Rainy Day Ideas on the Water

5 December 2025

A rainy day on a canal holiday doesn’t have to put a damper on your trip! In fact, with a bit of planning and creativity, those grey skies can become part of your adventure. Whether you’re cruising or moored up, here are some fun and cozy ideas to enjoy a rainy day on the water.

1. Get Cozy Inside

Snuggle up with a good book: Bring along a gripping novel or some travel journals.
Watch movies or binge-watch a series: Download your favourites before you set off.
Play board games or cards: Perfect for family fun or hanging out with friends.

2. Cook Up Comfort Food

Try making hearty soups, stews, or baked treats in the galley kitchen.
Experiment with slow cooker recipes or one-pot meals to keep things simple.
Enjoy a hot chocolate or mulled wine to warm up.

3. Indoor Crafts and Hobbies

Bring along sketchbooks, knitting, or journaling supplies.
Try your hand at photography inside the boat—play with shadows and reflections.
Write postcards or plan your next canal route.

4. Explore Covered Attractions

If near towns or villages, visit local museums, galleries, or cafés.
Check out indoor markets or shops for unique souvenirs.
Pop into a cosy pub for a warm drink and local atmosphere.

5. Enjoy the Rain from Inside

Sit by the window with a blanket and watch raindrops ripple on the water.
Listen to the calming sounds of rain on the roof—a perfect moment to relax and meditate.
Take photos of the misty, moody canal scenes—rain adds a magical touch!

6. Plan and Dream

Use the downtime to research future canal trips.
Plan your next day’s route or activities.
Reflect on your journey so far and jot down memories.

7. Stay Active if You Dare

If the rain isn’t too heavy, don waterproofs and go for a brisk walk along the towpath.
Splash through puddles and enjoy the fresh, earthy smells of a rainy day.

Final Thoughts

Rainy days on the water don’t have to mean boredom or frustration. With the right mindset and a few fun ideas, you can turn grey skies into cozy, memorable moments. So, next time the weather turns wet, embrace the calm and enjoy the unique atmosphere that rain brings to your canal holiday.

Myself and my nanna had the best time on the canal boat, the food was absolutely delicious and we couldn’t have asked for a better day the weather was perfect. The gentleman doing the tour (didn’t catch his name sorry) was so knowledgeable and was very funny. He was really accommodating for my nanna as well as she isn’t the most steady on her feet, he helped her on and off the boat and helped her up and down the stairs which I can’t thank him enough for. Would highly recommend doing this tour and it’s in such a beautiful area. Will definitely be doing it again!

Li L

Experienced a wonderful autumn cruise along the canal here with Skipper Mark who shared all his amazing experiences and knowledge of the area and canal along the way. Highly recommend this if you’re in the area.

Steven H

Our family of four hired a 6-berth boat and cruised from Burscough to Wigan and back. The boat was great, the route was lovely, and the service from Lancashire Canal Cruises was superb—special thanks to Marc, who was incredibly helpful. Five stars! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ben M

Amazing experience!
As first-time canal boaters, we were a bit nervous, but Richard made the whole process easy and enjoyable. He spent a couple of hours with us on the water, guiding us through everything until we felt completely comfortable handling the boat, mooring, and using all the onboard features. We spent two nights aboard and had an absolutely brilliant time—cruising between pubs for meals, spotting a kingfisher, and taking in the beautiful Lancashire countryside. The boat was spotless and had everything we needed.
10/10 – highly recommend! Thanks again to Lancashire Canal Cruises!

Matthew S

What a fantastic afternoon with the fabulous Marc as our skipper. This trip is worth every penny so if you've not done it or are considering booking on one of the experiences then do it! you will have a great time. Marc is brilliant sharing all the history and stories of canal life and the surrounding areas. Thank you Marc for making our trip truly special! 🤗

Pamela W

Really Enjoyed today's canal ride. Was made to feel at ease when I was nervous on the water. Amazing views & a lovely Afternoon tea. Got to steer the boat and wear the captains hat 😁. And the guy even made time to rescue someone's Memorial bench after it had been blown into the water 💙

Debbie H

We chartered a private hire cruise for 3hrs for my Mums 80th birthday and it was just perfect. Our Skipper Tori was fantastic, she really played along with the kids and kept them involved. The weather was rubbish but we didn't let it ruin the experience, all having a go at steering the boat and helping with the swing bridge.
We took our own food, drink and decorations and nothing was any bother. Would definitely recommend this trip.

Amy K

Everything was perfect from booking to the trip. Great communication.
Lovely afternoon tea.
The gentleman was friendly & had a great knowledge of the canal & surroundings.
Perfect start to my friends 40th Birthday celebrations.

Annmaria S

Just got back from an amazing cruise with afternoon tea with this company. The food was lovely and fresh!
The skipper, Mark was lovely and professional! He was so naturally friendly and explained everything about the history of barges and the area. He was so knowledgeable. The cruise itself was beautiful and relaxing.

Leah J

What a wonderful experience! Mark was such a great host, very kind and helpful. We miss our trip because of car crash on the road, he not only accommodate us on the next trip but he make us fresh afternoon tea and he place us in the best part of the boat! I can’t explain what a wonderful people and what a experience we had ! Truly amazing! Definitely try for yourself !!! Thank you Mark! See you soon!

Plamena D