad etiquette
Avoid It:
Ease into tickover (idle speed) well before passing moored boats. It’s a small courtesy that goes a long way.
3. ⚙️ Poor Lock Etiquette
The Mistake:
Rushing into a lock, not waiting your turn, or using the paddles too quickly.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Can cause damage or injury
- May upset fellow boaters
Avoid It:
Take your time, observe how locks work, and communicate clearly with others. If in doubt, ask — most boaters are happy to help.
4. 🪢 Bad Mooring Technique
The Mistake:
Tying the boat too loosely, incorrectly, or using just one rope.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Boat can drift or bang into the bank
- Difficult to re-board
- Unsafe in wind or passing boats
Avoid It:
Use both bow and stern ropes, and if possible, a centre line. Use mooring rings or secure pins at an angle. Always double-check the boat is secure before leaving it.
5. 🧭 Not Planning Ahead
The Mistake:
Setting off without checking distances, lock times, or where to turn around.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Could end up stuck or having to reverse miles
- May miss key attractions or mooring spots
Avoid It:
Use a canal map or app to plan each day’s cruising. Account for time at locks, water points, and swing bridges.
6. 🌧️ Ignoring the Weather
The Mistake:
Cruising in poor weather without preparation — or trying to moor in high winds.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Wet decks are slippery
- Mooring can be dangerous in strong wind
- Can make the experience stressful
Avoid It:
Check forecasts and be flexible. You’re on a boat holiday — embrace the slower pace and wait out poor conditions when needed.
7. 📦 Overpacking
The Mistake:
Bringing too much stuff “just in case.”
Why It’s a Problem:
- Storage is limited
- Can make the boat feel cramped
- Harder to keep things tidy
Avoid It:
Pack light. Stick to essentials and layers, and remember: you don’t need a different outfit for each day.
8. 💡 Forgetting to Manage Power & Water
The Mistake:
Running out of water or draining the battery overnight.
Why It’s a Problem:
- You may lose lighting, heating, or water supply
- Could damage the boat’s systems
Avoid It:
- Top up water tanks every few days
- Be mindful of battery usage
- Ask your hire company how to monitor levels
9. 📵 Not Knowing Canal Etiquette
The Mistake:
Leaving gates open, blocking water points, or hogging popular moorings.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Inconveniences others
- Can cause conflict with fellow boaters
Avoid It:
Brush up on canal etiquette before you go. Simple things like closing lock gates and saying hello make all the difference.
10. 😬 Panicking When Things Go Wrong
The Mistake:
Getting flustered in tight spots, strong winds, or near locks.
Why It’s a Problem:
- Can lead to mistakes
- Makes things stressful for everyone onboard
Avoid It:
Stay calm, take a deep breath, and remember: you’re going slowly. Mistakes are usually fixable — and even experienced boaters get it wrong sometimes!
💬 Final Thoughts
A narrowboat boat holiday is a chance to unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy a slower pace of life. Mistakes are part of the learning curve — but with a little preparation, most of them are easy to avoid.
So take your time, follow the rhythm of the canal, and cruise with confidence. The cut is waiting!
