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, […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

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 […]

If you’re planning a canal holiday and want to discover a quieter, more peaceful route with plenty of charm, the Rufford Branch of the Leeds and Liverpool Canal is a perfect choice. Tucked away from busier waterways, this little-known stretch offers scenic cruising, historic landmarks, and a genuine escape from the crowds. Here’s everything you […]

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 […]

Forget the crowded restaurants and noisy pubs — this year, take the celebration somewhere unforgettable. Welcome to your private canal cruise party, where the venue floats, the views change, and every moment feels just a little more magical. Whether it’s a birthday, hen do, anniversary, retirement bash, or just a good old-fashioned get-together, the canals offer […]

If you’re looking for a peaceful day out in the heart of the Lancashire countryside, a canal cruise from Burscough to Parbold offers the perfect blend of heritage, nature, and village charm. Whether you’re onboard our skippered narrowboat or taking the tiller yourself, this 5-mile stretch of the Leeds & Liverpool Canal is one of the most relaxing and […]

If you’ve ever dreamed of exploring the British countryside from the water — without the stress of steering, reading maps, or opening locks — then a skippered canal cruise is your perfect escape. Sit back, relax, and let your captain guide you through one of the most peaceful and picturesque journeys you’ll ever experience. 🧭 What is […]

Making Sense of the Locks That Lift and Lower Your Narrowboat If you’re new to canal boating, the idea of steering a boat into a big chamber, closing gates behind you, and moving up or down in the water can sound a bit daunting. But don’t worry — canal locks are clever, simple pieces of […]

Everything You Need to Know to Cruise with Confidence Driving a canal boat (also called “steering” or “helming”) might seem daunting at first — especially if it’s your first time. But don’t worry — it’s much easier than it looks. With a little patience, some basic technique, and a steady hand, you’ll be confidently cruising […]

Your Step-by-Step Guide to Getting Started on the Water If you’ve never hired a canal boat before, one of the most common questions is:“What happens when we arrive — do we just get handed the keys and set off?” Absolutely not! A proper canal boat handover is a key part of the holiday — it […]

Tips, Truths & Reassurances for Your First Canal Boat Holiday So, you’re about to take your first canal boat holiday — exciting! Life on the waterways is slow-paced, scenic, and utterly unique. But if you’ve never taken the tiller before, it’s perfectly normal to feel a bit nervous. Don’t worry — you don’t need to […]

Must-Watch Shows for Narrowboat Lovers and Armchair Cruisers There’s something irresistibly charming about Britain’s canals — the slow pace, the scenic beauty, the rich history — and it’s no wonder that this has translated so beautifully onto the small screen. Whether you’re planning your next canal boat holiday or simply dreaming of one from your […]

What to Expect When Cruising the Canals If you’re planning a canal boat holiday or thinking about buying or hiring a narrowboat, one question that often comes up is: how much fuel does a narrowboat use? Understanding fuel consumption helps with trip planning, budgeting, and knowing when and where to refuel. Let’s break down the […]

A Hidden Gem in the Heart of West Lancashire If you’re cruising the Leeds and Liverpool Canal or planning a countryside break, don’t miss the charming town of Burscough. Nestled between the bustling towns of Ormskirk and Southport, Burscough is packed with character, history, and hidden gems. Whether you’re moored nearby or visiting by car, […]