Guide to canal boat day trips in the UK

Fancy a trip out on the waterways, but perhaps you’re not too keen on staying the night on a narrowboat? A canal boat day trip is the perfect option for you. Combining the benefits of canal boat holidays with the flexibility of returning back to your own home at the end of the day, day boat trips make for a special day out with loved ones – and are perfect for a special occasion.

ABC Day Boat Hire provides canal boat hire for the day from a number of locations. This guide will highlight everything you need to know before booking your canal boat day trip with ABC.

How to plan a canal boat day trip

Choose your location

You may have a specific location in mind, or you may be in need of some waterway inspiration – either way, ABC Boat Hire can help. With locations scattered around both England and Wales, you can choose your location by a number of components:

• Local – you may want to choose a canal that is local to you. For example, if you live near Bath, you may opt for Hilperton Marina to keep down costs of your day out, or simply for ease!
• Most scenic – however, if travelling to a canal further afield isn’t an issue, you may opt for a canal with the most scenic views. For example, exploring the Llangollen canal from Whitchurch Marina will allow you to be amidst wildlife and plant life, while also being able to visit the famous Horseshoe Falls on your travels if you fancy.
• Most things to do – alternatively, you may choose your location based on what you can do while you’re there. For example, choosing a canal route which goes through Birmingham City Centre – such as Alvechurch Marina – would allow you to make the most out of your day on the waterways, with ample activities to do and places to explore.

Choose your narrowboat

Deciding how many people will be attending the canal boat day trip will determine what size narrowboat you will take out on the waters. For example, Here at ABC Boat Hire, our Day Boat Hire services provide the following boats:

• Up to eight people – great for small families and couples.
• Up to ten people – great for larger families and groups of friends.
• Up to twelve people – designed for large groups of people who want more space.

What to know before

You might have some questions before you set off – for example, you might want to know how to operate canal locks, how fast the boat can go and what you should bring with you. All your questions can be answered in our handy FAQs section – but feel free to contact a member of our friendly team if your question is not answered.

Driving a canal boat

Some people often find that driving the canal boat on a day trip can be daunting – but don’t fear. With our friendly staff to help instruct you before you set off, and handy material such as our guide on driving a canal boat, you’re in safe hands for your narrowboat day trip.

How to book

To book your canal boat day trip with ABC, book online at ABC Day Boat Hire. You can also call one of our friendly advisers on the central office number: 0330 333 0590, or you can contact the marina directly.

Perhaps you fancy something a little longer than a day trip on the waterways? Here at ABC Boat Hire, we have a number of both short and longer routes to choose from – find the perfect location and commence cruising now.