QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS
Do we need to bring anything with us?
Can we have extra days on the boat?
Who do we contact in case of an emergency?
Is any training provided to operate the boat
What safety precautions do you have in place?
Can we take bikes on the boat or is there somewhere to hire them?
Do we have to pay anything when we arrive?
Is there somewhere safe we can leave our car?
Can we stay mooring in the marina connected to a electricity and water supply?
Should we be concerned about water levels on the canal/rivers?
When do we return our boats?
How much cash do you recommend we bring?
What is the average speed limit for a boat?
Are there designated place we can turn our boats around?
Do we need to bring anything with us?
Clothing
Comfort and ease of movement are essential. Casual sports/leisurewear is ideal; a warm jumper, jogging trousers and shorts are all good basics. We hope you have glorious weather, however as it can be unpredictable, please pack accordingly.
Shoes
Non-slip shoes are very important ('deckies' or cheap yachting shoes with purpose made soles are great). Trainers can be used but take care as some soles become slippery when wet. Most decks are non-slip, however you may need to stand on the cabin roof or climb across another boat. Please do not wear leather-soled shoes or high heels; flip-flops and sandals are also not advisable.
Please make sure you bring your own waterproofs with you as we are NOT responsible for providing them.
Can we have extra days on the boat?
Due to the boats being continuously booked out, we cannot offer extra days on the boats.
Who do we contact in case of an emergency?
The first person to contact would be Classic Narrowboats Resort manager who will then advise you on who to contact next.
Is any training provided to operate the boat?
A fully trained engineer will talk you through all the daily checks that will need to be done by yourselves. They will also take you out of the marina to the first lock on the boat to show you how to manoeuvre and operate the throttle and how to open and close the locks and safely pass through them.
What safety precautions do you have in place?
All of our boats have 3 fire extinguishers and 1 fire blanket on board. You will also find the correct number of adult life jackets under the seating area on each boat. A life ring can be found on the deck of all boats. All children under the age of 16 years are fitted by marina staff with life jackets that MUST be worn at all times whilst in the marina.
Can we take bikes on the boat or is there somewhere to hire them?
Yes you can, providing that you bring a piece of cloth or carpet to protect the paintwork of the boats. Please note that the marina nor Classic Narrowboats will be held responsible for any loss or damage to your push bikes. Unfortunately there is no local bike hire companies.
Do we have to pay anything when we arrive?
On arrival you will be asked to pay £90 per week consumable charges which pays for diesel, gas and secure long stay parking for one car. We will also ask to swipe a debit/credit card. You are responsible for the first £500 of damages or losses incurred during your holiday. However the £500 excess for accidental damage can be waived by a one off payment of £42. We regret personal cheques are not acceptable on the day of arrival.
Is there somewhere safe we can leave our car?
The marina provides a long stay car park with security locked gates. This is paid for in your consumables charge.
Can we stay mooring in the marina connected to a electricity and water supply?
We apologise that due to new Health and Safety regulation guests are not permitted to stay inside the marina, if you are not wishing to cruise an engineer with remove the boat from the marina to a place out side to have power to the narrowboat guests must run the engine for at lest 5 hours between 8am - 8pm.
Should we be concerned about water levels on the canal/rivers?
Generally of little concern, in exceptionally dry conditions progress through the canals can be slow due to lack of water to fill the locks. Conversely, continued heavy rain can cause a temporary river closure as raised water levels prevent passage of boats under some bridges or the currant may be too strong. Closure of the river is then an essential precautionary measure. It is not possible to predict when such a situation might occur.
When do we return our boats?
All boats must be vacated by the guests at 9.30am on the last day of the holiday. This is to allow the boat to be cleaned and checked for the next guests to arrive. If you do not think you will be back by 10am on your last day, please return to the marina the night before you are due to check out and moor up for the night.
How much cash do you recommend we bring?
Whilst pubs and larger grocery stores will accept credit cards, most smaller shops and village Post Offices will not. If you can, bring as much cash as you think you will need, or plan your cruising to pass a major supermarket, the majority of which will have on-site ATM machines.
What is the average speed limit for a boat?
Everybody should be aware that the speed limit on the canals is 4mph but that the recommended 2 - 3 mph is the optimum pace during normal cruising. You should also slow right down when passing other boats and fishermen. Most of us know the reasons why. Essentially, it is downright inconsiderate to other boaters. However, excessive speed also creates wash, which can also permanently damage the canal bank and those creatures that live on it. Please - slow down. You are on holiday to relax and escape from the stress of modern living - take it easy and we will all derive the benefits.
Are there designated place we can turn our boats around?
Yes - on maps provided with the boats it shows all designated turning points these are shown in the form of the number 70 in a blue circle.
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