Your first time on a canal boat is the start of a whole new way of travelling — slow, scenic, and full of unexpected joys.
Here’s everything you need to know to feel confident and excited as you set off.
Setting Off: A Gentle Start to Your First Narrowboat Holiday
No experience? No problem.
Your first canal boat holiday should feel exciting — not overwhelming. That’s why we send you a short online training course ahead of your trip, with helpful videos on everything from steering a narrowboat to understanding how locks work.
When you arrive at the marina, we’ll take time to walk you through your boat, answer questions, and make sure you feel at ease. Most of our first-time guests are confidently cruising within the first hour — and wondering why they didn’t try a narrowboat holiday sooner.
Life on Board: Your Luxury Canal Boat Experience
Onboard your Boutique Narrowboat, you’ll find the perfect mix of comfort and style. From the thoughtfully designed kitchen to the stylish bathroom and cosy lounge area, everything is designed to make you feel right at home. It’s like staying in a boutique hotel — but on the water. Relax, unwind, and enjoy the luxury of your floating home. Explore our fleet and choose the perfect canal boat for your holiday.
Cruising: The Peaceful Pace of Canal Boating
Canal boat cruising is all about the journey, not the destination. If you’re hiring from us, you’ll be cruising along the beautiful Grand Union Canal at a relaxed pace of just 4 mph. This gives you plenty of time to enjoy stunning canal views. Each bend reveals something new: wildflower fields, kingfishers darting across the water, and charming villages with historic pubs. This is the essence of slow travel — where relaxation and adventure meet on the water.
Mooring and Exploring: Freedom to Roam
When you’re ready to pause your journey, just moor up and explore. From towpath picnics and woodland walks to canal-side cafés and cosy village pubs, a canal boat holiday gives you the freedom to roam wherever the mood takes you.
Many guests also choose to explore Market Harborough — either before setting off or after returning to the marina. With its independent shops, restaurants, and charming market square, it’s a lovely way to begin or end your adventure.
Ready to Begin Your Canal Boat Adventure?
Your first canal boat holiday is something you’ll always remember. From peaceful mornings onboard to evenings moored in quiet countryside, a Boutique Narrowboat holiday gives you the chance to unwind in comfort and explore at your own pace.
Whenever you’re ready, we’re here to help make your canal boat holiday as effortless as possible.
