Blog

Whether you’re hiring for a weekend or cruising full-time, safety should always come first on the water. The canals are known for their calm and charm — but they still require care, awareness, and preparation. Whether you’re a first-time narrowboater or a seasoned cruiser, these 10 boating safety tips will help you stay safe and […]

Keep your canal boat cruising smoothly with these practical upkeep tips. Owning or hiring a narrowboat means enjoying peaceful journeys and stunning scenery — but it also comes with responsibility. Whether you’re a full-time liveaboard, a weekend cruiser, or just planning a canal boat holiday, keeping your boat in top condition is essential for safety, […]

The canals of the UK and beyond aren’t just pretty backdrops for a peaceful boat ride — they’re steeped in fascinating stories, engineering marvels, and industrial history. If you’re a narrowboat lover, history buff, or curious day-tripper, canal museums offer a brilliant way to deepen your appreciation of life on the waterways. Here’s a roundup […]

From Venice to Panama – A Global Tour of Historic and Modern Canals Canals aren’t just a feature of British countryside holidays — they’re an essential part of human history, engineering, and culture across the globe. From ancient trade routes to scenic tourist hotspots, canals around the world have shaped economies, cities, and the way […]

1. Cruising the Cut 2. Foxes Afloat 3. Boating Beyond 4. Floating Our Boat 5. Chugging Along 6. The Narrowboat That James Built Why You’ll Love These Channels Channel Highlights Cruising the Cut “Slow TV” mixed with beautiful drone shots, expert tips, and lifelong canal insights **weboating.com+10trekkingwithdennis.com+10canalrivertrust.org.uk+10** Foxes Afloat Entertaining storytelling, homeboat building, and candid […]

Your Complete Guide to a Relaxing Break on the Water Whether you’re dreaming of lazy days drifting along peaceful waterways, or you’ve already booked your first trip, canal boat holidays offer a wonderfully unique way to explore the countryside. But if you’re new to life on the water, you probably have questions. Here’s everything you […]

Walk along a historic towpath, and you may hear echoes of a lost language—terms and slang once spoken fluently by generations of canal folk. Known as “the language of the cut”, this distinctive dialect grew from the tight-knit, often isolated community of boatmen and women who lived and worked on the canals of Britain from […]

During the 19th century, Britain’s canals were the arteries of the Industrial Revolution. Long before motorways or high-speed rail, narrowboats transported coal, pottery, textiles, and other vital goods across the country. Behind this network of water and cargo were the canal workers—gritty, hardworking families who lived and labored aboard these slow-moving boats. But what was […]

Canal boats, particularly the iconic narrowboats of the UK’s inland waterways, are more than just floating homes or workhorses—they’re storytellers. The names painted on their hulls often reflect history, heritage, humor, and heartfelt sentiments. From romantic to whimsical, every boat name carries a meaning. Let’s explore the traditions behind naming canal boats and uncover what […]

Long before the canals became a leisure destination, they were bustling highways for working boat families. Life on the cut was hard, isolated, and full of tradition — and like many close-knit communities, old-time boaters had their own superstitions, beliefs, and stories passed down through generations. Some were practical, others mysterious, and a few downright […]

1. Do I need a license or previous experience to hire a canal boat? No license or experience needed! Full instruction is provided on the day of your holiday. Our team will give you a thorough handover and even help you through your first lock if needed. 2. How fast do canal boats go? Canal […]

Slow travel, endless inspiration, and shots you won’t get anywhere else Whether you’re a hobbyist with a smartphone or a seasoned photographer with a bag full of lenses, a canal boat holiday offers something few other holidays can: time, access, and natural beauty — all rolled into one floating studio. Here’s why photographers love canal […]

There’s nothing quite like the warmth of a solid fuel stove after a crisp autumn or winter day on the canal. The gentle crackle, comforting heat, and glow from the fire can turn your canal boat into a cosy home-from-home. But if you’ve never used one before, it’s important to know the basics to stay […]

What Every First-Time Buyer Needs to Know Buying a narrowboat is an exciting step — whether you’re planning weekend escapes, a full-time liveaboard lifestyle, or a floating holiday home. But it’s also a big investment, and with so many styles, sizes, and systems to consider, it pays to do your homework. Here are 10 essential […]

Slow down, soak up the sun, and explore Britain’s waterways your way Thinking about getting away this summer? A canal boat holiday offers something truly unique: the freedom to travel at your own pace, surrounded by nature, history, and adventure — all while bringing your home with you! Here are 10 irresistible reasons to book […]

This Mother’s Day, why not swap flowers and chocolates for something truly special? A canal boat getaway offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and quality time — all set against the tranquil beauty of the UK’s historic waterways. Whether it’s a surprise weekend break or a thoughtfully planned family escape, here’s how to create […]

A Beginner’s Guide to Navigating the UK’s Inland Waterways Setting off on a canal boat holiday or planning a longer journey on the inland waterways? While cruising the canals is famously slow and relaxing, knowing how to read a waterway map is an essential skill for boaters — especially if you’re new to the cut. […]

Cruising from the peaceful village of Burscough to the vibrant heart of Manchester offers a fantastic mix of countryside tranquillity, industrial heritage, and urban culture. Travelling along the Leeds & Liverpool Canal and eventually joining the Bridgewater Canal, this route provides a truly memorable waterway adventure. Here’s a guide to the highlights and must-see stops […]

Getting stuck in a lock can feel stressful—especially if you’re new to boating—but it’s more common than you might think and usually easy to resolve with a calm approach and a bit of know-how. Whether you’re wedged, can’t get the gates open, or the water level isn’t behaving as expected, here’s what to do if […]

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. […]